Palm Canyon Trail: A Balboa Park Oasis
Discover a hidden tropical paradise in the heart of San Diego's Balboa Park, featuring a lush canyon filled with towering palms.
Escape the urban bustle within Balboa Park's Palm Canyon Trail, a lush, hidden oasis featuring over 450 palms of various species. A short walk transports you to a tranquil world of towering trees and verdant foliage.
A brief summary to Palm Canyon Trail
- 635 Pan American W Rd, San Diego, Balboa Park, California, 92101, US
Local tips
- Wear comfortable shoes, as the trail can be uneven in places.
- Bring water, especially on warm days, as the canyon can trap heat.
- Combine your visit with a free concert at the Spreckels Organ Pavilion, located nearby.
- Explore the connecting trail to the Old Cactus Garden for a contrast in landscapes.
Getting There
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Walking
Palm Canyon Trail is directly across the street from the Spreckels Organ Pavilion in Balboa Park. From the Organ Pavilion, cross Pan American Road West using the crosswalk. You'll see a wooden footbridge and stairs leading down into the canyon. The entrance to the trail is free.
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Public Transport
Several bus routes serve Balboa Park, including routes 3, 7, 120, and Rapid 215. From the bus stops on Park Boulevard, walk west towards the center of the park and the Spreckels Organ Pavilion. Cross Pan American Road West to reach the Palm Canyon Trail entrance. A one-way fare costs $2.50.
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Driving
From I-5, exit at Pershing Drive/B Street and follow signs to Balboa Park. Once in the park, parking is free but can be limited. Consider parking in the Alcazar Parking Lot, located off El Prado and Pan American Road, which is close to the Palm Canyon Trail entrance. From the parking lot, walk across Pan American Road West to the wooden footbridge marking the trail entrance. Parking is free.
Discover more about Palm Canyon Trail
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
House of England
0.1 km
Explore the House of England in San Diego's Balboa Park, a cultural gem celebrating British heritage with engaging exhibits and community events.
House of Charm
0.1 km
Discover the historic House of Charm in Balboa Park, San Diego: home to art, culture, and architectural beauty, showcasing the city's rich heritage and vibrant artistic community.
San Diego History Center
0.3 km
Explore San Diego's vibrant history at the San Diego History Center, where captivating exhibits and engaging stories await every visitor.
Cabrillo Bridge
0.3 km
Discover the beauty and history of Cabrillo Bridge, an architectural gem in Balboa Park, San Diego, perfect for memorable walks and breathtaking views.
Casa Del Prado
0.4 km
Explore Casa Del Prado, a historical landmark in Balboa Park, showcasing San Diego's rich cultural heritage through art and architecture.
San Diego Air & Space Museum
0.5 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 Zoo
0.7 km
Discover a world of wildlife and botanical wonders at the San Diego Zoo, a leading conservation organization committed to protecting endangered species and inspiring a passion for nature.
San Diego Old Fire Alarm Communications Building
0.8 km
Discover the San Diego Old Fire Alarm Communications Building, a historical landmark showcasing the evolution of fire safety in a picturesque park setting.
Balboa Park
0.8 km
Discover Balboa Park: A cultural paradise in San Diego with stunning gardens, historic museums, and vibrant events for every traveler.
Long-Waterman House
1.2 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 Marston House in San Diego for a captivating journey through early 20th-century architecture and rich local history amidst beautiful gardens.
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.
Golden Hill Fountain Grotto
1.5 km
Explore the Golden Hill Fountain Grotto, a serene historical landmark in Balboa Park, San Diego, blending stunning architecture with tranquil nature.
Amici House
1.5 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.
Our Lady of the Rosary Catholic Church
1.6 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
House of Pacific Relations - Hall of Nations
0.1 km
Discover the rich tapestry of cultural heritage at the House of Pacific Relations - Hall of Nations in San Diego, a vibrant hub celebrating global traditions.
Alcázar Garden
0.1 km
Discover the enchanting Alcázar Garden in Balboa Park, a serene escape filled with vibrant flora and stunning Spanish-inspired architecture.
Spreckels Organ Pavilion
0.1 km
Discover the enchanting Spreckels Organ Pavilion in Balboa Park, where stunning architecture meets the captivating sound of one of the world's largest outdoor pipe organs.
Mingei International Museum
0.1 km
Discover the Mingei International Museum in Balboa Park, where folk art and craftsmanship from around the world come to life in an inspiring setting.
ICA San Diego / Central
0.1 km
Discover contemporary creativity and cultural dialogue at ICA San Diego, a vibrant art center in the heart of Balboa Park.
Japanese Friendship Garden and Museum
0.1 km
Explore the serene beauty of the Japanese Friendship Garden in San Diego, a cultural gem showcasing traditional Japanese horticulture and design.
Museum of Us
0.2 km
Explore the Museum of Us in Balboa Park, where culture and anthropology unite to offer an immersive journey through the history of humanity.
