San Diego’s Liberty Station started as a naval training center in 1923. The base was closed in 1997 and purchased shortly thereafter by the city. It’s now evolving to become the city’s town square. Its historic charm is coupled with thriving business and arts components. Walking through the outdoor plazas and attractive courtyards to explore the area.

Plants in the Sybil Stockdale Rose Garden have been dedicated to loved ones in a space donated to honor Navy wives.

Ingram Plaza is a patriotic open area located around a towering flag. It sits in the middle of Liberty Station, making it ideal for daily walks or runs.

Barracks 17 Plaza uses surrounding buildings to create a more secluded environment. Visit one such building, Chapel, which is iconic to the region and regularly utilized for various events and ceremonies.

Much of the architecture of the buildings consists of Spanish Colonial Revival style. One such structure is the Dick Laub NTC Command Center, which has become a place for meetings and conventions.

Notice the many handsome buildings that are displayed in magnificent landscapes with original influence derived from Balboa Park’s creators. Although the days of naval training may be over, Liberty Station’s retail businesses and restaurants are still very active.

Eat at award-winning Solare Ristorante for Italian cuisine or Moniker General, which mixes shopping with coffee, beer and wine tastings. Stone Brewing World Bistro & Gardens offers superior California fare, with menus featuring food that’s locally and organically produced. Visit MK Envision Galleries for photography exhibits with an emphasis on landscapes.

Ties with Liberty Station’s naval recruitment era are always evident throughout the community. One such unmistakable reminder is the USS Recruit, a two-thirds-scale destroyer escort ship that has never been in water. This training tool was used to acquaint new sailors with a warship before they boarded an actual one.

Drive to Liberty Station in San Diego’s Point Loma district in about 10 minutes from downtown San Diego.