Balboa Park Explorer: Your Gateway to San Diego's Cultural Heart
Unlock San Diego's cultural heart! Explore Balboa Park's museums, gardens, and attractions with the Balboa Park Explorer pass.
The Balboa Park Explorer is your key to unlocking the treasures within San Diego's iconic Balboa Park. This pass grants access to a multitude of museums and cultural institutions, offering a diverse and enriching experience for visitors of all ages.
A brief summary to Balboa Park Explorer
- 1549 El Prado Suite 4, San Diego, Balboa Park, California, 92101, US
- +1619-232-7502ext.1204
- Visit website
- Monday 9:30 am-4:30 pm
- Tuesday 9:30 am-4:30 pm
- Wednesday 9:30 am-4:30 pm
- Thursday 9:30 am-4:30 pm
- Friday 9:30 am-4:30 pm
- Saturday 9:30 am-4:30 pm
- Sunday 9:30 am-4:30 pm
Local tips
- Check the operating hours of each museum before your visit, as they may vary, and some are closed on Mondays.
- Take advantage of the free Balboa Park tram to easily navigate between different attractions within the park.
- Consider purchasing the Balboa Park Explorer Pass online in advance to save time and avoid lines.
- Wear comfortable shoes, as you'll be doing a lot of walking.
- Visit the Balboa Park Visitor Center in the House of Hospitality for maps, information, and guided tour schedules.
Getting There
-
Public Transport
From downtown San Diego, the Metropolitan Transit System (MTS) offers several bus routes to Balboa Park. Routes 3 and 120 travel along 4th and 5th Avenues, stopping near Laurel Street, a short walk to the park's west entrance via the Cabrillo Bridge. Routes 7 and Rapid 215 run on Park Boulevard, providing access to the east side of the park. A one-way fare is around $2.50, and a day pass costs about $6. Check the MTS website or app for the most up-to-date schedules and routes.
-
Walking
If you're near downtown San Diego, walking to Balboa Park is a viable option. From the City College Trolley Station, head north on Park Boulevard. The walk is approximately 1.2 miles and takes about 25 minutes. This route allows you to enjoy the urban scenery and gradually approach the park's grandeur. There are no costs associated with walking.
-
Driving
When driving to Balboa Park, several parking lots are available throughout the park. From Interstate 5 North, take exit 15B for B Street/Pershing Drive, then follow the signs to the park. From the San Diego Airport, take Harbor Drive to Grape Street, then I-5 South to the 10th Avenue exit, and follow signs to Balboa Park. Parking is free in most lots, including Inspiration Point, which offers a free tram service to the park's central attractions. Limited paid parking may be available during special events. Street parking near the park may also be available. Note that the City Of San Diego plans to charge for parking in Balboa Park, with reports indicating the fee will be $2.50/hour.
Discover more about Balboa Park Explorer
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
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.
House of England
0.3 km
Explore the House of England in San Diego's Balboa Park, a cultural gem celebrating British heritage with engaging exhibits and community events.
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 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.
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 Marston House in San Diego for a captivating journey through early 20th-century architecture and rich local history amidst beautiful gardens.
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.
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
1.7 km
Discover the Spruce Street Suspension Bridge, a historic landmark in San Diego offering breathtaking views and a serene atmosphere for all visitors.
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.
Piazza Basilone
1.9 km
Discover the serene Piazza Basilone in downtown San Diego, a historical landmark honoring WWII hero John Basilone amidst tranquil gardens.
Unmissable attractions to see
1549 El Prado
0.0 km
Explore Balboa Park's stunning architecture, lush gardens, and world-class museums in the heart of San Diego, California.
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
0.1 km
Discover a tranquil Moorish-inspired garden in Balboa Park, featuring lush greenery, soothing water features, and a serene atmosphere for relaxation.
Timken Museum of Art
0.1 km
Explore the Timken Museum of Art in Balboa Park, where stunning European and American masterpieces await in a serene, free-entry setting.
San Diego Model Railroad Museum
0.1 km
Discover the intricate world of trains at the San Diego Model Railroad Museum in Balboa Park, a must-see for tourists and families alike.
San Diego History Center
0.1 km
Explore San Diego's diverse past through engaging exhibits, a vast research library, and dynamic public programs in Balboa Park.
Casa de Balboa
0.1 km
Explore art, history, and culture at Casa de Balboa, a landmark building in Balboa Park, San Diego, home to diverse museums and stunning architecture.
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.
The San Diego Museum of Art
0.1 km
Discover the cultural heart of San Diego at The San Diego Museum of Art, showcasing a diverse collection of world-renowned art.
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.
Casa Del Prado
0.1 km
Explore Spanish Colonial Revival architecture & vibrant cultural scene at Casa Del Prado in Balboa Park. A historic landmark with youth arts & gardens.
Botanical Building
0.1 km
Discover the Botanical Building in Balboa Park, a stunning architectural gem showcasing diverse plant life and serene landscapes in San Diego.
Alcázar Garden
0.2 km
Discover the enchanting Alcázar Garden in Balboa Park, a serene escape filled with vibrant flora and stunning Spanish-inspired architecture.
Spreckels Organ Pavilion
0.2 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.
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
0.4 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
0.3 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
1.9 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.
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.
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.
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
0.2 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.
