Tag: petco park

San Diego Padres Hall of Fame players at Petco Park.

The face of Dave Winfield, a past San Diego Padres superstar, now in the Baseball Hall of Fame, greets fans on the north side of Petco Park's historic Western Metal Supply Co. building.
The face of Dave Winfield, a past San Diego Padres superstar, now in the National Baseball Hall of Fame, greets fans on the north side of Petco Park’s historic Western Metal Supply Co. building.

Just before the 2016 Major League Baseball All-Star Game was played in San Diego, a special section at Petco Park was readied to showcase our baseball team’s greatest players. In addition to large iconic images of four Padres favorites which had been added to the north end of the Western Metal Supply Co. building, an impressive “Padres In Cooperstown” wall of plaques was installed near the Padres Hall of Fame, which itself opened on July 1, 2016.

The faces you see in my photos bring back many memories. My fond memories include the magical 1984 season, which I followed closely when I was a young man. I hope any Padres fans visiting my blog might enjoy their own special memories.

Randy Jones as a Padre starting pitcher won the Cy Young Award in 1976. Today he is in the San Diego Padres Hall of Fame.
Randy Jones as a starting pitcher won the Cy Young Award in 1976. Today he is in the San Diego Padres Hall of Fame.
The familiar face of Tony Gwynn, Mr. Padre, on the Western Metal Supply Co. building. One of the best Major League Baseball hitters of all time.
The familiar face of Tony Gwynn, Mr. Padre, on the Western Metal Supply Co. building. One of the best Major League Baseball hitters of all time.
The face of Trevor Hoffman, who pitched as a closer for over 15 years with the San Diego Padres. His 601 saves are the second most in MLB history.
The face of Trevor Hoffman, who pitched as a closer for over 15 years with the San Diego Padres. His 601 saves are presently the second most in MLB history.
Legends who played baseball with the San Diego Padres who are now in Cooperstown's National Baseball Hall of Fame include Ted Williams and Willie McCovey.
Legends who played baseball with the San Diego Padres who are now in Cooperstown’s National Baseball Hall of Fame include Ted Williams and Willie McCovey.
A wall at Petco Park is dedicated to Padres coaches and players who are now in the National Baseball Hall of Fame. Names include Rollie Fingers, Ozzie Smith, Rickey Henderson, Goose Gossage.
A wall at Petco Park is dedicated to Padres coaches and players who are now in the National Baseball Hall of Fame. Names include Rollie Fingers, Ozzie Smith, Rickey Henderson, Goose Gossage.
National Baseball Hall of Fame players who spent time with the Padres also include Roberto Alomar, Greg Maddux and Mike Piazza.
National Baseball Hall of Fame players who spent time with the Padres also include Roberto Alomar, Greg Maddux and Mike Piazza.
Dave Winfield played for the San Diego Padres from 1973 to 1980. A talented outfielder, he swung the bat with incredible power. A special plaque for him now stands in front of the "Padres In Cooperstown" wall at Petco Park.
Dave Winfield played for the San Diego Padres from 1973 to 1980. A talented outfielder, he swung the bat with power. A special plaque for him now stands separately in front of the “Padres In Cooperstown” wall at Petco Park.
Tony Gwynn was simply one of the best Major League Baseball players of all time. He spent his entire career as a San Diego Padre. He was a cheerful soul loved by everyone who knew him.
Tony Gwynn was simply one of the best Major League Baseball players of all time. He spent his entire career as a San Diego Padre. He was a cheerful soul loved by the fans and everyone who knew him.
The smiling face of Tony Gwynn on a very special plaque. It stands proudly in front of the "Padres In Cooperstown" wall at Petco Park.
The smiling face of Tony Gwynn on a very special plaque. It stands eternally in front of the “Padres In Cooperstown” wall at Petco Park.

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I live in downtown San Diego and love to walk! You can follow Cool San Diego Sights via Facebook or Twitter!

Cool sights everywhere on MLB All-Star Game weekend!

The finish at the MLB All-Star 5K Color Run this morning was a crazy scene! Different colored chalk was tossed and blown onto laughing, happy participants.
The finish at the MLB All-Star 5K Color Run this morning was a crazy scene! Different colored chalk was tossed and blown onto laughing, happy participants.

I walked a bit around downtown this weekend–both yesterday and today. Here are some fun photos that are (mostly) related to Major League Baseball’s All-Star Game Week here in San Diego. The whole city seems to have gone into party mode. I’m sorry to say I didn’t get photos of the Soul Pose All-Star Yoga event yesterday. But, as you’ll see, I did stumble upon a number of other events and cool sights!

