Balboa Park Travel Guide
Tourist Guide
Visit Balboa Park
Popular places to visit
Golden Gate Park
This wonderful park is a haven away from the hustle and bustle of the busy city. Come here to relax, enjoy the scenery, breathe in the air and watch the wildlife.
Pier 39
This waterfront attraction offers all the fun of a traditional pier with rides, street performances and entertainment courtesy of a colony of resident sea lions!
Golden Gate Bridge
This iconic bridge, with its distinctive burnished red colour, is probably one of the world’s most instantly recognisable landmarks.
Oracle Park
Whether or not you’re a baseball fan, this charming ballpark with outstanding views should be on your San Francisco sightseeing list.
Moscone Convention Center
During your trip, find out what's happening in Moscone Convention Center, a top convention centre in San Francisco. Discover the acclaimed theatre scene and notable monuments in this vibrant area.
Alcatraz Island
Home to the world’s most notorious prison, tour this famous landmark to understand why it gained its reputation as such a cold and unforgiving place.
Activities
California Academy of Sciences Daytime Admission
Alcatraz Visit with Night Option and SF Bay Cruise
Go City: San Francisco All-Inclusive Pass with 30+ Attractions
Alcatraz Island Ticket and Hop-on Hop-Off Bus Tour
California Sunset Cruise (2-hours)
Our pick of the best Balboa Park Hotel Deals
Holiday Inn Golden Gateway by IHG
I enjoyed my stay — the hotel had a welcoming atmosphere and the amenities were nice. The room was spacious and the bed was comfortable. The only thing that stood out was that it wasn’t quite as clean as I expected (a bit of dust and a few missed spots). Other than that, it was a good experience, ...
Reviewed on 20 Oct 2025
Best Western Plus Grosvenor Airport Hotel
The property was older yet maintained very well. The entire staff from the front desk staff to the breakfast attendant were very kind and cordial. The mattress was very comfortable. Overall I would give them a B+ grade.
Reviewed on 16 Oct 2025
Crowne Plaza San Francisco Airport by IHG
Good Rooms with greate view
Reviewed on 17 Oct 2025
Handlery Union Square Hotel
Love stay at this property when visiting San Francisco. Francisco is extremely close to all tourist attractions in Union Square clean customer service will return.
Reviewed on 20 Oct 2025
Fairmont San Francisco
Obviously, this is a historic, classic, original Fairmont hotel. Friendly staffs, and great services. I have absolutely nothing negative to say about this property. Firmaont San Francisco, enough said.
Reviewed on 13 Oct 2025
Hotel Riu Plaza Fisherman's Wharf
I can't speak to whether it's healthy or not, but plentiful and plenty of options and it was nice to have an included breakfast. Not typical in US hotels
Reviewed on 18 Oct 2025
Other neighbourhoods around Balboa Park
Excelsior
Though Excelsior may not have many top sights, you can venture to the surrounding area to see attractions like Cow Palace and San Bruno Mountain State Park.
Glen Park
When in Glen Park and the surrounding area, you'll want to check out sights like San Francisco Public Library or Castro Street and hop on the metro to see more of the city at Glen Park Station or Church St & 30th St Stop.
Noe Valley
Appreciated for its churches and architecture, you might consider exploring Noe Valley. Check out the variety of things to see and do like 22nd St Hill, and jump on the metro at Church St & Clipper St Stop or Church St & 24th St Stop to get around the city.
Mission District
You might enjoy the bars while in Mission District. San Francisco Public Library is a notable sight, and you can get around town at 16th Street Mission Station or 24th Street Mission Station to see more of the city.
Sunset District
Consider exploring the beaches in Sunset District. If sightseeing is on the list, Ocean Beach is a top attraction. Hop on the metro at Judah Street & Sunset Boulevard Station or Judah St & 34th Ave Stop to see more of the area.
Golden Gate
If you're spending time in Golden Gate, check out sights like San Francisco Botanical Garden or Japanese Tea Garden and hop on the metro to see more of the city at Irving St & 9th Ave Stop or Irving St & 8th Ave Stop.
Balboa Park Travel Guide
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