When you explore San Diego's famous Balboa Park in California, make sure to take a moment at the Bea Evenson Fountain. Located right on the Plaza de Balboa, this outdoor fountain serves as both a central feature of the park and a meaningful tribute to local preservation efforts. Built in 1972, the fountain was designed by noted modernist architect Homer Delawie.
In May 1981, it was formally dedicated to honor Bea Evenson (1900–1981), a key figure in Balboa Park's history. Evenson was the founding president of the park's Committee of 100, a civic group organized in the late 1960s with a mission to save or reconstruct the historic buildings originally created for the Panama–California Exposition of 1915. When you visit this spot, you can admire the sleek lines of Delawie's modernist design while reflecting on the dedicated efforts that helped preserve the surrounding exposition architecture.
It is an ideal outdoor landmark to pause by while taking in the rich history and beautiful setting of the Plaza de Balboa. Whether you are interested in mid-century modernist architectural design or the history of California's civic preservation, visiting the fountain offers you a direct connection to the visionaries who protected Balboa Park for future generations.
What to see at Bea Evenson Fountain
- Designed by noted modernist architect Homer Delawie
- Located outdoors on the Plaza de Balboa in Balboa Park
- Built in 1972 and dedicated in May 1981
- Honors Bea Evenson, founding president of the Committee of 100
- Commemorates work to save Panama–California Exposition structures
Visiting tips
Take time while exploring the Plaza de Balboa to appreciate this modernist fountain and the history of park preservation it represents.
How long: 15–30 minutes · Best time: Daytime
How to get there & what’s nearby
Bea Evenson Fountain is easy to reach on San Diego’s public transport, and pairs naturally with The Old Globe and Balboa Theatre. For where to stay, the weather and full itineraries, see our San Diego travel guide.
See the full San Diego travel guide for where to stay, the best time to visit and the top things to do.