20 Fun Things To Do In Balboa Park San Diego

1. Discover Outdoor Sculptures At Plaza de Panama

Among Balboa Park San Diego attractions, outdoor sculptures located in Plaza de Panama are also popular. This part consists of a set of sculptures that are presented in classical and modern trends, which emphasizes the artistic focus of the park.

The plaza as a place itself is also quite active in terms of cultural events and exhibits. People can just walk around the sculptures, and it is very good for spending some time with art without actually being in the protective environment of a museum.

2. Attend Seasonal Events Like December Nights And EarthFair

Vibrant seasonal events bring tens of thousands of attendees from all over the city to Balboa Park each year. One of these, December Nights, is the park's premier winter festival and usually takes place during the first weekend of December.

Vendors from the immediate area sell exotic foods of many types for the palate. Practically all of the museums spread throughout Balboa Park open their doors at this time.

EarthFair is another major event celebrated in late April or early May each year. It is an annual event that, entering its fourth year, aims to promote environmental awareness and sustainable living.

3. Stroll Through The Inez Grant Parker Memorial Rose Garden

This is a well-maintained and beautiful garden with over 1600 rose bushes. Gifted by Inez Grant Parker in 1935, the garden by built for people to admire the beauty of the roses.

Hybrid tea, grandiflora, floribunda, and climbing roses, are some of the popular roses planted in different beds. It is also garnished with curving alleys and a fountain, which is in the middle and effectively contributes to the calm environment of the garden.

It is popular during the blooming season, which ranges from late spring to early summer, as the roses are in bloom and the colors are so bright.

4. Explore The Desert Garden And Its Cacti

Among many Balboa Park attractions, the Desert Garden is home to a remarkable assembly of desert plants from around the world.

It covers about 2.5 acres and was founded in 1935 as a way of demonstrating the diversity, and beauty of the flowers that thrive among our desert flora.

Among them are several cacti, succulents, and arid plants, making the flora different from the fruity greenery found elsewhere in the park.

It is perfect to go in the cooler months, late fall through early spring when it's a comfortable temperature for walking and exploring.

5. Visit The Museum of Us

The Museum of Us formerly known as the San Diego Museum of Man is an institution nestled in Balboa Park, San Diego. This museum delves into the experience by showcasing exhibits, on anthropology, archaeology, and various aspects of culture.

Its varied collections explore subjects such as civilizations, indigenous cultures, and the development of societies throughout history and geography.

Vsitors can gain insights into humanity's shared history through exhibits that trace the journey, from our ancestors to present-day globalization.

6. Visit The Timken Museum of Art

The Timken Museum of Art is free to the public and houses European old master paintings, American art, and Russian icons.

Some of the famous are Rembrandt, Rubens, and Pieter Bruegel the Elder paintings. In this case, the free guided tours and educational programs that are offered should be taken advantage of.

It is a great place for art enthusiasts of all ages because its relatively small space lets people get up close to the artwork.

7. Wander Through The Spanish Village Art Center

With over 200 local artists, this place was established in 1935 for the California Pacific International Exposition. The buildings are small, cheerful, and Spanish mission revival; the paths are cobblestone.

Things to do Balboa Park San Diego are to take a stroll through this art district and explore strange, beautiful things, made by hand.

Here, you can purchase unique gifts and souvenirs. The village is free to enter, and people can engage the artists in a conversation about their art.

8. Attend A Lawn Program At The International Cottages

The lawn programs at the International Cottages in Balboa Park give tourists an insight into the different cultures of San Diego.

These festivities are normally held at weekends and are marked by performances, songs, dances, and foods from various countries.

During these programs, visitors are free to tour the cottages themselves, as the home-like buildings are designed to depict various countries’ architecture.

These lawn programs are just one of the many attractions in Balboa Park where families can have educational fun in an aesthetically appealing environment.

9. Hike The Park's Various Trails

This activity is one of the fun things to do in Balboa Park. The trails differ in terms of length and stiffness. The Palm Canyon Trail is rather quiet and has tall palm trees, and the Florida Canyon Trail is dedicated to local flora.

It is advisable to visit the park map and information center to get information on the trails and the guided tours. Balboa Park’s trails are not merely a nice walk but a chance to view history and the park’s life in a new light.

10. Relax At Nate’s Point Dog Park

A recreational facility for dog owners and their furry pets, this park has water stands and benches for use by pet owners and their animals, hence making it convenient.

Nate’s Point is named after Nate Wells, a local San Diego figure who was instrumental in the push for dog parks. It is a fun and safe place for dogs to play.

The park is always open from morning until evening, and visitors should carry along waste disposal bags to ensure that the park is kept clean.

