Balboa Park
San Francisco
Visit Balboa Park
Popular places to visit
Golden Gate Bridge
Walk across one of the most photogenic bridges in the world for unrivalled views from both sides.
Pier 39
Sea lions are the star attraction at one of the liveliest piers on San Francisco’s historic waterfront.
Moscone Convention Center
During your trip, find out what's happening in Moscone Convention Center, a top convention centre in San Francisco. Discover the fascinating museums and shops in this vibrant area.
Golden Gate Park
This peaceful oasis in the heart of the city has been a favourite leisure haunt for locals and visitors alike since 1871.
Oracle Park
Whether or not you’re a baseball fan, this charming ballpark with outstanding views should be on your San Francisco sightseeing list.
Alcatraz Island
For three decades, desperate inmates dreamed of escaping this notorious prison; today’s fortunate visitors can come and go as they please!
Things to do
Alcatraz Visit with Night Option and SF Bay Cruise
Alcatraz Island Ticket and Hop-on Hop-Off Bus Tour
California Academy of Sciences Daytime Admission
Go City: San Francisco All-Inclusive Pass with 30+ Attractions
San Francisco Big Bus Panoramic Sunset Tour
Top hotels in Balboa Park
Holiday Inn Golden Gateway by IHG
Amazing!
Reviewed on 19 Nov 2025
Hotel Riu Plaza Fisherman's Wharf
Very good service.
Reviewed on 17 Nov 2025
Hyatt Regency San Francisco
amazing experience definitely recommending it and coming back out for New Year’s
Reviewed on 18 Nov 2025
DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Berkeley Marina
Spotless, easy to navigate, quiet rooms, wonderful breakfast.
Reviewed on 15 Nov 2025
Fairmont San Francisco
Nice location,beautiful neighborhood.Nice and artistic spaces.Very polite and capable staff
Reviewed on 14 Nov 2025
Best Western Plus Grosvenor Airport Hotel
Good
Reviewed on 15 Nov 2025
Other neighbourhoods around Balboa Park
Excelsior
Though Excelsior may not have many top sights, you can venture to the surrounding area to see attractions like Cow Palace and San Bruno Mountain State Park.
Noe Valley
Appreciated for its churches and architecture, you might consider exploring Noe Valley. Check out the variety of things to see and do like 22nd St Hill, and jump on the metro at Church St & Clipper St Stop or Church St & 24th St Stop to get around the city.
Mission District
You might enjoy the bars while in Mission District. San Francisco Public Library is a notable sight, and you can get around town at 16th Street Mission Station or 24th Street Mission Station to see more of the city.
Golden Gate
If you're spending time in Golden Gate, check out sights like San Francisco Botanical Garden or Japanese Tea Garden and hop on the metro to see more of the city at Irving St & 9th Ave Stop or Irving St & 8th Ave Stop.
Western Addition
Alamo Square and Painted Ladies are top sights in Western Addition, and you should be sure to explore the popular shops. Hop aboard the metro at Duboce Avenue & Noe Street Station or Duboce Ave & Church St Stop to see more sights in the area.
Potrero Hill
The live music and architecture are just a few things visitors like about Potrero Hill. San Francisco Bay and Letterform Archive are worthwhile spots to check out, and you can hop on the metro at 20th Street Station or 23rd Street Station to get around the larger area.
