Urban Theater Retreat-6BR - Walk to Balboa Park

Entire home in San Diego, California

  1. 12 guests
  2. 6 bedrooms
  3. 7 beds
  4. 2 baths
Hosted by Nora
  1. 3 years hosting

Listing highlights

Self check-in

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City and bay views

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Exceptional host communication

Recent guests gave Nora a 5-star rating for communication.
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⭐Your own private movie theater + a historic 6BR home steps from Balboa Park. 🎬Screen movies on the 50" projection screen, host game nights, or throw a bachelorette watch party β€” this home has what no hotel can match.
πŸ‘₯Room for 12πŸš—Free parking πŸ› Walk to Balboa Park, Little Italy & museumsπŸŽ‰ STEPS from Balboa Park | 5-min to Convention Center. ⭐PERFECT FOR:πŸ₯‚ Bachelorette celebrations (movie theater + downtown nightlife access!) Great basecamp for groups to explore downtown San Diego!

The space
πŸŒ… YOUR URBAN HISTORIC RETREAT AWAITS
Sip your morning coffee on the patio as the city skyline glimmers in the distance. Watch planes trace soft arcs across the sky - a gentle reminder you're right in the heart of San Diego's action, yet tucked away in a peaceful residential neighborhood.
This isn't your typical cookie-cutter rental. This is an early-1900s Bankers Hill home with character, charm, and features you won't find in any competitor listing.
😴 SLEEPING ARRANGEMENTS - 6 PRIVATE BEDROOMS
Rest easy knowing everyone gets their own space:
πŸ›οΈ Bedroom 1: Queen bed, mountain & city views, cozy fireplace ambiance
πŸ›οΈ Bedroom 2: Queen bed, colorful decor, natural light
πŸ›οΈ Bedroom 3: Queen bed, historic architectural details
πŸ›οΈ Bedroom 4: Queen bed, peaceful retreat
πŸ›οΈ Bedroom 5: Queen bed, comfortable & quiet
πŸ›οΈ Bedroom 6: 2 twin beds (perfect for kids or singles)
All bedrooms feature:
- Quality linens & pillows
- Blackout curtains for restful sleep
- Ceiling fans
- Closet/storage space
🎬SPEAKEASY STYLE MOVIE THEATER - YOUR PRIVATE CINEMA!
This is what makes us truly unique! 🌟
Your private movie theater awaits! Settle into plush lounge seating and fire up the 50-inch projection screen for group movie nights, bachelorette celebrations, or lazy rainy afternoons.
Features:
- 50" projection screen (like a real cinema!)
- Comfortable lounge seating for groups
- Surround sound system
- Streaming capability (Netflix, Hulu, etc.)
- Cozy, dim lighting perfect for movie magic
Grab popcorn from the kitchen, pick your favorite film, and enjoy! 🍿πŸŽ₯
πŸ’‘ Movie Night Pro Tip: Ask about our complimentary movie night welcome package for select bookings!
🍽️ DINING & GATHERING SPACES
πŸͺ‘ Formal dining room with seating for group meals
🍳 Full kitchen with everything you need (details below)
β˜• Breakfast nook for morning coffee
🎬 Movie theater room doubles as main hangout space
πŸŒ† Outdoor patio for sunset cocktails & BBQ dinners
πŸ“Œ Layout Note: This historic home prioritizes bedrooms over a huge great room - perfect for groups that split time between exploring the city and gathering for movie nights & meals. If you need a massive modern living room, this might
not be your best fit. But if you want character, unique features, and downtown location? You'll love it here!
🍳
KITCHEN - FULLY EQUIPPED
Everything a group needs:
- Full-size refrigerator & freezer
- Gas stove & oven
- Microwave
- Dishwasher (thank us later!)
- Keurig coffee maker + coffee pods β˜•
- Toaster, blender, cooking basics
- Pots, pans, utensils, dishes for 14+
- Plenty of counter space
- Dining table seats 8-10
πŸŒ… OUTDOOR LIVING - SKYLINE VIEWS!
Your private patio oasis:
- πŸŒ† Panoramic skyline & bay views
- πŸ” Gas BBQ grill ready to use
- πŸͺ‘ Outdoor dining table & seating
