International houses in Balboa are awesome! Tips: Go on the weekend when houses are open. Every weekend a different house hosts something in the main lawn area. Bring a stack of $1s. Sample food from open houses are donation only (dumplings from China house, cakes from German house, tea from British house, etc). The volunteers are so friendly. You will be inspired to visit these countries...plan your next trip with help from the volunteers who will tell you the Must Sees. Also- The annual Ethnic food fair is a MUST. So many small affordable samples of food, I was sadly limited by my appetite. Also Germany house is the best. :-) Go there for cakes and coffee...danke to the nice German volunteers.

I was very excited to visit as I love to travel and learn about different places and different cultures. I have to say this was very disappointing: it was as if each of the nations present were frozen in the 1950s. The representations here did not flatter any country. (Take China for example. The house for China didnt even have the Chinese flag - why not? I have lived in China for some time and feel its a nation full of rich history and culture, reduced down to some sad looking knick knacks, a couple of books, and fortune cookies, which did not even originate in China!!!). And the presentations felt as if they were made as an elementary school project. Having said that, besides a couple terse volunteers, most of the volunteers were friendly and doing their best. Perhaps I am being too harsh, as I think its a good idea, but I do think this place could really be improved upon, i.e. better food, better educational material, and actually representing the countries more accurately.

I was absolutely fascinated by this place! Even after being a San Diego local for many years and visiting the Balboa Park countless times, I never visited this place until a recent trip to several Balboa Park museums/attractions. However, this was definitely the highlight of my visit.The people in every house are very hospitable, kind, and welcoming. There are many cultural items, photographs, decorations, art pieces, and songs that bring joy to the visitors as they explore the cottages.I recommend this to people of all ages; there is something for everyone! I will definitely be returning here in the near future.

Cool little spot to get some history on different countries. I visited the Iranian Relations which was cool and free; donations accepted. Authentic Persian Tea available with small donation. Free flyers with tons of history facts. I went during the Iranian New Year [Nowruz] which was awesome! Iranians know how to party and do so in peace. Souvenirs were available at select vendors during the event.

Attended a concert by the phenomenal bagpiper Fred Morrison, sponsored by the House of Scotland and the House of Scotland Pipe Band. If you are not familiar with the international cottages in Balboa Park, you should become so. Many different nations of the world are represented and great activities occur throughout the year. The cottages themselves are open most Saturdays and Sundays, and the Hall of Nations in the House of Pacific Relations is a good place to start. There you will find many display cases of all of the member nations.

Houses have a lot of cool little freebies to offer, and the people that make up the houses are quite friendly.

Fantastic place. I love the different houses of culture. And of course, the House of Norway is the best.

You wont be disappointed! Free food samples (suggest small donations). Each house unique. Each Sunday a different country hosts the Food to buy & the amazing entertainment at 2pm. Just relax & enjoy. Lots of grass!

The House of Pacific Relations International Cottages was founded in 1936 and housed in the historic 1935 Exposition cottages. There are Thirty-Two different nationalities represented. The individual groups promote multicultural understanding and goodwill through various cultural and educational programs that showcase the national traditions. These are truly wonderful little houses from our allies and others alike. I have enjoyed them all my life, one Sunday at a time.

Very friendly volunteers great snacks for donations.

We came here and made stars, it was a really fun time and they provided food as well!

Fun international cottages. Customer service in gift shop could be improved.

I cant wait for December nights at Balboa Park!!! Yummy food and great entertainment!

The idea of the house is great and interesting. Encountered many rude volunteers.

Dumplings in China! So good!

Great gathering of peoples from all over the world.

We attended the Annual food fest and it was so fun, the food was great, you get a taste of each house.

Very nice.

Enjoyable and educational ad well.There are different events going on all the time, so make sure you click the schedules so you do not miss out!

The Hall of Nations is the home of the House of Pacific Relations, which is the umbrella group for all the International Houses, including the House of Sweden, to which I belong. They do a great job organizing special events such as December Nights.

Great chance to see different nations houses.

Lots of great gift ideas for all.

Charming cottages and the people are really nice.

Needs a Romanian house, other than that pretty cool!

Such culture facts.

A little boring.

Such a fun place!

One of the jewels of the country.

This is an ok place

The coolest thing about Balboa park!