A young person checks out an All-Star Fanfest decal on the sidewalk behind the San Diego Convention Center. Promotional graphics have been placed in many popular walking spots.
A young person checks out an All-Star Fanfest decal on the sidewalk behind the San Diego Convention Center. Promotional graphics have been placed in many popular downtown walking spots.
Yesterday, Santa was hanging out by a Seaport Village sign that advertises All-Star Game merchandise. He told me he was there to spread smiles. Sounds good to me!
Yesterday, Santa was hanging out by a Seaport Village sign that advertises All-Star Game merchandise. He told me he was there to spread smiles. Sounds good to me!
These music lovers were heading toward Embarcadero Marina Park South on Saturday. They would enjoy one of the three MLB All-Star Concerts!
These music lovers were heading toward Embarcadero Marina Park South on Saturday. They would enjoy one of the three huge MLB All-Star Concerts!
The San Francisco Giants had the only National League flag wildly flapping at Petco Park when I walked by Sunday morning. Oh, oh. It's an even-numbered year. An omen, possibly...
When I walked by on Saturday morning, the San Francisco Giants had the only National League flag flapping wildly at Petco Park. Oh, oh. It’s an even-numbered year. Another omen, possibly…
This morning, the All-Star 5K Color Run appeared to be extremely popular. People covered with brightly colored chalk were all over downtown! I caught a bit of the finish near the County Administration Center.
This morning, the All-Star 5K Color Run appeared to be extremely popular. People covered with brightly colored chalk were all over downtown! I caught a bit of the finish near the County Administration Building.
Yes, you guessed it, the Color Run is mostly about different colored chalk being launched every which way. Getting your shirt splashed with color is part of the fun.
Yes, you guessed it.  The Color Run is mostly about different colored chalk being launched every which way. Even during the post-race concert! Getting your shirt splashed with color is part of the fun.
And then, when you're done and ready to go home, a couple of air blower guys blast the chalk right off you!
And then, when you’re done and ready to go home, a couple of air blower guys blast the harmless chalk right off you!
Friends posing for a photo on surfboards at Waterfront Park during the MLB All-Star 5K Color Run.
Friends posing for a photo on surfboards at Waterfront Park after the MLB All-Star 5K Color Run.
This All-Star belongs to the Maritime Museum of San Diego. It's the Spanish galleon replica, San Salvador. Walking along the water, I spotted it heading out toward the bay's entrance. I was told she's out on her 3rd or 4th test run. They're learning how to steer her with a rudder, just like they did centuries ago! I was also told she bobs up and down like a cork when out on the open ocean!
This All-Star belongs to the Maritime Museum of San Diego. It’s their Spanish galleon replica, San Salvador. Walking along the water, I spotted it heading out toward the bay’s entrance. I was told she’s out on her 3rd or 4th test run. They’re learning how to steer her with a rudder, just like they did centuries ago! I was also told she bobs up and down like a cork when out on the open ocean!
Festive All-Star graphics adorn a large stage on the Broadway Pier. I was told there will be a big Major League Baseball VIP party here.
Festive All-Star graphics adorn a large stage on the Broadway Pier. I was told there will be some sort of big Major League Baseball VIP party here.
Of course, I had to swing by PLAY BALL PARK once again. There were so many kids out having fun playing baseball this Sunday morning I couldn't believe it!
Of course, I had to swing by PLAY BALL PARK once again. There were so many kids out having fun playing baseball this Sunday morning I couldn’t believe it!
Right next to Petco Park, all sorts of special 2016 Major League Baseball All-Star Game merchandise was for sale. Lots of fans seemed interested.
Right next to Petco Park, every imaginable type of 2016 Major League Baseball All-Star Game merchandise was for sale. Lots of fans seemed interested.
And finally, late this morning about an hour before it officially opened, I strolled down J Street where the All-Star Week Block Party would be held.
And finally, late this morning about an hour before it officially opened, I strolled down J Street where the All-Star Week Block Party would be held.
Pepsi is the main sponsor of the block party, as far as I can tell. They had balloons all over the place.
Pepsi is the main sponsor of the block party, as far as I can tell. They had balloons all over the place.
Here's something you don't see every day. A guy is putting an All-Star Game cover on a trashcan!
Here’s something you don’t see every day. A guy is putting an All-Star Game cover on a trashcan!
Just walking down J Street, adjacent to the Park at the Park, while vendors prepare for the All-Star Game block party.
Just walking down J Street, adjacent to the Park at the Park, while vendors prepare for the All-Star Game block party.
Pink Padres pennants and small All-Star game commemorative bats are placed on a vendor table.
Pink Padres pennants and small All-Star Game commemorative bats are placed on a vendor’s table.
Kudos to COX for creating this unique sculpture made of baseballs. It was cool enough that I put a photo of it on this silly blog!
Kudos to COX for creating this unique sculpture made of baseballs. It was cool enough that I posted a photo of it on my silly blog!
And lastly, a huge All-Star Game banner that I spotted today near the front door of Alamo Flags in Seaport Village!
And finally, I spotted a huge All-Star Game banner today near the front door of Alamo Flags in Seaport Village!

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I live in downtown San Diego and love to walk! You can follow Cool San Diego Sights via Facebook or Twitter!

You can easily explore Cool San Diego Sights by using the search box on my blog’s sidebar. Or click a tag! There are thousands upon thousands of fun photos for you to enjoy!

A new MLB All-Star Game building wrap and more!

A huge MLB All-Star Game building wrap has appeared on the Marriott Marquis hotel in downtown San Diego! Promoted is the sports talk show on FS1 called Speak For Yourself, with Colin Cowherd and Jason Whitlock.
A huge MLB All-Star Game building wrap has appeared on the Marriott Marquis hotel in downtown San Diego! Promoted is the sports talk show on FS1 called Speak For Yourself, with Colin Cowherd and Jason Whitlock.

