Balboa Park Travel Guide
San Francisco
Visit Balboa Park
Popular places to visit
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 art galleries and notable monuments in this vibrant area.
Oracle Park
Whether or not you’re a baseball fan, this charming ballpark with outstanding views should be on your San Francisco sightseeing list.
Lombard Street
Often incorrectly called the world’s crookedest street, this San Francisco roadway is an iconic spot to see, photograph and drive down.
Things to do
California Academy of Sciences Daytime Admission
Go City: San Francisco All-Inclusive Pass with 30+ Attractions
San Francisco City Lights Cruise (2-hours)
Alcatraz Visit with Night Option and SF Bay Cruise
Alcatraz Island Ticket and Hop-on Hop-Off Bus Tour
San Francisco 1 Day Hop-On Hop-Off City Tour
Top hotels in Balboa Park
Holiday Inn Golden Gateway by IHG
Room is clean
Reviewed on 30 Jan 2026
Hotel Riu Plaza Fisherman's Wharf
Everything was fantastic from check-in the beauty of the hotel the cleanliness the ease of parking friendlyness of the staff the room was made up perfectly truly enjoyed the great breakfast five stars.
Reviewed on 26 Jan 2026
Hilton San Francisco Financial District
The room so very clean and the room was spacious; the only thing, we were not informed parking was billed separate and at a high rate, being the first time in SF it wasn't something I expected
Reviewed on 29 Jan 2026
Comfort Inn by the Bay
Our Hotel room was bit small but was very clean and comfortable. Breakfast was good with lots of options and location was great. Very safe walkable area and close to lots of tourist attractions. Great little deli right across street was a bonus for quick bite to eat after long day touring . Underground ...
Reviewed on 29 Jan 2026
Hyatt Place San Francisco Downtown
Very clean, nice staff, beautiful hotel and comfortable accomodations. We'll stay here again. 1 block from giants
Reviewed on 19 Jan 2026
Club Quarters Hotel in San Francisco
Staff was great.
Reviewed on 29 Jan 2026
Other neighbourhoods around Balboa Park
Excelsior
Though Excelsior may not have many top sights, you can venture to the surrounding area to see attractions like Cow Palace and San Bruno Mountain State 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. SF Armory 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.
