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Balboa Park

San Diego, California

Copyright: Leslie Yu/unsplash
DESTINATIONS united states sandiego Do & See Balboa Park

Balboa Park

Initially called "City Park" and later renamed after a Spanish explorer, Balboa Park is the largest urban cultural park in the United States and it is, without a doubt, the city's cultural hub. Its vast 1,200 acres overlooking downtown San Diego are home to several museums, theaters, beautiful gardens, and the world-famous San Diego Zoo. This huge array of cultural institutions makes Balboa Park a must-see during your visit to San Diego.

Useful Information

  • Address: 1549 El Prado, San Diego
  • Email: bpoc@bpoc.org
  • Phone: +1 619 239 0512
  • More Info: balboapark.org
  • Address: The Balboa Park grounds are open 24 hours a day, however museum hours vary by institution.
  • Address: Entrance to the park is free of charge, but each institution have their own admission, ticketing stipulations and pricing. Access the park's website for more information.
  • More Info: 60c73a587ad23d0e4626329ce08b47e953224fbd
  • More Info: https://www.facebook.com/BalboaPark/

Do & See

Unlike the sprawling L.A., San Diego has the feel of a compact city, and it can be tempting to stay downtown. A lot of people, however, think of San Diego in terms of the whole county, which leaves a lot more to be explored. The regional terrain is extraordinary in itself and varies from the Pacific coastline in the west to the Sonoran Desert in the east. Those who travel to the northeast will come across snow-capped mountains, while travelers who visit the south will find themselves just 15 minutes away from the Mexican border. This impressive landscape variety makes the city a top spot for outdoor activities that include: hiking, surfing, biking, and sailing. Plus, the long list of family-friendly attractions, such as LEGOLAND, the San Diego Zoo, SeaWorld, and the New Children's Museum proves that San Diego has something for everyone.