Preparation for the Major League All-Star Game in San Diego is picking up steam around Petco Park. I was excited during my walk around downtown to see a brand new building wrap on the Marriott Marquis waterfront hotel. It must have gone up almost overnight! It promotes a talk show on FS1 called Speak For Yourself, with Colin Cowherd and Jason Whitlock. As I walked around Petco Park and around the San Diego Convention Center, I spotted a number of other cool sights! Check them out!

Major League Baseball All-Star Game banners line Harbor Drive, near Petco Park. These now appear all over downtown San Diego, temporarily replacing the Doctor Strange Comic-Con banners.
Major League Baseball All-Star Game banners line Harbor Drive, near Petco Park. These now appear all over downtown San Diego, temporarily replacing the Doctor Strange Comic-Con banners.
All-Star Game sign not far from the grass where a special MLB outdoor event will begin Thursday, called PLAY BALL PARK, which will entice youth to have fun playing baseball. Inside the Hilton San Diego Bayfront is the Fox Sports Grill, which should also be a hub of activity during All-Star Game weekend.
All-Star Game sign not far from the grass where a special MLB outdoor event will begin Thursday, called PLAY BALL PARK.  The multi-day event will entice youth to have fun playing baseball. Inside the Hilton San Diego Bayfront is the Fox Sports Grill, which should also be a hub of activity during All-Star Game weekend.
Another photo of the huge Speak For Yourself building wrap on the Marriott Marquis, right next to the San Diego Convention Center with its colorful umbrellas.
Another photo of the huge Speak For Yourself building wrap on the Marriott Marquis, just beyond the San Diego Convention Center with its blue umbrellas.
MLB All-Star Game banners along the Martin Luther King Jr. Promenade and the Green Line of the San Diego Trolley. The big game is Tuesday, July 12, on FOX, but there will be many other cool events all weekend leading up to the big game.
MLB All-Star Summer banners along the Martin Luther King Jr. Promenade and the Green Line of the San Diego Trolley. The big game is Tuesday, July 12, on FOX, but there will be many other cool events all weekend leading up to the big game.
Here's a banner in the Gaslamp Quarter that advertises the All-Star Red Carpet Show! I'll be there and share photos!
Here’s a banner in the Gaslamp Quarter that advertises the All-Star Red Carpet Show! I’ll be there and share photos if I’m lucky!
A bonus pic. Padres faithful hope to sweep the Yankees today. This is my first photo of the outside of the new Padres Hall of Fame, which plays tribute to Padres history and its most notable players.
A bonus pic. Padres faithful hope to sweep the Yankees today. This is my first photo of the outside of the new Padres Hall of Fame, which plays tribute to Padres history and its most notable players.
And one more bonus pic from today's walk! An MCRD San Diego drill instructor keeps a steady eye on new Marine Corps recruits filing in to watch a Sunday Padres game, a proud tradition San Diego.
And one more bonus pic from today’s walk! An MCRD San Diego drill instructor keeps a steady eye on new Marine Corps recruits filing in to watch a Sunday Padres game, a proud tradition San Diego.
The countdown clock in back of the Padres scoreboard keeps on ticking down the seconds--now only 9 days until the Major League Baseball All-Star Game!
The countdown clock in back of the Padres scoreboard keeps on ticking down the seconds.  It’s now only 9 days until the Major League Baseball All-Star Game!

UPDATE!

Here are two pics I took on July 7 . . .

All-Star Game sign above the entrance to San Diego's historic Santa Fe Depot.
All-Star Game sign above the entrance to San Diego’s historic Santa Fe Depot.
A large banner on the San Diego County Administration Building celebrates All-Star Week in 2016.
A large banner on the San Diego County Administration Building celebrates All-Star Week in 2016.

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I live in downtown San Diego and love to walk! You can follow Cool San Diego Sights via Facebook or Twitter!

Stay tuned for fun photos of All-Star Game events, then of San Diego Comic-Con the following week!

Signs the 2016 MLB All-Star Game is almost here!

Workers plants fresh new flowers around Petco Park in preparation for the fast approaching 2016 Major League Baseball All-Star Game.
Workers plant fresh new flowers around Petco Park in preparation for the fast approaching 2016 Major League Baseball All-Star Game.

Preparation for the 2016 Major League Baseball All-Star Game has gone into high gear in San Diego!

During my walks the past few days, I’ve deliberately wandered past Petco Park, watching workers beautify and modify the stadium for the upcoming Midsummer Classic. I’ve also noted that signs of the All-Star Game have begun to spring up all around San Diego, as you can see in these photos!

