San Diego History Center: Discovering San Diego's Past
Explore San Diego's diverse past through engaging exhibits, a vast research library, and dynamic public programs in Balboa Park.
Located in the heart of Balboa Park, the San Diego History Center preserves and promotes the diverse history of the San Diego region. Through exhibitions, a research library, and public programs, the center connects the past to the present, offering insights into the region's cultural evolution.
A brief summary to San Diego History Center
- 1649 El Prado, San Diego, Balboa Park, California, 92101, US
- +1619-232-6203
- Visit website
- Wednesday 10 am-5 pm
- Thursday 10 am-5 pm
- Friday 10 am-5 pm
- Saturday 10 am-5 pm
- Sunday 10 am-5 pm
Local tips
- Check the San Diego History Center's website for current and upcoming exhibitions, events, and public programs.
- Take advantage of the free Balboa Park tram to easily access the History Center and other attractions within the park.
- Explore other museums and gardens in Balboa Park to make the most of your visit.
Getting There
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Public Transport
From downtown San Diego, use the Metropolitan Transit System (MTS). Routes 3, 7, 120, and Rapid 215 serve stops on the east and west sides of Balboa Park. To enter from the park's east side (closest to the History Center), Routes 7 and Rapid 215 operate on Park Boulevard. Route 7 stops at the Rose Garden, while Rapid 215 stops at the San Diego Zoo. One-way fares are about $2.50, and with the PRONTO app, you can earn a Day Pass as you ride.
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Walking
From the Plaza de Panama, walk east along El Prado, the park's main promenade. The San Diego History Center is located in the Casa de Balboa building. Enjoy the Spanish Colonial Revival architecture and the surrounding gardens as you approach.
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Ride Share & Taxi
Take a ride-sharing service or taxi to the central traffic circle by the Pan American Plaza. From there, it is a short walk to the San Diego History Center. A short trip from downtown San Diego will likely cost $10-$15.
Discover more about San Diego History Center
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Alcázar Garden
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California Tower
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Museum of Us
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House of England
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Balboa Park
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Cabrillo Bridge
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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
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San Diego Air & Space Museum
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San Diego Old Fire Alarm Communications Building
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Golden Hill Fountain Grotto
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Marston House
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Long-Waterman House
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Coulter House
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Spruce Street Suspension Bridge
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Unmissable attractions to see
San Diego Model Railroad Museum
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San Diego History Center
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Casa de Balboa
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Casa Del Prado
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Zoro Garden
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1549 El Prado
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Spreckels Organ Society
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Balboa Park Explorer
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The Prado at Balboa Park
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Casa del Rey Moro Garden
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Lily Pond
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Timken Museum of Art
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Balboa Park Visitors Center
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Plaza de Panama
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Fleet Science Center
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Essential places to dine
Prado
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Panama 66
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Busy Bee Cafe
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Sweet Shack
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Safari Kitchen
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Albert's Restaurant
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Sabertooth Grill
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Mister A's
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Parc Bistro-Brasserie
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Tobeys 19th Hole Restaurant
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The Balboa
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Hob Nob Hill
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Trust
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RustiCucina
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Hodad's Downtown
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
North Star Science Store
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Bibliotique
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United Nations International Gift Shop
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Panda Shop
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Arctic Trader
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Sydney's Shoppe
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Tusker's Trunk
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Gold Leaf
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Bad Madge & Co.
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Rosamariposa
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Vitreum
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
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Neighborhood
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Young Blood
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Whiskey Girl
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