18 hotels near San Diego, CA

The largest urban cultural park in the nation boasts 15 educational museums, 19 breathtaking gardens, gorgeous Spanish Golden Age architecture, exciting live theatre and its centerpiece – the San Diego Zoo – arguably the most famous zoo in the world. Minutes from downtown San Diego, the 1,200-acre Balboa Park is rectangular in form, bound by Sixth Avenue to the west, Upas Street to the north, 28th Street to the east, and Russ Boulevard to the south. Established in 1868, the park is named for Spanish maritime explorer Vasco Nunez de Balboa. More than 85 cultural and recreational groups call Balboa Park home, offering something to tickle the fancy of every visitor. A perfect place for picnics and long walks, a stroll through Balboa Park can unearth a different experience with each visit. With so much to see and do, you’ll want to allocate at least a few days to enjoy the full experience.