Construction along the walkway behind left field's videoboard. San Diego's Petco Park is being readied for baseball's Midsummer Classic.
Construction along the walkway behind left field’s videoboard. San Diego’s Petco Park is being readied for baseball’s Midsummer Classic.
The grass in the Park at the Park is becoming lush and green. The statue of beloved Mr. Padre, Tony Gwynn, will have a great view of fans enjoying the 2016 All-Star game.
The grass in the Park at the Park is becoming lush and green. The statue of beloved Mr. Padre, Tony Gwynn, will have a great view of fans enjoying the 2016 All-Star game.
While they might be taking a break in this photo, the grounds crew appears to have been busy. The ball field is looking beautiful.
The Petco Park grounds crew has been busy. The field is looking just about perfect.
All-Star Game posters and advertisements have begun to appear in windows around Petco Park and San Diego.
All-Star Game posters and advertisements have begun to appear in windows around Petco Park and San Diego.
2016 MLB All-Star Game merchandise is now available in stores all over San Diego, especially in the Gaslamp Quarter.
2016 MLB All-Star Game merchandise is now available in stores all over San Diego, especially in the Gaslamp Quarter.
Some wacky cartoon art in the Gaslamp's famous Chuck Jones Gallery. A baseball game is being played by favorite animated characters, including Bugs Bunny and Daffy Duck!
Some wacky cartoon art inside the window of the Gaslamp’s famous Chuck Jones Gallery. A baseball game is being played by favorite animated characters, including Bugs Bunny and Daffy Duck!
The Western Metal Supply Company building, a historic part of Petco Park, now appears ready to go for the All-Star Game--a little over two weeks away!
The Western Metal Supply Company building, a historic part of Petco Park, appears ready to go for the All-Star Game–now a little over two weeks away!
An impressive 2016 All-Star Game logo on steps leading up into Petco Park. Fans heading to the big game will be welcomed in a big way!
An impressive 2016 All-Star Game logo on steps leading up into Petco Park. Fans heading to the big game will be welcomed in a big way!

I live in downtown San Diego and love to walk! You can follow Cool San Diego Sights via Facebook or Twitter!

USS Midway model in Petco Park’s Power Alley.

Kids check out the large USS Midway model inside the Power Alley at Petco Park during a Padres game.
Kids check out the large USS Midway model inside the Power Alley at Petco Park during a Padres game.

I remember first seeing this impressive model of the USS Midway aircraft carrier many, many years ago. It was located inside the enormous passenger waiting room of the Santa Fe Depot, which is downtown San Diego’s historic train station. I’m not sure exactly when the model was moved into Petco Park’s Power Alley. It has been many years.

I like to check out this cool sight whenever I’m at a Padres baseball game or some other event at Petco Park. (It reminds me of when I was a kid, assembling a variety of small airplane models, gluing together the plastic pieces, carefully applying daubs of paint.) Young people today who wander through the stadium’s Power Alley can test their arm at a fast pitch game, enjoy a hot dog, then perhaps peer through the glass at the many aircraft arranged on the Midway’s flight deck.

In case you don’t have a chance to see this fantastic USS Midway model for yourself, here are a few photos.

Along the wall behind the large model you’ll find a moving tribute to our country’s military heroes, including the many professional baseball players who have served. I’ll blog about that one day, too!

The USS Midway was commissioned one week after World War II. It became the largest ship in the world for a decade and the first U.S. Navy ship too wide for the Panama Canal.
The USS Midway was commissioned one week after World War II. It became the largest ship in the world for a decade and the first U.S. Navy ship too wide for the Panama Canal.
Many different model aircraft are parked on the flight deck of the enormous model aircraft carrier.
Many different model aircraft are parked on the flight deck of the small scale aircraft carrier.
The USS Midway was active longer than any other carrier in the 20th century. It served during the Cold War, international crises and humanitarian missions...in both the Atlantic and Pacific Fleets.
The USS Midway was active longer than any other carrier in the 20th century. It served during the Cold War, international crises and humanitarian missions…in both the Atlantic and Pacific Fleets.
A closer photo of the USS Midway model inside Petco Park's Power Alley. I even see some tiny sailors!
A closer photo of the USS Midway model which is displayed inside Petco Park’s Power Alley. I even see some tiny sailors!
After decommissioning in 1992, the USS Midway returned to San Diego in 2004 to open as a nonprofit museum. It is now the most visited floating ship museum in the nation.
After decommissioning in 1992, the USS Midway returned to San Diego in 2004 to open as a nonprofit museum. It is now the most visited floating ship museum in the nation.
Padres fans eat at tables near an impressive model of the USS Midway, a cool sight inside San Diego's Petco Park.
Padres fans eat at tables near an impressive model of the USS Midway, a cool sight inside San Diego’s Petco Park.

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I live in downtown San Diego and love to walk! You can follow Cool San Diego Sights via Facebook or Twitter!

You can easily explore Cool San Diego Sights by using the search box on my blog’s sidebar. Or click a tag! There are thousands upon thousands of unique photos for you to enjoy!

San Diego gets ready for 2016 MLB All-Star Game!

A booth anticipating this year's 2016 MLB All-Star Game sells official merchandise at Padres FanFest, the weekend before Opening Day.
A booth anticipating this year’s 2016 MLB All-Star Game sells official merchandise at Padres FanFest, the weekend before Opening Day.

I’ve taken more photos anticipating baseball’s Midsummer Classic!

San Diego will host the 2016 Major League Baseball All-Star Game in July, just one week separated from the internationally famous and wildly popular San Diego Comic-Con. Things are going to get crazy!

I live downtown, and I’ll be taking most of those two weeks off from work, so I promise to walk around and take loads of fun photos! Even though both events are several months away, I’m already getting excited!