- 🌀️ Perfect for sunset happy hours
- πŸŒƒ City lights at night
πŸ“Έ Pro Tip: Golden hour on the patio
πŸ› BATHROOMS - PRACTICAL INFO
We have 2 full bathrooms for up to 14 guests. Both are spacious and well-appointed with:
- Tub/shower combos
- Ample counter space
- Hotel-quality linens & towels
- All basic toiletries provided
πŸ’‘ Planning Tip: For larger groups (12-14 guests), we recommend coordinating morning routines. Most guests find 2 bathrooms works well with a little coordination!
🏠 ESSENTIALS & AMENITIES
βœ… Fast WiFi (great for remote work)
βœ… Washer & dryer (full-size)
βœ… Iron & ironing board
βœ… Hair dryer
βœ… Air conditioning
βœ… Heating
βœ… Ceiling fans in all bedrooms
βœ… All linens & towels provided
βœ… Basic toiletries (shampoo, conditioner, body wash, hand soap)
βœ… Paper towels, toilet paper stocked
βœ… Dish soap, dishwasher pods
βœ… Laundry detergent
βœ… First aid kit
βœ… Fire extinguisher
βœ… Smoke & carbon monoxide alarms
βœ… Foam-insulated windows (noise reduction)
βœ… Complimentary earplugs for light sleepers
πŸ”’ Security: Exterior security cameras for everyone's safety (entry areas only)
πŸ“ NEIGHBORHOOD - BANKERS HILL / DOWNTOWN SD
You're in one of San Diego's most walkable, central neighborhoods:
🚢 3-5 min walk β†’ Balboa Park gardens & museums
🚢 6-10 min walk β†’ Little Italy restaurants & cafes
πŸš— 5 min drive β†’ Gaslamp Quarter nightlife
πŸš— 5 min drive β†’ San Diego Convention Center
πŸš— 10 min drive β†’ San Diego Zoo
πŸš— 15 min drive β†’ SeaWorld
πŸš— 5 min drive β†’ San Diego Airport
✈️ Plane Path Notice: You're in the heart of downtown San Diego, which means planes do fly overhead on their way to the nearby airport. We provide foam-insulated windows and complimentary earplugs for light sleepers. Many guests don't notice or don't mind - it's part of staying in a vibrant urban neighborhood! If you need total silence, consider a property further from downtown.
πŸš— PARKING - FREE & EASY!
One of our BIGGEST advantages:
- πŸ…ΏοΈ 2-car driveway parking (FREE!)
- πŸ…ΏοΈ Additional street parking available
- πŸ’° Save $25-30/day vs downtown lots
- πŸ’° That's $175-210/week in your pocket!
Downtown parking is expensive and hard to find. Ours is free and easy. Book now before someone else does!
🎯 PERFECT FOR This Urban Historic Retreat is ideal for:
πŸ₯‚ Bachelorette Parties & Celebrations
- Private movie theater for group fun
- Walk to downtown nightlife (Gaslamp, Little Italy)
- Skyline views for sunset cocktails
- 6 separate bedrooms for privacy
- Perfect picture moments everywhere
πŸ’Ό Convention Center Groups
- 5-minute drive to Convention Center
- Cost-effective vs hotel rooms for groups
- Fast WiFi + workspace
- Separate bedrooms for colleagues
- Easy downtown access
- Family Reunions & Multi-Gen Groups
- 6 bedrooms accommodate extended family
- Movie theater keeps kids entertained
- Walk to Balboa Park, Zoo, museums
- Free parking for multiple cars
- Kitchen for family meals
🎊 Friends' Weekends
- Explore downtown San Diego together
- Movie nights in your private theater
- BBQ on the patio
- Walk to restaurants, bars, attractions
- Plenty of space to spread out
πŸ’ WHAT GUESTS LOVE ABOUT US
⭐ "Close to SeaWorld, the zoo, Balboa Park, Little Italy, and Gaslamp" - Recent guest
⭐ Perfect 5.0 rating for cleanliness
⭐ Perfect 5.0 rating for communication
⭐ "We had a car and it has ample parking" - Recent guest
⭐ "A nice house in San Diego... good value stay" - Recent guest
⭐ 5.0 rating for value
🎁 SPECIAL TOUCHES
Ask about our special packages:
- 🎬 Movie Night Welcome Package (popcorn, candy, drinks)
- πŸ₯‚ Bachelorette Celebration Setup
- πŸ’Ό Convention Center Group Discount
- ⏰ Early & Late checkout available for $75 (if able to accomodate)
- 🐢 Pet fee: $75/night per pet
Check availability now - this property books out

