Discovering San Diego: 7 Must-Do Activities in America's Finest City
San Diego, California, often referred to as "America's Finest City," boasts a ton of attractions! From pristine beaches to vibrant cultural experiences, there's something for everyone in this sun-soaked coastal paradise. Whether you're a nature lover, history buff, or thrill-seeker, San Diego has it all. Here are seven top activities we suggest to consider during your visit, including essential information like parking recommendations and entrance fees, and locals’ travel tips!
Balboa Park
Known for its beautiful Spanish Colonial-style architecture and lush gardens, it’s easy to spend a day slowly exploring and wandering this huge park. Although it’s called “Balboa Park,” it has so much more than just landscaping!
Visit the world-renowned museums, including the San Diego Museum of Art and the Museum of Photographic Arts.
If the weather is nice, consider grabbing a beverage and bite at Panama 66. It’s an outdoor venue that often features live music bands in the afternoons. The venue also has a small sculpture garden you can meander through.
Stroll through the Botanical Building and marvel at its collection of rare plants. [As of April 2024, this building is temporarily closed for renovations. Check the website for re-opening timeline and updates.)
Parking Recommendation: Check out this page for a list of free parking lots around Balboa Park.
Entrance Fee: While admission to the park itself is free, individual museums may have separate entrance fees. Prices vary for each museum. If you have an SD Public Library card, you can reserve free museum passes online through the library.
San Diego Zoo
Morning weekdays tend to be blissfully beautiful and quiet if you’re looking for a really pretty place to stroll. The zoo has changes in elevation and tons of beautiful flora and fauna, so it makes for a great way to get some exercise in.
Encounter over 3,500 rare and endangered animals from around the world.
Take a guided bus tour or ride the Skyfari aerial tram for panoramic views of the zoo.
Don't miss the chance to see the koalas, flamingos, and polar bears. Two giant pandas are heading to the San Diego Zoo; the estimated arrival timeframe is summer 2024.
Parking Recommendation: Parking is free in the lot in front of the Zoo. Additional free parking is available throughout Balboa Park.
Entrance Fee: Ticket prices range from $60-70 per day, depending on the package and any additional experiences you choose. If you have an SD Public Library card, you can also reserve zoo passes online through the library.
Seaport Village and The Headquarters
Enjoy waterfront shopping, dining, and entertainment.
Take a leisurely stroll along the picturesque boardwalk.
Browse through unique boutiques and artisan shops for souvenirs.
Parking Recommendation: Limited metered street parking is available nearby, but it can be challenging to find during busy times. Consider using the paid parking lots located within walking distance.
Entrance Fee: Admission to Seaport Village is free.
For more food and shopping options, check out The Headquarters, which is within easy walking distance of Seaport Village. The Headquarters also has monthly free events of Salsa Dancing Under the Stars with live music in the courtyard.
La Jolla Cove
Experience breathtaking coastal views and crystal-clear waters.
Snorkel or scuba dive among colorful marine life in the protected marine reserve. If you’re planning to snorkel or scuba, consider visiting in the early morning when the waters are generally calmer and the air less windy. Speak with the local La Jolla snorkel rental shops to get their opinion on whether the visibility and weather conditions are good for going into the water.
Watch sea lions and seals bask on the rocky shores.
Parking Recommendation: Street parking is available but limited, especially during peak hours. Paid parking lots and garages are available nearby, with prices varying depending on the duration of your visit. Tip: Carefully check the rates for the garages before you decide to park. Some of the lots are pricey per hour.
Entrance Fee: There is no entrance fee to access La Jolla Cove or its adjacent beaches.
For good eats on a budget, check out menus and pricing for restaurants online in advance of your visit. One of Bloom’s recommendations is The Taco Stand.
USS Midway (Naval Aircraft Carrier) Museum
Visit the USS Midway Museum to get a hands-on learning experience about an aspect of “America’s Symbol of Living Freedom,” the USS Midway.
Step aboard the historic USS Midway aircraft carrier and explore its exhibits.
Get an up-close look at over 30 restored aircraft on the flight deck.
Learn about naval aviation history through interactive displays and guided tours.
Parking Recommendation: Parking is located on Navy Pier adjacent to the USS Midway Museum. Parking rates are generally between $10 and $20, subject to change. Parking rates generally increase for special events and holidays.
Entrance Fee: Ticket prices range from $26 to $32 for adults, with discounts available for seniors, military personnel, and children.
For a nice photo opportunity, check out the famous Kissing Sailor Statue (aka “Unconditional Surrender” or “Embracing Peace”), which is next to the USS Midway.
For a food and beverage stop, try out some of the scenic restaurants along the Harbor. One of Breeze’s recommendations is The Brigantine at Portside Pier.
The Portside Pier area also has a second-floor public walkway and viewing deck (free to visit) with panoramic views of San Diego Bay.
Old Town San Diego State Historic Park
Immerse yourself in San Diego's rich history and Spanish colonial heritage.
Visit historic buildings, including the Whaley House Museum, known for its ghostly tales.
Old Town has several Mexican cuisine restaurants to try.
Restaurant recommendation from Bloom: Old Town has one of San Diego’s best sushi restaurants, Harney Sushi. Check out the reviews on Google and Yelp.
Parking Recommendation: Limited free parking is available within the park, but it can be difficult to find during peak hours. Paid parking lots are available nearby.
Entrance Fee: Admission to Old Town San Diego State Historic Park is free, but individual attractions may have separate entrance fees.
Coronado Beach
Coronado Beach is located on Coronado Island, which is technically its own little City separate from the City of San Diego. It’s only a short 15-minute ferry ride though from downtown San Diego to reach Coronado.
Ferry ride tickets generally cost $16 roundtrip. But if you are an early riser and like to get moving earlier in the day, you can take a ferry ride during the early morning “commuter” hours for free! Just remember to ask for a commuter return ticket from the morning ferry crew so you don’t have to pay for the return ride.
Relax on one of America's top-ranked beaches with sparkling golden sands.
Take a leisurely bike ride along the picturesque shoreline.
Snap photos of the iconic Hotel Del Coronado, a historic beachfront resort. The hotel offers various pricing and packages for access to the pool and hot tub, use of their beach chairs and umbrella rentals, and complimentary wifi. Check the website for details. Note that some portions of the iconic hotel may be under construction.
Parking Recommendation: Limited metered street parking is available near the beach, but it can be challenging to find during peak times. Paid parking lots and garages are available nearby, with prices varying depending on the duration of your visit.
Entrance Fee: There is no entrance fee to access Coronado Beach.
San Diego's diverse array of attractions ensures that every visitor can find something to enjoy. Whether you're exploring the cultural treasures of Balboa Park, marveling at exotic wildlife in the San Diego Zoo, or soaking up the sun on Coronado Beach, you're sure to create unforgettable memories in this coastal gem!