Directions

Located just minutes from downtown San Diego, Balboa Park can be accessed from most major freeways. Driving and parking can be difficult during peak times or during major events; be sure to consult our Traffic Alerts page prior to your visit.

For up-to-the minute freeway driving times, transit routes and ridesharing information, consult the 511 service for the San Diego area. This is a free telephone (dial 511) and web-based program.

Getting to Balboa Park using Public Transportation

Visit Balboa Park using the Metropolitan Transit System (MTS), with easy access from the downtown and Mission Valley areas.

Print out a handy map of the bus and trolley systems servicing downtown, the airport, and Balboa Park.
Review the times for route Routes 120 (Fashion Valley) and Route 7 (Smart Corner) the two main bus routes through Balboa Park
For information and custom transportation routes to Balboa Park, visit San Diego Commute or dial 511. You'll be given the option of selecting transit routes that are: the fastest; have the fewest transfers; or have the least amount of walking.

Getting to Balboa Park by Car

Balboa Park is located at 1549 El Prado, San Diego, CA 92101 [see Google map].

Southbound from I-5
Take the 10th Avenue Exit off I-5. Turn left on "A" Street and left again on Park Blvd. Follow the signs to Balboa Park.

Northbound from I-5
Take the Pershing Drive/B Street exit off I-5 to Pershing Drive. Take Pershing and then turn left on Florida Drive. Turn left on Zoo Place to Park Blvd. Left on Park Blvd.

Southbound from Hwy 163
Take the Park Blvd. exit off Hwy 163. Turn left on Park Blvd. Follow the signs to Balboa Park.