Important: 2026 Parking Update

Despite our extensive efforts, GSDSEF has been unable to secure free parking at Balboa Park with the City of San Diego.

Please note:

• All visitors must follow Balboa Park’s new tiered parking rules

• Rates vary by your residency as well as the duration and location of your parking

• You may be required to pre-register an account and/or download an app on your smartphone

• If pre-registering an account, do not wait until the last minute, because they can take awhile for the City to approve (though not the 48hrs they warn about, in our experience)

• ADA parking remains free in all stalls for those with a valid disabled license plate or placard

• Click here for the latest City of San Diego information about Balboa Park Parking and how to obtain a parking pass

  • GSDSEF volunteers do not qualify for the "Balboa Park Volunteer" free parking category

  • The Upper Inspiration Point lot is the closest to the BPAC