San Diego isnt exactly known as a city of neighborhoods, but they do exist in this bastion of suburbia.

No one will dispute the fact that Balboa Park is San Diegos unmistakable jewel - 1,200 acres of greenbelt, culture, recreation, and attraction. It is San Diegos community gathering place, enjoyed by all citizens, of all walks of life and economic backgrounds. Sure we all know about the great museums and the Old Globe Theatre, but Balboa Park is much more than that. I know, everyone has their favorite Balboa Park spot, but here are a few known, and less known, places to discover in Balboa Park.

Read my picks for the best things to discover in Balboa Park here.

So, Tuesday, Feb. 21 marks Fat Tuesday 2012 and that means one last shot of indulgence before giving up excess for Lent (in spirit, of course). And what that means is Mardi Gras in San Diego (OK, OK its not exactly New Orleans, but what the hey). A couple of long-standing (21+) events happen on Fat Tuesday, Feb. 21, so get your beads on and head out to one of these events.

Hillcrest Mardi Gras: Hillcrest Mardi Gras is entering its 9th year of celebrating the glitz, glamour and gluttony of Fat Tuesday and the coming of Spring. Join this yearly neighborhood street party that plans to be just as fabulous as ever. Mardi Gras is a 21+ event with magical street performers entertaining the crowd all night long.