Heritage Park
A number of San Diego's important Victorian buildings are the focus of this 7.8-acre park on the Juan Street hill near Harney Street. Save Our Heritage Organization moved many historical buildings to this park from their original locations and also restored them. Among the buildings is Southern California's first synagogue, a one-room classical-revival structure built in 1889 for Congregation Beth Israel. The most interesting of the park's six former residences might be the Sherman-Gilbert House, which has a widow's walk and intricate carving on its decorative trim. It was built for real estate dealer John Sherman in 1887 at the then-exorbitant cost of $20,000—indicating just how profitable the booming housing market could be. All the houses, some of which may seem surprisingly colorful, accurately represent the bright hues of the era. The synagogue and the Senlis Cottage are open to visitors daily from 8 am to 6 pm; the latter contains a small exhibit with information on the history and original locations of the houses. The McConaughy House is now home to the Coral Tree Tea House, offering traditional tea service on Fridays from 11 am to 12:30 pm and weekends from 11 am to 3 pm (reservations are required).
