Balboa Park

Balboa Park is the largest urban cultural park in the country, with gorgeous gardens, beautiful Spanish-Renaissance architecture, and art installations. It also has 18 museums, hiking trails, gardens, and more across its 1200 acres. Plus, it’s home to the world-famous San Diego Zoo.

Because of its size, you do need a plan. You also need to forward think admission because popping into several museums without a Go City San Diego or Balboa Park Explorer Pass can add up in cost. Residents should also take advantage of Residents Free Tuesdays. And you should know which museums are free.

I’ve collected all my best tips for visiting Balboa Park, along with information about where to go, what to eat, and the passes that will make it easy to see and do everything you want to.

    An elephant eats plants near a pond in its enclosure at San Diego Zoo.

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    Fleet Science Center San Diego: Things to Do, Tickets, Tips

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    Things to do in Balboa Park San Diego

    Top 21 Things to Do in Balboa Park

    Find the best things to do in Balboa Park San Diego including which museums to visit, tips for dining, how to buy tickets and free things to do.

    Balboa Park restaurants: Craft beer at Panama 66

    Where to Eat and Drink in Balboa Park

    The best Balboa Park restaurants to enjoy during a visit to this popular San Diego attraction including awesome coffee, finer dining, and family spots.

    The Botanical Building in San Diego's Balboa Park

    40+ Free Things to Do in Balboa Park, San Diego

    Fill a day’s itinerary with free things to do in Balboa Park including hiking, playgrounds, gardens, some museums, tours and more.

    See why the San Diego Natural History Museum is one of the best San Diego museums for kids. These are the exhibits my daughter and her friends enjoy most.

    San Diego Natural History Museum: Tips, Highlights & Local Kids’ Guide

    Local kids love San Diego Natural History Museum in Balboa Park. See what exhibits and activities they seek out and learn other tips for your visit.

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    What Happens Behind the Scenes at Thenat (And Why It Matters to You)

    This is what scientists do behind the exhibit walls at the San Diego Natural History Museum and why it matters to you.

    The Botanical Building in San Diego's Balboa Park

    Can You See Balboa Park and the San Diego Zoo on the Same Day?

    Yes, it is possible to see both of San Diego’s best attractions (Balboa Park and the San Diego Zoo) on the same day. Here’s how.

    The Spreckels Organ in San Diego's Balboa Park is now the world's largest outdoor pipe organ.

    San Diego’s Spreckels Organ Sets a World Record

    The Spreckels Organ in San Diego’s Balboa Park is now the world’s largest outdoor pipe organ and plays free concerts on Sundays.

    Art Alive at the San Diego Museum of Art

    “Art Alive” at the San Diego Museum of Art

    “Art Alive” is the San Diego Museum of Art’s largest fundraiser with spectacular floral arrangements mirroring pieces in their Permanent Collection.

    See the Dr. Seuss exhibit at the San Diego History Center

    See the Dr. Seuss Exhibit at the San Diego History Center

    “Ingenious! The World of Dr. Seuss” exhibit at the San Diego History Center has a reading library, crafts for kids and shows an unseen side of the artist.

    NBC San Diego Shopping Balboa Park

    Why You Should Shop at Balboa Park Museum Stores

    Consider holiday shopping at Balboa Park museum stores, especially if you have people on your list who are difficult to shop for. Here’s what I found.