2016 All-Star Game merchandise includes clothing, keychains, pins, commemorative baseballs and other collectible items. Major League Baseball will put on a big show this summer in San Diego!
2016 All-Star Game merchandise includes clothing, keychains, pins, commemorative baseballs and other collectible items. Major League Baseball will put on a big show this summer in San Diego!
2016 San Diego All-Star Game logo at end of pedestrian ramp inside Petco Park, stadium home of the MLB Padres.
2016 San Diego All-Star Game logo at end of pedestrian ramp inside Petco Park, cool stadium home of the MLB Padres.
This large sign at the top of Petco Park announces that San Diego is home of the 2016 All-Star Game.
This large sign at the top of Petco Park announces that San Diego is home of the 2016 All-Star Game.
The upcoming All-Star Game appears on a street lamp near Petco Park. These banners can now be seen around East Village.
The upcoming All-Star Game appears on a street lamp near Petco Park. These banners can now be seen around East Village.
Cool vintage baseball photo at entrance to DiamondView Tower overlooking Petco Park. More history will be made in San Diego this year.
Vintage baseball photo at entrance to DiamondView Tower overlooking Petco Park. More history will be made in San Diego this year.
Guy attending 2016 Padres FanFest wears an old 1992 San Diego All-Star Game jacket, reminding everyone that the Midsummer Classic is returning this year!
Guy attending 2016 Padres FanFest wears an old 1992 San Diego All-Star Game jacket, reminding everyone that the Midsummer Classic is returning this year!

I live in downtown San Diego and love to walk! You can follow Cool San Diego Sights via Facebook or Twitter!

This year I’ll be covering some huge events! Stand by for excitement!

Photos of 2016 Padres FanFest at Petco Park!

Padres fans have a ball at today's big FanFest at Petco Park. An exhibition game was played in the afternoon against the Chicago White Sox.
Padres fans have a ball at today’s big FanFest at Petco Park. An exhibition game was played in the afternoon against the Chicago White Sox.

This morning I walked across downtown to check out Padres FanFest!  The big annual event is held at Petco Park just prior to baseball’s Opening Day. It provides fans a taste of the upcoming Padres season. This is the third year in a row I’ve attended, and I really enjoyed it! Here are some pics!  Go Pads!

Thousands of fans turn out to get a preview of the Padres' 2016 baseball season. There were many family activities throughout Petco Park.
Thousands of fans turn out to get a preview of the Padres’ 2016 baseball season. There were many family activities throughout Petco Park.
Young Padres fans test their batting ability at KidsFest at Petco Park.
Young Padres fans test their batting ability at a special KidsFest area.
Photo of the busy children's baseball field, an awesome feature of the public park situated beyond Petco Park's outfield.
Photo of the busy children’s baseball field, an awesome feature of the public park situated beyond Petco Park’s outfield.
Young batter smashes a hit in the tiny ball field at Park at the Park. Baseball is fun for everyone!
Young batter smashes a hit in the tiny ball field at Park at the Park. Baseball is fun for everyone!
Kid infielders charge a batted wiffle ball at the miniature baseball field in Park at the Park.
Kid infielders charge a batted wiffle ball at the miniature baseball field in Park at the Park.
A friendly Coast Guard mascot attracts as much attention from kids as the nearby inflatable batting cage.
A friendly Coast Guard mascot attracts as much attention from kids as the nearby inflatable batting cage.
The San Diego Padres pulled out all the stops during 2016 FanFest. It appeared that many people were buying tickets for the upcoming season.
The San Diego Padres pulled out all the stops for this year’s Fan Fest. It appeared that many people were buying tickets for the upcoming season.
Phil's BBQ is a local favorite. Lots of tasty stuff was available at concessions inside and outside the stadium, including old classics like hot dogs.
Phil’s BBQ is a local favorite. Lots of tasty stuff was available at concessions inside and outside the stadium, including old classics like hot dogs.
Popular professional baseball players were signing autographs for San Diego fans.
Many popular Major League Baseball players were signing autographs for lined up fans.
Sign on back of the huge videoboard highlights the team's past accomplishments. This year Petco Park will host the 2016 MLB All-Star Game!
Sign on back of the huge videoboard highlights the team’s past accomplishments. This year Petco Park will host the 2016 MLB All-Star Game!
Some graphics at Petco Park commemorate Padres Hall of Famers.
Some graphics at Petco Park commemorate Padres Hall of Famers.
2016 FanFest allowed people to watch batting practice for the afternoon's exhibition game. A sunny spring day. The Pads will soon Play Ball!
2016 FanFest allowed people to watch batting practice for the afternoon’s exhibition game. Another sunny spring day in San Diego. The Pads will soon Play Ball!
Fans watch and hope to catch a ball during White Sox batting practice. The field looks green and ready for the coming season!
Fans watch and hope to catch a ball during White Sox batting practice. The field looks green and ready for the coming season!
I hope lots of Padres batters hit this bullseye on the Western Metal Supply building during the 2016 season. Hope springs eternal!
I hope lots of Padres batters hit this bullseye on the Western Metal Supply building during the 2016 season. Hope springs eternal!
A lucky fan in the stands gets an unexpected autograph from the Padres bullpen!
A lucky somebody in the stands gets an unexpected autograph from the Padres bullpen!
Padres starting pitcher James Shields stretches and warms up in the bullpen.
Padres starting pitcher James Shields stretches and warms up in the bullpen.
Padres FanFest is an exciting annual event at Petco Park!
Padres FanFest is an exciting annual sports event at Petco Park!
A player smashed a line drive over the wall during batting practice. If someone can catch the ball, they might possibly win a prize: tickets to the Homerun Derby before this year's All-Star Game!
A player smashed a line drive over the wall during batting practice. If someone can catch the ball, they might possibly win a cool prize: tickets to the Homerun Derby before this year’s All-Star Game!
A busy vendor walks about with drinks and snacks.
A busy vendor walks about with drinks and snacks.
Padres fans rest behind the Tony Gwynn statue atop the hill in the grassy Park at the Park.
Padres fans rest behind the Tony Gwynn statue atop the hill in the grassy Park at the Park.
Padres faithful kick back in the stands and absorb the sights and sounds of San Diego baseball.
Padres faithful kick back in the stands and absorb the sights and sounds of San Diego baseball.
Superstar pitcher James Shields signs autographs for lots of excited fans during 2016 FanFest at Petco Park.
Superstar pitcher James Shields signs autographs for lots of excited fans during 2016 FanFest at Petco Park.

