Balboa Park image

Balboa Park

Tourist attraction β€’ Park β€’ History museum

One of the Best Places To Visits in San Diego


Address

San Diego, CA

Website

www.balboapark.org

Contact

(619) 239-0512

Rating on Google Maps

4.80 (71.4K reviews)

Open on Google Maps

Working Hours

  • Saturday: Open 24 hours
  • Sunday: Open 24 hours
  • Monday: Open 24 hours
  • Tuesday: Open 24 hours
  • Wednesday: Open 24 hours
  • Thursday: Open 24 hours
  • Friday: Open 24 hours

Featured Reviews


Frequently mentioned in reviews: park (69) museums (53) beautiful (38) Diego (36) visit (30) Balboa (28) spend (28) great (26) gardens (23) Park (22)
Reviews are sorted by relevance, prioritizing the most helpful and insightful feedback at the top for easier reference.
  • 5/5 Ashutosh S. 2 years ago on Google
    Such a lively place with plenty of foods and music. Great architectural buildings all over. Walking alongside fountains, sculptures, beautiful trees with so many people was a great experience. Nearby places are also amazingly beautiful. Cactus park across the road was superb as well. A very nice walk in well paved sidewalks.
    21 people found this review helpful πŸ‘

  • 5/5 Isrrael E. 1 year ago on Google
    If you are visiting San Diego this place is a must see. Bring your walking shoes and get ready to walk through the many Museums, theaters, shops, and wonderful views this place has to offer. It was nothing of what I expected, the Balboa park connects several Cathedral style venues on this wonderful walkways that include the San Diego Zoo, the Natural History Museum and several other museums. We didn't even have time to see everything. There is a tram that takes you to all the parking lots. I went there on a Tuesday and it was very crowded, so weekends must get really packed. I highly recommend this place if you have a day to kill and spend some quality time with the family or significant other. Although I saw many snack vendors, I didn't see many good restaurants so I would recommend bringing some sandwiches or whatever you can bring to eat. There are many areas to sit under the shade and relax on the grass or a bench. We went inside the natural history Museum and paid the admission but was a little disappointed with it. It probably took us around 20 minutes to see the entire Museum, compared to the natural Museum in L.A., this place was very small and was in need of more exhibits. Other than that, I gave Balboa Park an A+ because it really impressed me.
    15 people found this review helpful πŸ‘

  • 5/5 Nicholas P. 2 months ago on Google β€’ 720 reviews New
    I really loved Balboa Park while I was here last time. It’s even better with the perfect San Diego weather. It has everything that you would want. It has museums, San Diego Zoo, gardens, theaters, food, etc. it’s also a National historic landmark. I would have to return since I didn’t check out too many of the museums, only a couple. There is no shortage of parking spaces, very easy to find one then walk around. Just a note, we came on a week day and it wasn’t very busy at all. The architecture was mesmerizing and intriguing.
    1 person found this review helpful πŸ‘

  • 5/5 sotagirl1 1 year ago on Google
    Gorgeous architecture and gardens! Well worth the visit, even if you don't go inside the museums. There's such beauty everywhere, food and gift/trinket vendors, a couple restaurants, and talented music performers placed thoughtfully throughout (electric violin, acoustic guitar, flute etc). Start at the information desk to get a map. If you do want to go inside the museums, they have a rotating daily schedule that lists what buildings are open that day, which is usually a handful. Wear good walking shoes and get there early as the afternoon is very busy.
    8 people found this review helpful πŸ‘

  • 5/5 Fred F. 1 year ago on Google
    My favorite park in the whole country. There are so many museums and gardens it's amazing. The nature trails are wonderful and there are so many types of plants and animals. The San Diego Zoo is located in the park and a must see. I love the water fountain and the beautiful buildings. It is a must see when visiting San Diego.
    7 people found this review helpful πŸ‘

  • 5/5 Manny A. 2 years ago on Google
    Beautiful place to visit in San Diego. The park has a lot of museums, several theaters and it includes San Diego zoo. Very huge park 1200 acres, you could spend all day exploring it. There are several gift shops and restaurants within the park. Several parking areas mostly free. Balboa park hosted the 1915-16 Panama-California exposition and 1935-36 California pacific international exposition, both of which left amazing architectural landmarks. The park site is one of the oldest in the United States dedicated to public recreational use.
    6 people found this review helpful πŸ‘

