Balboa Park

Take Advantage Of Multi-Faceted Balboa Park

Visit Website 

Best Western Plus Island Palms & Marina is in a central location that's close to all major attractions, including Balboa Park. One of the oldest public parks in America, the 1,200-acre cultural and recreational oasis features everything under the sun, including museums, gardens, theatres, hiking and biking trails, walking paths, and even the renowned San Diego Zoo. You'll also find a golf course, tennis courts, restaurants, and gift shops. In addition, Balboa Park is home to historic buildings from the 1915-1916 Panama-California Exposition and the 1935 California Pacific International Exposition.

Before You Go 

What Museums Will I Find?

There is no shortage of interesting museums. Discover Mexican, Chicano, and Latino art at Centro Cultural de la Raza. Find out all about the history of aviation at the San Diego Air & Space Museum. Explore over 80 historic cars and motorcycles at the San Diego Automotive Museum. Get an up-close-and-personal look at the works of European masters and 19th and 20th century American painters at the San Diego Museum of Art.

What Are Some Of The Attractions?

In Balboa Park, you’ll have your choice of plenty of attractions that are designed for visitors of all ages and interests. The most well-known is the singular San Diego Zoo where over 4,000 animals reside. A couple of entertaining options specifically for little ones are the Balboa Park Carousel and Balboa Park Miniature Railroad. Additional attractions include the United Nations Building, Sefton Plaza, and the Visitors Center, which features a gift shop and audio tours.

Details

Prices - Admission to Balboa Park and most of the gardens is free. Prices for attractions vary.

Hours - The Balboa Park grounds never close, the Visitors Center is open daily from 9:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m., and museum hours vary.

Events

• December Nights
• Art of the Open Air
• Jungle Bells

Activities

• Museums
• Theatres
• Gardens
• Hiking
• Biking
• Dining