Guest access
🏠 THE ENTIRE HOME IS YOURS
You'll have exclusive access to:
- All 6 bedrooms
- 2 full bathrooms
- Full kitchen
- Movie theater room
- Dining room
- Outdoor patio & BBQ grill
- Driveway parking (2 spaces)
- Washer & dryer
- All amenities listed
No shared spaces. The whole house is your private retreat!
πŸ”‘ EASY SELF CHECK-IN
We use a keypad entry system - you'll receive your unique code before arrival. Check in anytime after 3pm, no need to
coordinate schedules!

Other things to note
πŸ“‹ HOUSE RULES & IMPORTANT INFO
🀝 BE A GREAT GUEST
We welcome celebrations! Just a few friendly requests:
- Keep gatherings to registered guests only (max 14)
- Respect quiet hours (10pm-7am) and noise ordinances
- Be considerate of neighbors - we're in a residential area
- Treat the space with care
We want you to have a great time while keeping this a wonderful spot for future guests too. Unauthorized large parties or
excessive disturbances may result in immediate cancellation.
πŸ’‘ Think of it this way: Celebrate like you're at your cool friend's house, not a club. Indoor gatherings can continue past
10pm at considerate volumes - we just ask outdoor noise wind down by 10pm.
πŸ› BATHROOM PLANNING
Quick heads up: We have 2 full bathrooms for up to 14 guests.
Most groups find this works great with a little coordination. Both bathrooms are spacious with tub/showers, plenty of
counter space, and hotel-quality amenities.
πŸ’‘ Pro tip: For larger groups (12-14), coordinate morning routines and you'll be golden!
🚢 ACCESSIBILITY & STAIRS
Important for planning: This historic home requires stairs for entry and to access bedrooms. Some bedrooms are on the main floor, others upstairs.
Not wheelchair accessible. If anyone in your group has serious mobility limitations, please reach out and we can discuss which bedrooms work best for your situation.
✈️ URBAN LIVING TRADE-OFFS
You're in the heart of downtown San Diego - walkable to everything, central to all attractions. The trade-off? Planes fly overhead on approach to the airport.
What we provide:
- Foam-insulated windows (noise reduction)
- Complimentary earplugs
- Fans in every room (white noise)
What guests say: Most don't notice or don't mind - many sleep great! A few light sleepers mention it. If you need total silence, consider a property further from downtown.
πŸ’‘ Think of it as: Living in NYC means sirens, living in Paris means church bells, living in downtown San Diego means planes. It's the sound of being exactly where the action is!
πŸ’΅ FEES & BOOKING DETAILS
βœ… Cleaning Fee: $425 per stay
This covers professional deep cleaning of all 6 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, kitchen, and living spaces - ensuring Guest Favorite quality for your arrival.
βœ… Extra Guests: Comfortably sleeps 12 guests (included) We can accommodate up to 14 guests with an additional $35/night per person for guests 13-14 (covers extra linens, towels, and turnover).
βœ… No Security Deposit: We don't charge a security deposit - just treat the space with care and respect the house rules.
βœ… Minimum Stay: 2 nights (San Diego city requirement)
βœ… Cancellation: Choose flexible cancellation for peace of mind, or save with our non-refundable rate.
🚭 NO SMOKING INDOORS
Smoking is not permitted inside the home. You're welcome to smoke outside - just please dispose of butts properly!
πŸ• PET POLICY
We love pets but unfortunately cannot accommodate them at this property. Service animals are always welcome per ADA requirements.
πŸ“Έ SECURITY
Exterior security cameras are in use at entry points for everyone's safety. No cameras inside the home or in private areas.
πŸ“œ REGISTRATION & COMPLIANCE
- City of San Diego STR Registration: STR-11336L
- TOT Certificate: 623042
- Licensed & insured short-term rental
- We follow all local regulations
πŸ“ž QUESTIONS?
Message us anytime! We typically respond within 30 minutes during waking hours.
⭐ After your stay, we'd love a review - it helps future guests and helps us improve!
πŸ”₯ READY TO BOOK?
Check your dates above and reserve now - this Urban Historic Retreat books quickly, especially during:
- Convention center events (book 60-90 days ahead!)
- Summer season (June-August fills early)
- Bachelorette season (March-May peak)
- Holiday weekends
Don't miss out - add to your wishlist or book now! 🎯