  • 5/5 Amjad K. 2 years ago on Google
    Great park with a lot of attractions. The museums are great and worth getting a season pass or finding a deal online to go to multiple. The gardens are beautiful any time of year and great for a stroll. The architecture was the incredible. Walking through the court yards and walkways will yield a visual gem around every corner. Parking at the zoo and walking over is the way to go. Its free, plentiful, and easy to get in and out even at peak hours.
    5 people found this review helpful πŸ‘

  • 5/5 Theo V. 3 months ago on Google β€’ 221 reviews New
    Balboa Park in San Diego is an absolute delight! A sprawling oasis that seamlessly blends history, culture, and nature. The stunning architecture transports you to another era, while the lush gardens provide a serene escape. The array of museums caters to diverse interests, ensuring there's always something captivating to explore. The vibrant cultural scene and regular events add an extra layer of excitement. Whether you're a history buff, nature lover, or art enthusiast, Balboa Park offers a rich and immersive experience. Five stars for this iconic destination that beautifully weaves together the threads of San Diego's past and present!
    2 people found this review helpful πŸ‘

  • 5/5 Mitch G. 1 year ago on Google
    Beautiful part of the downtown San Diego area. Lots of great museums to visit. The gardens and grounds are nice just to walk around. Home of the San Diego zoo! Nice place to walk around and spend 1-2 hours. Of course, you could visit the museums and zoo and spend the whole day or more.
    4 people found this review helpful πŸ‘

  • 5/5 Luisa 2 years ago on Google
    Balboa park was pretty! Nice way to spend a weekend day! A lot of people with their kids, walking, eating, dancing, reading! They have little tents people selling things! The buildings look like old Spanish style - very pretty! Definitely recommend visiting! It’s was a little hard to find on the GPS! But it’s on top of a hill near the San Diego zoo!
    4 people found this review helpful πŸ‘

  • 4/5 Rosalynn M. 4 months ago on Google β€’ 127 reviews
    Nicely designed park, and pretty close to downtown San Diego. Compared to my hometown's Central Park, it is much cleaner, calmer, and more accessible. There is a tram that goes around key places in the park and there are also very helpful volunteers throughout that give you the highlights. The architecture of the buildings is also nice.
    2 people found this review helpful πŸ‘

  • 5/5 Veronica B. 2 months ago on Google β€’ 178 reviews New
    Included are photos of the succulent garden, it is located across the bridge from the main fountain near the Space Museum. From this beautiful and complete garden you can catch views of the canyons where mountain bikers reign. The species of succulents and cacti is truly impressive, I had never explored this whole area. There is always something beautiful to see at Balboa Park
    1 person found this review helpful πŸ‘

  • 5/5 Marcos R. 6 months ago on Google
    Beautiful building structures and a bunch of Museums to visit. If you do a simple search, you can see some have free days. It’s a beautiful walk at night as some of the building have a light shining at them. I did attempt to go to the haunted trail, so it isn’t there quite yet, maybe in October. This park is one of the must visit spots, doesn’t cost a dime. I highly recommend it for tourist or family visiting in a weekend.
    3 people found this review helpful πŸ‘

  • 5/5 Joshua R. 1 year ago on Google
    Truly a gem and must visit while you are here. It is a very large park that has museums, a zoo, many trails and so much more! I walked up here in an early morning so it was pretty empty. The architecture is beautiful and has many spots to relax if that is what you are seeking. Highly recommend to come here and check it out!
    3 people found this review helpful πŸ‘

  • 5/5 Clarissa P. 2 years ago on Google
    Absolutely beautiful. There's so much to see here, from the gorgeous park, to the numerous gardens and museums. And who could forget the Zoo! Great for a solo trip-especially if you enjoy taking photos. Perfect for the family. Wonderful place to spend the day and forget about everything else. Wear your walking shoes!
    3 people found this review helpful πŸ‘

