Explore the Enchanting Balboa Park
Discover the beauty and culture of Balboa Park, an iconic San Diego attraction with stunning gardens, museums, and historic architecture.
Balboa Park in San Diego is a stunning urban oasis that combines beautiful gardens, historic architecture, and world-class museums. As a premier tourist attraction, it offers a unique blend of culture and nature for visitors looking to immerse themselves in the arts and history of California.
A brief summary to Balboa Park
- San Diego, California, US
- +1619-239-0512
- Visit website
- Monday 12 am-12 am
- Tuesday 12 am-12 am
- Wednesday 12 am-12 am
- Thursday 12 am-12 am
- Friday 12 am-12 am
- Saturday 12 am-12 am
- Sunday 12 am-12 am
Local tips
- Visit during weekdays to avoid crowds and enjoy a more peaceful experience.
- Check the park's calendar for free admission days at various museums.
- Wear comfortable shoes as the park is expansive and requires a lot of walking.
- Don’t miss the stunning sunset views from the California Tower.
- Bring a picnic to enjoy in one of the many picturesque gardens.
Getting There
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Ferry
Start your journey at the Coronado Ferry Landing. Board the ferry to San Diego, which departs frequently throughout the day. The ferry ride takes about 15 minutes and provides beautiful views of the San Diego skyline. Once you arrive at the Broadway Pier in San Diego, you will disembark.
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Public Transit
After disembarking at Broadway Pier, head to the nearby bus stop. You can take the MTS bus route 7 towards 'Mission Valley' or route 120 towards 'El Cajon.' Make sure to check the bus schedule for the next departure. You will ride the bus for approximately 30 minutes. Get off at the stop for '5th Ave & University Ave.'
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Walking
From the bus stop at '5th Ave & University Ave,' walk east on University Avenue until you reach 6th Avenue. Turn left on 6th Avenue and continue walking until you reach the park entrance. Balboa Park is a large area, so you may want to explore the specific attractions you are interested in such as the San Diego Zoo or the many museums located within the park.
Discover more about Balboa Park
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Casa del Rey Moro Garden
0.6 km
Explore the serene Casa del Rey Moro Garden in Balboa Park, San Diego—a tranquil escape featuring lush landscapes and cultural heritage.
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.
Japanese Friendship Garden and Museum
0.7 km
Explore the serene Japanese Friendship Garden and Museum in San Diego, a cultural oasis showcasing stunning landscapes and rich heritage.
House of Charm
0.7 km
Explore the House of Charm in Balboa Park, a captivating historical landmark showcasing stunning architecture and rich cultural experiences.
Alcázar Garden
0.7 km
Explore Alcázar Garden in Balboa Park, a stunning blend of nature and history, perfect for relaxation, photography, and enjoying the beauty of San Diego.
California Tower
0.8 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
0.8 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
0.9 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
1.0 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 Air & Space Museum
1.3 km
Explore the wonders of aviation and space at the San Diego Air & Space Museum, where history meets innovation in a stunning setting.
Marston House
1.5 km
Explore the Marston House Museum, a gem of Arts and Crafts architecture in San Diego, showcasing rich history and stunning gardens.
San Diego Old Fire Alarm Communications Building
1.6 km
Discover the San Diego Old Fire Alarm Communications Building, a historical landmark showcasing the evolution of fire safety in a picturesque park setting.
Golden Hill Fountain Grotto
1.6 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
1.8 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.
Long-Waterman House
1.9 km
Explore the Long-Waterman House, a historical landmark in San Diego's Bankers Hill, where timeless architecture meets lush gardens and rich history.
Unmissable attractions to see
Balboa Park Carousel
0.2 km
Experience the enchanting Balboa Park Carousel, a historical gem in San Diego that delights visitors with its charming rides and vibrant atmosphere.
Desert Garden
0.2 km
Explore the Desert Garden in Balboa Park, a serene oasis featuring diverse desert plants and stunning landscapes for nature lovers and photographers.
