Uncover the hidden gems of Balboa Park on a small group walking tour. Explore gardens, admire architecture, learn about the park’s history, and enjoy a beverage at a popular coffee cart.
- Balboa Park - Balboa Park is the cultural jewel of San Diego with architecture, gardens and cultural organizations a-plenty. Keep a camera handy as there are Instagramable spots around every corner.
- Cabrillo Bridge - We’ll pause on our walk across the bridge to admire the views of downtown, the San Diego Zoo and the historic highway below.
- California Tower - The California Tower is a landmark not only for the park but for San Diego as well. The nearly 200 foot tall tower was built for the 1915 Panama California Exposition, and the story of San Diego’s founding in it’s ornate facade. We’ll get three great views of the tower, each one prettier than the next.
- Alcazar Garden - Originally developed for the 1915 Exposition, this garden was redesigned for the 1935 Exposition off the Alcazar Gardens in Seville Spain
- Old Globe Theatre - The three theaters in this complex have wowed audiences since the original construction for the California Pacific International Exposition in 1935. Your guide will give you the scoop on getting tickets when shows are in production.
- Plaza de Panama Fountain - This plaza is surrounded by cultural organizations and places to eat. We’ll provide all the details you need to know for further exploration after the tour.
- Botanical Building and Lily Pond - This building was the largest of its kind when built for the 1915 Exposition, and one of four buildings constructed to last past the festivities. In front of it is a historic pond where we will spot koi and other wildlife.
- Spanish Village Art Center - This colorful collection of cottages, built for the 1935 California Pacific International Exposition, house 37 studios and many more artists. You’ll have a chance to explore this unique village, and grab a beverage too!
- Moreton Bay Fig Tree - Planted for the 1915 Exposition, this magnificent tree has seen a lot in the century since, and we’ll get up close and personal thanks to a new viewing platform.
- Bea Evenson Fountain - Named for the founder of the Committee of One Hundred, this fountain attracts children, dogs and birds, plus also has a surprising feature that is activated by the Fleet Center next door.
- Casa del Prado - The home of many cultural and botanical organizations, this building also holds the secrets of how the detailed architecture of the park was created quick and cheap.
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- Exclusive access to park resource list with recommendations on how to enjoy the park after the tour
- One beverage at a local coffee cart
- Professional and Fun Tour Guide
- Guide gratuity
Explore the hidden corners of splendid Balboa Park on this intimate group strolling tour of San Diego’s cultural masterpiece. You’ll encounter diverse gardens, impactful architecture, and gain insight into the park’s past as well as the cultural entities that reside in it today. Cap it all off with a drink from a popular coffee kiosk.
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2-hour exploration of Balboa Park on foot
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Understand how two exhibitions moulded the park and revolutionized San Diego
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Uncover the park’s connection to the Navy
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Don’t forget to bring a camera as this is the city’s most photogenic tour!
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Sample a drink from a coffee stand in the park
- Let us know in advance if you would like an audio system.
- Please wear comfortable shoes for walking.
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.