  • 5/5 Michael R. 2 years ago on Google
    Most cultural park in Southern California. This is the place to play Pokemon Go according to my roommate. Great atmosphere and residents have the additional benefit of free admission to most the museums at various times during the month. All the attractions are worth the price of admission. Or you can spend the afternoon here and find plenty of entertainment for free. Nice place to relax in the shade, stroll, listen to street artists or take photos of the historic architecture. I highly recommend a day at the park for young and old.
    3 people found this review helpful πŸ‘

  • 5/5 Bhawana A. 2 months ago on Google β€’ 80 reviews New
    Very pretty and big park. You can spend the whole day and not finish all, it’s that big! You can park for free and also it’s wheelchair friendly. We had our lunch packed and ate sitting on ground in the park. You can also have your painting there. Must visit!
    2 people found this review helpful πŸ‘

  • 5/5 Julien S. 2 months ago on Google β€’ 41 reviews New
    The greatest location in all San Diego, adorable and really friendly location. Majestic choices of multiple museums. I wish I had the opportunity to visit all of them. But just walking by the all parc is an impressive experience where is great to go around and enjoy the street art. The grass is so beautiful. There is a lot to do around there, like enjoying the street art artist or enjoying a seating in the parcels with a lot of friends. Strongly recommend anyone who’s travelling around San Diego. I’d like to mention and Thanks a lot the nice ladies from the visitor information center, they were really nice, welcoming and helpful. I’m grateful for their information. I’ll wait for you in Vancouver ;) thanks
    2 people found this review helpful πŸ‘

  • 5/5 Joana U. 5 months ago on Google
    Gorgeous all around. I wish I had taken a.picture of the huge Magnolia tree and the artists village but definitely a must visit spot when in San Diego. I highly recommend and will be visiting againπŸ’―
    2 people found this review helpful πŸ‘

  • 5/5 Adnan A. 2 years ago on Google
    Beautiful place. It's massive. You could spend the whole day here and still have a lot of stuff remaining to see. Lots of gardens, museums, art galleries etc. Get your refreshments and plan your day starting from the visitor center. They'll guide you with all the attractions. Most places close at 5 except the open gardens. Definitely a highly recommended place to visit with or without kids.
    2 people found this review helpful πŸ‘

  • 5/5 Andrew G. 2 years ago on Google
    This is one of the best places in San Diego to spend time at. If you're a local or a tourist you have to check it out. A lot of thought has went in to designing the area and it is super fun.
    2 people found this review helpful πŸ‘

  • 5/5 Elijah X. 2 years ago on Google
    Once in a lifetime experience for tourists. A well preserved and rich environment, filled with beautiful dining and seating areas. Plenty of Museums are available; free parking areas and a great place to hike. The property is huge, so bring good shoes and a will to collect steps. You'll be rewarded...
    2 people found this review helpful πŸ‘

  • 5/5 Brian K. 2 years ago on Google
    This is a must do place full of museums, green areas, restaurants and on the weekends countless stalls from local vendors that sell amazing items and food. A word of warning, you cannot do everything in a day. With all the museums, the zoo and green areas, you could easily spend 3-4 days. So plan accordingly. But you will be rewarded if you do.
    2 people found this review helpful πŸ‘

  • 5/5 The Foodie A. 7 months ago on Google
    Nice park with 2 expos that held here. As a results, the historical building and museum along with impressive garden are spread around. Music performance, park, restaurants, it’s a place to chill and spend lovely time with friends. It’s larger than I expected. Love this place.
    2 people found this review helpful πŸ‘

  • 5/5 Pablo G. 9 months ago on Google
    Such a beautiful park! There’s free parking all around and plenty of it! The grounds are meticulously kept clean and the center point looks like a fun hang out spot. If I lived in San Diego I’d join everyone else in bringing my dog here. Definitely make the stop here and spend an hour or two. I think it’s worth it.
    2 people found this review helpful πŸ‘

  • 5/5 Patti P. 2 years ago on Google
    Beautiful location. Lots to do and see. You could spend days going to the different museums. Don't miss the free arborium. The history of the place is so cool too. Definitely make a day of it.
    2 people found this review helpful πŸ‘