Spanish Village Art Center
0.3 km
Explore the vibrant artistic enclave of Spanish Village Art Center in Balboa Park, showcasing local talent and creativity in a picturesque setting.
Inez Grant Parker Memorial Rose Garden
0.3 km
Explore the enchanting Inez Grant Parker Memorial Rose Garden in San Diego, a floral paradise perfect for relaxation and stunning photography.
San Diego Natural History Museum
0.3 km
Discover the remarkable journey of life on Earth at the San Diego Natural History Museum, where adventure meets enlightenment.
Bea Evenson Fountain
0.4 km
Discover the Bea Evenson Fountain in Balboa Park, where beauty and tranquility meet in San Diego's urban oasis.
Zoofari Party Area
0.4 km
Discover the Zoofari Party Area: A unique picnic spot surrounded by wildlife at the renowned San Diego Zoo, perfect for family gatherings and celebrations.
Rex's Roar sculpture
0.4 km
Experience the awe-inspiring Rex's Roar sculpture in Balboa Park, a magnificent piece of art that embodies creativity and beauty in San Diego.
Fleet Science Center
0.4 km
Discover the fascinating world of science at the Fleet Science Center in San Diego, where fun and education meet in an interactive experience for all ages.
Casa Del Prado
0.4 km
Experience the historical allure of Casa Del Prado in Balboa Park, a cultural gem filled with art, architecture, and scenic beauty.
Zoro Garden
0.4 km
Experience the tranquil beauty of Zoro Garden, a hidden oasis in San Diego's Balboa Park, perfect for relaxation and nature appreciation.
Botanical Building
0.5 km
Discover the beauty of diverse flora at the Botanical Building, a breathtaking architectural gem in San Diego's Balboa Park.
Lily Pond
0.5 km
Discover tranquility at the Lily Pond in Balboa Park, a serene nature preserve filled with vibrant lilies and stunning landscapes.
San Diego Zoo Terrace Lagoon
0.5 km
Discover the tranquility of the San Diego Zoo Terrace Lagoon, where vibrant gardens meet a rich tapestry of wildlife in a peaceful oasis.
San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance
0.5 km
Experience the incredible wildlife and conservation efforts at the San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance, where learning meets adventure in a stunning setting.
Essential places to dine
Busy Bee Cafe
0.4 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
0.5 km
Discover delicious hamburgers at Safari Kitchen in San Diego's Balboa Park – where taste meets adventure.
Prado
0.6 km
Discover the exquisite flavors of Californian cuisine at Prado in Balboa Park – where great food meets stunning scenery.
Panama 66
0.7 km
Discover Panama 66 in Balboa Park – where American flavors meet artistic ambiance amidst stunning surroundings.
Albert's Restaurant
0.7 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.
Tobeys 19th Hole Restaurant
1.2 km
Discover delicious American breakfast at Tobeys 19th Hole Restaurant in Balboa Park, where quality meets affordability.
Trust
1.4 km
Discover Trust in Hillcrest - A New American dining experience blending seasonal flavors with innovative cocktails in San Diego.
Parc Bistro-Brasserie
1.5 km
Discover authentic French cuisine at Parc Bistro-Brasserie in San Diego - your destination for delightful breakfasts, brunches, and seafood specialties.
RustiCucina
1.5 km
Discover RustiCucina in San Diego for an authentic Italian dining experience with fresh ingredients and classic recipes.
Mister A's
1.5 km
Experience fine dining at its best with stunning views at Mister A's in San Diego - where American meets French cuisine.
The Smoking Goat Restaurant
1.6 km
Experience the perfect blend of modern French cuisine and American flavors at The Smoking Goat Restaurant in San Diego's North Park.
One Door North
1.6 km
Discover One Door North in San Diego - where delicious American cuisine meets vibrant bar culture in a cozy setting.
insideOUT
1.7 km
Discover insideOUT in Hillcrest: A vibrant restaurant offering exquisite Mediterranean dishes and an inviting lounge atmosphere perfect for all occasions.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
North Star Science Store
0.4 km
Explore the North Star Science Store in Balboa Park, a unique gift shop filled with science-themed treasures for curious minds and adventurers.