11. Explore The May S. Marcy Sculpture Garden

The May S. Marcy Sculpture Garden is quite an outdoor gallery that is found adjacent to the San Diego Museum of Art in Balboa Park.

It was established in 1998, and it offers a favorable environment that enables the public to appreciate sculptures in a serene environment with flowers and water fountains.

The visitors are advised to relax and spend some time in the park and one could take a book or even a sketching paper with them. There are benches which makes it a good place for a break and some time for reflection.

12. Climb The Iconic California Tower

The iconic California Tower, at Balboa Park in San Diego is well known for its architecture and picturesque vistas.

Standing tall at a height of 200 feet it features images showcasing historical and cultural elements. Noteworthy is the captivating bell tower that allows visitors to ascend to its summit, for a view of San Diego city and its surroundings.

Several guided tours are available to delve into the buildings' history and architecture. The ideal times to visit the site are morning or late afternoon to steer clear of crowds and heat.

13. Check Out Live Performances At The Old Globe Theatre

The Old Globe Theatre, in Balboa Park, San Diego, has held a position among performing arts venues since its establishment in 1935.

Over time, it has become a respected arts institution in San Diego, known for its captivating productions of plays, modern dramas, and musicals.

Guests have the opportunity to experience a range of performances throughout the year across three venues: the Old Globe Theater, resembling Shakespeare's original theater in England, the intimate Sheryl and Harvey White Theater; and the open-air Lowell Davies Festival-Theater.

14. Explore The San Diego Velodrome

The San Diego Velodrome at Balboa Park is a premier track cycling facility located in the extensive Balboa Park.

You can make cycling all four in style only at such a cyclotron, where steep foreign angles of the bank rise as the rider eases through them.

The velodrome itself has also been a hotbed for competitive cycling in San Diego, hosting local, national, and international events, including championships and time trials.

There are some small stands for spectators, and it’s a dynamic atmosphere with the hum of machine noises and rapidly spoken words.

15. Attend A Free Organ Concert At The Spreckels Organ Pavilion

An enormous pipe organ is located at the Spreckels Organ Pavilion in Balboa Park.

People can avail of free concert performances in the pavilion every Sunday, and all types of music are allowed. The historical concept of the pavilion entails accurate designs of the building and beautiful landscaping.

The pavilion is open-air, so dress appropriately for the weather. The place has ramps and special spaces are provided for people with disabilities to sit.

16. Explore The Aerospace Museum

Situated in Balboa Park, the San Diego Air & Space Museum invites guests to delve into the history of aviation and space exploration. The museum showcases a variety of exhibits related to aviation history, including aircraft displays and interactive installations.

Visitors have the opportunity to immerse themselves in the world of aircraft, such as the Apollo 9 Command Module, while discovering milestones in aerospace advancements.

The museum operates daily except on Thanksgiving Day. Admission fees vary, with discounts for seniors, military personnel, and children.

17. Visit The Fleet Science Center

The Fleet Science Center is a science and technology museum that offers exhibits suitable, for visitors of all ages.

It features a variety of hands-on displays covering topics ranging from space exploration to biology. One of the standout attractions at the center is Studio X, where visitors can unleash their creativity and innovative spirit.

Moreover, the Center caters to its visitors with Kid City, a designated area where children can actively engage and explore through activities.

18. Enjoy A Picnic By The Botanical Building And Lily Pond

Among the many things to do Balboa Park, the opportunity to have a picnic located near the Botanical Building and the Lily Pond forms an attribute that deems the park fully functional. 

The wooden lath structure overhead is home to a breathtaking array of tropical plants and flowers. The water body in the park, more specifically the Lily Pond with water and lily pads floating on it, contributes to the feeling of peace.

These two features, taken together, create the perfect environment for holding a relaxed picnic. This area is rather convenient and well-equipped, with paved paths and benches to sit on.

19. Explore The Japanese Friendship Garden

This garden is designed in such a manner that it provides a tranquil escape from urban life.

It includes diverse greenery, serene koi ponds, and meticulously planned landscaping that encourages visitors to unwind and contemplate.

This garden serves as a symbol of the bond between San Diego and Yokohama Japan, the city's sister city.

Noteworthy features include the captivating Zen garden, delightful tea house, and seasonal exhibits that showcase the garden's natural charm year-round.

20. Enjoy Free Parking And Ride The Park's Free Tram Service

Balboa Park has an adequate parking area and other means of transport for guests. Likewise, when parking within the park grounds may often be restricted and costly, free permits to park are available nearby.

For easier access and movement within the park, the park features a free tram that can be used to shape an individual’s movement around the park.

This tram service connects key areas, including museums, gardens, and other attractions, making it easier for visitors to navigate the park without needing to drive or park multiple times.