Just minutes from downtown, you'll find an amazing cultural center and beautiful botanic paradise right in the middle of San Diego.
Balboa Park is a cultural oasis that includes 17 museums, gardens galore and the world-famous San Diego Zoo. At 1,200 acres, Balboa Park is one of North America’s most iconic urban parks and a must see on any visit to San Diego. Located just blocks from downtown San Diego hotels, the park has a rich history reflected through its stunning architecture, thought-provoking exhibits installations, and cultural events throughout the year.
Balboa Park has a storied history – one that is central to the story of San Diego. It started 150 years ago, when civic leaders took the audacious step of setting aside the scrub-filled mesa overlooking downtown to establish a city park. Today, Balboa Park continues to be a potent mix of what makes San Diego so unique. Ethnically diverse, historically rich, culturally abundant, naturally breathtaking, Balboa Park is where you can experience San Diego’s past and see its future.
Experience the museums of Balboa Park in an easy and affordable way with the Balboa Park Explorer Pass. For one price, the Pass provides admission into as many as 16 of Balboa Park’s museums and attractions.
Balboa Park, by You
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The San Diego Archaeological Center is a museum, education, and research facility where visitors can learn the story of how people have lived in San Diego County for the past 12,000 years. Visitors...
The Japanese Friendship Garden and Museum (JFGM) is located in Balboa Park and represents the friendship between San Diego and its sister city in Yokohama, Japan. The binding of two cultures create a...
Kids are free everyday at the La Mesa Depot! Families welcome - Always free. Check out our hours to catch our friendly volunteer who will tell you about the history of the La Mesa...
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