Balboa Park
San Francisco
Visit Balboa Park
Popular places to visit
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.
Pier 39
Sea lions are the star attraction at one of the liveliest piers on San Francisco’s historic waterfront.
Oracle Park
Whether or not you’re a baseball fan, this charming ballpark with outstanding views should be on your San Francisco sightseeing list.
Golden Gate Bridge
Walk across one of the most photogenic bridges in the world for unrivalled views from both sides.
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.
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
Golden Gate Bay Cruise - Sail Around Alcatraz! (1-hour)
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
California Sunset Cruise (2-hours)
Top hotels in Balboa Park
Hotel Riu Plaza Fisherman's Wharf
"Excellent services. 100% recommended."
Reviewed on 27 May 2026
Hilton San Francisco Financial District
"Great location Very friendly staff"
Reviewed on 27 May 2026
Holiday Inn Golden Gateway by IHG
"Location Clean surroundings closer to golden gate and presidio park"
Reviewed on 27 May 2026
Hilton San Francisco Union Square
"Everything was average I would say for room and amenities. Rooms are a bit outdated. My problem was with the employee that checked us in. She was rude and dismissive, she wouldn't talk to us at all, not even to instruct me on paying for the deposit nor did she explain what the deposit was for. Offered ..."
Reviewed on 27 May 2026
Parc 55 San Francisco - A Hilton Hotel
"Clean room"
Reviewed on 27 May 2026
Handlery Union Square Hotel
"It is an older property but is clean and well maintained. The staff was very helpful in holding our large amount of luggage."
Reviewed on 27 May 2026
Other neighbourhoods around Balboa 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. SOMA Pilipinas 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.
Sunset District
Consider exploring the beaches in Sunset District. If sightseeing is on the list, Ocean Beach is a top attraction. Hop on the metro at Judah Street & Sunset Boulevard Station or Judah St & 34th Ave Stop to see more of the area.
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.
Potrero Hill
The live music and architecture are just a few things visitors like about Potrero Hill. San Francisco Bay and Museum of Craft & Design 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.
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.