  • 5/5 Robert J. 1 month ago on Google β€’ 43 reviews New
    This is a great place for so many things to do and see. I went for one museum and ended up walking the entire complex and checking out the sites. Found places to eat and many places to visit. Absolutely beautiful place but if you want to see it all bring your wallet because most require some $$ to get it. I did not want to spend a lot so I ended up just walking the grounds and seeing all the beautiful architecture and landscaping. Would recommend even if it is to just walk around and view the sights
    1 person found this review helpful πŸ‘

  • 5/5 CoIin A. 3 months ago on Google New
    Discover the allure of San Diego's Balboa Park, where breathtaking views and splendid colonial Spanish architecture intertwine. The iconic bridge offers a must-see perspective, and during the holidays, the park transforms into a magical wonderland. For an unparalleled experience, don't miss Balboa Nights in December, a celebration that adds an extra layer of joy to this already amazing destination.
    1 person found this review helpful πŸ‘

  • 5/5 Juliette Z. 5 months ago on Google
    Had a wonderful experience. Is such a beautiful place to bring the whole family over, even your pets, and enjoy every spot and every corner, everyone is different and unique! Come check it out yourselves, you'll love it! πŸ₯°πŸ‘πŸΌπŸŽ‰πŸ˜πŸš—πŸŒ³πŸ«πŸ€πŸ¨βœˆβ€
    1 person found this review helpful πŸ‘

  • 5/5 Ryan L. 1 year ago on Google
    What a beautiful park. The scenery is unreal. Great place to take pictures and go for a walk. Highly recommended.
    1 person found this review helpful πŸ‘

  • 5/5 K S. 5 months ago on Google
    This is such a beautiful area with so much to explore! Even if you don't go into any of the museums, gardens or any other venue inside it is a great place to just walk around! Has a great cluster of buildings from all different nations, interesting!
    1 person found this review helpful πŸ‘

  • 5/5 baibhaw kumar m. 11 months ago on Google
    Gorgeous architecture and gardens! Well worth the visit, even if you don't go inside the museums. There's such beauty everywhere, food and gift/trinket vendors, a couple restaurants, and talented music performers placed thoughtfully throughout (electric violin, acoustic guitar, flute etc). Start at the information desk to get a map. If you do want to go inside the museums, they have a rotating daily schedule that lists what buildings are open that day, which is usually a handful. Wear good walking shoes and get there early as the afternoon is very busy.
    1 person found this review helpful πŸ‘

  • 5/5 Cecilia G. 2 years ago on Google
    Absolutely a must for San Diego visitors. My favorite is the friendship garden. Take all the time you need, one day won’t be enough.
    1 person found this review helpful πŸ‘

  • 5/5 Ycel D. 2 years ago on Google
    This is a beautiful park to spend the day at! Pets are welcome. Free parking. I loved the Botanical Building and the Pond. I enjoyed watching the fishes and turtles. I love Architectures and Nature so I truly appreciated the visit here. Check out the Japanese Garden too!
    1 person found this review helpful πŸ‘

  • 5/5 fabrianne c. 2 years ago on Google
    If you love plants come here! Of course the Japanese garden was iconic with so many areas for great photos, selfies and the such but it was the only garden at Balboa that we paid to view! I’d definitely pay to visit again but if your short on cash or just have several people in your group you could explore so many gardens here that are free and just as stunning!
    1 person found this review helpful πŸ‘

  • 5/5 SeΓ‘n C. 2 years ago on Google
    Absolutely stunning, definitely recommended if you’re ever visiting San Diego. There is plenty of great walking/running space in the green areas of the park and an insane amount of museums to be explored. Multiple days will be required to see it all! I’m looking forward to coming back soon to see the rest.
    1 person found this review helpful πŸ‘

  • 5/5 Dawn B. 2 years ago on Google
    We only had about an hour to spend. This place is amazing! Science museum, art, museums, history museum...and much more! The atrium was beautiful! Super cool to just walk around for free and take in the beautiful architecture and fountains. You could easily spend a day.
    1 person found this review helpful πŸ‘