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I live in downtown San Diego and love to walk! You can follow Cool San Diego Sights via Facebook or Twitter!

You can easily explore Cool San Diego Sights by using the search box on my blog’s sidebar. Or click a tag! There are thousands upon thousands of fun photos for you to enjoy!

A big new Petco Park sign is being installed.

A brand new sign is being installed at Petco Park, stadium home of Major League Baseball's awesome San Diego Padres!
A brand new sign is being installed at Petco Park, stadium home of Major League Baseball’s awesome San Diego Padres!

Just a quick couple pics. During my walk this morning, I happened to notice a big new Petco Park sign is being installed on the San Diego Padres’ downtown stadium. The new sign is a bright, cheerful red, and I’m sure it’s no coincidence that the lettering closely resembles the Petco logo. Workers are installing it from a crane just in time for Opening Day, which is a home game–April 4th against the Los Angeles Dodgers.  Of course, the new sign will also be seen by millions of television viewers during the upcoming MLB All-Star game this summer. Go Pads!

Bicyclist heads down Park Boulevard past a new sight in East Village--a redesigned red sign for Petco Park, just in time for Opening Day and the upcoming 2016 MLB All-Star Game.
Bicyclist heads down Park Boulevard past a new sight in East Village: a redesigned red sign for Petco Park, just in time for Opening Day and the upcoming 2016 MLB All-Star Game.

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I live in downtown San Diego and love to walk! You can follow Cool San Diego Sights via Facebook or Twitter!

You can easily explore Cool San Diego Sights by using the search box on my blog’s sidebar. Or click a tag! There are thousands upon thousands of surprising photos for you to enjoy!

How to make fun, simple science stuff for kids!

A mad scientist at the San Diego Festival of Science and Engineering shows a kid how to have some fun with magnets!
A mad scientist at the San Diego Festival of Science and Engineering shows a kid how to have some fun with magnets!

Here are 14 different simple science and engineering projects that kids are sure to love! I’ve included lots of instructions and photographs–courtesy of many exhibitors at this year’s San Diego Festival of Science and Engineering Expo, held yesterday at Petco Park. I also blogged about the event last year.

Check out this fun stuff! Feel free to share! First up . . . how to make slime!

HOW TO MAKE SLIME

Who doesn’t love slime? Slime is fun! And making it is easy! These instructions are courtesy of Vertex Pharmaceuticals, who had a fascinating exhibit at the big STEM education event held at Petco Park.

Just click the image with easy directions to enlarge it! You can enlarge the other images on my blog in the same way, if you want a closer look. Feel free to share these useful how-to photos on Pinterest or with your friends, if you’d like!

How to make slime. You need borax powder, water, white glue and food coloring. Click each image to enlarge instructions.
How to make slime. You need borax powder, water, white glue and food coloring. Click each image to enlarge instructions.

HOW TO MAKE A FUN PAPER ROCKET

Follow the diagram to cut and fold a simple paper rocket with paper clip! These instructions are courtesy of the San Diego Air and Space Museum in Balboa Park. Kids love the world-class museum. It’s one of the coolest places in San Diego!

How to make a cool paper rocket, using a rectangular piece of paper, scissors and a paper clip.
How to make a cool paper rocket, using a rectangular piece of paper, scissors and a paper clip.

HOW TO FOLD AN ORIGAMI BOAT

Look at these instructions on how to fold your very own origami boat! My friends at the Japanese Friendship Garden in Balboa Park provided this information! I even once made one! (And if I can succeed, believe me–anyone can do it!)

How to fold an easy origami boat that really floats!
How to fold an easy origami boat that really floats!

HOW TO MAKE MATCHBOX ROCKETS THAT REALLY WORK!

Here’s how you can make a tiny rocket that actually works in much the same way as a real solid-fuel rocket. Wrap a single matchstick in a small strip of tin foil, then crimp one end. Look at my photos to get an idea of what to do. Be careful! You know what they say about playing with matches! Have an adult help out!

Oh, I forgot to mention. This cool experiment is courtesy of the Magnolia Science Academy!

How to make matchbox rockets and why it works. This is for older, supervised kids. Fire can be dangerous.
How to make matchbox rockets and why they work. This is for older, supervised kids. Fire can be dangerous.
Wrap a match in a small strip of aluminum foil.
Wrap a match in a small strip of aluminum foil.
Crimp the match head end of the tube (the rocket's nose) so exhaust pressure doesn't escape in that direction.
Crimp the match head end of the tube (the rocket’s nose) so exhaust pressure doesn’t escape in that direction.
Prepare for lift-off from a clever, fireproof launching platform! Safely apply flame and let fly!
Prepare for lift-off from a clever, fireproof launching platform! Safely apply flame and let fly!

