27 Attractions in San Diego You Should Visit

The city of San Diego, California, known for its diverse attractions, is a resort loved by a wide range of tourists. This is the place on the West Coast of the United States where Europeans first arrived. The comfortable climate and relaxed lifestyle along San Diego Bay harmoniously blend with the historical sites located in its naturally formed harbor.

If you head to the northern part of the city, you'll notice a Mexican influence that is particularly evident in the delicious local cuisine. The diversity of San Diego's culture is represented by exhibits in museums, monuments, and theaters located within Balboa Park.

Balboa Park is not just an ordinary park, rich in flora and fauna, but a large green space that houses 15 museums, a carousel, a miniature train, and the famous San Diego Zoo. Among its highlights is the historical theater called the "Old Globe."

The list of museums includes the renowned Museum of Man, several establishments dedicated to art, natural history, aviation, space, and science. The park also features a children's garden and a veterans' memorial, as well as many gardens showcasing local plants, roses, and cacti. This city park, the largest in the country, includes restaurants, bike paths, and walking trails.

Address: Balboa Park, San Diego, California, USA.

The San Diego Zoo is one of the most famous zoos in the world. It is home to more than 4,000 animals and over 800 species of wildlife. The sunny marine climate of Southern California is favorable for many animals.

Almost all of the zoo's main enclosures are located outdoors. Staff members are actively involved in conservation work and species preservation. Many animals are bred in captivity with later plans to release them into their natural, most suitable habitats.

Address: San Diego Zoo, Zoo Drive, San Diego, California, USA.

When recommending what to see in San Diego first, experts suggest visiting SeaWorld - the main tourist attraction in the city and one of the most popular marine parks in the world. It opened in 1964 and has had over 130 million visitors since its opening.

Through animal performances, aquariums, and enclosures, visitors get acquainted with the lives of creatures found in oceans, such as dolphins, killer whales, walruses, penguins, and polar bears. Attractions include roller coasters, rafting on "Shipwreck" - the "rapids that destroy ships," and a helicopter simulation flying over the vast Arctic Wilderness.

However, the main attraction of the park is "Shamu," a show where one can see dancing fountains and performances by talented actors - killer whales.

Address: SeaWorld San Diego, Sea World Drive, San Diego, California, USA.

Travelers looking to immerse themselves in a relaxed atmosphere should head to Coronado Island, where a carefree small-town vibe reigns. The island, attracting visitors with its old-fashioned lifestyle, is connected to San Diego by a bridge. Walking along the waterfront or riding a rented bike around Coronado, tourists can feel the charm of this place.

Here, by the ferry landing, you will find shops and art galleries. The Coronado Museum of History and Art is open to visitors. It offers panoramic views of San Diego, which sits across the bay. You should definitely see the Hotel Del Coronado, which is considered the inspiration for the Emerald City in the tale "The Wizard of Oz."

Address: Coronado Island, Coronado, California, USA.

The Gaslamp Quarter is the main district of San Diego, home to a multitude of restaurants, nightlife venues, and shopping complexes. It originated in 1850 when William H. Davis, a San Francisco resident, built a home for his family here.

He aimed to turn this area into a city. Although that project failed, his mansion still exists. Seventeen years later, another San Francisco resident succeeded in developing the waterfront. Shortly thereafter, the area became a haven for prostitutes and gamblers.

Several decades later, this Victorian district underwent a transformation that changed both its appearance and reputation. Since then, it has been known as the "Gaslamp Quarter." Today, there are over 200 restaurants, numerous boutiques, and art galleries here. The district is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

Address: Gaslamp Quarter, San Diego, California, USA.

La Jolla is a coast that features some of the best beaches in San Diego - a prestigious area sometimes referred to as the "jewel of San Diego." This place indeed shines in bright colors when it comes to beaches.

The La Jolla coastline stretches for a full mile and is popular with both locals and tourists. It attracts people with a variety of water activities: swimming, surfing, scuba diving, and kayaking. But the fun doesn't stop when the sun goes down. In the late evenings, visitors light bonfires and grill hot dogs while hosting beach parties.

Address: La Jolla Shores Beach, San Diego, California, USA.

The western side of San Diego Bay is bordered by a rocky peninsula that is truly worth visiting. Point Loma is known for its rugged terrain, captivating history, and unforgettable views. Some attractions on the peninsula will be mentioned later. In 1542, this was the landing site of the first European expeditions.