Registration Details
STR-11336L, 623042

Where you’ll sleep

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What this place offers

City skyline view
Bay view
Kitchen
Wifi
Dedicated workspace

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Rated 4.88 out of 5 from 24 reviews.

Guest favorite
This home is a guest favorite based on ratings, reviews, and reliability

Overall rating

  1. 5 stars, 88% of reviews
  2. 4 stars, 13% of reviews
  3. 3 stars, 0% of reviews
  4. 2 stars, 0% of reviews
  5. 1 stars, 0% of reviews

Rated 5.0 out of 5 stars for cleanliness

Rated 4.8 out of 5 stars for accuracy

Rated 5.0 out of 5 stars for check-in

Rated 5.0 out of 5 stars for communication

Rated 4.8 out of 5 stars for location

Rated 5.0 out of 5 stars for value

Guest reviews mention

Where you’ll be

San Diego, California, United States

Neighborhood highlights

Welcome to Bankers Hill, a charming and historic neighborhood just north of downtown San Diego and Balboa Park! Our Airbnb offers the perfect location to explore the city. You'll be steps away from world-class museums, the San Diego Zoo, and beautiful gardens. Enjoy a leisurely stroll to nearby restaurants, cafes, and boutiques. With its central location and walkable streets, Bankers Hill is an ideal base for your San Diego adventure.

Note: The home is located in a vibrant neighborhood, conveniently situated near the San Diego Airport. Like much of the area, the home experiences aircraft noise from planes overhead. If you are particularly sensitive to sound, please consider this as you explore the property.

Nearby Things to Do ~

βœ“ Little Italy βŽ―β–Ή 0.4 mi
βœ“ Downtown San Diego βŽ―β–Ή 0.8 mi
βœ“ Balboa Park βŽ―β–Ή 1.1 mi
βœ“ Gaslamp Quarter βŽ―β–Ή 1.3 mi
βœ“ Convention Center βŽ―β–Ή 1.5 mi
βœ“ Museum of Us βŽ―β–Ή 0.9 mi
βœ“ San Diego Airport βŽ―β–Ή 2.4 mi

Nearby Dining ~

βœ“ Herb & Wood (American) βŽ―β–Ή 5 min drive
βœ“ Born & Raised (Steakhouse) βŽ―β–Ή 5 min drive
βœ“ Extraordinary Desserts (Dessert) βŽ―β–Ή 5 min walk
βœ“ Barbusa (Italian) βŽ―β–Ή 5 min drive
βœ“ Juniper & Ivy (New American) βŽ―β–Ή 5 min drive
βœ“ Craft & Commerce (Cocktails) βŽ―β–Ή 5 min drive

Meet your host

Host
60 reviews
4.6 out of 5 average rating
3 years of hosting
Born in the 80s
Speaks English and Spanish
HI, I'M NORA! I love sharing San Diego with guests and making sure every stay is special. Perfect for sunset drinks. You'll appreciate this VERY much! I'm here to help make your San Diego experience unforgettable. Just ask!If you need anything during your stay, I'm just a message away. I typically respond within 30 minutes and I'm always happy to help. Can't wait to host you! - Nora P.S. After your stay, I'd be so grateful if you could leave a review. It helps future guests ⭐

Co-hosts

  • Arvind
  • David
  • Roxann
  • Nicolette
  • Hibez
  • Yazmin
  • Neheblina

Host details

Response rate: 100%
Responds within an hour
To help protect your payment, always use Airbnb to send money and communicate with hosts.

Things to know

Cancellation policy
House rules
Check-in after 4:00β€―PM
Checkout before 11:00β€―AM
12 guests maximum
Safety & property
Exterior security cameras on property
Carbon monoxide alarm
Smoke alarm