Need a great list of things to do in San Diego, California?
San Diego is a large, beautiful city located in southern California, on the gorgeous Pacific Ocean coast.
San Diego, with its warm, sunny climate, stunning beaches, and rich cultural diversity, is a city that offers a myriad of attractions. From the world-renowned and much-loved San Diego Zoo and SeaWorld San Diego to the cultural hub of Balboa Park, which houses a variety of museums and institutions, the city’s appeal is as diverse as its culture. It’s also home to several military bases, including the Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton along with the Naval Base San Diego, adding a unique dimension to its character.
San Diego, a vibrant and diverse city, is not just a tourist hotspot but also a hub for biotechnology, healthcare, and research. Its great and wonderful charm lies in its ability and way it can cater to a variety of interests, from outdoor enthusiasts to history buffs, making it a city with something for everyone.
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What should you do in San Diego when visiting?
San Diego is a spirited and thrilling city in southern California. It is known for its beautiful, light beaches, year-round sunshine, and rich cultural heritage.
San Diego has many exciting and fun things to do and see.
Whether you’re drawn to the city’s outdoor adventures, its rich history, or simply the laid-back coastal lifestyle, San Diego has something to offer everyone. The city’s relaxed vibe and diverse range of activities ensure that every visitor can find their own slice of paradise here.
If you’re planning a visit to San Diego, here are a couple of suggestions to help you make the most of your trip:
- Visit the San Diego Zoo: The San Diego Zoo is one of the top tourist attractions in the city and is home to more than 12,000 animals from over 680 species. The zoo offers a variety of educational programs and interactive exhibits, making it a great place to learn about the animals and their habitats.
- Explore Balboa Park: Balboa Park is a beautiful 1,200-acre urban park in San Diego’s heart. The park has many museums, galleries, gardens, and cultural institutions. It is a great place to share a day exploring.
- Visit Old Town San Diego: Old Town San Diego is the city’s historic district and is home to many charming 19th-century buildings and shops. Stroll through Old Town and explore the unique shops and galleries, or stop at one of the many local restaurants and cafes.
- Enjoy the great outdoors: San Diego is located on the beautiful southern California coast, and there are many great outdoor activities to enjoy in the area. Some popular options include surfing, kayaking, snorkeling, relaxing on one of the many beautiful beaches, and soaking up the sunshine.
San Diego is an excellent destination with a lot to offer visitors. Whether you are interested in history, nature, or just enjoying the laid-back coastal lifestyle, you’re sure to have a great time there.
What are fun things to do near San Diego?
There are many fun things to do near San Diego, whether you are interested in outdoor activities, cultural attractions, or just relaxing on the beach. Some ideas for things to do near San Diego include:
- Visit the beach: San Diego has many beautiful beaches, including Mission Beach, Pacific Beach, and La Jolla Shores. You can soak up the warm sun, swim in the blue ocean, or participate in water sports.
- Explore Balboa Park: This 1,200-acre park has various museums, gardens, and cultural institutions. You can visit the San Diego Zoo, the lovely San Diego Museum of Art, and the awesome Natural History Museum or enjoy the park’s gardens and open spaces.
- Take a trip to Tijuana: Tijuana, Mexico, is just a short drive from San Diego. You can visit the city’s historic center, try delicious Mexican food, or shop for souvenirs at the local markets.
- Go on a wine tour: The Temecula Valley, located only an hour north of San Diego, is home to several wineries and vineyards. You can take a tour of the region and taste some of the area’s finest wines. I’ve helped work lots of marathon and running events in this area!
- Visit LEGOLAND, California: This popular theme park in Carlsbad is an excellent destination for families with children. It features more than 60 rides, lots of shows, and attractions, all built from LEGO bricks.
These are just a few fun things to do near San Diego.
There is something for everyone to enjoy and see, whether you are interested in outdoor adventures, cultural experiences, or just relaxing by the beach.
