Lia CabreraWelcome to San Diego, where every day feels like a vacation!
As a local, I can tell you that my city’s packed with awesome spots to explore, from breathtaking beaches to world-famous attractions.
You can soak up the sun, see some wildlife, or just eat your weight in tacos (highly recommend BTW). Trust me, by the end of your trip, you’ll be plotting ways to return—or maybe even move here.
Here’s our guide to the best attractions in “America’s Finest City.” Let’s go and find your new favorite San Diego spot!
San Diego Zoo
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Website: https://sandiegozoowildlifealliance.org/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sandiegozoo
Address: 2920 Zoo Dr
Hours: Mon – Tue: 9 AM – 6 PM
Wed – Sun: 9 AM – 7 PM
Contact: +1 619-231-1515
The San Diego Zoo is hands-down one of the best attractions in my city—and honestly, maybe the world! Home to over 3,700 animals spread across 100 acres, it’s perfect for animal lovers, families, and everyone in between.
Unlike old-school zoos with cramped cages, the zoo has open, naturalistic enclosures. You can easily spot grizzly bears, sloths, koalas, leopards, rhinos, and even polar bears chilling like a boss in their own icy pools.
If you’re bringing the little ones, don’t miss the Children’s Zoo, where kids can get up close with smaller critters and even learn a lot about wildlife, too.
You can also take a ride on the Skyfari Aerial Tram and glide above treetops for stunning views of the zoo and beyond. But if you’re a bit afraid of heights (like me!), you can hop on the Kangaroo Bus instead, which lets you jump between exhibits easily.
| Pro Tip: Don’t forget to bring binoculars! Some of the animals might be a little farther away than the main zoo—this makes sure you won’t miss a thing! |
Balboa Park
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Website: https://balboapark.org/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/balboapark/
Address: San Diego
Hours: Mon – Sun: Open 24 hours
Contact: +1 619-239-0512
Want to see the crown jewel of San Diego? Then, visit Balboa Park, a massive 1,200-acre cultural wonderland—and also home to the world-famous San Diego Zoo!
The Botanical Building is a famous spot here, filled with lily ponds and exotic plants. Another peaceful area is the Japanese Friendship Garden, featuring koi ponds, waterfalls, and lovely bonsai trees.
If you’re more into museums, don’t worry—this area has 18! You can check out the San Diego Museum of Art for, well, art, the Museum of Us for anthropology, and the San Diego Natural History Museum for dinosaurs.
As for live entertainment, you can catch an outdoor concert at Spreckels Organ Pavilion—home to the world’s largest outdoor pipe organs. Or, you can enjoy a show at The Old Globe, a famous theatre modeled after Shakespeare’s original playhouse.
| Pro Tip: Balboa Park is free to explore, but some museums have separate admission fees. If you plan to visit more than one, we recommend grabbing a Balboa Park Explorer Pass to save money. |
La Jolla Cove
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Website: https://www.sandiego.gov/lifeguards/beaches/cove
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/la-jolla-cove/
Address: San Diego
Hours: Mon – Sun: Open 24 Hours
Contact: [email protected]
Located between rugged sandstone cliffs, La Jolla Cove is undoubtedly gorgeous. No wonder it’s one of the most photographed places in Southern California!
People flock here for kayaking and snorkeling; since the cove’s part of an ecological Reserve, the marine life here (e.g. bright orange Garibaldi, leopard sharks, etc.), is abundant. On calm days, you can even see up to 30 feet into the water.
Of course, you have to check out the cove’s most famous residents—the sea lions! These chunky, playful (and sometimes noisy) creatures can be found lounging on the rocks or barking at visitors—very fun to watch!
While there are lifeguards on daily duty here, the waves can still be unpredictable, especially at high tide. You should check the conditions before venturing out.
| Pro Tip: Parking near La Jolla Cove can be a challenge, especially on weekends. We suggest arriving early or parking a little farther away and taking a nice stroll along the coast. |
USS Midway Museum
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Website: https://www.midway.org/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ussmidwaymuseum
Address: 910 N Harbor Dr
Hours: Mon – Sun: 10 AM – 5 PM
Contact: +1 619-544-9600
The USS Midway Museum is a must-visit for history and aviation buffs. Docked at Navy Pier, this massive aircraft carrier-turned-museum lets you explore life at sea.
This unique spot has over 60 exhibits and interactive displays. You can climb into a cockpit, take a flight simulator for a spin, or just soak in the views of San Diego Bay on the Flight Deck.
Don’t miss the Hangar Deck, home to 29 meticulously restored aircraft, including WWII dive bombers and modern fighter jets. You can also watch the Battle of the Midway Theater, which features a short film about an important naval battle of WWII.
