This week, Balboa Park visitors witnessed a spectacle as remarkable as it was inspiring: A fully — grown tree flying through the sky. One of the Park’s beloved Bismarckia palms made the journey from its former spot near The San Diego Museum of Art to its new home along the Lily Pond, beside the Timken Museum of Art, capturing the imagination and excitement of everyone who witnessed it.

A Parade Across the Plaza

It wasn’t just a relocation — it was a parade. Visitors, staff, and partners gathered to watch the Palm “march” across the Plaza de Panama, down El Prado, and stood in awe as the towering palm floated above our heads, guided carefully by a 275-ton crane and the skilled hands of our project partners. An experience as unique and special as the Central Gardens.

A Symbol of What’s to Come

The relocation of the Bismarckia palm is about more than moving a tree. It symbolizes the transformation already underway at the Botanical Building & Gardens. As Phase 2 of the project continues, the Central Gardens will come to life with immersive gardens, enhanced walkways, and the reconstruction of the historic 1915 pergola.

Visitors strolling along the Lily Pond will now be greeted by this stunning palm — a living reminder of how history and horticulture continue to thrive together in the heart of Balboa Park.

Partnerships in Action

This move was no small feat. Forever Balboa Park is leading an incredible team of dedicated partners, and this successful relocation was made possible because of their care and expertise. A big thank you to:

• BrightView Landscape Development, who led the logistics of the relocation
• Landscape Center, the subcontractor who specializes in relocating trees of this size
• Spurlock Landscape Architects, whose design vision continues to shape the Central Gardens project
• The City of San Diego Parks & Recreation Department, whose stewardship of Balboa Park supports every detail of this work

Together, we ensured the palm’s safe relocation and its role in framing the next chapter of the Central Gardens.

Join the Journey

The Botanical Building was just the beginning. Now, the gardens are growing. Your support helps plant, restore, and sustain these iconic spaces for future generations. To leave your legacy in the gardens click here.