Balboa Park: Guided Walking Tour
Find the hidden gems and history within San Diego's finest urban cultural park
Why you should buy your ticket on 1STicket.com.
Highlights
Discover a slice of San Diego’s history and culture with tickets to a guided walking tour of historic Balboa Park. Originally established in 1868, the 1,200-acre Balboa Park sits in the heart of downtown San Diego and has been a cultural icon of the city for decades. See the iconic California Tower, built for the 1915 Panama-California Exposition; its façade depicts the city’s early history and the tower itself is a San Diego landmark.
Used for both the 1915 and 1935 expositions, the garden offered fairgoers a respite from the bustle of the exposition and provides a picturesque backdrop for photos of the California Tower. Keep your camera handy for Insta-worthy shots at every turn. Admire Southern California’s unique Spanish-style architecture at the Prado and follow the colorful tiles to the Spanish Village Art Center. Featuring over 200 contemporary artists, you can browse local crafts under terra-cotta roofs while sipping on the complimentary coffee.
On your way to the Botanical Garden, look up to see one of the largest Moreton Bay fig trees in California. In 1915, the Balboa Park Botanical Building was the largest timber-framed building with a lath roof, and its craftsmanship has stood the test of time. While the adjacent lily pond — and photogenic koi fish — may make for a nice photo opportunity, the pond served as an important part of the war effort, helping wounded soldiers and sailors during World War II.
What is included?
- 2-hour guided walking tour of San Diego's Balboa Park
- One complimentary beverage at a local coffee cart
- Professional licensed tour guide
- Exclusive access to the park resource list with recommendations on how to enjoy the park after the tour
What is not included?
- Additional food and beverages
- Tips/gratuities for your guide (optional)
What is there to know?
Duration: 2 hours
Maximum group size: 15
Live Guide: English
Wheelchair accessible
We encourage you to dress for the weather, wear comfortable shoes, and bring water in a reusable container.
Show your smartphone ticket to the guide at the starting point: Next to the statues at Founder's Plaza, between 6th Ave and Balboa Drive on Laurel Street/El Prado at the west entrance to Balboa Park.
The statues are located up a small hill and there you will meet your guide.
Children under 6 enter free, without needing a ticket.
Meeting point
698 El Prado, 92103, San Diego
Cancellation policies
Free cancellation up to 5 days before the selected time