Top Things to do in San Diego
San Diego is a top U.S. travel destination and that is no surprise! Between San Diego’s year-round temperate weather, coastal views, and a never-ending supply of attractions, travelers have little reason not to take in the city’s best things to do. There’s something for everyone in San Diego – history, culture, nature, and much more. Take a look at our selections for the top things to do in San Diego and begin making memories today!
#1 History
The USS Midway Museum, the floating city of “Navy Town, USA,” is situated in the bay in downtown San Diego. Visitors to this highly-rated museum can spend hours viewing restored aircraft, experiencing flight simulators, and watching films in the Battle of Midway Theater. The experience includes a self-guided audio tour in multiple languages.
Mt. Soledad National Veterans Memorial is truly one-of-a-kind. Memorials usually list the names of veterans, but the Mt. Soledad National Veterans Memorial is the only one to feature photos of veterans and special accomplishments during their service. In addition to telling the story of these veterans, the location of the memorial offers incredible views of the San Diego area from high above sea level.
#2 Culture
Balboa Park, considered one of the most urban parks in the US, has been named a National Historic Landmark and District, is listed on the National Register of Historic Places, and is one of the Great Places in America. Balboa Park is certainly one of the best ways to enjoy San Diego’s temperate climate year-round with multiple playgrounds, trails, dog parks, and almost any outdoor activity one could think of.
San Diego’s Gaslamp Quarter is Victorian charm combined with modern affinities. The quaint Victorian buildings now house bars, clubs, restaurants, and shops, inviting visitors both day and night to eat, drink, and be merry!
#3 Nature
La Jolla Cove, surrounded by soaring cliffs, offers visitors clear waters for snorkeling, diving, and swimming. This beautiful beach is clean and a top attraction for visitors for picnics and seal or sea-lion watching.
Considered one of the best zoos in the world, the San Diego Zoo is home to more than 3,500 animals, most of which are rare or endangered. More than a place for visitors to view animals, the San Diego Zoo is lauded for its efforts in conservation and education to help preserve endangered species and educate future generations of humans about the importance of animal conservation.
Lovers of nature will want to visit Torrey Pines Nature Reserve. Possibly one of the most beautiful, untouched areas of the Western coast, Torrey Pines offers miles of wild landscape for visitors to explore.
UC San Diego’s Oceanography School’s public exploration area, the Birch Aquarium at Scripps, gives patrons a unique experience of interactive exhibits and exciting views. Similar to San Diego Zoo, Birch Aquarium seeks to educate and inspire visitors to appreciate the beauty of the ocean’s wonders and engage in conservation efforts.
And More!
With nearly 100 years of aviation history, Torrey Pines Gliderport offers numerous opportunities for visitors to fly – whether vicariously through model aircraft, or literally using paragliding or hang gliding equipment.
Possibly one of the best culminations of all that San Diego has to offer comes together in Old Town. Combining excellent dining, unique shops, and historical locales, Old Town San Diego brings new and old into the same existence creating a lively, enjoyable atmosphere for locals and tourists alike.
There is no shortage of exciting, entertaining, inspiring, and breathtaking adventures in San Diego. Whatever interests visitors have, they are sure to find something that speaks to their soul and beckons them to return!