This museum is quite popular, so to avoid long lines, buy your ticket online in advance.
| Pro Tip: If all that exploring has worked up an appetite, we recommend dropping by the Fantail Cafe. It serves meals inspired by the ship’s original 1945 menu—a crowd favorite is their crispy chicken tenders—yum! |
Gaslamp Quarter
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Website: https://gaslamp.org/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/GaslampQuarter/
Address: San Diego
Hours: Mon – Sun: Open 24 hours
Contact: (619) 233-5227
The Gaslamp Quarter is where San Diego truly comes alive, especially after the sun goes down. Spanning 16 historic blocks, this district is packed with restaurants, bars, nightclubs, and entertainment venues.
I won’t ever get tired of its charming Insta-worthy Victorian-era architecture. Imagine rows of beautifully restored buildings from the late 19th and early 20th centuries.
Speaking of restaurants, you could sample everything here—from authentic Persian cuisine and classic Italian to gourmet burgers and fresh seafood. And if you’re craving a late-night bite, many spots here stay open well past midnight.
And of course, it’s also a hip cultural hub. You’ll find trendy galleries, live jazz venues, stand-up comedy clubs, and theaters showing indie productions.
| Pro Tip: Parking in the Gaslamp Quarter can be tricky, especially on weekends. Instead of circling a spot, we suggest using a parking app to reserve a space ahead of time or opting for a bike taxi or rideshare. |
Cabrillo National Monument
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Website: https://www.nps.gov/cabr/index.htm
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cabrillonps/
Address: 1800 Cabrillo Memorial Dr
Hours: Mon – Sun: 9 AM – 5 PM
Contact: +1 619-523-4285
Cabrillo National Monument is at the southern tip of the Point Loma peninsula, offering incredible coastal views. This national park honors Portuguese explorer Juan Rodriguez Cabrillo, the first European to set foot on the West Coast.
The Old Point Loma Lighthouse is a must-see. This charming structure houses exhibits that detail the history of lighthouses along the California coast.
Nature lovers will enjoy the park’s scenic hiking trails, including the Oceanside Trail that winds from the visitor center down to the tide pools. The Bayside Trail offers epic harbor views, while the Whale Overlook is the perfect vantage point to spot gray whales.
Before you leave, drop by the Cabrillo Store. You can snag a book about Juan Cabrillo, a tide pool field guide, a keychain, or a hoodie to remember your trip.
| Pro Tip: Plan your visit around the low tide to experience tide pools at their best! We recommend checking charts in advance, and if the tide is 0.7 feet or lower, you’ll have the best chance of spotting fascinating marine life. |
Old Town San Diego State Historic Park
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Website: https://www.parks.ca.gov/?page_id=663
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/oldtownsandiegoshp/
Address: San Diego Avenue and Twiggs St
Hours: Mon – Sun: 10 PM – 5 PM
Contact: +1 619-220-5422
Old Town San Diego State Historic Park is California’s first European settlement. I love wandering through its five adobe buildings and exploring unique museums.
It also hosts cool live demos such as tortilla-making and blacksmithing. And if you’re looking for a lovely keepsake, check out the local artisans who showcase traditional Mexican crafts.
I have to admit, food is a major highlight here—you can enjoy a meal on a patio at one of the many Mexican restaurants serving handmade tortillas and yummy carne asada. Add some live mariachi music and you’ve got yourself a party.
Don’t miss the free guided walking tours available twice daily at 11 AM and 2 PM!
| Pro Tip: If you’re in the mood for something sweet (which is always, don’t lie!), stop by a local candy shop for traditional treats like dulces enchilados and Mexican chocolate. |
Seaport Village
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Website: https://www.seaportvillage.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/seaport_village
Address: 849 W Harbor Dr
Hours: Mon – Sun: 10 AM – 9 PM
Contact: +1 619-530-0704
Seaport Village is perched along the San Diego waterfront—perfect for a leisurely afternoon. That’s because this massive 14-acre complex is home to more than 70 shops, galleries, and restaurants.
Food lovers can indulge in everything, from casual bites to gourmet seafood, while enjoying oceanfront patios. And on weekends, there are live musicians and street performers everywhere.
As for families, the historic carousel is a go-to, featuring beautifully hand-carved wooden horses. You can also enjoy a packed picnic on one of the benches, tables, or open spaces while watching boats sail by.
