Open in App
Try Pacer for Free
See All Photos

Plaza de Balboa in San Diego | Map and Routes

Tree

4.9 (848 ratings)

Looking for a scenic spot for your walking or running routine in San Diego? Look no further than Plaza de Balboa in the heart of the city. This beautiful 1.8-acre ...

Looking for a scenic spot for your walking or running routine in San Diego? Look no further than Plaza de Balboa in the heart of the city. This beautiful 1.8-acre park offers a variety of walking and running routes suitable for all fitness levels. Whether you're seeking a leisurely stroll or a challenging run, Plaza de Balboa has something for everyone. With its well-maintained paths and lush greenery, this park provides the ideal setting for an enjoyable outdoor activity experience. Explore the diverse routes available at Plaza de Balboa, ranging from shorter 1.4-mile paths to longer 8.8-mile treks, catering to different preferences and fitness goals. The park's serene atmosphere and well-marked trails make it an inviting destination for walkers and runners alike. You can immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the surroundings while engaging in your preferred fitness activity. Whether you're looking for a quick exercise session or a longer endurance challenge, Plaza de Balboa has the routes to accommodate your needs. For more information on the park's routes and additional walking and running options in the area, consider downloading the Pacer Pedometer app. This user-friendly app provides detailed insights into various parks and routes, allowing you to plan your fitness activities effectively. Discover the best walking and running routes in San Diego with the help of Pacer Pedometer and make the most of your outdoor adventures at Plaza de Balboa and beyond.

View MoreView More
Open in App for Detail
This park has a total of 24 photos
See All Photos
Overview
Check-in
Routes
Reviews (12)
Photos (24)

Walking and Running in Plaza de Balboa

Plaza de Balboa in San Diego is a fantastic location for walking and running enthusiasts. With its wheelchair-friendly pathways and accessibility, it caters to individuals of all abilities who seek an enjoyable outdoor activity. The park also offers a range of attractions, including the Reuben H. Fleet Science Center and ...

Plaza de Balboa in San Diego is a fantastic location for walking and running enthusiasts. With its wheelchair-friendly pathways and accessibility, it caters to individuals of all abilities who seek an enjoyable outdoor activity. The park also offers a range of attractions, including the Reuben H. Fleet Science Center and the San Diego History Center, providing visitors with an opportunity to engage in enriching experiences. Additionally, the presence of bicycle parking makes it convenient for those who prefer to cycle to the park and then embark on their walking or running adventure. Whether you're looking for a leisurely stroll or an invigorating run, Plaza de Balboa in San Diego is the ideal destination to engage in your favorite physical activities amidst a beautiful and accommodating setting.

View MoreView More

Other Info about Plaza de Balboa

Essential Amenities in Plaza de Balboa

Wheelchair friendly

Accessibility in Plaza de Balboa

Wheelchair friendly

Things to See in Plaza de Balboa

Museum

Reuben H. Fleet Science Center

Museum

San Diego History Center

Other Amenities in Plaza de Balboa

Bicycle parking

Best Walking Routes in Plaza de Balboa

#1 - Balboa park
1
Length: 3.9 milesEst. Time: 1h47m

Balboa park is a 3.9 mile (9,000-step) route located near San Diego, California, USA. This route has an elevation gain of about 262.4 ft and is rated as easy. Find the best walking trails near you in Pacer App.

See All Routes
See All Routes

Reviews of Plaza de Balboa

4.9/5
848 ratings
dkovach2sdApr 9, 2019
4

Easy and comfortable

AndersonJun 25, 2024
5

HOLY SHIIIIIIIIIT

SelFitOct 28, 2025
5
See All Reviews (12)
See All Reviews (12)

Plaza de Balboa Leaderboard

RankingCheck-ins
mesaguy90
399
Richard
44
Emme
23
4eduardovaltierra
15
5Lisa
13
6🏳️‍🌈 johnny_sandiego
12
7JA
12
8Devon
11
9Evan
10
10Brian
10
*Leaderboard only shows top 10 users. Only public activities are eligible for leaderboards. For any one park, a user can only check-in a maximum of once per day.
Nearby Parks
Balboa Park
Morley Field Disk Golf Course
Luxor Canyon
Bird Park
Amici Park
Horton Plaza Park
32nd Street Canyon
Fault Line Park
Federal Plaza

FAQs About Plaza de Balboa

Where is the best place to walk in Balboa Park?

The best place to walk in Balboa Park is 'Down the center of Balboa Park', which is a 1.4-mile route with a rating of 3.0. The Pacer community recommends this route for its scenic views and pleasant walking experience.

How many routes are in Balboa Park?