Sydney's Shoppe
0.6 km
Discover unique gifts and souvenirs at Sydney's Shoppe, the charming gift shop in San Diego's iconic Balboa Park.
Bibliotique
0.7 km
Explore Bibliotique in Balboa Park, San Diego for unique gifts, artisan crafts, and memorable souvenirs reflecting the local culture.
Panda Shop
0.7 km
Discover unique panda-themed gifts and local crafts at the charming Panda Shop in San Diego's Balboa Park, perfect for all ages.
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.
United Nations International Gift Shop
0.9 km
Explore the United Nations International Gift Shop in San Diego for unique gifts, books, and clothing that celebrate global cultures and promote peace.
Arctic Trader
1.0 km
Discover unique gifts and souvenirs that celebrate San Diego's wildlife at Arctic Trader, located in beautiful Balboa Park.
Gold Leaf
1.5 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.
Bad Madge & Co.
1.5 km
Explore a curated collection of vintage clothing and unique furniture at Bad Madge & Co. in San Diego's charming South Park neighborhood.
The Gold Dust Collective
2.1 km
Discover unique antiques, vintage clothing, and handmade gifts at The Gold Dust Collective in San Diego's vibrant North Park neighborhood.
The Cave of Wonders
2.1 km
Explore The Cave of Wonders in San Diego, where enchanting gifts, unique jewelry, and mystical treasures await in a vibrant atmosphere.
Hunt & Gather
2.1 km
Explore the charm of vintage fashion at Hunt & Gather, where unique clothing and accessories await in the heart of North Park, San Diego.
Rosamariposa
2.4 km
Explore Rosamariposa, a charming gift shop in Downtown San Diego, offering unique treasures that capture the essence of local artistry and culture.
Vitreum
2.5 km
Explore Vitreum, San Diego's unique gift shop offering locally crafted treasures and artisanal gifts that capture the city's vibrant spirit.
Stroll
2.5 km
Explore Stroll Boutique in Downtown San Diego for unique fashion and gifts that embody the coastal charm of California.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Lady Carolyn's Pub
0.7 km
Experience the charm of Lady Carolyn's Pub in Balboa Park, where cozy ambiance meets delightful beverages in San Diego's cultural heart.
Whistle Stop Bar
1.5 km
Experience the vibrant culture of South Park at Whistle Stop Bar, where live music meets a laid-back atmosphere in San Diego.
The Corner Drafthouse
1.5 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
1.8 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.
Part Time Lover
2.1 km
Discover the vibrant cocktail scene at Part Time Lover in North Park, San Diego, where every sip tells a story in an unforgettable atmosphere.
The Office Bar
2.1 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at The Office Bar in North Park, San Diego, known for its creative cocktails and lively atmosphere.
Vin de Syrah
2.6 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
2.6 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at Room 56, San Diego's top cocktail bar, featuring innovative drinks and a stylish atmosphere.
Gaslamp Tavern
2.6 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
2.6 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
2.7 km
Discover the excitement of Star Bar in San Diego's Gaslamp Quarter, where karaoke and sports come together for an unforgettable nightlife experience.
Noble Experiment
2.7 km
Discover Noble Experiment, an upscale speakeasy bar in San Diego offering craft cocktails and a unique prohibition-era experience in a hidden setting.
Young Blood
2.7 km
Discover Young Blood, the cocktail bar in Downtown San Diego where vintage charm meets innovative mixology for an unforgettable nightlife experience.
Neighborhood
2.7 km
Discover the vibrant flavors of San Diego at this dynamic gastropub, where gourmet cuisine meets a lively bar atmosphere.
False Idol
2.7 km
Discover False Idol, a tiki bar in San Diego offering exotic cocktails and an immersive island atmosphere that delights every visitor.
