Alcázar Garden: A Spanish Oasis in Balboa Park
A tranquil Spanish-Moorish garden in Balboa Park featuring ornate fountains, colorful tiles, and vibrant floral displays.
Step into the Alcázar Garden, a meticulously designed formal garden in Balboa Park inspired by the Alcázar Castle gardens in Seville, Spain. With vibrant Moorish tiles, ornate fountains, and colorful annual flower displays, this tranquil space offers a unique cultural experience.
A brief summary to Alcázar Garden
- 1363 El Prado, San Diego, Balboa Park, California, 92101, US
- +1619-239-0512
- Visit website
- Monday 6 am-10 pm
- Tuesday 6 am-10 pm
- Wednesday 6 am-10 pm
- Thursday 6 am-10 pm
- Friday 6 am-10 pm
- Saturday 6 am-10 pm
- Sunday 6 am-10 pm
Local tips
- Visit during the spring or early summer for the most vibrant floral displays.
- Take your time to admire the intricate details of the Moorish tiles on the fountains and benches.
- Bring a camera to capture the colorful beauty of the garden.
- Combine your visit with a trip to the nearby museums and attractions in Balboa Park.
Getting There
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Walking
From the Plaza de Panama in Balboa Park, walk east towards the Mingei International Museum. The Alcázar Garden is located just west of the museum, a short walk past the San Diego Museum of Man. The garden entrance is easily visible from El Prado, the main promenade.
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Public Transport
Take MTS bus routes 3, 7, 120, or Rapid 215 to Balboa Park. From the bus stops along Park Boulevard or 4th/5th Avenue, walk towards the heart of Balboa Park. Follow signs for the Plaza de Panama and the Mingei International Museum. The Alcázar Garden is a short walk from the Plaza de Panama, adjacent to the Mingei International Museum. A one-way fare on MTS is $2.50, valid for unlimited transfers within two hours.
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Taxi/Ride-Share
Request a drop-off at the Pan American Plaza in Balboa Park, near the Spreckels Organ Pavilion. From there, walk north towards El Prado and the Mingei International Museum. The Alcázar Garden is located a short walk west of the museum. A taxi or ride-share from downtown San Diego to Balboa Park typically costs $13-$17. From San Diego International Airport, expect to pay around $23.
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Parking
Several free parking lots are available in Balboa Park, including the Alcázar Parking Lot located behind the Mingei International Museum. From El Prado, turn right down the small road behind the museum to access the lot. Parking can be difficult during peak times, especially during major events. Consider using the free Balboa Park Tram from the Inspiration Point parking lot on the east side of Park Boulevard. The tram provides access to the Plaza de Panama, a short walk from the garden. Parking is free throughout Balboa Park.
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