Balboa Park is a must-do for most San Diego visitors, but many don't appreciate the long and rich history of this treasured cultural center. Go deeper into the park's many museums, gardens, and attractions on a guided walking tour that will help you plan where you want to go and appreciate how Balboa Park came to be. Plus, stay energized with an included coffee drink along the way.
- See the best of Balboa Park with a local guide
- Avoid getting lost among the huge park and cultural campus
- Learn about Balboa’s connections to the Navy and historic expositions
- Enjoy a beverage of your choice at a local coffee cart
What To Expect
Balboa Park
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.
1 hour • Admission Ticket Free
Cabrillo Bridge
We’ll pause on our walk across the bridge to admire the views of downtown, the San Diego Zoo and the historic highway below.
5 minutes • Admission Ticket Free
California Tower
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.
5 minutes • Admission Ticket Free
Alcazar Garden
Originally developed for the 1915 Exposition, this garden was redesigned for the 1935 Exposition off the Alcazar Gardens in Seville Spain
5 minutes • Admission Ticket Free
Old Globe Theatre
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.
5 minutes • Admission Ticket Free
Plaza de Panama Fountain
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.
5 minutes • Admission Ticket Free
Botanical Building and Lily Pond
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.
10 minutes • Admission Ticket Free
Spanish Village Art Center
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!
10 minutes • Admission Ticket Free
Moreton Bay Fig Tree
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.
5 minutes • Admission Ticket Free
Bea Evenson Fountain
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.
5 minutes • Admission Ticket Free
Casa del Prado
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.
5 minutes • Admission Ticket Free
Highlight
Confirmation will be received at time of booking
Wheelchair accessible
Stroller accessible
Service animals allowed
Near public transportation
Surfaces are wheelchair accessible
Most travelers can participate
Let us know in advance if you would like an audio system.
Please wear comfortable shoes for walking.
This tour/activity will have a maximum of 15 travelers
Max group – 15