California Tower
0.2 km
Explore the California Tower in Balboa Park, a historical landmark offering stunning views and rich cultural experiences in the heart of San Diego.
Casa del Rey Moro Garden
0.2 km
Discover a tranquil Moorish-inspired garden in Balboa Park, featuring lush greenery, soothing water features, and a serene atmosphere for relaxation.
Plaza de Panama
0.2 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.
1549 El Prado
0.2 km
Explore Balboa Park's stunning architecture, lush gardens, and world-class museums in the heart of San Diego, California.
Balboa Park Explorer
0.2 km
Unlock San Diego's cultural heart! Explore Balboa Park's museums, gardens, and attractions with the Balboa Park Explorer pass.
The Old Globe
0.2 km
Discover the magic of theater at The Old Globe in Balboa Park, San Diego, where world-class productions meet stunning surroundings.
The San Diego Museum of Art
0.3 km
Discover the cultural heart of San Diego at The San Diego Museum of Art, showcasing a diverse collection of world-renowned art.
Timken Museum of Art
0.3 km
Explore the Timken Museum of Art in Balboa Park, where stunning European and American masterpieces await in a serene, free-entry setting.
Essential places to dine
Panama 66
0.2 km
Discover Panama 66 in Balboa Park – where American flavors meet artistic ambiance amidst stunning surroundings.
Prado
0.2 km
Discover the exquisite flavors of Californian cuisine at Prado in Balboa Park – where great food meets stunning scenery.
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.
Busy Bee Cafe
0.5 km
Experience family-friendly dining at Busy Bee Cafe in San Diego Zoo, offering delicious American cuisine amid thrilling wildlife adventures.
Sweet Shack
0.5 km
Discover Sweet Shack in Balboa Park: a must-visit American restaurant offering delightful dishes and a cozy atmosphere for all visitors.
Safari Kitchen
0.6 km
Discover delicious hamburgers at Safari Kitchen in San Diego's Balboa Park – where taste meets adventure.
Mister A's
0.9 km
Experience fine dining at its best with stunning views at Mister A's in San Diego - where American meets French cuisine.
Sabertooth Grill
0.9 km
Experience delightful American cuisine amidst the beauty of Balboa Park at Sabertooth Grill – perfect for families and tourists alike.
Parc Bistro-Brasserie
1.0 km
Discover authentic French cuisine at Parc Bistro-Brasserie in San Diego - your destination for delightful breakfasts, brunches, and seafood specialties.
The Balboa
1.0 km
Discover the vibrant flavors of San Diego at The Balboa Grill & Bar – where great food meets friendly service.
Hob Nob Hill
1.1 km
Discover the charm of Hob Nob Hill in San Diego: where classic American comfort food meets cozy diner vibes.
Tobeys 19th Hole Restaurant
1.4 km
Discover delicious American breakfast at Tobeys 19th Hole Restaurant in Balboa Park, where quality meets affordability.
GlassDoor Restaurant
1.6 km
Experience authentic Mexican flavors in the heart of San Diego at GlassDoor Restaurant—where delicious food meets vibrant culture.
Hodad's Downtown
1.7 km
Experience the best of San Diego’s burger scene at Hodad's Downtown – where flavor meets fun in every bite.
Born and Raised
1.7 km
Discover culinary excellence at Born and Raised - San Diego's premier steakhouse offering exquisite cuts of meat in a luxurious setting.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
United Nations International Gift Shop
0.1 km
Explore the United Nations International Gift Shop in San Diego for unique gifts, books, and clothing that celebrate global cultures and promote peace.
Bibliotique
0.2 km
Explore Bibliotique in Balboa Park, San Diego for unique gifts, artisan crafts, and memorable souvenirs reflecting the local culture.
North Star Science Store
0.4 km
Explore the North Star Science Store in Balboa Park, a unique gift shop filled with science-themed treasures for curious minds and adventurers.
Arctic Trader
0.6 km
Discover unique gifts and souvenirs that celebrate San Diego's wildlife at Arctic Trader, located in beautiful Balboa Park.
Panda Shop
0.6 km
Discover unique panda-themed gifts and local crafts at the charming Panda Shop in San Diego's Balboa Park, perfect for all ages.
Sydney's Shoppe
0.9 km
Discover unique gifts and souvenirs at Sydney's Shoppe, the charming gift shop in San Diego's iconic Balboa Park.
Tusker's Trunk
0.9 km
Uncover unique wildlife-themed souvenirs and gifts at Tusker's Trunk, the charming shop in San Diego Zoo, perfect for all ages.
Rosamariposa
1.7 km
Explore Rosamariposa, a charming gift shop in Downtown San Diego, offering unique treasures that capture the essence of local artistry and culture.
