Discover the Heart of Balboa Park
Explore Balboa Park's stunning architecture, lush gardens, and world-class museums in the heart of San Diego, California.
San Diego's Balboa Park is a vibrant cultural hub that offers a blend of stunning architecture, lush gardens, and world-class museums. A must-visit for every traveler!
A brief summary to 1549 El Prado
- 1549 El Prado, San Diego, Balboa Park, California, 92101, US
Local tips
- Visit during weekdays to avoid crowds and enjoy a more peaceful experience.
- Check the park's calendar for free admission days to various museums.
- Bring comfortable walking shoes, as the park covers a large area with many trails.
- Don't miss the gardens, especially in spring when flowers are in full bloom.
- Plan your visit around lunchtime to enjoy a meal at one of the park’s delightful cafes.
Getting There
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Public Transportation
Start at the Chula Vista Transit Center. From there, take the Blue Line Trolley towards San Ysidro. Ride the trolley for about 25 minutes and get off at the 12th & Imperial Transit Center stop. Once you arrive, transfer to the Green Line Trolley heading towards Santee. After about 10 minutes, get off at the City College stop. From there, walk northwest on 16th Street for about 0.5 miles until you reach El Prado.
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Walking
If you're near the Chula Vista Marina, start walking north along Marina Parkway. Continue on Marina Parkway until you reach the intersection with 3rd Avenue. Turn left onto 3rd Avenue and walk for about 1 mile until you reach the intersection with J Street. Turn right on J Street and continue for another 0.5 miles. Turn left onto 16th Street, and then right onto El Prado. Your destination will be on the left.
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Bus
From anywhere in Chula Vista, find a nearby bus stop that serves the 701 route. Board the bus towards Downtown San Diego. The journey will take about 30-40 minutes. Get off at the stop near 12th Avenue and J Street. From there, walk a few blocks to 16th Street, then head north until you reach El Prado.
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Biking
If you prefer biking, you can start at the Chula Vista Marina and head north along the waterfront path. Follow the path until you reach the bike lane on 3rd Avenue. Continue on 3rd Avenue and turn left on J Street. Continue until you reach 16th Street, then turn right. El Prado will be ahead on your left.
Discover more about 1549 El Prado
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
California Tower
0.3 km
Discover the historic California Tower in Balboa Park, an architectural gem offering stunning views and a glimpse into San Diego's vibrant past.
Museum of Us
0.3 km
Explore the rich tapestry of human culture and history at the Museum of Us in Balboa Park, San Diego—a unique destination for curious travelers.
House of England
0.3 km
Explore the House of England in San Diego, a charming museum celebrating British culture and heritage amidst the beauty of Balboa Park.
Cabrillo Bridge
0.5 km
Discover the beauty and history of Cabrillo Bridge, an architectural gem in Balboa Park, San Diego, perfect for memorable walks and breathtaking views.
San Diego Zoo
0.6 km
Discover the incredible diversity of wildlife at San Diego Zoo, a world-renowned destination for conservation, education, and family fun.
Balboa Park
0.6 km
Discover Balboa Park: A cultural paradise in San Diego with stunning gardens, historic museums, and vibrant events for every traveler.
San Diego Air & Space Museum
0.7 km
Explore the wonders of aviation and space at the San Diego Air & Space Museum, where history meets innovation in a stunning setting.
San Diego Old Fire Alarm Communications Building
1.0 km
Discover the San Diego Old Fire Alarm Communications Building, a historical landmark showcasing the evolution of fire safety in a picturesque park setting.
Long-Waterman House
1.4 km
Explore the Long-Waterman House, a historical landmark in San Diego's Bankers Hill, where timeless architecture meets lush gardens and rich history.
Marston House
1.4 km
Explore the Marston House Museum, a gem of Arts and Crafts architecture in San Diego, showcasing rich history and stunning gardens.
Golden Hill Fountain Grotto
1.5 km
Explore the Golden Hill Fountain Grotto: A serene historical landmark in San Diego's Balboa Park with stunning fountains and lush surroundings.
Coulter House
1.5 km
Explore the historical charm of Coulter House in San Diego, a stunning landmark near the iconic Spruce Street Suspension Bridge, revealing the city's rich past.
Amici House
1.7 km
Discover the Italian heritage of San Diego at Amici House, a cultural center that highlights the rich history and traditions of the Italian community.
Spruce Street Suspension Bridge
1.8 km
Discover the iconic Spruce Street Suspension Bridge, a historical landmark in San Diego offering breathtaking views and a charming stroll through nature.
Our Lady of the Rosary Catholic Church
1.9 km
Discover the architectural beauty and tranquil atmosphere of Our Lady of the Rosary Catholic Church in Downtown San Diego, a must-visit spiritual landmark.
Unmissable attractions to see
Spreckels Organ Society
0.0 km
Experience majestic outdoor concerts at the Spreckels Organ Society, featuring one of the largest pipe organs in the world in beautiful Balboa Park.