HOW TO MAKE AN “AIRZOOKA” THAT SHOOTS CO2 RINGS!

Here’s another cool project I discovered at the Magnolia Science Academy booth. A student had created a simple “Airzooka” that shoots perfect white cloudy rings of carbon dioxide!

The trashcan with a hole part looks easy. To create the membrane that launches the CO2 rings, you’ll need to use a somewhat flexible material, like a plastic sheet. Once the can is filled with gas, just slap it with your hand and out comes a “smoke ring”!

How to make an "airzooka" using a plastic trashcan with a hole at one end and a pliable membrane on the other. Fill with carbon dioxide and shoot rings by hitting the membrane!
How to make an “airzooka” using a plastic trashcan with a hole at one end and a pliable membrane on the other. Fill with carbon dioxide gas and shoot white rings by hitting the membrane!
The "airzooka" is loaded with carbon dioxide gas, using either dry ice (be careful) or a fog machine.
The “airzooka” is loaded with carbon dioxide gas, using either dry ice (be extremely careful) or a fog machine.

HOW TO CRAFT A FUN PAPER BAG HAT

What can you do with a paper grocery bag? Crumple it up a bit and form a Mad Hatter hat! Use your imagination and maybe a bit of glue!

This crafty idea is provided by the San Diego County Fair. This summer’s fair will have an Alice in Wonderland theme! I can’t wait!

How to make a Mad Hatter hat with crumpled paper bags and lots of fun stuff tied and glued on!
How to make a Mad Hatter hat with crumpled paper bags and lots of fun stuff tied and glued on!
You can apply ribbons, glitter, feathers, playing cards, whatever you like to fashion your crazy Mad Hatter hat! Okay, I don't suppose this really is science, but who cares!
You can apply ribbons, glitter, feathers, playing cards, whatever you like to fashion your crazy Mad Hatter hat! Okay, I don’t suppose this really is science, but who cares!

HOW TO MAKE A TINY PARACHUTE

I remember creating one of these when I was a kid. I made my parachute for a toy action figure! Just look at the picture and go to work! Pretty simple!

This parachute was put together by to the Reuben H. Fleet Science Center. The Fleet, located in Balboa Park, is a super cool place with loads and loads of fun hands-on science exhibits for kids, plus an awesome IMAX theater and planetarium!

How to make a simple small parachute with a Dixie cup or object providing weight, string (or similar material) and coffee filter.
How to make a simple small parachute with a Dixie cup or object providing weight, string (or similar material) and coffee filter.

HOW TO MAKE A SUPER COOL STAR WARS COSTUME!

Okay. No instructions here. Just imagination. That cool costume is actually made of all sorts of Star Wars toys! Incredible. I’m guessing that wicked-looking dude is on the Dark Side.

I believe this guy was part of the STAR WARS Steampunk Recycled Fashion and Engineering Challenge.

Yeah, making a cool costume out of Star Wars toys might take a bit of glue. But all you really need is determination and imagination! (And maybe a credit card.)
Yeah, making a cool costume out of Star Wars toys might take a bit of glue. But all you really need is determination and imagination! (And maybe a credit card.)

HOW TO USE YOUR IMAGINATION TO BUILD ANYTHING!

What are we building here? Absolutely anything! It just takes some imagination!

Just look at some of the common household items one can use to invent cool things. I’ll bet you have some of this stuff in your own home.

I took this pic at a fun table display in the Qualcomm Thinkabit Lab tent.

What can a person make with this stuff? Anything!
What can a person make with this stuff? Anything!
Objects you can use creatively include popsicle sticks, plastic spoons, straws, tubes, tape and buttons.
Objects you can use creatively include popsicle sticks, plastic spoons, straws, tubes, tape and buttons.

HOW TO MIX UP SOME SNAIL GOOP

Slime…snail goop…boogers…it’s all the same good stuff. At least it’s the same mixture of borax powder, water and white glue. A truly yucky and wonderful substance. Science rocks!

Thanks (maybe) to the Steam Maker Workshop for this gloppy sight.

Okay, snail goop is pretty much the same stuff as slime. But I like the name!
Okay, snail goop is pretty much the same stuff as slime. But I like the name!
If a snail made that much goop, it would be a monster. Fortunately, that monstrous snail would be slow.
If a snail made that much goop, it would be a monster. Fortunately, that monstrous snail would be slow.
Kids and curious adults were learning all sorts of cool concepts at the 2016 San Diego Festival of Science and Engineering at Petco Park.
Kids and curious adults were learning all sorts of cool concepts at the 2016 San Diego Festival of Science and Engineering at Petco Park.

HOW TO CREATE A 3-D OPTICAL ILLUSION WITH STRING

Here’s a cool experiment that demonstrates concepts in math and spatial geometry. Perhaps imagine that the string is a ray of light. From the “tower”, stretch the string so that it touches each of the four top corners of your cube, and plot where the string finally reaches your piece of paper. Connect those points with lines the way my photographs show, then look at the image from the end of the string! It looks like some sort of weird optical illusion, but you’ll see the result actually makes sense!

