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North Park, charming Garden Cottage by Balboa Park, Zoo, & popular venues

Photo gallery for North Park, charming Garden Cottage by Balboa Park, Zoo, & popular venues

Comfy queen bed for your vacation
Spacious room
Couch to relax and watch TV
Wonderful place to relax and hang out
Living area

Reviews

8.6 out of 10
Excellent
1 bedroom1 bathroomSleeps 21 sq ft

Popular amenities

  • Onsite parking available
  • Kitchen
  • Washer
  • Garden
  • Internet access
  • Dryer

Explore the area

View in a map
San Diego, CA
  • Place, Diversionary Theatre
    ‪13 min walk‬
  • Place, Balboa Park
    ‪15 min walk‬
  • Place, San Diego Zoo
    ‪4 min drive‬
  • Airport, San Diego, CA (SAN-San Diego Intl.)
    ‪10 min drive‬

Rooms & beds

1 bedroom (sleeps 2)

Bedroom 1

1 Queen Bed

1 bathroom

Bathroom 1

Shower only

Spaces

Kitchen
Garden

About this property

North Park, charming Garden Cottage by Balboa Park, Zoo, & popular venues

Retro cottage apartment sleeps 2- 3. Thoroughly cleaned and sanitized between stays with contactless check-in. Perfect for a romantic getaway or road trip destination, a relaxing place to stay close to everything San Diego has to offer. Within minutes of downtown, walking distance to the world famous Balboa Park and San Diego Zoo. 15 minutes from my favorite beach, Ocean Beach (OB).
You will walk into a private gated entrance on the community, which leads your private entrance. The cozy bedroom with a queen bed, with private bath, full kitchen, and a beautiful large garden to be enjoyed by all after a long day visiting all the amazing sights San Diego has to offer. BTW- North Park was voted as one of the hippiest communities to live in by Forbes magazine, do come and enjoy!

You will be able to stroll down from the complex to University Ave and engage all your senses in every delight and sight. No matter which direction you may head, you'll find yourself immersed in the pulse of San Diego. Enjoy!

Mosey down 30th street, walk over to the world famous Balboa Park, or catch a show at the Observatory. Check out the popular farmers market on Thursday, maybe visit one of the many new microbreweries in the area. Take advantage of the one-of-the-kind dining experiences North Park has to offer.

The property is very unique and unlike anything in the area. There is a lovely, large community garden with outdoor seating to enjoy the amazing weather that San Diego had to offer.

I live close by, but you will not see me. Myself and my assistant can assist you with any of your needs. Of course, you are welcome to text or call us anytime.

Uber, Lyft, Bird, run, walk, or stroll minutes to the world-famous San Diego Zoo and Balboa Park. 15 minutes to the beach, 5 to 10 minutes to downtown, and only 15 minutes from the San Diego airport. Come enjoy!

There is no A/C but there is a portable fan (stored in the closet).

If this unit isn't available, please check my other units at this same property. Thanks!

https://www.vrbo.com/1353709?utm_source=direct&utm_medium=social&utm_campaign=earned:vrbo:sharecopylink:USA&utm_content=1353709

AND

https://www.vrbo.com/1678969?utm_source=direct&utm_medium=social&utm_campaign=earned:vrbo:sharecopylink:USA&utm_content=1678969
Our prices include all fees. No hidden fees.

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House Rules

Check in after 3:00 PM
Minimum age to rent: 21
Check out before 10:00 AM
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Children

Children allowed: ages 0-17
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Events

No events allowed
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Pets

No pets allowed
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Smoking

Smoking is not permitted
Please do not smoke on the premises
Please be respectful of the neighbors and tenants in the building. Please read street parking signs to avoid tickets: 4th Tuesday of the month.
Quiet time after 10:00, if you are looking for a party place this is not the spot
Enjoy every moment of your stay

Important information

You need to know

Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card, or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
Onsite parties or group events are strictly prohibited
Host has indicated there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property
Host has indicated there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher
Property Registration Number 12340, STR-12340L

About the neighborhood

San Diego

Located in University Heights, a neighborhood in San Diego, this apartment is near theme parks. Port of San Diego and B Street Cruise Ship Terminal are worth checking out if an activity is on the agenda, while those wishing to experience the area's popular attractions can visit San Diego Zoo and USS Midway Museum. Check out an event or a game at Petco Park, and consider making time for Waterfront Park, a top attraction not to be missed. Discover the area's water adventures with jet skiing nearby, or enjoy the great outdoors with cycling.
View more Apartments in San DiegoOpens in a new window
Map
San Diego, CA

