Overview
There is so much more to beautiful Balboa Park than meets the eye, and you'll find all the secret spots on this small group walking tour of San Diego's cultural crown jewel. You'll see gardens of different types, inspiring architecture, learn about the park's history and the cultural organizations that populate it now. And top it all off with a beverage at a popular coffee cart.
- 2 hour walking tour of Balboa Park
- Learn how two expositions shaped the park and changed San Diego
- Discover the Naval connection to the park
- Be sure to bring a camera as this is the prettiest tour in town!
- Enjoy a beverage at a park coffee cart
- Recommended by 98% of travelers
- Badge of Excellence
- Free cancellation up to 24 hours before
- Mobile ticket
What's included
Exclusive access to park resource list with recommendations on how to enjoy the park after the tour
One beverage at a local coffee cart
Professional and Fun Tour Guide
Guide gratuity
Meeting and pickup
Travelers meet at the meeting point.
Meeting point
We meet at the Founders Statues near 698 El Prado between 6th Ave and Balboa Drive at the west entrance of Balboa Park. It's on the only corner with an incline. If using ride share services request SEFTON PLAZA as the drop off location. Otherwise you may get dropped off in the wrong place.
Good to know
Please arrive at least 10 minutes prior to the tour start time to check in.
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What to expect
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Balboa Park
1 hour
Balboa Park is the cultural jewel of San Diego with architecture, gardens and cultural organizations a-plenty. Keep a camera handy as there are Instagramable spots around every corner.
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Cabrillo Bridge
5 min
We'll pause on our walk across the bridge to admire the views of downtown, the San Diego Zoo and the historic highway below.
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California Tower
5 min
The California Tower is a landmark not only for the park but for San Diego as well. The nearly 200 foot tall tower was built for the 1915 Panama California Exposition, and the story of San Diego’s founding in it’s ornate facade. We’ll get three great views of the tower, each one prettier than the next.
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Alcazar Garden
5 min
Originally developed for the 1915 Exposition, this garden was redesigned for the 1935 Exposition off the Alcazar Gardens in Seville Spain
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Old Globe Theatre
5 min
The three theaters in this complex have wowed audiences since the original construction for the California Pacific International Exposition in 1935. Your guide will give you the scoop on getting tickets when shows are in production.
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Plaza de Panama Fountain
5 min
This plaza is surrounded by cultural organizations and places to eat. We'll provide all the details you need to know for further exploration after the tour.
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Botanical Building and Lily Pond
10 min
This building was the largest of its kind when built for the 1915 Exposition, and one of four buildings constructed to last past the festivities. In front of it is a historic pond where we will spot koi and other wildlife.
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Spanish Village Art Center
10 min
This colorful collection of cottages, built for the 1935 California Pacific International Exposition, house 37 studios and many more artists. You'll have a chance to explore this unique village, and grab a beverage too!
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Moreton Bay Fig Tree
5 min
Planted for the 1915 Exposition, this magnificent tree has seen a lot in the century since, and we'll get up close and personal thanks to a new viewing platform.
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Bea Evenson Fountain
5 min
Named for the founder of the Committee of One Hundred, this fountain attracts children, dogs and birds, plus also has a surprising feature that is activated by the Fleet Center next door.
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Casa del Prado
5 min
The home of many cultural and botanical organizations, this building also holds the secrets of how the detailed architecture of the park was created quick and cheap.
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the start time.
Times are local to the experience (America/Los Angeles).
Additional Information
- Please wear comfortable shoes for walking.
- Mobile or paper ticket accepted
- Up to 15 travelers per booking
- Each booking must include at least one adult.
FAQs about San Diego Balboa Park Highlights Small Group Tour with Coffee
Can I cancel San Diego Balboa Park Highlights Small Group Tour with Coffee for free?
Yes. For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the start time.
How long does it take?
It takes about 2 hours.
Where does it start?
We meet at the Founders Statues near 698 El Prado between 6th Ave and Balboa Drive at the west entrance of Balboa Park.
What's included?
- Exclusive access to park resource list with recommendations on how to enjoy the park after the tour
- One beverage at a local coffee cart
- Professional and Fun Tour Guide
What's not included?
- Guide gratuity
Which places does it visit?
It visits Balboa Park, Cabrillo Bridge, California Tower, Alcazar Garden, Old Globe Theatre, Plaza de Panama Fountain, Botanical Building and Lily Pond, Spanish Village Art Center.
Which languages is it offered in?
It is offered in English.
Is it suitable for children?
Children must be accompanied by an adult.
Operated by San Diego Walks