Japanese Friendship Garden at Balboa Park
The Japanese Friendship Garden is tucked away just south of the San Diego Zoo and Balboa Park museums.
Built along a hillside and cascading down into a beautiful valley gorge, it’s a spectacular place cared for with great pride. The plants are pristine, well-watered, and diverse. The pathways are uncluttered. Not a piece of trash is visible. Each person you pass greets you with a smile. It was wonderful to see people of different backgrounds and nationalities walking among the trees and vegetation. Water trickled in the background. People of all types enjoyed the same area of peace and tranquility.
Admission is $16 per person, which allows you to journey down the beautiful pathway. We started at roughly 3:30 pm, and the facility closed at 5 pm.
Walking the Japanese Friendship Garden
We walked along the top of the ridge, and then made our way down the zig-zag path to the lower Japanese Friendship Garden.
At the bottom of the park, there are continued pathways, a beautiful stream, bridge crossing, and out-buildings where you can use the restroom and purchase food, drink, and snacks.
We purchased noodles, bottled water, miso soup, and a few pieces of candy. All for around $20. The food was fresh, hot, and refreshing after walking through the gardens. There is a seating area with umbrellas for covering and a bathroom facility right on the patio.
What All is Said and Done
One word comes to mind when I think of the Japanese Friendship Garden — respect.
I found myself thinking about respect for others when I visited, and I could see in others the same reverence. There’s a special feeling about this place. A feeling that makes you feel like everything is going to be alright. It’s a great feeling.
If I was a San Diego resident – I’d surely be a yearlong member.
The San Diego Museum of Art: History & Creativity in Balboa Park
It wasn’t our intention to visit the San Diego Museum of Art that is situated in Balboa Park, but it happened.
The gorgeous building’s exterior beckoned us to enter, so we did.
It was $15 a person, we were handed a map, and on our way. I love art museums. I’ve been to many. From The Met in New York City to Sacramento’s very own Crocker Art Museum.
This museum tops the list with the most terrifying art docents. Turtle-necked, mustached, 20-30-year-old men. A semi-breed of my own. At each corner they stood guard over the museum’s artwork, once, making sure I knew not to take photos of certain photos. At least I was told it wasn’t a capital offense, and I wasn’t going to jail. That made me feel more comfortable. I even offered to delete the photos if needed, but it wasn’t necessary. Middle-aged women aren’t as terrifying. These art docents were on the hunt. The serious hunt for any mischief on their watch.
After coming to terms with the familiar feeling of reverting back to a child in art museums, I started to become comfortable.
The San Diego Museum of Art is spectacular!
The building alone is a gigantic work of art and in each of its corridors and rooms — filled to the brim with timeless, priceless works of art. Including the likes of Salvador Dalí and more!
We didn’t visit the additional “Art & Empire: The Golden Age of Spain” exhibit, but it looked exceptional.
Gallery highlights for me included the Art of Devotion display, Art of East Asia, Spectacle & Satire, and Renaissance to Realism. There is art on display for everyone through all eras.
Within The San Diego Museum of Art, there are also various benches where you can sit and ponder some of the major displays. It’s always nice to get a little breather while being surrounded by timeless pieces of creativity.
Botanical Building and Lily Pond in Balboa Park
I dream of the Botanical Building and Lily Pond in Balboa Park.
It started with the movie Little Nemo and the parade. The flying bed scenes through trees and buildings, and those buildings, in my imagination as a child, were the Botanical Building and Lily Pond in Balboa Park and other museum buildings.
Yes, I had to take a picture in front of the lagoon because I think it’s mandatory, and I forced my husband to take one too.
Free to the public and open until 4 pm on most days — and with two front entrances. Immediately transported to a garden paradise, with plants of every sort in every direction.
The Botanical Building exterior is made of wood, and the interior is supported by metal beams. I was surprised at how much the wooden exterior is deteriorating, so I’ll have to do research on how the building is preserved and what’s prepared for its future.
