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
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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.
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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.
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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.
