Cabrillo Bridge: Gateway to Balboa Park
An iconic gateway to Balboa Park, the Cabrillo Bridge offers stunning architecture and panoramic views, connecting history and culture in San Diego.
The Cabrillo Bridge, an iconic structure in San Diego, serves as a grand entrance to Balboa Park. Built for the 1915 Panama-California Exposition, its elegant arches and historic significance make it a must-see landmark.
A brief summary to Cabrillo Bridge
- El Prado, San Diego, Balboa Park, California, 92101, US
- +1619-527-7500
- Visit website
- Monday 12 am-12 am
- Tuesday 12 am-12 am
- Wednesday 12 am-12 am
- Thursday 12 am-12 am
- Friday 12 am-12 am
- Saturday 12 am-12 am
- Sunday 12 am-12 am
Local tips
- Walk across the bridge for stunning views of Balboa Park and the California Tower.
- Visit during sunset to see the arches beautifully illuminated.
- Explore the area below the bridge by following the dirt trail from Balboa Park's West Mesa.
Getting There
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Walking
From the west side of Balboa Park, follow El Prado eastward. The Cabrillo Bridge will be directly ahead, providing access to the main attractions within Balboa Park. This is a pedestrian-friendly route with sidewalks.
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Public Transport
Take MTS bus routes 3 or 120 to the stop closest to Laurel Street on the park's west side. Walk east on Laurel Street, past 6th Avenue, and over the Cabrillo Bridge. Alternatively, from downtown, take the 7 or 215 bus to Park Blvd and Zoo Pl. From there, walk west towards the bridge. A one-way fare on MTS is $2.50, and is valid for unlimited transfers within two hours of activation.
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Ride Share
Request a ride to the Pan American Plaza in Balboa Park. From there, walk west towards the Cabrillo Bridge. Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are readily available in San Diego. A short trip from downtown San Diego to Balboa Park typically costs between $10 and $20, depending on demand and traffic.
Discover more about Cabrillo Bridge
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
House of Charm
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House of England
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San Diego History Center
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Casa de Balboa
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San Diego Air & Space Museum
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Casa Del Prado
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San Diego Zoo
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San Diego Old Fire Alarm Communications Building
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Long-Waterman House
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Balboa Park
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Coulter House
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Marston House
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Spruce Street Suspension Bridge
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Amici House
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Our Lady of the Rosary Catholic Church
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Unmissable attractions to see
Museum of Us
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California Tower
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The Old Globe
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Alcázar Garden
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Palm Canyon Trail
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ICA San Diego / Central
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Mingei International Museum
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House of Pacific Relations - Hall of Nations
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The San Diego Museum of Art
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Plaza de Panama
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San Diego Automotive Museum
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Spreckels Organ Pavilion
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Japanese Friendship Garden and Museum
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Casa del Rey Moro Garden
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Balboa Park Explorer
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Essential places to dine
Panama 66
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Albert's Restaurant
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Prado
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Mister A's
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Safari Kitchen
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Sweet Shack
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Busy Bee Cafe
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Parc Bistro-Brasserie
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Sabertooth Grill
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Arctic Trader
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Bibliotique
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United Nations International Gift Shop
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Panda Shop
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North Star Science Store
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Nightclubs & after hour spots
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