  • 5/5 Amy L P. 2 years ago on Google
    Very lovely place to visit. We went on Christmas day so all the museums were closed. We still had an amazing time and enjoyed it. Beautiful place with lots of history. I even found the PR house!
    1 person found this review helpful πŸ‘

  • 5/5 Juan G. 2 years ago on Google
    Beautiful way to spend an afternoon or whole day if you’d like. Plenty of food vendors, good place to people watch not to mention the many museums. The architecture was stunning. We enjoyed our time at Balboa Park, definitely put a place I’ll return to.
    1 person found this review helpful πŸ‘

  • 5/5 Sara c. 4 months ago on Google
    Balboa Park is a captivating blend of art, culture, and nature. The architectural charm and vibrant gardens create a visually enchanting atmosphere. The diverse array of museums ensures there's something for every interest, making it a must-visit destination in San Diego.
    1 person found this review helpful πŸ‘

  • 5/5 Highly I. 2 years ago on Google
    Absolutely one of my favorite places to go when visiting San Diego. More than 1,200 landscaped acres of various plants, flowers and trees, every acre is filled with beauty for the eyes. There are more than 16 museums, performing arts buildings, gardens and restaurants. There are vendors and things to do for the entire family. The surrounding architecture is absolutely beautiful. The parks public restrooms aren't the cleanest , however if you are able to visit one of the adjacent museums, the restrooms are much cleaner. Overall I would recommend Balboa Park to friends, family and everyone looking to spend the day outdoors and have a good time.
    1 person found this review helpful πŸ‘

  • 5/5 Robert M. 1 month ago on Google β€’ 76 reviews New
    A great place for a walk and one of the last free things left in the city. On the weekends there are vendors and people playing music. Check out the city of nations exhibits. Fun for the whole family.

  • 5/5 Dima Y. 1 month ago on Google β€’ 59 reviews New
    Cool place with gorgeous views. There are many things you could do or see. Definitely recommending to visit it. They have really cool zoo there that I definitely recommend to visit with friends or family πŸ”₯πŸ‘

  • 5/5 Walter D. 1 month ago on Google β€’ 58 reviews New
    New York has Central Park and San Diego has Balboa Park which is hands down much larger. But, stats include a few museums and the famed San Diego Zoo; which more than likely have additional fees. Either way... If you are in the area spend a day or two exploring the park and all it offers. It was very nice and peaceful.

  • 5/5 Logan P. 1 year ago on Google
    This was such a lovely stop on our San Diego trip! We loved the Spanish Village Art Center, Desert Garden, Rose Garden, Natural History Museum, and the Botanical Building. You can definitely spend hours visiting all of the museums and outside attractions! Pro tip: definitely stop at the Rose Garden and Desert Garden. We went during the first week of April and all of the roses are stunning!

  • 5/5 L S. 5 months ago on Google
    Great place to check out some beautiful architecture or take a walk through nature. Walking around the park is free, there are museums, the zoo and a beautiful Japanese garden that charge for admission but even just going for a walk through the park is nice. On the weekends there are performers and small arts and crafts shops by the fountain.

  • 4/5 Michael V. 2 months ago on Google β€’ 34 reviews New
    Probably in spring or summer a better time for a visit. January rather not. However, nice buildings and villages (Spanish village). Having a complete day the forest paths would be interesting.

  • 5/5 Margot 6 months ago on Google
    Certainly one of the nicest spots in San Diego! Hosting the historical buildings of the universal exhibit, it can be easily visited on foot. Different museums can be found on the way. The park is huge, and it needs a full day at least for a proper visit.

  • 4/5 Oscar G. 5 months ago on Google
    There’s a lot to do and see with your family here I did appreciate seeing the little house that represented different cultures really cool to see everyone included and they have a kinds of flower section where they have the different kinds labeled and you can walk too . If your lost I’m sure you can find someone to show you where to go and they’ll give you a map had a good time I’d definitely recommend showing up early for parking

  • 5/5 Summer R. 3 months ago on Google New
    Amazing as usually. This park is just such a beautiful serene place to visit. There is always something fun happening. The museums are amazing. The kids love it. International Village is a must see. Make sure you stop by for a memorable experience.