There are multiple routes in Balboa Park. Some popular ones include 'Balboa park' (3.9 miles), 'Balboa park' (4.3 miles), 'Balboa park' (3.2 miles), and more. The Pacer community provides various route options to cater to different walking preferences.

Which is the longest route in Balboa Park?

The longest route in Balboa Park is 'Balboa Park 8 bridge walk', which spans 8.8 miles. Although it is a longer route, it offers a comprehensive walking experience and allows walkers to explore the park extensively. The Pacer community suggests this route for those looking for a more challenging and immersive walking adventure.

Are there facilities or amenities for walkers/runners in Plaza de Balboa in San Diego?

Plaza de Balboa offers wheelchair-friendly paths, making it accessible for walkers and runners of all abilities. There is also bicycle parking available for those who prefer to cycle as part of their exercise routine.

How accessible is Plaza de Balboa in San Diego?

Plaza de Balboa is wheelchair-friendly, ensuring that it is accessible to all visitors, including walkers and runners with mobility challenges.

What kind of sports can I do in Plaza de Balboa in San Diego?

In addition to walking and running, Plaza de Balboa provides opportunities for other activities such as cycling, as well as the chance to explore nearby museums including the Reuben H. Fleet Science Center and the San Diego History Center.

What is the best season to walk in Plaza de Balboa?

The best season to walk in Plaza de Balboa is typically during the spring and fall when the weather is mild and pleasant.

What are the typical weather conditions to prepare for in Plaza de Balboa?

In Plaza de Balboa, you can expect mild and sunny weather for most of the year. However, it's advisable to be prepared for occasional marine layer and cooler temperatures, especially in the mornings and evenings.

What kind of wildlife might you encounter in Plaza de Balboa?

Plaza de Balboa is home to a variety of wildlife, including birds, squirrels, and occasional sightings of lizards and rabbits. It's important to be respectful of the natural habitat and observe wildlife from a distance while walking or running in the park.

Last updated: Dec 5, 2025

Parks Near Plaza de Balboa

Balboa Park
Morley Field Disk Golf Course
Luxor Canyon
Bird Park
Amici Park
Horton Plaza Park
32nd Street Canyon
Fault Line Park
Federal Plaza

Latest Check-ins at Plaza de Balboa

mesaguy90Dec 5, 2025
Dec 5, 2025Walking
mesaguy90Dec 2, 2025
Dec 2, 2025Walking
DevonNov 30, 2025
Nov 30, 2025Running
mesaguy90Nov 28, 2025
Nov 28, 2025Walking
mesaguy90Nov 25, 2025
Nov 25, 2025Walking
JuanNov 19, 2025
Nov 19, 2025Walking
mesaguy90Nov 18, 2025
Nov 18, 2025Walking
mesaguy90Nov 14, 2025
Nov 14, 2025Walking
ShyNov 12, 2025
Nov 12, 2025Walking
mesaguy90Nov 11, 2025
Nov 11, 2025Walking
*Latest check-in only shows the last 10 users. Only public activities are eligible. For any one park, a user can only check-in a maximum of once per day.

Total Check-ins at Plaza de Balboa

RankingCheck-ins
mesaguy90
399
Richard
44
Emme
23
4eduardovaltierra
15
5Lisa
13
6🏳️‍🌈 johnny_sandiego
12
7JA
12
8Devon
11
9Evan
10
10Brian
10
*Leaderboard only shows top 10 users. Only public activities are eligible for leaderboards. For any one park, a user can only check-in a maximum of once per day.
Best Walking Routes in Plaza de Balboa
#1- Balboa park
1
Length: 3.9 milesEst. Time: 1h47m

Balboa park is a 3.9 mile (9,000-step) route located near San Diego, California, USA. This route has an elevation gain of about 262.4 ft and is rated as easy. Find the best walking trails near you in Pacer App.

Reviews of Plaza de Balboa

dkovach2sdApr 9, 2019
4

Easy and comfortable

AndersonJun 25, 2024
5

HOLY SHIIIIIIIIIT

SelFitOct 28, 2025
5
lopez_maria1967Aug 12, 2025
5
BrendaJun 9, 2025
5
EvanMar 19, 2025
5
PacerPalDec 30, 2024
5
TatianaNov 29, 2024
5
YvonneSep 28, 2024
5
grant.harris111Jun 3, 2024
5
RichardApr 4, 2024
5
mesaguy90Apr 2, 2024
5
4.9/5
848 ratings

Photos of Plaza de Balboa

pacer

Pacer Walking App

Pacer is the best walking app for walking challenges and finding places to walk near me.

Start Your Joyful Steps in New Parks
The Best Walking App
1.8M+ 5-star ratings
100M+ global downloads
Scan to download free
Open in App
pacer logoclose icon