Now it is known as the West Coast of America. Military forts built to protect the harbor from the west side have been constructed on Point Loma since the 19th century. Fort Rosecrans National Cemetery, established here in 1882 and covering 77.5 acres, is located on the coast at the site of a former artillery base.

It contains over 100,000 graves and several official memorials, such as the memorial for the crew of the USS Bennington. This was erected in memory of an accident that occurred in San Diego Bay in 1905, taking 66 lives. The aircraft carrier was heading to the waterfront to embark expedition members with the aim of whale watching. It was also supposed to reach Osprey Point, where climbers scale the cliffs and fishermen set up camp on the shore.

Address: Point Loma, San Diego, California, USA.

Numerous attractions in San Diego delight both adults and kids. One of the most sought-after tourist spots in the city is the Safari Park, located near Escondido and covering an area of 1,200 acres.

It is home to over 300 species of animals, primarily those that are endangered. Here they are bred with the goal of returning them to their natural habitats. Visitors can join a tram tour through the zoo or view the safari park from above during a hot air balloon ride.

Other activities include watching cheetahs. During their runs, these animals can reach speeds of 70 km/h. Additionally, there is a petting zoo, a stroll among lemurs, or a visit to the bird enclosure. A trip through the San Diego Zoo Safari Park is equally fascinating for young guests and those who are young at heart.

Address: San Diego Zoo Safari Park, San Pasqual Valley Road, Escondido, California, USA.

The San Diego waterfront is packed with shops, interesting attractions, cafes, and restaurants. Here you have views of Coronado - the island located across the bay. Many Embarcadero attractions are literally built on the water. For example, the USS Midway and historically significant ships belonging to the San Diego Maritime Museum.

From here, sightseeing boats head out into the harbor and out to the ocean to view whales. When it gets hot, kids have fun around the interactive fountains in the park located on the waterfront. They happily play on playgrounds equipped with creative structures.

In November, Embarcadero becomes the venue for the Food and Wine Festival. From late June to early September, Summer Evenings by the Bay featuring the San Diego Symphony Orchestra are held here.

Address: Embarcadero, San Diego, California, USA.

At the southern tip of Point Loma, you stand at the place on the West Coast of the United States where the first Europeans set foot. Juan Rodriguez Cabrillo's expedition arrived here on September 28, 1542. The explorer named the bay San Miguel (it was renamed San Diego in 1602).

The original Cabrillo statue was given to the city as a gift from the Portuguese government in 1939. Since 1988, a replica of the monument has stood on the waterfront. At the visitor center, you can watch a film and explore exhibits recreating Cabrillo's maritime journey along the California coast.

Nearby the monument, you can see the remnants of old coastal artillery batteries that defended the harbor. You should also take a look at the old Point Loma Lighthouse, now a museum. However, possibly the most interesting aspect for you would be the chance to enjoy panoramic views of San Diego's architecture, the harbor, and the areas from Coronado to Tijuana.

Address: Cabrillo Monument, San Diego, California, USA.

At the Old Town State Historic Park, time seems to rewind to the mid-19th century. Its territory is dotted with restored historic buildings, including five original adobe structures and accurate replicas of old establishments.

One of the finest examples of adobe architecture is Casa de Estudillo, constructed in 1827. It is one of the oldest surviving buildings of Spanish architecture in California. The park is free for all visitors. It is here on this stretch of coastline where an American settlement emerged on the site of a Mexican village, allowing visitors to feel the interplay of different cultures.

There is always something for tourists to do here: pet donkeys, make local shop owners happy with purchases, or marvel at artisans' craftsmanship. At the "Black Hawk Smithy and Stable," you can see a blacksmith at work in his workshop. Old Town is rich in shops, small museums, and restaurants. Cultural and festive events are regularly held in the historical square.

Address: Old Town San Diego State Historic Park, Wallace Street, San Diego, California, USA.

At the heart of San Diego lies Little Italy - a district that arose from the canned tuna industry, which once brought great wealth to the city. The last canneries, where immigrants from Italy and Sicily worked, closed down in the 1980s.

At that time, they made up the majority of the hired fishermen. Italians settled adjacent to Embarcadero from the 19th century. Today, galleries, unmatched designer shops, pizzerias, restaurants, wine cellars, breweries, and cafes are located here and in the neighboring courtyards.

