It’s almost time for the America’s Finest City 5K. This course is perfect for racers who want the beautiful Balboa Park finish line but with fewer miles.
The course may be shorter, but it’s still full of iconic San Diego sights. Here’s your mile-by-mile preview of the 2025 AFC 5K:
Mile 1: Balboa Park & Cabrillo Bridge Views
Your 5K adventure begins in the heart of Balboa Park, San Diego’s historic oasis. Right from the start, you’ll see the Speckles Organ Pavilion and Plaza de Panama Fountain. Next, you’ll see the historic Museum of Us and get a classic photo-op view crossing the Cabrillo Bridge. Grab some water as you cross over the bridge!
Mile 2: Shady Balboa Drive
Enjoy the gently rolling route of Balboa Drive, shaded by majestic trees that make this part of the course cool and inviting even in August. Enjoy sweeping park views to the east and the beautiful 6th Avenue skyline to the west. As you head south on Balboa Drive, check out the San Diego Chess Club, one of the largest chess clubs in the country, and the Balboa Park Horseshoe Club.
Mile 3 to the Finish: Back Over the Bridge Into the Park
Time to kick it into gear! Grab some water or use the restroom as you turn back onto the Cabrillo Bridge and head toward the finish! Enjoy that beautiful scenic crossing before a slight incline on the last mile. Feel that race energy as you pass beneath the iconic California Tower and head back into the heart of the park. Your family and friends can cheer you on from Pan American Rd E. as you finish the final stretch!
Finish Line Celebration: Beer Garden & Tunes
Cross that finish line and celebrate! Rehydrate with water or Hollandia Chocolate Milk, collect your commemorative medal and finisher food bag, take a photo, and then kick back in the shade. Enjoy DJ Laiq’s tunes and toast your race with a complimentary beer in the Beer Garden (21+ only).
This course is the perfect way to soak up those summer San Diego vibes. Each race entry includes:
- Technical fabric short-sleeve race shirt
- Gorgeous finisher medal
- Souvenir reusable grocery bag
- One-day pass to the invite-only Carlsbad Columbia Sportswear Employee Store
- Finish line food bag
- Complimentary beer in the Beer Garden (21+)
- And more!
Ready to Run San Diego’s Most Scenic Race?
The America’s Finest City Half Marathon & 5K isn’t just a race, it’s a summertime tradition that showcases the very best of San Diego. From breathtaking bay views and historic landmarks to that unforgettable finish into Balboa Park, it’s an experience you’ll remember long after you’ve crossed the finish line.
Spots are still available, but they do sell out for this event. Be sure to save your place as soon as you can. Register Today!
If you’re already signed up, here are some other helpful resources to make sure you’re fully prepared for race day:
If you have any 5K course or race weekend questions, be sure to send us an email at [email protected] or send us a DM on Instagram. See you on the course!