They say it’s the largest lath structure in the world — explaining the efforts to preserve what remains vs. rebuilding.
Who chooses what plants to plant at the Botanical Building and Lily Pond?
The number of plants within surpasses anything I was prepared for, including their names. I’m not familiar with many of the plants and vegetation — in one of the patches, carnivorous plants lay in wait for their prey. Many questions come to mind. Who cares for all of these plants and does the city pay to maintain? Does anyone try to break in at night, and who decides what plants to plant?
We spent roughly 15-minutes touring inside until we felt crowded out by others. Outside there were various musicians playing their instruments and classical music seemed to be the theme.
As I think back on the experience, I’m again reminded of how dream-like this place really is. It would be nice if all places were as delicate, beautiful, and dreamy.
Carnitas’ Snack Shack at the Embarcadero in San Diego
We didn’t have food at Carnitas’ Snack Shack at the Embarcadero in San Diego, but we did have a drink.
There were a few minutes to kill before we needed to visit the Maritime Museum of San Diego, so we decided to stop at this joint.
We didn’t eat a famed pulled pork or sausage sandwich because we already had dinner reservations later that night. Otherwise, a sandwich would have gone in my mouth.
This place wasn’t on our list to stop at, but the sunset starting to go down, music, and the beautiful light playing upon the buildings on the pier at the Embarcadero — how can you turn down such a perfect scene in San Diego?
I ordered a Cucumber Bliss — containing organic cucumber vodka, elderflower, honey, lemon, and a splash of soda water. Barrett ordered The Dee-Lite — containing Tito’s Vodka, prickly pear syrup, pineapple, coconut, simple syrup, and a splash of sprite.
I tried both, but as often happens, I enjoyed my drink best. I tend to know what I like.
The Cucumber Bliss drink was perfection.
I like a good gin and cucumber drink, but this vodka and cucumber infusion did the trick. The bit of honey and lemon is also a big favorite. A drink with just the right amount of sweet and sugar. Nothing too in-your-face, and nothing too forgettable. The slight bit of foam at the end of the drink adding a touch of playfulness.
As I mentioned previously, next time I’m in San Diego, I’m going to have to visit Carnitas’ Snack Shack to grab one of their delicious sandwiches, garlic fries, and more. Too many people are talking. I can’t miss out.
Do you think they’ll deliver to Sacramento?
This would be my happy-hour jam if I were a local. That’s 100% for certain.
Civico 1845 Italian Restaurant in Little Italy
Off India St. in Little Italy, Civico 1845 Italian Restaurant is a place you don’t want to miss when you’re visiting San Diego.
From the quaint, village-like outdoor seating that greats you, to the friendly wait staff — it’s an experience for the senses and satisfaction for the soul…and stomach. Instantly, you’re transported to an Italian countryside, with the hustle of the kitchen heard in the background, and chatter buzzing among tables. Wine glasses filled to varying levels, and loving eyes shared by diners.
Our server was with us quickly, giving us the day’s recommendations with ease. As an antipasti, we ordered calamari fritti — lightly fried calamari and zucchini served with arrabiata sauce and aioli.
A light Civico Spritz served as a refreshing drink.
The Main Entree at Civico 1845 Italian Restaurant
As a main entree, I ordered the Raviolo Classico, which included homemade ricotta cheese, spinach, and creamy tomato sauce. Barrett ordered Ravioli All’aragosta, which included handcrafted ricotta cheese and lobster stuffed ravioli, cherry tomato, and Calabrian chili.
I tried both and must say my preference was with the Raviolo Classico. It was simply perfect. The red tomato sauce was sweet and slightly tangy, while the ricotta cheese was a perfect balance. Although stuffed by the end, I wanted to be able to eat more, more, more!
Although I don’t always try the raviolo at Italian restaurants, I must say this is the best I’ve ever tasted. If I had an Italian grandmother, this is how I would hope her cooking would taste.
Unfortunately, we were too full for dessert, as we were eating and drinking our way through San Diego.