This exhibit was provided by San Diego State University’s InforMath Collaborative.

By using a string attached to this tower, you can plot the projected corners of a cube or other three dimensional object onto a flat two dimensional surface.
By using a string attached to this tower, you can plot the projected corners of a cube or other three dimensional object onto a flat two dimensional surface.
After drawing the cube's base and drawing lines to connect the square with the projected corners, I ended up with this cool figure.
After drawing the cube’s base and drawing lines to connect the square with the projected corners, I ended up with this cool figure.
When I peered at the image through a hole near the end of the string, I saw a perfect cube! Cool!
When I peered at the image through a hole near the end of the string, I saw a perfect cube! Cool!

HOW TO ASSEMBLE A COOL TENSEGRITY CONSTRUCT

Oh, man! I think you could construct most of this cool stuff with Tinkertoys. Look at the diagrams and go wild! You’ll need lots of rubber bands!

Tensegrity is another science concept that was being demonstrated at the STEM education event. A friendly gentleman explained that the sticks are like bones and the rubber bands are like muscles. So human beings and other critters are examples of tensegrity!

Oops. I apologize for not knowing who put on this exhibit.

What the heck is tensegrity? A funny word created by Buckminster Fuller. You can use rubber bands to add tension to popsicle sticks and create cool stuff.
What the heck is tensegrity? A funny word created by Buckminster Fuller. You can use rubber bands to add tension to popsicle sticks and create cool stuff.
Check it out! Tensegrity is also sometimes called tensional integrity or floating compression.
Check it out! Tensegrity is also sometimes called tensional integrity or floating compression.
These guys formed a huge tensegrity thingamajig using pipes and big rubber bands. I suppose one could use bungee cords, too.
These guys formed a huge tensegrity thingamajig using pipes and big rubber bands. I suppose one could use bungee cords, too.
Look at all the tensegrity objects you can make!
Look at all the tensegrity objects you can make!

HOW TO MAKE A VORTEX CANNON

Here’s a pic that has exact instructions on how to build a vortex air cannon. Looks really easy! (As usual, click the image to enlarge it.)

Uh, oh. I don’t know who created this exhibit, either. I forgot to take a picture with their name. My research got a bit sloppy. Sorry about that. Whoever had this table–very cool!

The vortex cannon shoots air in--you guessed it--a vortex.
The vortex cannon shoots air in–you guessed it–a vortex.
To make a vortex cannon, insert a cut water bottle into a plastic Solo cup.
To make a vortex cannon, insert a cut narrow water bottle into a larger plastic Solo cup, just like the photo.
Then cut off the nozzle of a balloon, and stretch the balloon over the open end of the cup.
Then cut off the nozzle of a balloon, and stretch the balloon over the open end of the cup.

HOW TO STIR UP LAVA IN A CUP

Finally, I’ve heard of java in a cup. But lava in a cup? Why not?

Adding salt to the floating oil makes the blob sink. It has become more dense than water. When the salt dissolves, the oil rises again!

Those instructions look super simple!

To make "lava in a cup", use food coloring, vegetable oil and salt! It's easy!
To make “lava in a cup”, use food coloring, vegetable oil and salt! It’s easy!
You can then use that colorful lava in the cup to make some colorful art! Awesome!
You can then use that colorful lava in the cup to make some colorful art! Awesome!

That’s it! You now have a whole bunch of cool and creative science projects to try out! Have a blast!

Hey! Are you a kid? (Or even a boring old adult?) Try starting a blog like Cool San Diego Sights! You can blog about anything in the whole wide world. It’s lots of fun! And it’s pretty easy, too!

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Signs of 2016 All-Star Game appear in San Diego.

Sign in window of downtown's Omni Hotel, across Tony Gwynn Drive from Petco Park, proclaims San Diego is America's All-Star City.
Sign at downtown’s Omni Hotel, across Tony Gwynn Drive from Petco Park, proclaims San Diego is America’s All-Star City.

Winter is a week away. Time to start dreaming of next summer!

To help you dream, here are some photos I snapped in the past few months. During my walks around Petco Park, I’ve noticed a variety of signs which anticipate the 2016 Major League Baseball All-Star Game. It will be held right here in San Diego!

Digital display on Western Metal Supply Co. building at Petco Park, the downtown stadium of the San Diego Padres, counts down the days and hours until the 2016 Major League Baseball All-Star Game.
Digital display on Western Metal Supply Co. building at Petco Park, the downtown stadium of the San Diego Padres, counts down the days and hours until the 2016 Major League Baseball All-Star Game.
One cool window of the Omni Hotel seems to offer a view into the future, as the 2016 All-Star Game is being played in San Diego.
One cool “window” of the Omni Hotel seems to offer a view into the future, as the 2016 All-Star Game is being played in San Diego.
Baseball's All-Star Game is coming next summer! A few signs have popped up around Petco Park many months in advance. It's going to be fun!
Baseball’s All-Star Game is coming next summer! A few signs have popped up around Petco Park many months in advance. It’s going to be fun!

UPDATE!

Look what I saw in mid-December 2015…

Just before Christmas, All-Star Santa has been painted on the window of the San Diego Padres Store in the Western Metal Supply Co. Building!
Just before Christmas, All-Star Santa has been painted on the window of the San Diego Padres Store in the Western Metal Supply Co. Building!

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