Balboa Park Travel Guide
San Francisco
Visit Balboa Park
Popular places to visit
Oracle Park
Whether or not you’re a baseball fan, this charming ballpark with outstanding views should be on your San Francisco sightseeing list.
Golden Gate Bridge
Cars trundle across it and ships sail under it, but the best way to experience this iconic bridge is on foot.
Pier 39
This waterfront attraction offers thrilling rides, innovative street performers and colorful souvenir shops, but it’s the sea lions that win the day.
Golden Gate Park
This beloved park offers relaxation among trees, flowers and wildlife, right in San Francisco’s backyard.
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 shops in this vibrant area.
Alcatraz Island
Escape to “The Rock,” home of the infamous and abandoned island prison, and discover how it earned a reputation as a cold and unforgiving place.
Things to do
California Academy of Sciences Daytime Admission
California Sunset Cruise (2-hours)
Go City: San Francisco All-Inclusive Pass with 30+ Attractions
SKIP THE LINE: Exploratorium Daytime Admission
San Francisco: One day Yosemite and Giant Sequoias Tour
de Young Museum General Admission Ticket
Top hotels in Balboa Park
Holiday Inn Golden Gateway by IHG
Cafe bar staff are great helpful and friendly
Reviewed on 21 Apr 2026
Club Quarters Hotel in San Francisco
Great location and affordable for a quick stay. Close to Chinatown, several restaurants and you can walk down to the water. Rooms are small and very little counter space in the bathroom. Definitely a deal for those on a budget though!
Reviewed on 21 Apr 2026
Hotel Riu Plaza Fisherman's Wharf
Very nice and clean rooms, the breakfast and staff were phenomenal. The only thing I would change is I had no access to streaming channels, like Netflix or Hulu in the room’s TV. Great stay but not much to watch on TV.
Reviewed on 21 Apr 2026
Handlery Union Square Hotel
Their room that they give us smells and extinct parking lot is too expensive. They never tell you that before you book in so be careful if you have a truck you’re paying $80 not a good experience to say I recommend.
Reviewed on 20 Apr 2026
Hilton San Francisco Financial District
The staff was very helpful, considerate and friendly, the property was very clean and inviting which made for a pleasant stay.
Reviewed on 21 Apr 2026
Fairmont San Francisco
ADA beds too high
Reviewed on 21 Apr 2026
Other neighbourhoods around Balboa Park
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.
Potrero Hill
The live music and architecture are just a few things visitors like about Potrero Hill. San Francisco Bay and Museum of Craft & Design are worthwhile spots to check out, and you can hop on the metro at 20th Street Station or 23rd Street Station to get around the larger area.
Western Addition
Alamo Square and Painted Ladies are top sights in Western Addition, and you should be sure to explore the popular shops. Hop aboard the metro at Duboce Avenue & Noe Street Station or Duboce Ave & Church St Stop to see more sights in the area.