Next time we visit San Diego, I already have a few more items on my list I want to try at Civico 1845 Italian Restaurant — including the Olive Marinate, Pappardelle Brasato, and Scialatielli Civico.
Is it wrong to eat at the same place twice in one trip?
Maritime Museum of San Diego at Waterfront Park
Don’t miss the Maritime Museum of San Diego when visiting San Diego.
With ten ships to visit, allow for a few hours in total for your entire experience. We underestimated how much time is needed to explore, and you’ll find yourself wanting to stay for longer.
The ships include the B-39 Submarine, Californian, HMS Surprise, PCF 816 Swift Boat, San Diego Harbor Pilot Boat, San Salvador, Star of India, Steam Ferry Berkeley, Steam Yacht Medea, and the USS Dolphin.
Each ship is in varying condition and stages of repair, with active construction maintained.
No time to waste at the Maritime Museum of San Diego.
We started with a tour of the crown jewel of the Maritime Museum of San Diego — the Star of India. Not only do you get to tour the top level, but you also get to tour multiple levels below deck. It was very interesting seeing how people used the boat travel from country to country, sometimes in terrible, sometimes wonderful, conditions. Another favorite room is the rigging/servicing room where ropes, chains, and more are stored.
If you’re wondering, when nature strikes, inside some of the boats, are bathrooms.
This was also my first time touring a submarine — another highlight. I like tight spaces and small, cozy rooms, so I fancy myself as someone to live on a submarine. It’s tremendous to imagine how many people lived on the submarine in such tight quarters, side-by-side, all with a single-minded task at hand.
Although we don’t have children, children are welcome to board the ships and explore. Many children were touring with families and seemed to be enjoying themselves.
Another great feature of the experience is that if you need to leave at any time during the day, you can use your handstamp to return to tour the boats. The really cool Maritime Museum of San Diego opens at 9 am – 9 pm every day, so it’s a fun experience to visit when the sun is setting.
Next time I visit, I hope to see the ships again. They’re a true favorite!
Seaport Village in Downtown San Diego
A stroll through Seaport Village in Downtown San Diego is delightful. Touristy. But delightful.
We didn’t feel a huge draw by anything from Seaport Village, but we enjoyed its charm and vibrancy.
I’m also not someone who purchases a lot of keepsakes, charms or travel gifts, and the majority of the shopping pertains to touristy items.
We walked the perimeter first and noticed there were a few different options for food and drinks.
Mostly Mexican food and margaritas at Seaport Village.
Psychics, rock stackers, and other healings make the pathways near the village their home. Stop by one of the practitioners to hear more about your future.
There was also a cute restaurant and bar you could visit out on a pier in front of the village tucked among fishing piers used by actual fishermen.
The inside portion of Seaport Village is full of beautiful trees that provide gorgeous, excellent foliage above the cobblestone below. The colors from the various galleries and their art added to the scene.
It was a sleepy day on the ocean, but we saw a very large ship carrying anti-radar equipment pass by, as well as a military helicopter.
The Coronado Bridge stands proud in the distance.
Not every place needs to be right in your face to be understood. Seaport Village is one of those places. It’s understated. Quiet. It’s a bit old. There are many stories and memories painted on the roadways nearby.
On my next trip back to San Diego, I’m going to make sure I carve out some time to have dinner in the village, hopefully at a location looking out into the bay along the waterfront. After dinner, I can take a walk, grab an ice cream, browse the talented artwork tucked among the many galleries, and create yet another memory.
This is a place that doesn’t impede.
The Horton Grand Hotel in San Diego’s Gaslamp Quarter
The Horton Grand Hotel in San Diego’s Gaslamp Quarter is a gem.
Standing proudly on the corner of Island Ave, the historic hotel is charming, comfortable, and elegant. Checking in, you immediately feel as if you’re stepping back in time, visiting San Diego during a year that was gone long ago.
We booked a King Room with a Balcony through Expedia, and everything went smoothly during check-in.