Note that parking here can be a bit pricey, so consider parking farther away. Or better yet, go on the San Diego Trolley and other public transit options.
| Pro Tip: We recommend going to Seaport Village in the late afternoon to catch the golden hour by the bay, then grabbing a seat at a waterfront restaurant. Believe me, it’s the best way to relax. |
Coronado Island
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Website: https://coronadovisitorcenter.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/visitcoronadoisland/
Address: San Diego
Hours: Mon – Sun: Open 24 hours
Contact: (619) 435-1867
Coronado Island is just across the bay from downtown San Diego, but it feels like a world away with its pristine beaches and charming shops. Known as “The Crown City,” it’s home to one of the most beautiful beaches in the country.
One of the island’s biggest draws is the famous Hotel del Coronado, a lovely Victorian-era resort that has welcomed presidents and celebrities. If you’re not staying here, you could still enjoy a beachfront meal or sip cocktails at the Sunset Bar.
Outdoorsy types will love kayaking and paddleboarding here—there are even gondola rides through the island’s canals! Plus, you can rent a bike and cruise along the boardwalk or head to Coronado Ferry Landing.
And if you’re going in the spring, don’t miss the Coronado Flower Show, a beloved local tradition that has been running since 1922!
| Pro Tip: Consider taking the Coronado Ferry instead of driving over the bridge to Coronado Island. Not only will you avoid parking hassles, but you’ll also enjoy a picturesque ride across the bay, complete with the San Diego skyline! |
Birch Aquarium
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Website: https://aquarium.ucsd.edu/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/birchaquarium
Address: 2300 Expedition Way, La Jolla
Hours: Mon – Sun: 9 AM – 5 PM
Contact: +1 858-534-3474
Situated on the cliffs of La Jolla, Birch Aquarium offers beautiful marine exhibits. This spot is perfect for marine biology lovers or families with kids.
The highlight here is the Tide Pool Plaza, where visitors can get hands-on with local marine creatures. And just steps away, Blue Beach allows guests to see local sharks and rays up close.
Another crowd-fave is Seadragons & Seahorses, home to one of the largest seadragon habitats in the world! And don’t miss the Beyster Family Little Blue Penguins exhibit—the only place on the West Coast to see the world’s smallest penguins!
Make sure to make reservations since this spot is almost always fully booked.
| Pro Tip: Birch Aquarium regularly hosts special events, talks, and hands-on activities. Make sure to periodically check their website to see what’s up. |
SeaWorld San Diego
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Website: https://seaworld.com/san-diego/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/seaworldsandiego/
Address: 500 SeaWorld Dr.
Hours: Mon – Wed: 10 AM – 7 PM
Thurs – Sat: 9 AM – 8 PM
Sunday: 9 AM – 7 PM
Contact: +1 619-222-4732
Located on 100 acres in Mission Bay Park, SeaWorld San Diego offers killer whale presentations and hands-on dolphin encounters, just to name a few.
Young ones will love watching playful otters, while older kids can interact with dolphins up close by reservation. You and your fam can also pop by Shark Encounter and walk through an underwater tunnel, or check out Flamingo Cove, home to pink flamingos.
Families with younger children (or adults hit with a bout of nostalgia) can explore Sesame Place. This addition is packed with Sesame Street-themed rides, a wave pool, and even live character shows featuring Elmo and Cookie Monster.
And when it’s time to refuel, you can go to Big Bird’s Bistro for kid-friendly meals, or The Waterfront Restaurant for fresh seafood and refreshing views of the bay.
| Pro Tip: Planning to see multiple shows and ride big attractions at SeaWorld San Diego? You should definitely buy a Quick Queue Pass to skip long lines (like the VIP that you are!) |
Maritime Museum of San Diego
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Website: http://www.sdmaritime.org/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sdmaritime/
Address: 1492 N Harbor Dr
Hours: Mon – Sun: 10 AM – 5 PM
Contact: +1 619-234-9153 ext. 101
The Maritime Museum of San Diego is a one-of-a-kind museum that invites visitors to climb aboard and experience different vessels. Examples include the world’s oldest active sailing ship, the Star of India, and a Cold War-era submarine.
Other vessels you’ll find here are the HMS Surprise, a replica of a Royal Navy frigate, as well as the Victorian-era steam ferry Berkeley. As a bonus, visitors can explore the USS Dolphin, which once held the record for the deepest dive!
You should also check out exciting boat tours and sailing experiences. With general admission, you can book a 45-minute Pilot Boat sightseeing tour for just $10, or go for a 75-minute narrated naval History Bay tour on a Swift Boat for $15.
Visiting on the 2nd or 4th Wednesday of the month? We recommend booking the Docent Historian-Led tour, a two-hour guided tour through maritime history—whew!
| Pro Tip: Now, if you’re planning to visit on a weekend, we think you should book a Tall Ship Sailing package in advance. Not only will you get to sail on a historic ship, but your ticket also includes access to all museum exhibits! |
