One of the
most famous San Diego buildings is the California Tower. You’ve likely seen it
at a distance or up close as part of the Museum of Man. Now it is open to the
public after an 80 year hiatus. The
opening coincides with the beginning of Balboa Park’s centennial year
celebration.
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Two views of the Museum of Man – in
front of the building and walking across the bridge
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The storyabout the California Building and its tower is a fascinating one, but for many
of us it is time to enjoy the views from the newly opened viewing area. Even a
cloudy day provides the tourist, the seasoned transplant and the native San
Diegan something that hasn’t been part of San Diego scene.
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View from the bridge – looking east
from the California Tower
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Those
climbing the tower might choose to use a smartphone, a film or digital camera,
or even a special purpose camera such as a digital infrared DSLR. The
opportunities to enjoy and remember the moment are bountiful.
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| Crowding into the entry to buy a
ticket for the Museum of Man |
I might add
that I grew up in Brooklyn and visited the Statue of Liberty. That is still a
gorgeous memory. The climb was strenuous and the crowds intense. But now I’ve
acclimated to San Diego. The more laid back San Diego style is a different sort
of cultural play. The California Tower is key to the San Diego style.
So, go up
the tower and enjoy the view as you’ve never seen it before. Instead of looking
up to the tiled dome, you’ll be looking down.
Photographers will delight in capturing that image and altering it in
unimagined ways. Stay tuned for photo competitions.
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| Looking down on the Tower’s dome – a view from the camera and a fisheye reimagined view |
The views
inside the Tower provide added opportunities for the imagination. One might
consider using the tour to propose marriage or serve as a backdrop for
engagement photos. There are also interior architectural perspectives for
interior design magazines or the art gallery. I can also imagine an annual major dance attraction in San Diego - Trolley Dances - using the tower as a venue.
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After climbing the traditional set of
stairs, there is a circular stairway to the viewing area
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If you’re
reading this article, and if you’ve been to Balboa Park, AND if you’re in a
playful state of mind, then go visit the California Tower. Go celebrate Balboa
Park’s centennial. And take a friend or family member with you.
Tickets for
the Tower tour are available for purchase online
Originally published at Times of San Diego
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