When we took the elevator to the third floor from the lobby, we were surprised to see an old scene of antique clothing and more through the glass. It was eerily creepy and fun. We weren’t expecting the surprise!
King Room with Balcony at The Horton Grand Hotel
The room was clean — and had a fireplace, iron, mini ironing board, plenty of towels, pillows, and a coffee maker.
The bed was comfortable, and the balcony was delightful. A sitting area looked over the center court of the hotel and other balcony rooms. I felt like I was staying in one of the buildings on Main Street at Disneyland.
Salt & Whiskey is the hotel bar downstairs. Patrons with various drinks were always present, and a bartender was always on hand.
Location, location, location.
The best part of this hotel is its location.
It’s a 15-minute Uber drive from the San Diego International Airport, a 10-minute Uber drive from the San Diego Zoo, and a 10-minute walk from the ocean and Seaport Village.
It was also fantastic to be right in the hub of the Gaslamp Quarter, where there was lots of live jazz and blues music, plenty of eateries, and places to dance at night.
We had a lot of fun walking to the ocean whenever we needed to, walking to Little Italy, the Maritime Museum of San Diego, and more. There’s so much to do within one mile of walking distance from The Horton Grand Hotel.
Inside Look Guided Tour at the San Diego Zoo
We enjoyed visiting Southern California and the San Diego Zoo for an Inside Look Guided Tour. We chose the “surprise” edition, where you don’t know what animals you’ll be visiting until the morning of the tour.
The tour was two hours long, and a special cart carried us along. We saw many different animals and exhibits. Highlights included an elephant tuberculosis test, giraffe feeding, and polar bear feeding.
All before the zoo opened – and without the crowds!
Elephant Tuberculosis Test
The elephant tuberculosis test was incredible, as our tour guide was telling us about the test, which only happens once a year. A group of zookeepers then started gathering around us in the elephant feed room, prepped medical tools and materials, and then staged an area in front of the elephants. They then called in an Indian elephant and administered a saline test in its trunk. The elephant was trained to assist in its test with a trained behavior. Zookeepers injected saline into its trunk, held it above its head for thirty seconds, and spit the saline into a bag for testing.
It was quite an incredible procedure to watch!
Inside Look Guided Tour Conclusion
It was also super easy to book the Inside Look Guided Tour on the San Diego Zoo website online. I chose the first tour time at 8:30 a.m. before the zoo opened. One item to note is that you must also purchase a general admission ticket and your tour ticket.
The tour gave me a quick view of almost the entire park, and after it was over, I was able to revisit some areas.
We also very much enjoyed our tour guide, who was knowledgeable and friendly and answered all of our questions—someone you’d want to be friends with!
Ultimately, we spent from 8:30 am to 3 pm at the zoo, walked ten miles, and saw pretty much every one of their 3,000 animals. We also rode the Skyfari Aerial Tram—something you can’t miss!
Hopefully, the San Diego Zoo will be able to bring back the giant pandas, and then I’d come back quickly for another Inside Look Guided Tour.
How should you dress when visiting San Diego?
The dress code in San Diego is generally casual, especially in the summer when the weather is warm. However, the dress code can change depending on the specific activity or location you are visiting.
For the beach, wearing swimsuits, cover-ups, and sandals is appropriate.
If you plan to participate in water sports, such as surfing or paddleboarding, it’s a good idea to bring a swimsuit and a rash guard or wetsuit.
Comfortable clothes and shoes are recommended for sightseeing and casual activities. In the summer, lightweight fabrics that breathe such as cotton and linen are ideal. Bring a sweater or jacket to put on in the evenings in the cooler months, as temperatures can drop.
If you plan to visit more formal attractions or dining establishments, it’s a good idea to dress up a bit. For men, this means wearing slacks and a collared shirt, while women opt for a sundress or skirt.
The key to dressing in San Diego is to be comfortable and prepared for the weather. It is always a good idea to check the forecast and pack accordingly.
