Spread across 486 hectares of parkland, the sprawling Balboa Park offers a fantastic array of walking and cycling routes and green spaces as well as a celebrated zoo. It also houses several art galleries and museums, alongside a number of theatres and eateries.Begin at the park’s informative visitor centre, whose friendly volunteers will be very happy to let you know everything that’s going on while you’re in town. Tours relating to the history, built heritage and cultivated gardens in the park run regularly from here – and they’re free of charge too! Ask for the times of shows and events of interest here.The park’s peaceful and beautiful green spaces are loved by natives of the city and visitors alike. There’s a lot of room in which to enjoy a picnic, as well as some wonderful formal and scientific gardens, such as the California Native Plant Garden, containing over 2,600 distinct species of local flora. The tranquil Japanese Friendship Garden, shady Palm Canyon, and the fragrant Inez Grant Parker Memorial Rose Garden are also picturesque destinations.Check out the fantastic range of museums and galleries housed in Balboa Park’s impressive colonial buildings. There’s something for everyone here, from the high culture of the San Diego Museum of Art to the biological wonders of the Natural History Museum and the fascinating science of the San Diego Air & Space Museum. These are just a taste of the park's bountiful attractions – there are more than 10 others to choose from.You can take in a show or enjoy a musical at the Old Globe theatre. And if you’re a fan of the large-scale stage productions then head for the Starlight theatre, where classic Broadway favourites are reproduced from July until September.The more active visitors can work up a sweat with a game of tennis on the east side of the park. You could also try a round of golf, or enjoy a game of boules.Balboa Park is open throughout the year, 24 hours a day. Museum opening hours can vary, but most are open from 10 a.m. until 5 p.m. – check the individual websites for details.
Balboa Park





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Tours & day trips
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San Diego SEAL Tour by Land & Sea
History & culture
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USS Midway Museum with Direct-to-Gate
Private & custom tours
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Beaches & Bluffs San Diego's Ultimate Coastal Driving Tour
Food, drink & nightlife
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Taste of Little Italy in San Diego
Water activities
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La Jolla: 2-Hour Kayak Tour of the 7 Caves
Popular places to visit

Desert Garden
No other garden is as natural to San Diego as this slightly secluded area. Stroll through this green space to see plant species not commonly found in other parks.

San Diego Natural History Museum
From ancient artifacts to rare gemstones to stunning artwork, learn about the natural world, past and present, in Balboa Park’s exceptional museum.

Fleet Science Center
Discover science through exhibits that will delight the entire family. Watch an IMAX film at San Diego’s museum and planetarium.

Spanish Village Art Center
You can spend an afternoon studying the exhibits at Spanish Village Art Center during your trip to San Diego. Experience the area's acclaimed art galleries and fascinating museums.

San Diego Model Railroad Museum
You can spend time studying the exhibits at San Diego Model Railroad Museum during your travels in San Diego. Stroll along the area's beautiful beaches or experience its fascinating museums.

Casa de Balboa
You can learn about the history of San Diego when you stop by Casa de Balboa. Stroll along the area's seaside or experience its acclaimed theatre scene.
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