  • 5/5 Niti 3 months ago on Google New
    Visited the museums and the Japanese tea garden. The Japanese tea garden and museum were like a breath of fresh air for my soul. The zen vibes of the garden made sipping tea feel like a peaceful ritual. Exploring the museum was utter aww, discovering the beauty of creative artists. It was a day well spent, soaking in nature and history, and I left with a heart full of good vibes.

  • 5/5 Sushant k. 3 months ago on Google New
    It's a huge park. There are so many things to do. There are few restrooms, but they were not clean. But the place itself is very beautiful and there are lots of architectural features. A must visit place in San Diego. There are options for small carts to move around, or you can take hop on hop off trolley to just take a round of it.

  • 5/5 Pete G. 2 months ago on Google New
    A must place to visit when you are in San Diego. A big park to walk around for appreciating Spanish style architecture buildings, Japanese garden, few museums, and restaurant. You could also listen to a giant organ being played.

  • 5/5 ZoΓ« P. 3 months ago on Google New
    Large and beautiful park with lots of things to do - museums, gardens, restaurants, trails, and more. My one gripe is the park is not super pedestrian friendly until you get in the central area near California Tower - the outskirts are a little confusing and not marked clearly. Definitely plan on using Maps when you go.

  • 5/5 Stacia C. 4 months ago on Google
    We love exploring Balboa Park. There are many museums and beautiful buildings. They have parks and landscapes to see. The people that work there are so nice. Check out the art area too! Grab a coffee at Daniel's coffee truck.

  • 4/5 Angel R. 4 months ago on Google
    I'm not sure if there is a bad time of year to come to Balboa Park. The botanical gardens, museums, theaters, green space and street performers keep this place lively and a great place to visit. I've been here as a tourist and now as a resident and keep hoping to find other reasons to make the drive from North County. There are public restrooms, shops, restaurants and many places to explore as well as take great pictures of. I was there for a performance at the Old Globe theater and was not disappointed. All walkable. My only complaints are that parking is a hassle depending on the activity levels and the roads could use some TLC.

  • 5/5 Sarah N. 3 months ago on Google New
    Beautiful and huge park!! The only downside is parking on the weekends since it does get crowded. However, it's a great location to stroll, take photos, and enjoy the scenery.

  • 5/5 Nicole 2 years ago on Google
    Beautiful park and museums! Stunning landscape and such a beautiful array of trees and plants. There is no way you can only spend a day here! There is much to see and do!!

  • 5/5 Trevor M. 2 years ago on Google
    Just take a walk around. You will find something to entertain you here. There's shops, street vendors, museums and other wonderful things to look at. You can just have lunch and enjoy the view in many different areas around the park.

  • 5/5 Gates To Your Home Realty G. 2 years ago on Google
    Balboa Park is seriously our favorite place in San Diego! Yes, the beaches are great however the green space is incredible at Balboa Park. We found our home right across the street from the park and we visit daily. We have 2 dogs so it makes the park a great place to explore with them. There are so many different areas of the park, from Morley Field to the Museum District. One of our favorite spots is Panama 66 in the Museum District. You can grab a craft beer or a nice glass of wine and lay a blanket out in the sculpture garden and listen to a great band. Definitely check it out!

  • 5/5 Anthony H. 2 years ago on Google
    Beautiful architecture, we didn't go in any museums because we arrived as they were closing. But this 150 year old tree was amazing. And the houses around the world would have been a delight, but they were closed.

  • 5/5 Rita L. 2 years ago on Google
    Balboa Park is the Jewel of San Diego. Almost as big as New York City's Grand Central Park, it offers a wide range of activities for all age groups and interests. Unique to Balboa Park is is International Cottages, each a nonprofit that are members of the House of Pacific Relations. Every weekend, the Houses are open, offering friendly access to their culture and history. Each Sunday also each host takes turns to perform dances and songs on the Central lawn. It's a great way to travel. The world comes to you just hanging out in this area of the park.