What's nearby

  • J.A. Cooley Museum - 7 min walk - 0.6 km
  • Diversionary Theatre - 13 min walk - 1.2 km
  • Balboa Park - 15 min walk - 1.3 km
  • San Diego Zoo - 4 min drive - 1.9 km
  • San Diego Natural History Museum - 5 min drive - 2.3 km

Getting around

  • Mission Valley Center Station - 4 min drive
  • Old Town Transit Center - 11 min drive
  • San Diego Intl. Airport (SAN) - 20 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪McDonald's - ‬9 min walk
  • ‪Colima's Mexican Food - ‬7 min walk
  • ‪Pecs Bar - ‬4 min walk
  • ‪Denny's - ‬11 min walk
  • ‪TapRoom Beer Company - ‬7 min walk

Frequently asked questions

Is North Park, charming Garden Cottage by Balboa Park, Zoo, & popular venues pet-friendly?

No, pets are not allowed at this property.

How much does it cost to stay at North Park, charming Garden Cottage by Balboa Park, Zoo, & popular venues ?

As of Apr 29, 2026, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at North Park, charming Garden Cottage by Balboa Park, Zoo, & popular venues on Jun 23, 2026 start from $171, including taxes and fees. This price is based on the lowest nightly price found in the last 24 hours for stays in the next 30 days. Prices are subject to change. Choose your dates for more accurate prices.

How much is parking?

Onsite parking is available at the property.

What time is check-in at North Park, charming Garden Cottage by Balboa Park, Zoo, & popular venues ?

Check-in begins at 3:00 PM.

What time is check-out at North Park, charming Garden Cottage by Balboa Park, Zoo, & popular venues ?

Check-out is at 10:00 AM.

Where is North Park, charming Garden Cottage by Balboa Park, Zoo, & popular venues located?

Located in University Heights, this apartment building is 0.7 mi (1.2 km) from Balboa Park and 1.5 mi (2.4 km) from San Diego Zoo. San Diego Natural History Museum and Old Globe Theater are also within 2 mi (3 km).

Reviews

8.6

Excellent

Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labeled.
Learn moreOpens in a new window
Rating 10 - Excellent. 23 out of 39 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 9 out of 39 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 3 out of 39 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 39 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 4 out of 39 reviews

9.2/10

Cleanliness

9.2/10

Check-in

9.0/10

Communication

9.2/10

Location

8.6/10

Listing accuracy

Reviews

Verified

10/10 Excellent

Roxanne V.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
We had an excellent stay in this room! It felt like a home away from home. Location was perfect for our trip, nearby North Park and all the shops we wanted to visit!
Stayed 2 nights in Apr 2026
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Molly S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
What a lovely place! And the neighborhood was great too. Close to lots of things (park, Hillcrest, food, etc.). Would definitely recommend.
Stayed 4 nights in Mar 2026
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Amos D.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Cute little apartment. Perfect for our short trip to San Diego!
Stayed 2 nights in Feb 2026
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Adrienne S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great spot! Great host!

We had a very good time here, the host was lovely and gave us some great recommendations :) The space was clean, well looked after, and comfortable. So close to lots of fun things and good food. We would definitely recommend!
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2024
Verified

8/10 Good

Karen R.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Cute place and neighborhood

We enjoyed our stay in this very convenient one bedroom. Very close to restaurants and nice neighborhood. Parking is a bit tricky but we managed just fine. Thank you.
Stayed 3 nights in Apr 2025
Verified

8/10 Good

Cindy M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Good location, clean, adequate

This little old cottage was just what we needed, had more than we needed and was clean. Wish the parking was better and the heater was updated.
Stayed 1 night in Feb 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Ardys D.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Excellent location and comfy rooms!

The cottage was perfect for two people and the host was exceptional. Francesca made us feel most welcome, almost part of the family. It was an easy walk to Morley Field, to University Heights, Hillcrest, and South Park. We walked home from the Zoo and Balboa Park Museums, but drove to the Maritime Museum and the Library downtown. We'll definitely be back.
Stayed 4 nights in Feb 2025
Verified

8/10 Good

Eric S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Close to everywhere I wanted to go.

