Balboa Park, San Diego, California
Balboa Park is a cultural oasis that includes 17 museums, gardens galore and the world-famous San Diego Zoo. At 1,200 acres, Balboa Park is one of North America’s most iconic urban parks and a must see on any visit to San Diego.
How do you get to Balboa Park?
From the north:
- From I-5 take B Street/Pershing Street exit, heading toward Pershing Street. Turn left on Florida Drive. Turn left on Zoo Place. Turn left on Park Boulevard.
- From I-15 or I-805 take Hwy 163. Take Park Boulevard exit. Turn left on Park Boulevard. Follow the signs to Balboa Park.
How much does it cost to go to Balboa Park?
Admittance to the park grounds is free. Once inside the Park, explore the lush gardens and trails. The Botanical Building and Timken Art Museum are always free.
What is free at Balboa Park?
Top 10 Balboa Park Free Gardens in Order
- Botanical Building and Lily Pond.
- Alcazar Garden.
- Desert Garden.
- Inez Grant Parker Memorial Rose Garden.
- Zoro Garden.
- 1935 Cactus Garden.
- Trees for Health Garden.
- Palm Canyon.
Is Balboa Park worth visiting?
Now, it’s open and visitors can climb to new heights. It’s 125 steps up but is worth the workout as it gives you unparalleled 360-degree views of the park and San Diego – from the beaches to the bays as well as from Mexico to the mountains.
How far is Balboa Park from the ocean?
The distance between Pacific Beach and Balboa Park is 7 miles.
Where can I walk around Balboa Park?
Marston Point Trail #44 is the best Balboa Park trail for first-time visitors. That’s because this route features the most popular gardens, ornate buildings, and museums in a walk that can be completed in under an hour. Or you can spend all day and explore all the attractions you’ll see along the way.
How safe is Balboa Park?
How would you rate the amount of crime in Balboa Park? Excellent. There is virtually no crime in this area.
What is Balboa mean?
(Entry 1 of 2) : the traditional basic monetary unit of Panama — see Money Table.
Why is it called Balboa Park?
After months of discussion and great public interest, the Park Commissioners decided on the name Balboa Park, chosen in honor of Spanish-born Vasco Nuñez de Balboa, the first European to spot the Pacific Ocean while on exploration in Panama.
Is Balboa Park bigger than Central Park?
Balboa Park, at nearly 1,200 acres, is bigger than New York’s Central Park. … And with multiple theaters including the Old Globe, and 17 museums, Balboa Park boasts more cultural heft than any American parkland outside the National Mall.
Can you drive through Balboa Park?
You can drive through the park and there is plenty of parking, especially at the Inspiration Point parking lot on Park Blvd. A tram will take you up to the heart of the park. … There is a tram service available to go to balboa park. You can just park your car and take tram.
How long is Balboa Park open?
Park is open 24 hours, museum hours vary, visitors center open daily 9:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.
Can you ride bikes in Balboa Park?
Stay on designated trails. Hiking and biking is permitted.
Is Balboa Park open for walking during coronavirus?
The historic Central Mesa of Balboa Park is OPEN to visitors (face mask and social distancing required): All Balboa Park parking lots are open at full capacity.
How far is it around Lake Balboa?
Lake Balboa Trail is a 1.3 mile heavily trafficked loop trail located near Los Angeles, California and is good for all skill levels.
Can you swim at Balboa Park?
Golf, tennis, foot golf, swimming, cycling, Frisbee golf, archery, dance classes, and more are available to learn or sharpen your skills. You can find it all here, so come and enjoy!
What is there to do in Balboa Park today?
Explore Attractions
- Balboa Park Carousel.
- Balboa Park Miniature Train.
- Cabrillo Bridge.
- California Tower.
- El Cid Statue.
- House of Pacific Relations International Cottages.
- Moreton Bay Fig Tree.
- Photographic Arts Building.
What is there to do in Balboa Park at night?
Best fun things to do on date night near Balboa Park, San Diego,…
- Cinema Under the Stars. 2.0 mi. 193 reviews. …
- Screen on the Green. 0.2 mi. …
- Rooftop Cinema Club Embarcadero. 1.9 mi. …
- Balboa Park. 0.2 mi. …
- Coin-op Game Room. 1.6 mi. …
- The Haunted Trail of Balboa Park. 0.7 mi. …
- Escape Game SD. 1.6 mi. …
- Prohibition. 1.6 mi.
What should I see at Balboa Park?
Balboa Park Museums
- The House of Hospitality and Casa de Balboa.
- Prado House.
- Balboa Park art museums.
- San Diego Natural History Museum.
- Reuben H. Fleet Science Center.
- Automotive Museum and Air and Space Museum.
- Japanese Friendship Garden.
- Botanical Garden.
Can you walk around Balboa Park at night?
Great place to walk around during the day or at night. I was traveling with my teenage son and even he loved the Park! Great place to walk and sight see. We walked at night and felt safe.