San Diego, California is one of the liveliest cities in the United States. With a population of over 1.3 million people, it’s no wonder that there’s always something going on. From the beautiful beaches to the bustling nightlife, there’s something for everyone in San Diego.
The weather is one of the biggest draws to the city, as it enjoys year-round sunshine and mild temperatures. This makes it the perfect place to enjoy outdoor activities, whether you’re surfing, swimming, or just taking a leisurely walk along the boardwalk.
There’s also an abundance of cultural attractions, including museums, art galleries, and performing arts venues.
Top 7 Things to Do
The San Diego Zoo is one of the most popular tourist attractions in California. Situated in Balboa Park, the zoo is home to over 3,700 animals of more than 650 species. Visitors can see everything from elephants and giraffes to tigers and Komodo dragons. The zoo also features a variety of exhibits, including the popular Panda Trek and Polar Bear Plunge.
2920 Zoo Dr, San Diego, CA 92101
Driving Directions From San Diego International Airport
Phone: (619) 231-1515
Hours:
Wednesday 9AM–6PM
Thursday 9AM–6PM
Friday 9AM–9PM
Saturday 9AM–9PM
Sunday 9AM–9PM
Monday 9AM–6PM
Tuesday 9AM–6PM
Cabrillo National Monument is a U.S. national monument located in San Diego, California. The monument commemorates the landing of Juan Rodríguez Cabrillo at San Diego Bay on September 28, 1542 and the first European exploration of the west coast of the United States.
1800 Cabrillo Memorial Dr, San Diego, CA 92106
Driving Directions From San Diego International Airport
Phone: (619) 523-4285
Hours:
Wednesday 9AM–5PM
Thursday 9AM–5PM
Friday 9AM–5PM
Saturday 9AM–5PM
Sunday 9AM–5PM
Monday 9AM–5PM
Tuesday 9AM–5PM
3: San Diego Festival of the Arts
The San Diego Festival of the Arts is an annual event that celebrates the city’s diverse culture and arts scene. The festival features hundreds of artists from all over the world, as well as live music, dance, and food. The festival is held in Balboa Park, one of the largest urban parks in the United States. Balboa Park is home to 15 major museums, as well as the San Diego Zoo.
14989 Via De La Valle, Del Mar, CA 92014
Driving Directions From San Diego International Airport
Phone: (619) 230-9292
Oaks North Golf Course is one of the most popular golf courses in San Diego, CA. The course is known for its beautiful scenery and challenging hole layout. The course is situated on top of a hill, providing stunning views of the surrounding area.
12602 Oaks N Dr, San Diego, CA 92128
Driving Directions From San Diego International Airport
Phone: (858) 524-3247
Hours:
Wednesday 6:30AM–7:30PM
Thursday 6:30AM–7:30PM
Friday 6:30AM–7:30PM
Saturday 6:30AM–7:30PM
Sunday 6:30AM–7:30PM
Monday 6:30AM–7:30PM
Tuesday 6:30AM–7:30PM
5: Scripps Ranch Community Park
Scripps Ranch Community Park is a hidden gem in San Diego, CA. The park is tucked away in a residential area, but it’s worth seeking out. The highlight of the park is a man-made lake that’s perfect for fishing, canoeing, and paddleboarding. There’s also a playground, picnic areas, and plenty of green space to explore.
11454 Blue Cypress Dr, San Diego, CA 92131
Driving Directions From San Diego International Airport
Phone: (858) 538-8085
Hours:
Wednesday 6AM–10PM
Thursday 6AM–10PM
Friday 6AM–10PM
Saturday 6AM–10PM
Sunday 6AM–10PM
Monday 6AM–10PM
Tuesday 6AM–10PM
6: Mission Trails Clairemont Mesa Trailhead
The Clairemont Mesa Trailhead is located in the Mission Trails Regional Park in San Diego, CA. The trailhead provides access to a variety of hiking trails, including the popular Cowles Mountain Trail. The trailhead is also a great starting point for mountain biking and horseback riding.
Clairemont Mesa Blvd, San Diego, CA 92124
Driving Directions From San Diego International Airport
Hours:
Wednesday 8AM–5PM
Thursday 8AM–5PM
Friday 8AM–5PM
Saturday 8AM–5PM
Sunday 8AM–5PM
Monday 8AM–5PM
Tuesday 8AM–5PM
The Imperial Beach Pier is one of the most iconic landmarks in San Diego. Stretching out into the Pacific Ocean, the pier offers stunning views of the coastline and is a popular spot for fishing, sunbathing, and simply taking in the fresh ocean air. The pier was first built in 1909 and has undergone several renovations over the years.
2052 Entertainment Cir, Chula Vista, CA 91911
Driving Directions From San Diego International Airport
Phone: (619) 943-3566
Hours:
Wednesday Closed
Thursday Closed
Friday Closed
Saturday 10AM–6PM
Sunday 10AM–6PM
Monday Closed
Tuesday Closed
The USS Midway Museum in San Diego, CA is a must-see for anyone interested in American history or military might. The museum is housed on the decommissioned aircraft carrier Midway, which served the US Navy for 47 years and saw action in both the Vietnam War and the Gulf War. Visitors can explore the ship from stem to stern, including the hangar deck, flight deck, and engine room.
910 N Harbor Dr, San Diego, CA 92101
Driving Directions From San Diego International Airport
Phone: (619) 544-9600
Hours:
Wednesday 10AM–5PM
Thursday 10AM–5PM
Friday 10AM–5PM
Saturday 10AM–5PM
Sunday 10AM–5PM
Monday 10AM–5PM
Tuesday 10AM–5PM
9: MCRD San Diego Command Museum
The MCRD San Diego Command Museum is a must-see for anyone interested in the history of the Marine Corps. Located on the grounds of the Marine Corps Recruit Depot in San Diego, the museum houses a wealth of artifacts and exhibits tracing the development of the Marines from their inception in 1775 to the present day.
1600 Henderson Ave BUILDING 26, San Diego, CA 92140
Driving Directions From San Diego International Airport
Phone: (619) 524-6719
Hours:
Wednesday 8AM–4PM
Thursday 8AM–4:45PM
Friday 8AM–4PM
Saturday 10:30AM–5PM
Sunday Closed
Monday 8AM–3PM
Tuesday 8AM–4PM