San Diego is a popular destination for visitors from around the world. It has a renowned climate, pristine beaches and world-class family attractions.
Despite being one of the largest cities in America, San Diego has its own unique flair and culture. Whether you’re visiting for the beaches, nightlife or cultural offerings, there’s something here for everyone.
1. SeaWorld
SeaWorld is San Diego’s favorite theme park, with awe-inspiring shows, topsy-turvy rides and plenty of animal encounters. The park is also known for its animal rescue programs, which help animals rescued from the wild and those whose injuries prevent them from returning to their natural habitats.
During the summer, SeaWorld can be busy, especially on days around major holidays. But if you’re willing to wait, you can get more time to explore and enjoy the shows at this popular California park.
2. San Diego Zoo
The San Diego Zoo is one of the largest zoos in the country and boasts more than 3,500 animals representing 650 different species. The zoo is a leader in conservation research and species preservation, and its beautiful open-air, cageless exhibits are the perfect way to learn about animals up close and personal.
The zoo is huge and sprawling, so it’s best to plan out your visit beforehand by picking up a map of the exhibits. You’ll also want to take a bus tour or hop on the express bus or Skyfari aerial tram to get from one area to the next.
3. Old Town
Old Town is a historic area of San Diego that has a rich history. This neighborhood contains many buildings and museums that are all original or reconstructed in the style of their era.
This neighborhood is filled with a variety of cultures, arts, and folklore. It is also a popular tourist destination.
One of the oldest areas of the city, it is the location of the first European settlement in California. This is why it is known as the birthplace of San Diego.
4. Balboa Park
If you’re a lover of art, gardens and architecture, Balboa Park is a must-visit. This 1,200 acre green space in the heart of San Diego has a whole host of museums, exotic gardens, performing arts venues and one of the world’s largest zoos.
The park was created during the Spanish Colonial Revival era, and it is still home to many of its original buildings. It is also the site of the Panama-California Exposition, a World’s Fair that helped promote San Diego and boost the economy in the aftermath of the Great Depression.
5. San Diego Museum of Man
Founded in 1915, the San Diego Museum of Man displays artifacts from all over the world. It offers a deeper look into human history, from ancient times to modern culture.
It is housed in four buildings that were designed for the 1915 Panama-California Exposition. These include the California Building with its landmark tower, which combines Spanish colonial elements with a modernist style.
Many visitors have said the Museum of Man’s permanent exhibits are informative and interesting. These include displays on the Maya, Kumeyaay Indians of San Diego County, and human evolution.
6. Cabrillo National Monument
Located on the Point Loma peninsula, Cabrillo National Monument is a must-see. This historic landmark commemorates Spanish Explorer Juan Rodriguez Cabrillo’s landing here in 1542 as the first European to explore California.
There are many things to do in the park, including hiking and tide pooling. There is also a ranger-led tour of the Old Point Loma Lighthouse, which has been restored to its original 1880s appearance.
You can also catch sight of migrating gray whales from the Whale Overlook, a few steps from the Visitor Center. You may be able to see a spout, fluke or even breach from here during their migratory season in January. Bring binoculars or a powerful zoom lens to better view them.
7. San Diego Bay
Located 12 nautical miles north of the border with Mexico, San Diego Bay is one of the finest natural deep-water harbors in the world. It is a major international shipping center and home to several military bases.
The area is a diverse wetlands habitat complex including lagoons, estuaries, tidal marshes and saltwater bays. The bay is a vital stopover for migratory birds on their Pacific Flyway.
Before Juan Rodriguez Cabrillo named it Mission Bay in 1542, the bay may have been called Bahia Falsa or “False Bay.” It was a shifting matrix of wetland type habitats that included lagoons, estuaries and tidal marshes.