Balboa Park Travel Guide
San Francisco
Visit Balboa Park
Popular places to visit
Golden Gate Park
Golden Gate Park is just one of the places to see in San Francisco, so why not enjoy the other things to explore during your travels? Stroll along the seaside or experience the acclaimed theatre scene in this vibrant area.
Pier 39
You can find the perfect gifts to bring home when you visit Pier 39, a popular shopping spot in San Francisco. Discover the beautiful sunsets and notable monuments in this vibrant area.
Oracle Park
Catch an event at Oracle Park during your trip to San Francisco. Take in the acclaimed art galleries and beautiful sunsets in this vibrant area.
Golden Gate Bridge
After visiting Golden Gate Bridge, make a plan to see the other sights and activities in San Francisco. Amble around this vibrant area's seaside or experience its fascinating museums.
Moscone Convention Center
During your trip, find out what's happening in Moscone Convention Center, a top convention centre in San Francisco. Discover the fascinating museums and shops in this vibrant area.
Alcatraz Island
You can learn more about the history of San Francisco during your trip to a top site such as Alcatraz Island. Take in the acclaimed theatre scene and beautiful sunsets in this vibrant area.
Top hotels in Balboa Park
Hotel Riu Plaza Fisherman's Wharf
"Staff in lobby area were aggressive and pushy"
Reviewed on 27 May 2026
Hilton San Francisco Financial District
"Great location Very friendly staff"
Reviewed on 27 May 2026
Holiday Inn Golden Gateway by IHG
"Location Clean surroundings closer to golden gate and presidio park"
Reviewed on 27 May 2026
Hilton San Francisco Union Square
"Everything was average I would say for room and amenities. Rooms are a bit outdated. My problem was with the employee that checked us in. She was rude and dismissive, she wouldn't talk to us at all, not even to instruct me on paying for the deposit nor did she explain what the deposit was for. Offered ..."
Reviewed on 27 May 2026
Parc 55 San Francisco - A Hilton Hotel
"I absolutely loved the bar, they were very kind and friendly, we all had a good laugh"
Reviewed on 27 May 2026
Handlery Union Square Hotel
"It is an older property but is clean and well maintained. The staff was very helpful in holding our large amount of luggage."
Reviewed on 27 May 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. SOMA Pilipinas 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.