Attending my son's graduation and a little vacation while there. Minutes from airport, balboa park, San Diego zoo. Very pleasant cottage like dwelling, great for two. Coin operated washer and dryer on premises. On street parking available. Just make sure your back to your VRBO by 4/5pm. Just inherit to this area of San Diego.
Stayed 5 nights in May 2025
Verified

8/10 Good

Jennifer B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great apartment, great location

The apartment was fully appointed, spacious, clean, and comfortable, and easy walking distance to 2 bus lines and Balboa Park itself, as well as coffee shops, grocery stores, and restaurants. The patio was pretty bare of plants and greenery so did not particularly have an inviting garden feel, but did offer plenty of seating.
Stayed 3 nights in Mar 2025
Verified

8/10 Good

joni p.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Warm get away

We arrived late at night, really difficult to find the little house with out a porch light on.Otherwise just fine. The rain had made the patio kinda messy but we still enjoyed the sunshine.
Stayed 3 nights in Mar 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Christine P.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Quaint cottage in North Park

Great location near all the eats, drinks, and entertainment. Parking is rough in the evenings. Area is flat so walking from car to cottage was easy. Suggest ubering. Hotspot at the Lafayette Hotel within walking distance.
Stayed 2 nights in Mar 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

John A.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Perfect for What I Need

As a senior, I need a quiet place to rest in the afternoon and sleep at night. Visiting my son in North Park we were out early and walked 5-8 miles a day exploring different places. Everything (including my son) was an easy walk from this rental. I plan on returning.
Stayed 8 nights in Mar 2025
Verified

8/10 Good

Rodney H.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location

Quaint and clean.

Nice place, calm and quiet. Very comfortable. Parking was tough. Description said lots of parking on the street, but we had to park about a quarter of a mile away every time we needed to park.
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2021
Verified

10/10 Excellent

batbara r.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Tiniest of tips

This is a perfectly lovely place to stay and I will come again. You may wish to have a small fan available for bedroom. It was hot this weekend and that would have been the very best thing to have.
Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Toni H.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

San Diego

Apt was as i expected; perfect location as it was literally 6 blocks from my other daughters apt and walking distance to coffee etc. Had all the amenities that we needed for our short stay. There was an unusual heat wave of 89 degrees and there was a fan but somehow it didnt work that well as it think it needed to be cleaned.
Stayed 2 nights in May 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Emma D.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Conference stay

My friend and I stayed here for a few days while attending a conference in town. The cottage is small but super cute, nice neighborhood, walkable to restaurants and coffee. The only slight issues were that the heater, even when off, produced some heat. The shower had very low water pressure and felt like it couldn't fully rinse of soap/shampoo etc. Otherwise the host was quickly responsive and the cottage was very clean!
Stayed 4 nights in May 2025
Verified

8/10 Good

Lauren R.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great little place to stay

Great place to stay, my only complaint was a hair dryer was listed under amenities but couldn’t find one in unit. Also there were some hanging ornaments above bed that kept bumping into each other at night and making noise, I’d recommend moving these out of the bedroom. Other than that, great location and unit.
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2023
Verified

8/10 Good

GIGI M.

Liked: Cleanliness, communication, location
Disliked: Listing accuracy

Cute dwelling, nice neighborhood

The property is duplex, not a stand-alone cottage. It was a good size for two people, and close to our family member living nearby. Many restaurants, shops, bars etc. within walking distance. The site exterior photos need to be updated. There is not a garden anymore, it is all paved with patio chairs. Guests need to be told the name of the dwelling as well as the address. Confusing otherwise, but a nice neighbor showed us to the door.
Stayed 3 nights in Apr 2025
Verified

6/10 Okay

kelly k.

Liked: Cleanliness
Disliked: Communication

Review

Very noisy in the area and the unit itself especially the furnace. Thin walls could here neighbors.
Stayed 3 nights in Mar 2024
Verified

2/10 Terrible

Wade T.