A symbol of San Diego is the "Mercato" - a street market that operates on Saturdays and stretches over several blocks. Be sure to snap a photo of the "Little Italy" sign. Take a piece of paper and a pencil and head to Amici Park, where tables with bronze plaques displaying recipes for dishes like stuffed artichokes, bean paste sandwiches, and fish-stuffed tacos are set up.

Address: Little Italy, San Diego, California, USA.

Located in the heart of San Diego is the ultra-modern Petco Park, famed for its stadium of the renowned Major League Baseball team. The stands of the stadium offer incredibly beautiful views of San Diego's famous attractions and its bay.

You can enjoy these views by attending one of the 81 games held here throughout the year (sometimes there may be more if the "Padres" - the professional baseball team - have a successful season). Petco Park opened in 2004. Before that, the "Padres" along with the NFL football team "Chargers" practiced at Jack Murphy Stadium.

As you walk past the palm-fringed square and wall-mounted screens, approaching this steel and sandstone-faced sports venue, you'll feel a sense of connection to the important events. Petco Park also features a children's entertainment area. You can learn about the history of the "Padres" and discover interesting facts about the team players in the new Hall of Fame.

A baseball game experience isn't complete without delicious food. At the park's eateries, you can try a vast array of dishes: sashimi, fish tacos, Roman-style pizza, barbecue, oysters, and gourmet hot dogs.

Address: Petco Park, Park Boulevard, San Diego, California, USA.

Twenty-something guys and gals love San Diego as a beach resort known for its carefree atmosphere, parties, and a two-mile stretch of coastline along the Pacific Ocean. The lively boardwalk stretches along Mission Beach, near which lies Belmont Park with numerous attractions, including a vintage wooden roller coaster.

If you prefer tranquility and a less noisy environment, you will find the much more peaceful southern side of the beach agreeable. The most favorable weather conditions for beachgoers occur from June to September, although the season begins in the spring months and ends in fall. Even in December, when the sun is shining, you will see resort guests enjoying the beach.

You can rent a bike and explore local attractions by riding along the boardwalk. There are also boat tours for those wanting to see whales. The beach features several playgrounds. Mini-golf is available as well as surf shops or lush gardens can be found, full of tall palm trees.

Address: Mission Beach, San Diego, California, USA.

Belmont Park, the main entertainment hub on Mission Beach, opened its doors in 1925 by sugar magnate John D. Spreckels. This amusement park is home to 12 rides, an 18-hole mini-golf course adorned in Tiki style, and many smaller attractions.

Three beachfront cafes are also open here. But the main draw of Belmont Park is the "Giant Dipper" - a ride that has stood the test of time. These wooden roller coasters have been here since the park's inception and are now included in the National Register of Historic Places.

For kids growing up in San Diego, riding the "Giant Dipper" has become a cherished pastime. The park also hosts high-speed rides like "Control Maniac," "Giant Carousel," and "Beach Blaster," providing thrilling excitement. Check in the candy store to see if you can handle the giant waffle cone with ice cream.

Address: Belmont Park, Mission Boulevard, San Diego, California, USA.

One of the first places tourists try to visit in Balboa Park is the Natural History Museum, considered the oldest of its kind in Southern California. The museum opened in 1874 and has been located in a Spanish colonial-style building since 1933. In the early 2000s, the museum's façade received a postmodern makeover.

The museum's exhibits are fascinating for people of all ages. Make sure to check out the "Fossil Mysteries" hall, which offers insight into the rich history of prehistoric California and Baja California - the Mexican state. This is aided by an impressive collection of fossils, as well as copies of living organisms, dioramas, interactive exhibits, and wall paintings.

Be sure to visit exhibits dedicated to Southern California: "Diversity of the Coastal Cactus Ecosystem" and "Water: California's Story," explaining the state's complex water situation.

There is also a temporary exhibition running until 2020. It showcases preserved bones and tusks of a mastodon discovered during excavations in San Diego. This trunked mammal dates back 130,000 years. You can also watch impressive 2D and 3D films featured in a giant theater, helping you discover the wonders of the ocean and experience the distant Ice Age.

Address: San Diego Natural History Museum, El Prado, San Diego, California, USA.

Housed in the legendary Ford building constructed in 1936 in streamline moderne (American Art Deco) style, the San Diego Air & Space Museum showcases the history of human flight with models and authentic artifacts.

