San Diego Balboa Park Guided Tour
About this activity
Smartphone tickets accepted
- Your booking is confirmed immediately
- This option includes FREE cancellation—book now, risk-free!
Experience Highlights
Discover the historical and cultural richness of Balboa Park in San Diego with this guided walking tour. This 2-hour tour will take you through the park's most iconic landmarks, including the California Tower, the Alcazar Garden and the Spanish Village Art Center.
The meeting point is by the statues in the Plaza de los Fundadores, at the west entrance to the park. There, you will meet your English-speaking guide to begin the tour.
- Explore the secrets of Balboa Park with an expert guide.
- Immerse yourself in the history and architecture of San Diego.
- Grab a complimentary drink from one of the park's traditional trolleys.
What’s included
- 2-hour guided walking tour of Balboa Park.
- Licensed professional guide (English).
- A complimentary drink from a local coffee cart.
- Exclusive access to a list of park resources with recommendations for further exploration after the tour.
Select date and time
Plan to arrive at least 10 minutes before your start time to ensure everything runs smoothly
Step by Step
Balboa Park is a cultural treasure in the heart of San Diego, encompassing 1,200 acres of gardens, museums and historic architecture. This guided walking tour offers a deep dive into the highlights and hidden gems of this iconic park.
Beginning at Founders Plaza, your guide will lead you along scenic paths to the majestic California Tower, an iconic structure built for the 1915 Panama-California Exposition. From there, you'll explore the Spanish-inspired Alcazar Garden, which offers an oasis of tranquillity with its fountains and colourful flowers.
The tour continues to the Spanish Village Art Centre, where you can admire more than 200 local artists at work in their studios. This vibrant art centre is perfect for appreciating and purchasing unique pieces of art and crafts. You'll also enjoy a complimentary drink from a local coffee cart, complementing your cultural experience.
Throughout the tour, your guide will share fascinating stories about the historical events that have shaped Balboa Park, from international exhibitions to its role during wartime. You'll learn about the notable figures who contributed to the park's development and discover architectural details that go unnoticed by many visitors.