FAQs

Frequently Asked Questions

• Where should I park?

  There are multiple paid parking lots within the Cultural District that provide either access to a free ADA-accessible tram service or a short walk to your destination. Click here to visit our Parking page to learn more about your options.

• What are some fun activities in Balboa Park for kids?

  The Balboa Park Cultural District offers many exciting activities for kids of all ages. See the Kids Day page for information about fun activities for kids and teens.

• Are there any free things to do in Balboa Park?

  Balboa Park is a City-owned public regional park and does not have an admission fee. The first 3 hours are free in the Lower Inspiration Point parking lot, all other lots require payment. (Click here to learn more about parking options) Once inside the Park, explore the rich gardens and trails. The Botanical Building and Lily Pond and Timken Museum of Art are always free. On weekends, you can enjoy free Saturday and Sunday Lawn Programs at the House of Pacific Relations and International Cottages (click here to view Lawn Program schedule and information). During the summer months, check out the Twilight in the Park summer concert series schedule at the Spreckels Organ Pavilion. Go to our Events page to discover other free events.

• Are there tours of Balboa Park available?

  Tours of the Balboa Park Cultural District start at the Balboa Park Visitors Center and include scheduled tours led by volunteers. Visit the tours page for more information. Many of the museums also offer free docent-led tours of their exhibitions.

• Are there any hotels close to Balboa Park?

  There are many hotels within a few miles of Balboa Park – some within walking distance. Stay in Banker’s Hill, Hillcrest, Downtown, or Mission Valley for maximum convenience. See the Hotels page for lodging options.

• I’m planning a wedding. Are there any good venues in Balboa Park?

  There are dozens of beautiful wedding venues in the Park, including City-managed venues and venues inside of museums. See Weddings and Private Events for details or email events@balboapark.org for more information.

• Can I smoke in Balboa Park?

  No, smoking is not permitted in Balboa Park. See Rules & Regulations for information about other rules.

• What’s the history of Balboa Park?

  Balboa Park is one of the premier public parks in the world and has played host to many notable events, celebrities, gatherings, and was even used by the military during both World Wars. For more detailed information, please see the Balboa Park History page.

• Is Balboa Park pet friendly?

  Yes! Balboa Park is pet friendly. Service animals are welcome in most venues, however, we recommend checking with individual venues ahead of time for any non-service animals. There are also several dog parks located within Balboa Park!

   

• Can I host an event at Balboa Park?

  Balboa Park Entertainment Permits are issued by the City of San Diego. Find more information on how to obtain an Outdoor Entertainment Permit for Balboa Park and the rules and regulations here. A permit sites map can also be found on the City of San Diego website.

• Are there private charter buses available?

  Balboa Park does not coordinate private charter buses for guests. However, we recommend Bus.com which offers reliable charter bus services to make your trip easy. Whether you’re traveling locally with a San Diego charter bus rental or coming from Los Angeles, Bus.com provides flexible, hassle-free transportation options for your group to and from Balboa Park.

  For those specifically in the city of San Diego, San Diego Charter Bus Rentals make it easy to plan comfortable, reliable transportation for your group.