Balboa Park Copyright: Leslie Yu/unsplash
Balboa Park
Initially called "City Park" and later renamed after a Spanish explorer, Balboa Park is the largest urban cultural park in the United States and it is, without a doubt, the city's cultural hub. Its vast 1,200 acres overlooking downtown San Diego are home to several museums, theaters, beautiful gardens, and the world-famous San Diego Zoo. …
Read more
SeaWorld San Diego Copyright: Ramon grosso dolarea/Shutterstock.com
SeaWorld San Diego
SeaWorld San Diego is an animal theme park, oceanarium, outside aquarium, and marine mammal park attracting thousands of families every year, who come to experience world-class shows, thrilling rides, and many spectacular up-close animal encounters. At SeaWorld San Diego, you get to feed sea lions, swim with beluga whales, and even train a …
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The Gaslamp Quarter Copyright: BrokenSphere/Wikimedia Commons
The Gaslamp Quarter
Situated in the heart of Downtown San Diego, the Gaslamp Quarter is the West Coast’s premier entertainment district. This area regained its charm after decades of restoration. Today, you'll find everything here, from trendy shops and restaurants to symphony halls and art galleries to nationally-recognized nightlife …
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Old Town Copyright: Lowe Llaguno/Shutterstock.com
Old Town
Soak up some history at "The birthplace of California," sit down for an authentic Mexican meal at an old California-style restaurant, and go back in time and commemorate San Diego's heritage at one of the many historical sites. Old Town San Diego was created in 1769. It was California’s first permanent European settlement on the …
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San Diego Zoo Copyright: Jim1138/Wikimedia Commons
San Diego Zoo
Renowned worldwide as one of the greatest zoos in the world, The San Diego Zoo is home to over 3,700 rare and endangered animals from over 650 species and subspecies and a botanical collection with more than 700,000 exotic plants. It was a pioneer in implementing the open-air, cageless concept that re-creates natural animal …
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Coronado Copyright: Randy Miramontez/Shutterstock.com
Coronado
The island-like peninsula of Coronado has been a popular resort destination since the late 19th century. In those days (as today), the main attraction was the Hotel Del Coronado. Built in 1888, this landmark has counted numerous presidents, princes, and celebrities, including Marilyn Monroe and Frank Sinatra, among its guests. Coronado or "The Crown …
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Sunset Cliffs Natural Park Copyright: Tuxyso/ Wikimedia Commons
Sunset Cliffs Natural Park
Sunset Cliffs Natural Park offers breathtaking views, hiking spots, and good access to surfers. The Park's topography includes intricately carved coastal bluffs, arches, and sea caves. If you're lucky, you might get to see the California Gray Whale on its annual migration from the Bering Sea to Baja …
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Petco Park Copyright: redlegsfan21/Wikimedia Commons
Petco Park
Although Petco Park is home to the San Diego Padres, you don’t have to be a baseball fan to enjoy this venue. The architecturally stunning ballpark, built in 2004, is equally known for its stunning views of San …
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La Jolla Cove Copyright: Dirk Hansen/Wikimedia Commons
La Jolla Cove
Tucked between sandstone cliffs, this small and picturesque cove lies next to one of the most photographed beaches in Southern California. As water visibility at the north end of the cove can reach up to 30 feet in the summer, it has become a popular destination for scuba divers and …
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San Diego Bay Waterfront Copyright: Adam Piontek/Wikimedia Commons
San Diego Bay Waterfront
San Diego is above all a waterfront city, and a great way to discover the essence of this city is by taking a stroll along the San Diego Bay Waterfront. It consists of parks and several museums including the Maritime Museum of San Diego and the San Diego Air & Space Museum. Besides, there …
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USS Midway Museum Copyright: Aaron Fulkerson/Wikimedia Commons
USS Midway Museum
Immerse yourself in the authentic naval experience at the Midway Museum, which is actually the real naval aircraft carrier known as the "city at sea." With over 60 exhibits and more than 30 expertly restored aircraft, visitors can explore the 69,000-ton ship and marvel at its impressive history. The Midway also offers a variety …
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Little Italy Copyright: Visitor7/Wikimedia Commons
Little Italy
San Diego's Little Italy has been a symbol of Italian culture in the U.S. and in San Diego since the 1920s, with Italian families settling in the area. Nowadays, it's a hub of activity, brimming with lively restaurants, craft breweries, urban wineries, and art galleries, making it the ultimate destination for Italian cuisine enthusiasts. …
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Botanical Building & Lily Pond Copyright: Bernard Gagnon/Wikimedia Commons
Botanical Building & Lily Pond
This historic, domed building built for the 1915 Panama-California Exposition held in the city is one of the largest lath structures in the world. It is situated inside Balboa Park, and along with the adjacent Lily Pond and Lagoon provide you with a perfect backdrop for a picture. The garden features 2,100 plants permanently, …
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Old Point Loma Lighthouse Copyright: Ctorbann/Wikimedia Commons
Old Point Loma Lighthouse
Located right next to the Cabrillo National Monument, this historic lighthouse sits atop a hill that offers incredible views of the various areas around San Diego Bay. It no longer operates as a lighthouse but is open to the public as a …
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Sailboat Tours Copyright: easysailing/Flickr
Sailboat Tours
Experience the excitement of sailing while exploring San Diego Bay on an authentic America's Cup racing yacht. With its impressive size and speed, this vessel provides a truly remarkable and unforgettable adventure. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced sailor, you can take the helm, operate the winches, or simply hold on tight and …
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Pacific Surf School Copyright: Vladimir Kudinov/Unsplash.com
Pacific Surf School
San Diego is surrounded by great beaches, making it an ideal place for surfers. Many surf schools offer training and organize camps where tourists can learn how to surf in a safe environment. Pacific Surf School is located on Mission Beach, offering its services to experienced and inexperienced tourists …
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Cabrillo National Monument Copyright: Robert Arends/Wikimedia Commons
Cabrillo National Monument
Located at the southern tip of the Point Loma Peninsula in San Diego, this historical site commemorates the landing of Juan Rodríguez Cabrillo at San Diego Bay in 1542. This event marked the first time a European expedition had set foot on what later became the West Coast of the United States. This site …
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Torrey Pines Gliderport Copyright: Lance Anderson/Unsplash
Torrey Pines Gliderport
As Southern California's foremost destination for hang gliding, paragliding, sailplanes, and remote control models, Torrey Pines Gliderport caters to thrill-seekers of all ages. With skilled instructors on hand, anyone can take to the skies and experience the exhilaration of …
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Knott's Soak City Copyright: MAD.vertise/Shutterstock.com
Knott's Soak City
Knott's Soak City is a seasonal water park located close to the bay area of San Diego. At the park, you'll find over 20 water slides, a lazy river, and a giant wave pool, among other attractions. It is the perfect summer family …
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Torrey Pines Golf Course Copyright: Robert Ruggiero/Unsplash
Torrey Pines Golf Course
San Diego is home to an array of world-class golf courses, but for many, Torrey Pines Golf Course reigns supreme. This municipal golf facility boasts 36 holes and is located atop cliffs that overlook the majestic Pacific Ocean in the La Jolla area. Golf enthusiasts are treated to unparalleled views of the ocean and …
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