  • 5/5 Sherns W. 2 years ago on Google
    Came during sunset and it was so pretty! A lot of things were closed but the outside was big enough to walk around and take photos. Parking isn’t an issue since they have multiple lots to park in. They even have a restaurant inside the park! I’d definitely gotta come back to try the restaurant. It was peaceful and quiet. Also it was clean!! No trash on the ground. Highly recommend this place to stop by if you’re near SD!

  • 5/5 Leticia S. 2 years ago on Google
    This is somewhere I always take friends who are visiting San Diego. It has beautiful architecture and it's fun to just walk around. There's also museums and stuff but even if you don't pay for anything and just walk around it's fun and a great spot to take pictures. And there's usually someone playing live music or something fun going on

  • 5/5 Britani D. 2 years ago on Google
    Headed to Palm canyon in Balboa park this weekend. Nice easy hike with a well groomed walking path. Fully accessible for the whole family: dad, mom, a four year old on foot and a baby in a baby carrier (I would not say this walk is stroller friendly). This area doesn't tend to get overly crowded, so it's a nice escape when the promenade is particularly busy. Also a great place to take a scenic photo. The wooden stairs and bridges are beautiful and the nearby mangrove trees are large and stately.

  • 5/5 Whitney H. 2 years ago on Google
    Gorgeous, peaceful, and has so many museums. You can get the museum pass and go to four museums in a day, or do a multi-day pass. Definitely plan to spend an entire day there or more than one day.

  • 5/5 Millie R. 2 years ago on Google
    Absolutely beautiful and so many things to see and enjoy. Botanical & Japanese gardens, museums and spectacular views. Allow yourself a couple days to explore Balboa.

  • 5/5 Ivan M. 2 years ago on Google
    Gorgeous atmosphere. Phenomenal experience. Wear comfortable shoes. Japanese garden is very lovely. You'll want to take pictures everywhere. So much to do. Definitely going back

  • 5/5 Vidya G. 2 years ago on Google
    Beautiful park, lots of things to see. Can easily spend a day or two. I visited the Japanese, botanical and alcazar gardens.

  • 5/5 Barbara D. 2 years ago on Google
    Greatest zoo ever!! Gorgeous plants, beautiful enclosures. Could spend hours there and still not see everything. A place you need to see!!

  • 5/5 Margie T. 2 years ago on Google
    We went to this park on a tip that they had a cool organ concert there on Sunday afternoons...wow! This is the world's largest outdoor organ but the park was amazing in itself!! Can't wait to return to San Diego to visit again.

  • 5/5 Iffat B. 9 months ago on Google
    Great place to walk around and grab a coffee or drink. Lots of flowers and areas to take pictures. There are many street vendors on nice days. Parking was free and the Spanish village art area is right across from the park and a great place to check out a bunch of art shops.

  • 5/5 Tomas L. 2 years ago on Google
    It's the green heart of the city. San Diego's micro climate gets a chance to shine in this enormous park right in the middle of the city. The vegetation, and amenities are top notch. Highly recommend for visitors, especially if you're from a different part of the world where plants look different.

  • 5/5 Saad S. 2 years ago on Google
    Oh what a wonderful place. The park is breathtaking and is filled with so many activities. Loved the feel of the place, the Japanese park, the little stalls and eateries, etc. A little pricey if you want to see multiple exhibits but can be a great day spent when visiting

  • 4/5 Carsten B. 1 year ago on Google
    This is a great refuge from the city that surrounds it with beautiful landscaping and historic buildings and oddities, like the pipe organ. It is also super popular on a nice day, which is great for people watching but not for parking. Knocked off a star for the parking situation; we spent at least half an hour cruising around for a spot midday on Sunday in March.

  • 5/5 Robert C. 1 year ago on Google
    One of the most iconic parks in America. They have so much to do and see that you could literally plan a full day in there and I think not run out of things to see. As the air and space there's the Renaissance style theater there the Rose gardens there's the international buildings there are restaurants and I'm leaving out of ton of stuff but definitely an amazing and beautiful and relaxing part of California.

  • 5/5 Aisha E. 1 year ago on Google
    This whole area is amazing but touristy. Near Little Italy & downtown. There are multiple free parking lots all within walking distance or you can take the trolley. Made up of museums, art galleries, vendors like a farmers market. Great times...

