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Balboa Park

4.8 ★★★★★ · 79,617 Google reviews · 24 photos
Park · El Cajon, CA

Balboa Park at a glance

Reviewers praise the park's architecture, museums, gardens, and food options, noting it is a popular spot for walking, picnicking, and family activities. A recurring criticism involves new parking fees, with several visitors expressing frustration over the cost and difficulty of finding spots. Some reviews also mention concerns regarding maintenance levels and the presence of homeless encampments within the grounds.

  • Google rating: 4.8 out of 5 from 79,617 reviews (83% five-star).
  • Reviews on this page: 79,616 Google reviews (35,135 with written comments, 8,609 with photos).
  • Owner responses: the business replied to 0% of reviews.
  • Most recent review: October 25, 2026.
  • Service: Zoo serving El Cajon, California.

Data from Google, last updated October 25, 2026.

Photos

Customer reviews

4.8
★★★★★
79,617 reviews on Google
5★65,900
4★10,720
3★2,156
2★386
1★454

Reviews from Google, shown as published (original wording, unedited).

siri gowthamLocal Guide · 305 reviews
★★★★★

This park is easily one of my favorite things about San Diego! I love the museums, and there’s always something happening here. December Nights is the best, and I really miss the days when it ran for the entire month instead of just a weekend. I also love the little stalls they have during the weekends, and a huge shoutout to the churro guy who makes them fresh! Nothing beats a freshly made churro while walking around the park. The park is always so well-maintained, and I love coming back here. It’s one of those places in San Diego that never gets old! ❤️

  • Trail condition: Well-maintained
  • Comfort level: Very safe
  • Shade level: A mix of sun and shade
  • View type: Panoramic landscapes, Water views
Review from Google · view on Google
Baja Apps TechLocal Guide · 24 reviews
★★★★★

Bonitos jardines , un lugar agradable y tranquilo para conocer en familia.

Review from Google · view on Google
MissyLocal Guide · 304 reviews
★★★★★

Beautiful park!

Review from Google · view on Google
Julia Hopkins1 review
★★★★★

I always wanted to bring a dog and enjoy some food looking at the best views

  • Trail condition: Well-maintained
  • Comfort level: Very safe
  • Shade level: A mix of sun and shade
  • View type: Other
Review from Google · view on Google
Manny ArandaLocal Guide · 343 reviews
★★★★★

A very beautiful park, love that the city takes great care of this beautiful park

Review from Google · view on Google
Alicia LeeLocal Guide · 10 reviews
★★★★★

테마파크라 할 정도로 넓고 볼거리 풍부해요. 건물이 멋있음

  • Trail condition: Well-maintained
  • Accessibility level: Very accessible
  • Comfort level: Very safe
  • Age group: All ages
Review from Google · view on Google
tracy treppaLocal Guide · 650 reviews
★★★★★

Beautiful way to spend a whole day so much to do. Very nice for picnics and just to get away from the hustle and bustle of city

  • Trail condition: Well-maintained
  • Maintenance: Well-maintained
  • Accessibility level: Very accessible
  • Age group: All ages
Review from Google · view on Google
IvayloLocal Guide · 323 reviews
★★★★★

Идеално за разходка.

  • Trail condition: Well-maintained
  • Maintenance: Well-maintained
  • Accessibility level: Very accessible
  • Age group: 13+ yrs
Review from Google · view on Google
Dacy NottinghamLocal Guide · 930 reviews
★★★★★

Needs more quick service places to eat.

  • Trail condition: Average condition
Review from Google · view on Google
Xkriskross8 reviews
★★★★★

Lots of things to do here

Review from Google · view on Google

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