Balboa Park
San Francisco
Visit Balboa Park
Popular places to visit
Oracle Park
Whether or not you’re a baseball fan, this charming ballpark with outstanding views should be on your San Francisco sightseeing list.
Pier 39
Sea lions are the star attraction at one of the liveliest piers on San Francisco’s historic waterfront.
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 acclaimed theatre scene 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.
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 Island Ticket and Hop-on Hop-Off Bus Tour
Alcatraz Visit with Night Option and SF Bay Cruise
California Academy of Sciences Daytime Admission
Go City: San Francisco All-Inclusive Pass with 30+ Attractions
San Francisco Hop-On Hop-Off Tours PLUS Night Tour
Top hotels in Balboa Park
Holiday Inn Golden Gateway by IHG
Beds were comfortable. I slept well. Staff were excellent. Restaurant misses the mark. Food is fine, dining area is very cafeteria like.
Reviewed on 11 Apr 2026
Handlery Union Square Hotel
The kids and I had a wondeful stay!
Reviewed on 12 Apr 2026
Hotel Riu Plaza Fisherman's Wharf
Great room and breakfast choices! Very busy breakfast room but they keep it well stocked and efficient seating.
Reviewed on 11 Apr 2026
YOTEL San Francisco
Decent coffee and baked goods at breakfast. For some reason, my room wasn't cleaned unless I asked specifically.
Reviewed on 11 Apr 2026
Club Quarters Hotel in San Francisco
Queen Bed was comfy and pillows were really nice. Very clean room. Only negative was the size of the room.
Reviewed on 12 Apr 2026
DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Berkeley Marina
The food, the rooms, the views everything about this hotel is fantastic
Reviewed on 10 Apr 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.
Outer Sunset
When in Outer Sunset and the surrounding area, you'll want to check out sights like Ocean Beach or San Francisco Botanical Garden and hop on the metro to see more of the city at Judah St & 34th Ave Stop or Judah Street & Sunset Boulevard Station.
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.
