Casa de Balboa: A Cultural Hub in Balboa Park
Explore art, history, and culture at Casa de Balboa, a landmark building in Balboa Park, San Diego, home to diverse museums and stunning architecture.
Casa de Balboa, a Spanish Renaissance-style building in San Diego's Balboa Park, houses several museums and cultural institutions. Reconstructed in 1982 after a fire, it stands as a testament to the park's rich history and architectural beauty.
A brief summary to Casa de Balboa
- 1649 El Prado, San Diego, Balboa Park, California, 92101, US
- Tuesday 9 am-5 pm
- Wednesday 9 am-5 pm
- Thursday 9 am-5 pm
- Friday 9 am-5 pm
- Saturday 9 am-5 pm
- Sunday 9 am-5 pm
Local tips
- Visit on weekdays to avoid large crowds and enjoy a more relaxed experience.
- Check the schedules for each museum within Casa de Balboa, as hours may vary.
- Take advantage of the free Balboa Park tram to easily access Casa de Balboa and other attractions.
- Explore the architecture and design of the building, paying attention to the unique details and historical elements.
Getting There
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Public Transport
From downtown San Diego, use the Metropolitan Transit System (MTS). Routes 3, 7, 120, and Rapid 215 serve Balboa Park. Take Route 7 or Rapid 215 to the Park Blvd and Village Pl stop for a short walk to Casa de Balboa. A one-way fare costs $2.50, and a day pass is $6.
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Walking
From the Plaza de Panama, walk east along El Prado. Casa de Balboa is located at 1649 El Prado, a short walk from the Plaza. This is a scenic, pedestrian-friendly route through the heart of Balboa Park.
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Free Tram
Park at Inspiration Point (east of Park Blvd at Presidents Way) and take the free Balboa Park tram. The tram runs every 10-15 minutes and stops at the Plaza de Panama, a short walk to Casa de Balboa. The tram operates from 9:00 am to 6:00 pm (9:00 am to 8:00 pm during summer, June 1 through October 31).
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Ride Share/Taxi
Take a ride-share service or taxi to 1649 El Prado, San Diego, CA 92101. The driver can drop you off at the central traffic circle by the Pan American Plaza, a short walk to Casa de Balboa. A ride from downtown San Diego typically costs $10-$15, depending on traffic.
Discover more about Casa de Balboa
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
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California Tower
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House of England
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Balboa Park
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Cabrillo Bridge
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San Diego Zoo
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San Diego Air & Space Museum
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San Diego Old Fire Alarm Communications Building
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Unmissable attractions to see
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San Diego History Center
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1549 El Prado
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Balboa Park Explorer
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Casa Del Prado
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Plaza de Panama
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Timken Museum of Art
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Japanese Friendship Garden and Museum
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Botanical Building
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San Diego Natural History Museum
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Spreckels Organ Pavilion
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Essential places to dine
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
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