Vitreum
1.7 km
Explore Vitreum, San Diego's unique gift shop offering locally crafted treasures and artisanal gifts that capture the city's vibrant spirit.
Stroll
1.8 km
Explore Stroll Boutique in Downtown San Diego for unique fashion and gifts that embody the coastal charm of California.
Gold Leaf
2.0 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.
Dream Boutique
2.1 km
Explore Dream Boutique in San Diego's Gaslamp Quarter for unique women's fashion, jewelry, and art that celebrates local creativity.
Bad Madge & Co.
2.1 km
Explore a curated collection of vintage clothing and unique furniture at Bad Madge & Co. in San Diego's charming South Park neighborhood.
Great souvenirs of San Diego,inc.
2.1 km
Shop for unique local treasures at Great Souvenirs of San Diego, where every item tells a story and captures the spirit of this vibrant coastal city.
Wotown Vintage
2.1 km
Explore Wotown Vintage in San Diego: A unique fusion of vintage clothing, local art, and skate culture awaits you.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Lady Carolyn's Pub
0.2 km
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The Corner Drafthouse
0.8 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
1.0 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.
Vin de Syrah
1.9 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
1.9 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at Room 56, San Diego's top cocktail bar, featuring innovative drinks and a stylish atmosphere.
Gaslamp Tavern
1.9 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
1.9 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.
False Idol
1.9 km
Discover False Idol, a tiki bar in San Diego offering exotic cocktails and an immersive island atmosphere that delights every visitor.
Star Bar
1.9 km
Discover the excitement of Star Bar in San Diego's Gaslamp Quarter, where karaoke and sports come together for an unforgettable nightlife experience.
The Tipsy Crow
2.0 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
2.0 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
2.0 km
Discover the vibrant flavors of San Diego at this dynamic gastropub, where gourmet cuisine meets a lively bar atmosphere.
Young Blood
2.0 km
Discover Young Blood, the cocktail bar in Downtown San Diego where vintage charm meets innovative mixology for an unforgettable nightlife experience.
Whistle Stop Bar
2.0 km
Experience the vibrant culture of South Park at Whistle Stop Bar, where live music meets a laid-back atmosphere in San Diego.
Whiskey Girl
2.1 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at Whiskey Girl, a top sports bar and live music venue in San Diego's Gaslamp Quarter.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Phantom Lounge and Nightclub
1.8 km
Experience the dynamic nightlife of San Diego at Phantom Lounge and Nightclub, where great cocktails, music, and ambiance come together for an unforgettable evening.
Parq Nightclub
1.8 km
Discover the ultimate nightlife experience at Parq Nightclub, where world-class DJs, exquisite cocktails, and an electrifying atmosphere await in Downtown San Diego.
Bloom Nightclub
1.9 km
Unleash your inner party animal at Bloom Nightclub, the heartbeat of San Diego's nightlife, featuring electrifying music and a chic atmosphere.
Onyx Room
1.9 km
Discover the pulse of San Diego nightlife at Onyx Room, where exquisite cocktails and electrifying music converge in the heart of the Gaslamp Quarter.
F6ix
2.0 km
Discover the electrifying nightlife at F6ix, a premier nightclub in San Diego's Gaslamp Quarter, featuring vibrant music, craft cocktails, and an unforgettable atmosphere.
TORO
2.1 km
Dive into the pulse of San Diego's nightlife at TORO, where electrifying music and vibrant energy create unforgettable nights.
The Brig
2.1 km
Discover electrifying nightlife at The Brig, the ultimate night club in San Diego's Gaslamp Quarter, perfect for dancing and unforgettable memories.
San Diego Club Crawl
2.2 km
Unleash your nightlife spirit with San Diego Club Crawl: an unforgettable journey through the city's vibrant bars and nightclubs.
Side Bar
2.2 km
Experience the ultimate nightlife at Side Bar in San Diego's Gaslamp Quarter, featuring live music, creative cocktails, and a vibrant atmosphere.
San Diego VIP Nightlife
2.2 km
Discover the pulse of San Diego's nightlife at San Diego VIP Nightlife, where music and excitement await in downtown's vibrant setting.
NOVA SD
2.3 km
Discover the thrill of San Diego nightlife at NOVA SD, the ultimate night club experience in the lively Gaslamp Quarter.
Oxford Social Club
2.4 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at Oxford Social Club, where elegance meets excitement in the heart of San Diego's Gaslamp Quarter.
Altitude Sky Lounge
2.5 km
Discover the breathtaking views and vibrant nightlife at Altitude Sky Lounge, San Diego's premier rooftop destination for great food and cocktails.
Sevilla Nightclub of San Diego
2.5 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere of Sevilla Nightclub, San Diego's hotspot for live music and exhilarating nightlife in the Gaslamp Quarter.
Spin Nightclub
3.8 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife of San Diego at Spin Nightclub, where live music meets an electrifying atmosphere for an unforgettable experience.