In this branch of the Smithsonian Institution, you can explore exhibits that represent the Golden Age of flight between the two World Wars. For example, the collection includes "Aeronica-3" (a two-seat airplane), the Consolidated PT-1 "Reliant," and the two-seat "Ryan STA." Other artifacts from this period are also on display. These include airplanes flown by Amelia Earhart and Charles Lindbergh.

You can delve even further into aviation history and see accurate replicas of the Wright brothers' gliders. The museum also features several exhibits from the jet age: the Douglas A-4B "Skyhawk," the Boeing JP-12 satellite, and the X-15 rocket plane model, which revolutionized aircraft design principles. There is also a flight simulator in the museum.

Small flight simulators are located in the dedicated "Action" hangar. Also present is a 3D/4D cinema for showcasing films that allow you to feel the vibration during a virtual flight.

Address: San Diego Air & Space Museum, Pan American Plaza, San Diego, California, USA.

This famous aquarium, situated on a cliff above the Scripps Institution of Oceanography campus, showcases the diverse marine life of the Pacific Ocean. It can be reached from downtown San Diego in 20 minutes. It's best to start your tour in the fish hall.

A wide array of inhabitants from various locations is represented here, ranging from the cool waters of the Northwest to the tropical regions of the Indian and Pacific Oceans. One of the tanks contains 260,000 liters of seawater, showcasing coral reefs and the crowd-pleasing sea turtle saved from extinction.

At the Tide Pool Plaza, youth can learn about creatures inhabiting the tide pools of Southern California: sea stars, hermit crabs, lobsters, and sea cucumbers. The aquarium features showcases such as "All About Seahorses," which tell these unusual creatures' stories, and "Feel the Heat," where you can learn about the staggering effects of climate change.

Address: Birch Aquarium, Expedition Way, La Jolla, California, USA.

This natural attraction of national importance, covering an area of 2,000 acres on the rugged Pacific coastline north of La Jolla, is located on a flat elevation surrounded by soaring cliffs offering breathtaking views of the ocean.

You can use the 8 km coastal rail to reach this natural site, which is far from tourist routes. Electronic signage is scarce, so you may hardly come across signs of civilization here.

The national park serves as a vital habitat for the rare Torrey pine trees that only grow here and on Santa Rosa Island near Santa Barbara. From the cliffs, you can observe gray and blue whales during their migration season. Stop at the visitor center constructed in charming Spanish farmhouse style. Guided walking tours depart from here on weekends and holidays at 10:00 and 14:00.

Address: Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve, North Torrey Pines Road, La Jolla, California, USA.

Located on the western edge of Point Loma, this famous sanctuary occupies an area of 68 acres. It is designed to protect the towering cliffs, caves, natural arches, and tidal pools. It's no surprise that the area is called Sunset Cliffs. You are unlikely to find a more suitable spot here to admire sunsets.

Moreover, it is easily accessible from downtown San Diego. Along the beaches of Southern California, there are plenty of places with good views and sights of the surrounding landscapes. Therefore, between December and April, you have ample chances to watch gray whales. As you drive down the road, spectacular views open up along Sunset Cliffs Boulevard on the stretch between the two streets: Adair and Ladera.

Address: Sunset Cliffs Natural Park, Ladera Street, San Diego, California, USA.

The halls of the Museum of Man (Anthropology) are housed in four grand buildings of Spanish colonial design, where the Panama-California exhibition took place. Recently, it celebrated its centenary.

Here you can explore the history of pre-Columbian America, learn about the culture of Native Americans, and civilizations of Mesoamerica, such as the Mayans. The exhibits shed light on these topics in a fun, entertaining manner. For instance, BEERology explores the 10,000-year history of brewing.

One of the exhibits features a massive golden beer cup that belonged to an Inca king about 600 years ago. "Monsters!" is an exhibition designed for family viewing, showcasing mythical creatures like the kraken (a sea monster reminiscent of an octopus), unicorns, dragons, and the Yeti. On the second floor of the museum, you can immerse yourself in the history of the peoples' origins. Visitors are captivated by the largest collections in the U.S. related to Egyptology: masks, pottery, sarcophagi, and two authentic mummies.

Address: San Diego Museum of Man, El Prado, San Diego, California, USA.

Pacific Beach, located next to Mission Beach on the way to La Jolla, is another strip of gorgeous beaches along the Pacific coast. It stretches along Ocean Boulevard, lined with numerous bars and entertainment venues.

