Balboa Park is one of the United States' oldest dedicated urban public park spaces, set aside for future development in 1835 and officially developed into a park following the passing of protective legislation in 1870.
Today, the park spans 1,200 acres northeast of the city's downtown center and is home to a vast number of cultural and family-friendly attractions, including the San Diego Museum of Art, the San Diego Natural History Museum, and the internationally-renowned San Diego Zoo. 17 landscaped garden spaces are displayed throughout the park, which is traversed by Cabrillo and Florida Canyons and divided into three separate mesa spaces. Other major attractions include the Balboa Park Carousel and Miniature Railroad, the Casa del Prado, which features buildings reconstructed from the 1915-1916 Panama-California Exposition, and a number of theatrical and concert amphitheater venues. Visitors should note that while park admission is free daily, many of the park's attractions require an individual ticketed upcharge.
Ready to go?
Step 1: Visit the website and book directly and/or call ahead to confirm their hours.
Step 2: If you are spending the night, search for Hotel Deals nearby. Read the reviews, then call the hotel directly to book and ask for a romantic, kid-friendly or pet-friendly amenity if you need it.
Step 3: If you are flying, compare Flights. Book directly with the airline, add your frequent flier number and reserve your seat.
Step 4: Estimate your driving time using Google Maps (click the blue 'Directions' arrow in the search box).
Need some more help?
Read our Reservations & Travel Planning Tips guide.