Park · San Diego

Balboa Park

Balboa Park
Photo: Rhododendrites, CC BY-SA 4.0 via Wikimedia Commons

It covers 1,200 acres and contains many cultural institutions. The park includes the San Diego Zoo and historic buildings from the 1915 exposition. Look out for the botanical gardens and walking trails.

Updated September 27, 2026On day 6 of San Francisco, Los Angeles and San Diego in 7 Days

Visiting Balboa Park: what to know

Tickets
Park entry is free. Fees apply for the zoo and most museums.
Time needed
Half a day minimum for main sights.
Best time
Spring and fall for comfortable weather.
Getting there
A short drive or bus ride from downtown San Diego. Free and paid parking lots are available.

San Diego itineraries with Balboa Park

Day 6 of San Francisco, Los Angeles and San Diego in 7 Days

Balboa Park

How Balboa Park fits into a day.
  1. 9:30Balboa ParkSan Diego
  2. 10:30Botanical BuildingSan Diego
  3. 13:00San Diego ZooSan Diego
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Balboa Park FAQs

Is Balboa Park free?

Entry to the park is free. Tickets are needed for the zoo and museums.

How big is Balboa Park?

The park covers 1,200 acres with trails, gardens and buildings.

What to do at Balboa Park?

Visit the zoo, explore museums and walk through the gardens.

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