Visitors get the feeling that the beach never ends. It runs past the Crystal Pier and transitions into North Pacific Beach, which families prefer due to the lifeguard services provided. Since the 1990s, the area that Pacific Beach occupies has been enhanced and redeveloped.

College students who once frequented here have shifted to Mission Beach, replacing them are tourists a bit older. Luxury condos and top-tier restaurants have emerged in Pacific Beach. Stroll along Crystal Pier, where small old-fashioned beach houses are lined up on both sides, protecting the pier from the waves. If you find yourself there when there are no crowds of fishermen, you can see the waves crashing against the pier's edge. Views of La Jolla and the city are also breathtaking.

Address: Pacific Beach Pier, Ocean Boulevard, San Diego, California, USA.

Located in the park on Embarcadero, just a few steps from the USS Midway, is one of the largest collections of historic ships in the country. They are all open for passenger tours. The Maritime Museum of San Diego features 11 ships and submarines classified as cultural heritage.

The most notable among them is the "Star of India" (1863), considered the oldest active ship in the world that still regularly sails. This swift vessel was built in the Isle of Man for transporting cargo between Britain, India, and New Zealand and has since sustained a hull puncture.

For military enthusiasts, the submarine tours of the Soviet B-38 and the American "Navy Dolphin" (U.S. Navy Dolphin) are fascinating. You may have seen the "HMS Surprise," a Royal Navy ship. A modern replica of an 18th-century British frigate appeared in movies such as "Master and Commander: The Far Side of the World" and "Pirates of the Caribbean: On Stranger Tides." You can join a 45-minute museum-led cruise honoring naval history aboard a motorboat from the Vietnam War.

Address: Maritime Museum of San Diego, North Harbor Drive, San Diego, California, USA.

The ocean in San Diego is always an exciting sight, but the breaking waves can be dangerous for children and inexperienced swimmers. To solve this problem, a large concrete breakwater was built on the west side of La Jolla to protect the beach from the waves. Because of this construction, a small calm cove shaped like a shell has emerged.

The breakwater was a gift to the local community from philanthropist Ellen Browning Scripps, which occurred in 1931. However, no one anticipated how attractive this beach would be to seals and sea lions. From December to May, these animals come here to bask in the calm waters and give birth on the beach. This season, the "Children's Pool" is closed to access. But you can walk along the breakwater and observe the winter animals and their pups.

Address: Children's Pool Beach, Village of La Jolla, California, USA.

A defining feature of the San Diego skyline is the bridge that spans the local bay and connects the city to Coronado. It carries State Route 75. The bridge offers breathtaking views of the city. The design was created by architect Robert Mosher, known for his modernist approach.

The bridge opened in 1969, two years after construction began. The bridge is famous for its characteristic 80° curve. This curvature was necessary because aircraft carriers require a clearance height of at least 61 m. As a result, it was essential to increase the bridge's height to ensure safe clearance for ships. If you want to see the bridge up close and kayak under it, join guided tours from Coronado.

Address: Coronado Bridge, California 75, Coronado, California, USA.

Seaport Village is a delightful place for strolls in San Diego. It's also a fantastic spot to spend time during the day. This area is located right on the waterfront. You must visit this place. Seaport Village is rich in unique shops and restaurants.

On the waterfront, which fills up on weekends, there are plenty of picnic tables and benches. Cozy courtyards adjoin it. In the afternoons, this area regularly transforms into a stage for street musicians and performers. Some of them stand out with their originality.

This district is within walking distance of most nearby attractions, including the USS Midway. Parking in Seaport Village is limited and quite expensive. Therefore, it's advisable to park your car further away from the waterfront and enjoy a walk along the waterfront en route to it.

Address: Seaport Village, West Harbor Drive, San Diego, California, USA.

This was the first mission in California. In 1769, Junípero Serra, a Spanish Franciscan monk from Mallorca, founded several missions. The first was built in San Diego. However, a few years after its founding, it had to be relocated several miles inland due to conflicts between Spanish troops and the Indians.

In 1775, the natives set fire to the new mission. The monks, together with the army, had to seek refuge. It was not until 1777 that they managed to build a new mission with the help of the natives. However, soon after the church was separated from the state, the mission fell into disrepair. Today, tourists can see the old church with its belfry. In the 1970s, the temple was designated a basilica. A lovely garden and a small museum are also located here. The basilica is included in the National Register of Historic Places.

Address: Mission Basilica San Diego de Alcalá, San Diego Mission Road, San Diego, California, USA.