Balboa Park Explorer
0.0 km
Discover Balboa Park Explorer: A Cultural Oasis with Gardens, Museums, and History in San Diego.
The Prado at Balboa Park
0.0 km
Experience exquisite Californian cuisine in the heart of Balboa Park, where culinary artistry meets stunning landscapes.
Balboa Park Visitors Center
0.0 km
Explore Balboa Park's cultural treasures at the Visitors Center, your essential guide to San Diego's iconic park experience.
Plaza de Panama
0.0 km
Explore the iconic Plaza de Panama at Balboa Park, a cultural and historical landmark in San Diego, filled with art, gardens, and captivating architecture.
Casa del Rey Moro Garden
0.0 km
Experience the enchanting beauty of Casa del Rey Moro Garden in Balboa Park, where Moorish design meets stunning natural landscapes.
Timken Museum of Art
0.1 km
Explore the Timken Museum of Art in San Diego, a premier art destination in Balboa Park featuring free admission and extraordinary collections.
El Cid Campeador Statue
0.1 km
Discover the El Cid Campeador Statue, a magnificent sculpture in Balboa Park, celebrating Spanish heritage and artistry amidst stunning surroundings.
Museum of Photographic Arts at The San Diego Museum of Art
0.1 km
Explore the Museum of Photographic Arts in San Diego, a vibrant hub of photography and multimedia art nestled within Balboa Park.
San Diego Model Railroad Museum
0.1 km
Discover the intricate world of model railroads at the San Diego Model Railroad Museum, a captivating attraction in Balboa Park, California.
San Diego History Center
0.1 km
Explore San Diego's rich history at the San Diego History Center, located in Balboa Park, featuring exhibits, artifacts, and educational programs for all.
Casa de Balboa
0.1 km
Discover Casa de Balboa, a stunning historical landmark in Balboa Park, showcasing San Diego's rich cultural heritage and artistic treasures.
Lily Pond
0.1 km
Discover tranquility at the Lily Pond in Balboa Park, a serene nature preserve filled with vibrant lilies and stunning landscapes.
Japanese Friendship Garden and Museum
0.1 km
Discover tranquility and cultural heritage at the Japanese Friendship Garden and Museum in Balboa Park, San Diego.
Mingei International Museum
0.1 km
Explore the beauty of folk art and design at the Mingei International Museum in San Diego's Balboa Park, showcasing treasures from cultures worldwide.
Essential places to dine
Prado
0.0 km
Discover the exquisite flavors of Californian cuisine at Prado in Balboa Park – where great food meets stunning scenery.
Panama 66
0.1 km
Discover Panama 66 in Balboa Park – where American flavors meet artistic ambiance amidst stunning surroundings.
Busy Bee Cafe
0.3 km
Experience family-friendly dining at Busy Bee Cafe in San Diego Zoo, offering delicious American cuisine amid thrilling wildlife adventures.
Sweet Shack
0.4 km
Discover Sweet Shack in Balboa Park: a must-visit American restaurant offering delightful dishes and a cozy atmosphere for all visitors.
Safari Kitchen
0.4 km
Discover delicious hamburgers at Safari Kitchen in San Diego's Balboa Park – where taste meets adventure.
Albert's Restaurant
0.5 km
Experience delightful American cuisine at Albert's Restaurant in San Diego Zoo—perfect for families seeking great food amid wildlife.
Sabertooth Grill
0.8 km
Experience delightful American cuisine amidst the beauty of Balboa Park at Sabertooth Grill – perfect for families and tourists alike.
Mister A's
1.0 km
Experience fine dining at its best with stunning views at Mister A's in San Diego - where American meets French cuisine.
Parc Bistro-Brasserie
1.1 km
Discover authentic French cuisine at Parc Bistro-Brasserie in San Diego - your destination for delightful breakfasts, brunches, and seafood specialties.
The Balboa
1.2 km
Discover the vibrant flavors of San Diego at The Balboa Grill & Bar – where great food meets friendly service.
Tobeys 19th Hole Restaurant
1.3 km
Discover delicious American breakfast at Tobeys 19th Hole Restaurant in Balboa Park, where quality meets affordability.
Hob Nob Hill
1.3 km
Discover the charm of Hob Nob Hill in San Diego: where classic American comfort food meets cozy diner vibes.
Trust
1.7 km
Discover Trust in Hillcrest - A New American dining experience blending seasonal flavors with innovative cocktails in San Diego.
Hodad's Downtown
1.8 km
Experience the best of San Diego’s burger scene at Hodad's Downtown – where flavor meets fun in every bite.
GlassDoor Restaurant
1.8 km
Experience authentic Mexican flavors in the heart of San Diego at GlassDoor Restaurant—where delicious food meets vibrant culture.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Bibliotique
0.1 km
Explore Bibliotique in Balboa Park, San Diego for unique gifts, artisan crafts, and memorable souvenirs reflecting the local culture.
