What to do and where to go:
In San Diego, you will never run out of things to do. It not only offers awesome beaches and sunny weather but also a variety of activities, places, and events that you, your family, and friends can enjoy. It caters to people from all walks of life.
If you are looking for a place to go and have fun, you can’t go wrong with San Diego! Whether you love the beach (San Diego has numerous beach towns), or if you are a foodie looking for your next gastronomic adventure, a party goer who craves exciting nightlife, and perhaps you are an outdoor type of person looking for your next adventure. San Diego has you covered!
Let’s get started!
Let’s Visit Balboa Park
Ever-changing. Always amazing. Where culture, science, and nature collide, Balboa Park is home to more than 16 museums, multiple performing arts venues, lovely gardens, trails, and many other creative and recreational attractions, including the San Diego Zoo. With a variety of cultural institutions among its 1,200 beautiful and lushly planted acres, there is something for everyone.
How to get there: Click here!
Embarcadero & The USS Midway Museum
Experience the magic aboard one of the longest-serving aircraft carriers in U.S. Naval history, the USS Midway. It’s a must-see San Diego attraction. The tour lasts 3–4 hours and is included with admission. You can launch, fly dogfight missions and land aboard the carrier via optional flight simulators. Also available are educational programs including an award-winning children’s audio tour, a new self-guided tour just for kids, group tours, and limited wheelchair accessibility.
How to get there: Click here!
Whale Watching Tour
San Diego ranks among the world’s most incredible places for viewing marine wildlife. During whale-watching season, mid-December through April, more than 20,000 gray whales migrate along our coast. For the thrill of a lifetime, cruise alongside these magnificent whales in their natural environment with Flagship, San Diego’s most experienced whale watching company.
How to get there: Click here!
Have fun at Belmont Park
Belmont Park is a historic amusement park located on Ocean Front at Surfrider Square in the Mission Bay area of San Diego. The park was developed by sugar magnate John D. Spreckels and opened on July 4, 1925, as the Mission Beach Amusement Center. In addition to providing recreation and amusement, it also was intended as a way to help Spreckels sell land in Mission Beach. Located on the beach, it attracts millions of people each year.
The park’s most iconic attraction is the historic Giant Dipper roller coaster, which is considered a local landmark.
How to get there: Click here!
Birch Aquarium at La Jolla
As the public outreach center for the renowned Scripps Institution of Oceanography, Birch Aquarium brings guests into the exciting world of cutting-edge research. Explore interactive exhibits and come face to face with exciting creatures including a rescued Loggerhead Sea Turtle, a Giant Pacific Octopus, Leopard Sharks, and jellies. Don’t miss the two-story Giant Kelp Forest or the outdoor touch pools that feature stunning ocean views and the opportunity to get hands-on with juvenile sharks and rays as well as sea stars, sea cucumbers, and more. Face coverings are required by all guests ages 2 and up, and advanced reservations are required for all guests, including members.
How to get there: Click here!
Mt. Soledad National Veterans Memorial
While you are at La Jolla, why not visit Mt. Soledad National Veterans Memorial for a breathtaking view of the sunset!
Mt. Soledad National Veterans Memorial is considered one of the most unique veterans memorials in America. The only memorial that honors veterans, living or deceased, from the revolutionary war to the current war on terror, with an image of the veteran.
Mt. Soledad National Veterans Memorial has stood at the height of San Diego since 1954. It has gone through many trials to be what it is today—A Beacon of Freedom. Thousands of people that stood before our memorial were able to honor and recognize the thousands of military men and women who sacrificed for this country. We have the unique duty to create plaques for all military people—living or deceased—so that all members of the armed forces can be thanked for their service. Those who are recognized have served the Revolutionary War, both World Wars, and even today’s War on Terror.
How to get there: Click here!
Snorkeling at La Jolla Cove
Where else in San Diego can you actually swim through an entire sea cave?
La Jolla Cove is home to seven caves, the biggest of which is Clam Cave (just offshore from Goldfish Point Cafe); when the tide allows, visitors can delight in snorkeling or kayaking through it to the other side. The other six are viewable from the water, and there is usually a plethora of marine life clustered near the caves at any time; which makes for some great snorkeling!
How to get there: Click here!
Visit: Old Poway Park
Stroll along the meandering pathways or enjoy a peaceful picnic in our beautiful park. Weekends offer the opportunity to take a ride around the park on the Poway Midland Railroad. Visitors can also tour the Heritage Museum to learn about Poway’s unique history and explore the Nelson House to witness what life was like in early 20th century California. Find local and organic produce and artisan foods at our Saturday morning Farmers’ Market and discover unique handmade treasures made by local artists at our seasonal Boardwalk Craft Market.
How to get there: Click here!
Nightlife at Gaslamp Quarter
The Gaslamp Quarter is a lively downtown neighborhood, known for its nightlife. Clubs, dive bars, and cocktail lounges draw a young crowd, while the Spreckels and Balboa theaters have diverse programs of music, comedy, and drama. There’s a mix of chain and independent restaurants in the area, with many global options. Horton Plaza Park has grassy lawns, ice cream and coffee vendors, and an interactive fountain.
How to get there: Click here!
Wine and Dine at Little Italy
Little Italy is a chic, pedestrian-friendly neighborhood, packed with trendy cocktail bars, brewpubs, and restaurants with bustling patios. Upscale clothing boutiques, indie music venues, and quaint piazzas dot the area, while the weekly Little Italy Mercato Farmers’ Market draws crowds to its mix of produce, gourmet food, and craft stalls. The green lawns of Waterfront Park have fountains and offer views of the bay.
How to get there: Click here!
San Diego has a lot more to offer! This is just a taste of what you can do when you are in America’s Finest City! Stay tuned for part 2 of Things to Do in Sunny San Diego!