  • 5/5 Xavier O. 1 year ago on Google
    What can't be said about this amazing park. Is not your ordinary park, is more like an amusement park, with many different areas, very old and unique architecture. The Japanese gardens are very unique, and create a warp zone that connects you to Japan. The huge Koi pond has many species of fish. There are art vendors and food options on weekends. Also street performers are making the park their home.

  • 5/5 J S. 1 year ago on Google
    You could spend a week here and not see it all. It's beautiful. We were so lucky to see the cherry trees in full bloom and so many other flowers. It was perfect timing. Almost all areas are ADA accessible, so it's easy to push a wheelchair or stroller through if needed. There were a few areas closed off in the Friendship Garden, but it was still worth going. Just be sure to ask if all areas are open, because it could get a little tricky navigating through the construction zones. Plenty of restrooms. So many museums. There is something for everyone here.

  • 5/5 Jesse B. 9 months ago on Google
    Balboa park is an awesome experience if you are in the San Diego area. Its full of museums, the zoo and nature walks. Lots of amazing stone architecture and food. Plenty of parking throughout, but be sure to get in early or it will fill up. A tram is available to explore the very large park. A multi museum pass is available on the Balboa park website but it no longer includes the Comic Con Museum.

  • 5/5 K S (. 9 months ago on Google
    I could have spent days wandering around here hut unfortunately I only had half a day. San diegans are so lucky to have such an amazing parks and this is probably one of my favorite parks I have been to in the world. There is a ton of museums, the zoo, interesting architecture, views and plants. I will say there are a lot of stray cats meandering about and I really hope they have a trap and neuter program for them and that they are being well taken care of.

  • 5/5 Joseph S. 1 year ago on Google
    Great place. You need more than a day to cover it. A very entertaining for the whole family. On weekends, there are many street vendors and shows. A great place to hangout and spend time with the family and friends.

  • 5/5 Amber C. 10 months ago on Google
    Balboa Park in San Diego is an absolute gem of a destination and a must-visit for anyone in the area. The park is home to a variety of museums, gardens, theaters, and other attractions that offer something for everyone. The park's beauty and fun-filled atmosphere make it a perfect place for a family outing, a romantic date, or just a peaceful stroll. Apart from the zoo, the park is home to several museums, including the San Diego Museum of Art, the Museum of Man, and the Natural History Museum. These museums offer a glimpse into the region's history, culture, and natural wonders, making them a must-visit for history buffs and curious minds. The park is also home to several gardens, including the Botanical Building and Lily Pond, the Desert Garden, and the Japanese Friendship Garden. These gardens offer a peaceful escape from the city's hustle and bustle, with their beautiful landscapes, serene ponds, and exotic flora. Overall, Balboa Park is a beautiful and fun-filled destination that offers something for everyone. Whether you're looking to explore the region's history and culture, get up close and personal with exotic animals, or simply enjoy a peaceful stroll in a beautiful garden, Balboa Park is the perfect place to do it. So, if you're ever in San Diego, be sure to visit this fantastic destination.

  • 3/5 Yohan S. 10 months ago on Google
    The park was a wonderful visit with the exception of all the homeless people around and park Rangers not protecting the public. Lots to do so plan ahead considering the size of the park and the potential costs. Very ADA friendly for all who need wheelchair access or strollers. The volunteer staff are very friendly and informative: they all seem very happy to be working. Our car was also broken into during our visit: not a direct reflection of the park itself but upsetting as there were multiple broken windows at the parks parking lot.

  • 4/5 Luke W. 9 months ago on Google
    Beautiful urban park with everything you can think of. Museums, dog parks, golf courses or amazing restaurants. The walking paths away from the main promenade is not the easiest to navigate.


Call (619) 239-0512 Open on Google Maps

Amenities


  • Pets
    • βœ“οΈ Dog park
    • βœ“οΈ Dogs allowed
  • Activities
    • βœ“οΈ Hiking
  • Accessibility
    • βœ“οΈ Wheelchair accessible entrance
    • βœ“οΈ Wheelchair accessible parking lot

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