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.
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 Bridge
Cars trundle across it and ships sail under it, but the best way to experience this iconic bridge is on foot.
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.
Golden Gate Park
This beloved park offers relaxation among trees, flowers and wildlife, right in San Francisco’s backyard.
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
Alcatraz Visit with Night Option and SF Bay Cruise
California Sunset Cruise (2-hours)
Alcatraz Island Ticket and Hop-on Hop-Off Bus Tour
Go City: San Francisco All-Inclusive Pass with 30+ Attractions
Top hotels in Balboa Park
Holiday Inn Golden Gateway by IHG
Breakfast is over priced for simple breakfast that is served cold. No microwaves in rooms was an inconvenience for guest having to go down to LL. The pool area was dirty.
Reviewed on 13 Apr 2026
Handlery Union Square Hotel
!
Reviewed on 13 Apr 2026
Hotel Riu Plaza Fisherman's Wharf
The ad I saw said it had a restaurant.. no it does not it has a "grab n go" counter store which is VERY PRICEY 3 donuts and a choc milk $26.00. Check in staff are not very personable, water was not provided at check in was told to come back later and when I did they wanted to charge me for it. 3 ...
Reviewed on 13 Apr 2026
YOTEL San Francisco
Great for an over night stay. The room is small but its comfortable. The only down side is that outside around the property there is alot of homeless hanging around which can feel a little uneasy
Reviewed on 13 Apr 2026
Club Quarters Hotel in San Francisco
Good location
Reviewed on 13 Apr 2026
DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Berkeley Marina
The room was very clean with great views. The breakfast was also great.
Reviewed on 13 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.
Outer Sunset
When in Outer Sunset and the surrounding area, you'll want to check out sights like Ocean Beach or San Francisco Botanical Garden and hop on the metro to see more of the city at Judah St & 34th Ave Stop or Judah Street & Sunset Boulevard Station.
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.
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.