Disliked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, listing accuracy

Cancelled hours before stay

I received a cancellation a few hours before my stay was scheduled to begin and had to scramble to find another place for the night. Being a holiday weekend, this was not easy or cheap. Will not attempt to stay here in the future.
Stayed 1 night in Sep 2023
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Patty K.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Nice apartment in North Park

This is a small apartment but clean and comfortable. We stayed in this area because our daughter lives close by. It’s residential so I’m not sure if there are places to walk to but it’s a good location. Easy check in with a code. There are a couple of other units. There was good communication. It was quiet. We didn’t have any problems finding street parking.
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2023
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Melodi H.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Felicity

I had originally booked for an August trip, and was unable to make the trip, Francesca worked with me to push my reservations to this weekend. Was sent a door code a few days before, it was about 15 mins from airport. The unit was spotless, I am in love with the old kitchen cabinetry. I did at one point have a problem with the Wi-Fi but after checking with Francesca and a few people I knew in SD, it’s turned out that it was my provider. (AT&T) Looking forward to a return trip & hoping to try one of the upstairs units.
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2023
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Russ R.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Awesome stay for near but out of downtown!

I was going to stay in a hotel downtown and I am SO VERY GLAD I chose instead to try a VRBO outside of downtown. This was a perfect experience. The location was perfect! Walking distance to restaurants and coffee shops (you must try Baja Betty’s) and a very calm and quaint neighborhood. The communication from the property owners was great. They were even flexible and when my dates shifted by a day, since there was availability, they said “No problem! “ and made the change for me. Internet worked great! Roomy shower with really hot water which was great too! Plenty of room for two! If you have a car, be aware of the parking restrictions…posted ONLY at the corners. No parking on 2nd and 4th Tuesdays from 7 am to 10 am for street sweeping. Got hit with a $56 parking fine. If I have to stay in the area again, I will look for Francesca’s properties!! Thank you so much for a great VRBO experience!
Stayed 4 nights in Sep 2023
Verified

2/10 Terrible

Lorraine B.

Disliked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Double Booked/Did not stay at unit

We booked the unit in July to be close to our daughter when she gave birth in October and arrived to find out the unit had been long-term books and we had not been cancelled. I am unable to say anything about the condition of the unit but the rating system only allows for 1-5 stars. The owner was contacted and apologized profusely, but it did take several hours of phone calls and emails to resolve. Overall, we were disappointed, but VRBO staff did find accommodation for us that first night and we were able to book a hotel instead of a VRBO for the remainder of our visit.
Stayed 4 nights in Oct 2023
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Ajay S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Pleasant courtyard, good location

This apartment “Felicity” is between North Park and University Heights, and walking distance to Hillcrest, which is a fun neighborhood. A short 5-10 min drive or a long walk gets you to the edge of Balboa Park. Liked: Adequate for the needs of two people for a short stay; superb, well-maintained courtyard with cool plants and seating make for a great place to relax outdoors in the shade and chat or drink tea or coffee (especially great if you have family or friends staying in one of the other units!); excellent ceiling fan in the tiny living room area makes the room a pleasant place to relax indoors Could be better: no ceiling fan in the bedroom and the window fan is noisy = can get warm in there at night - a tower fan would be welcome; it’s a nice residential neighborhood with a lot of cars so you may have to hunt around for parking on other blocks if you get in late Nice stay overall, and yes I’d stay here again.
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2022

About the host

Hosted by Susan Escolar

Host profile image
I love traveling, as I am the wife of an international airline pilot, so I understand why you love to travel too. I enjoy making all of my guests feel as comfortable as possible and want to ensure that your stay is as memorable and as much fun as it possibly can be.
During your stay, I am happy to be as involved as you would like: Check in with you, provide any recommendations, or help you plan your stay. Hands on or hands off, whatever you prefer.

Why they chose this property

This fully private, one bedroom apartment, sleeps 3. Has a full kitchen, hardwood floors, and a private entrance. No need to rent a car - you can walk to everything North Park has to offer, including the hipster scene. The unit itself is warm, cozy, extremely clean and bursting with positive energy. The property is full of beautiful flowers, greenery and plenty of outdoor patio space with seating. Grab a bike and check out all the new microbreweries and coffee shops. Just a few minutes walk to Balboa Park or the San Diego Zoo.

What makes this property unique

The cottage/apartment is newly renovated. The grounds are meticulous. Street parking is available right in front of the unit. The neighbors are friendly and always happy to help in any way.

Premier Host

They consistently provide great experiences for their guests
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