What is the history of San Diego?
My connection with San Diego began with routine drives to the scenic city on my way to Mexico, with brief stops at the impressive San Diego Temple.
In my adult years, I’ve returned for more than just a quick visit, discovering a city that’s as rich in history as it is in attractions like the San Diego Zoo and Balboa Park. Here’s a look at how San Diego evolved from a coastal settlement to its vibrant city today.
San Diego’s Origins: From Native Settlement to Spanish Colony
Before it became a bustling city, San Diego was inhabited by the Kumeyaay people.
The Spanish arrived in 1542, with Juan Rodríguez Cabrillo claiming the area for Spain, but it wasn’t until 1769 that the first mission was established, marking the start of permanent European settlement.
Transition to American Hands
After the Mexican-American War, San Diego was ceded to the United States in 1848.
The city’s growth was slow until the railroad arrived in the late 19th century, which spurred economic development and population growth.
The Panama-California Exposition: A Catalyst for Development
San Diego’s growth accelerated with the 1915 Panama-California Exposition, which transformed Balboa Park into a cultural hub.
This event marked San Diego as an essential city in the state and encouraged further expansion.
Military Expansion and Economic Growth
The military has had a significant presence in San Diego since World War I, and the establishment of naval bases contributed to the city’s economy and shaped its character.
San Diego Zoo: A World-Class Attraction
Founded in 1916, the San Diego Zoo was started as a collection of animals left over from the Panama-California Exposition.
Since then, it has become one of the largest and most progressive zoos in the world, known for its animal husbandry and conservation efforts.
Balboa Park: A Center for Arts and Culture
Balboa Park is home to various cultural institutions, including the San Diego Museum of Art and the Japanese Friendship Garden.
These attractions showcase the city’s commitment to the arts and provide a place for both residents and visitors to enjoy a variety of experiences.
The Gaslamp Quarter: Preserving History and Embracing the Present
The Gaslamp Quarter is a walk-through-the-past historic district that has been preserved and revitalized, offering a lively mix of shopping, dining, and entertainment.
Its Victorian architecture reminds the city of its past, even as it buzzes with contemporary life.
Maritime Museum: Honoring Naval Traditions
The USS Midway Museum and Maritime Museum is a floating tribute to San Diego’s naval history. Its range of exhibits celebrates the city’s long-standing relationship with the U.S. Navy.
Seaport Village and Marina Parks: Enjoying the Waterfront
Seaport Village and the Embarcadero Marina Parks offer places to shop, dine, and relax, with stunning views of the San Diego Bay, further cementing the city’s reputation as a prime coastal destination.
Q&A: Diving into San Diego’s Historical Significance
Q: How did San Diego’s position affect its historical development?
A: San Diego’s harbor and strategic location on the Pacific Coast made it an ideal spot for military bases, crucial to the city’s growth, especially during wartime.
Q: What made the San Diego Zoo stand out in the zoo community?
A: The San Diego Zoo set the standard for modern zoos with its cageless exhibits, dedication to replicating natural animal habitats, and leadership in conservation and research.
Q: How did the Panama-California Exposition impact San Diego?
A: The exposition put San Diego on the map, fostering a boom in construction and tourism that spurred the city’s growth. Balboa Park’s museums and theaters are a legacy of this event.
Q: What’s the significance of the Gaslamp Quarter to San Diego?
A: The Gaslamp Quarter is a center of nightlife and a historic district that shows how San Diego has preserved its 19th-century architecture and adapted it for modern use.
San Diego Beyond the Surface
Beyond the well-trodden paths of its renowned zoo and theme parks, San Diego’s story is one of steady growth, cultural richness, and an enduring spirit of innovation.
The city’s layers are visible to all, from the preserved architecture of the Gaslamp Quarter to the historic ships moored at the waterfront.
San Diego invites locals and visitors alike to look beyond the surface and appreciate the city’s entire narrative, one that’s still being written today.
