Admittedly, this is a far off view of this magnificent structure.

The Spreckels Organ Pavilion is situated just south of El Prado in Balboa Park. An ornately detailed arch hovers above the elevated stage, with Corinthian pillars flanking the audience on both sides. The Pavilion’s distinctive white façade is complimented by a gigantic 4,445-pipe organ, an attribute that has brought international recognition to the 2,400-seat bandstand. The pipe organ actually sang its first note in public on New Years Eve 1914-15. The massive instrument was constructed by Austin Organ Company out of Hartford Connecticut. Aside from the organ’s console, nothing has been refurbished since the day it was completed.

Every Sunday at 2 p.m., locals and visitors alike gather at the Pavilion to hear the robust sounds of the Spreckels Organ Society. The concert is always free and includes Civic organist Robert Plimpton as well as numerous guest artists. In addition to the many concerts and stage performances, the Pavilion has also seen quite a number of marriages, formal parties and other such events.