North Star Science Store
0.2 km
Explore the North Star Science Store in Balboa Park, a unique gift shop filled with science-themed treasures for curious minds and adventurers.
United Nations International Gift Shop
0.3 km
Explore the United Nations International Gift Shop in San Diego for unique gifts, books, and clothing that celebrate global cultures and promote peace.
Panda Shop
0.5 km
Discover unique panda-themed gifts and local crafts at the charming Panda Shop in San Diego's Balboa Park, perfect for all ages.
Arctic Trader
0.6 km
Discover unique gifts and souvenirs that celebrate San Diego's wildlife at Arctic Trader, located in beautiful Balboa Park.
Sydney's Shoppe
0.7 km
Discover unique gifts and souvenirs at Sydney's Shoppe, the charming gift shop in San Diego's iconic Balboa Park.
Tusker's Trunk
0.8 km
Uncover unique wildlife-themed souvenirs and gifts at Tusker's Trunk, the charming shop in San Diego Zoo, perfect for all ages.
Gold Leaf
1.8 km
Explore Gold Leaf in South Park, San Diego - a charming gift shop offering unique home goods, children's toys, and stylish furniture for every taste.
Rosamariposa
1.9 km
Explore Rosamariposa, a charming gift shop in Downtown San Diego, offering unique treasures that capture the essence of local artistry and culture.
Bad Madge & Co.
1.9 km
Explore a curated collection of vintage clothing and unique furniture at Bad Madge & Co. in San Diego's charming South Park neighborhood.
Vitreum
1.9 km
Explore Vitreum, San Diego's unique gift shop offering locally crafted treasures and artisanal gifts that capture the city's vibrant spirit.
Stroll
2.0 km
Explore Stroll Boutique in Downtown San Diego for unique fashion and gifts that embody the coastal charm of California.
Dream Boutique
2.2 km
Explore Dream Boutique in San Diego's Gaslamp Quarter for unique women's fashion, jewelry, and art that celebrates local creativity.
Wotown Vintage
2.3 km
Explore Wotown Vintage in San Diego: A unique fusion of vintage clothing, local art, and skate culture awaits you.
Wild Dove Boutique
2.3 km
Explore Wild Dove Boutique in Downtown San Diego for trendy clothing and accessories that capture the essence of modern fashion.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Lady Carolyn's Pub
0.3 km
Experience the charm of Lady Carolyn's Pub in Balboa Park, where cozy ambiance meets delightful beverages in San Diego's cultural heart.
The Corner Drafthouse
1.0 km
Experience the best of Californian cuisine and craft beer at The Corner Drafthouse, a vibrant bar and restaurant in San Diego's Bankers Hill.
Wet Stone Wine Bar & Cafe
1.2 km
Discover the exquisite flavors and cozy ambiance at Wet Stone Wine Bar & Cafe, a San Diego dining destination for wine lovers and food enthusiasts alike.
Whistle Stop Bar
1.9 km
Experience the vibrant culture of South Park at Whistle Stop Bar, where live music meets a laid-back atmosphere in San Diego.
Vin de Syrah
2.1 km
Discover the enchanting Vin de Syrah, a premier wine bar in San Diego's Gaslamp Quarter, offering exquisite wines and an inviting atmosphere.
Room 56
2.1 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at Room 56, San Diego's top cocktail bar, featuring innovative drinks and a stylish atmosphere.
Gaslamp Tavern
2.1 km
Experience the lively atmosphere of Gaslamp Tavern, where great food and sports combine in the heart of San Diego's Gaslamp Quarter.
Trailer Park After Dark
2.1 km
Discover the quirky charm of Trailer Park After Dark, a unique bar and restaurant in San Diego's Gaslamp Quarter offering creative cocktails and delicious food.
Star Bar
2.1 km
Discover the excitement of Star Bar in San Diego's Gaslamp Quarter, where karaoke and sports come together for an unforgettable nightlife experience.
False Idol
2.1 km
Discover False Idol, a tiki bar in San Diego offering exotic cocktails and an immersive island atmosphere that delights every visitor.
The Tipsy Crow
2.2 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at The Tipsy Crow, a top bar in San Diego's Gaslamp Quarter, offering drinks, bites, and unforgettable memories.
Noble Experiment
2.2 km
Discover Noble Experiment, an upscale speakeasy bar in San Diego offering craft cocktails and a unique prohibition-era experience in a hidden setting.
Neighborhood
2.2 km
Discover the vibrant flavors of San Diego at this dynamic gastropub, where gourmet cuisine meets a lively bar atmosphere.
Young Blood
2.2 km
Discover Young Blood, the cocktail bar in Downtown San Diego where vintage charm meets innovative mixology for an unforgettable nightlife experience.
Whiskey Girl
2.3 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at Whiskey Girl, a top sports bar and live music venue in San Diego's Gaslamp Quarter.
