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San Diego, CA Visitor Guide
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items If you are visiting or new to the San Diego, CA area you will want to save this list. I lived in the area for over 30 years. This will give you some ideas of fun things to do!
Sections
3
Outdoor Activities
Arts & Entertainment
Food
Outdoor Activities
Is there a better place to get outside and explore? San Diego has the best weather year round and something for everyone!
If you are in the Poway area this is one of our favorite farmers markets!
Farmers Market | Poway, CA - Official Website
If you have never been here, add this iconic stop to your bucket list. It is stunning! You can picnic up on the grass as you watch the waves below or head up into town and shop the little shops or visit a resturuant. Tip: It can get busy so try going...
La Jolla Cove | City of San Diego Official Website
There are many different trails to choose from but all beautiful! Don't forget water!
Mission Trails Regional Park
Looking for a mountain hike, head to Cowles Mountain! You will want to go early morning before it gets too hot but you will reach the top and see a beautiful view!
Cowles Mountain Trail, California - San Diego - AllTrails
Famous for “Potato Chip Rock” you will head on this hike, get a good view and don't forget to snap your photo on Potato Chip Rock!
Potato Chip Rock and Mt. Woodson Summit, California - AllTrails
Perfect for families! There is a parking lot (which gets busy in summer), a large grass area, and plenty of sand. There is also a playground and a boardwalk. We love La Jolla!
Discover La Jolla Beaches - San Diego Tourism Authority
Coronado Beach with Hotel Del is a legend. This beach has a long stretch of sand before you reach the water. With most of the parking being street parking. Be sure to check out Hotel Del as well. It is stunning!
Coronado Beach
You can drive to the top to catch a view of the city below!
Mt. Helix Park
Balboa park is full of museums and stunning architecture. Be sure to visit the Botanical garden right past the pond!
Botanical Building and Lily Pond - Balboa Park
This is a large botanical garden that is fun and peaceful to explore. Be sure to plan for a couple of hours so you can really enjoy it!
San Diego Botanic Garden | Encinitas, California
Powerhouse Park is so fun! You can have a picnic dinner up on the bluff and watch the sunset. There is a playground and if you are lucky the train will go by. In summer time, there is someone that usually blows gigantic bubbles which is a crowd pleas...
Powerhouse Park
A park and splash pad on the bay! It doesn't get any better! Pack a lunch and relax in the grass area. Play in the water or head to the playground!
Waterfront Park - San Diego County Parks and Recreation
This is a true gem! From restaurants to parks to bike paths to watching airplanes this is a fun stop. The space is huge so you may find yourself driving from the playground to the resturaunts if you have little kiddos but it is worth the stop!
Liberty Station | San Diego, California
Restaurants, shops, and museums there is plenty to see and do here and learn about the history!
Old Town San Diego State Historic Park
Arts & Entertainment
Family Friendly experiences to get out and explore!
Hands on and interactive. Check their website as they do change out what is on exhibit but this is always a fun stop!
The New Children's Museum | Think, Play, Create
This hands on museum is fun for kids of all ages… grown ups I'm looking at you too! You will have fun exploring, learning and playing!
Fleet Science Center
Perfect for the train lovers! Young and old a true classic and favorite!
San Diego Model Railroad Museum
This is a great one to explore even with young kiddos. The exhibits change so be sure to check the website for what is currently on display!
San Diego Natural History Museum | Home
Love air and space, you will want to stop in here. There are so many wonderful things to see!
San Diego Air & Space Museum - Historic Balboa Park, San Diego
You won't want to miss a stop here. Check the website for dates of performances!
Rady Shell Calendar
Such a beautiful venue and honestly there is no bad seat in the stadium!
Petco Park: Home of the Padres - San Diego - MLB.com
It's world famous for a reason! The grounds are breathtaking and so many animals to see! You will loose track of time!
San Diego Zoo
The Zoo Safari Park (previously called the Wild Animal Park) is probably my favorite! It is a great place to walking but still be able to see a lot of animal. If you go you won't want to miss out on the Safari tram and check the schedule to see the c...
San Diego Zoo Safari Park
Ok, so not in San Diego but not a far drive either!
Disneyland Resort in Anaheim, California – Official Site
Fun for all ages but different than Disneyland. This is just a short drive from San Diego and you can get a park hopper to be able to visit both parks on the same day. Don't miss out on the Cars Ride, Roller Coaster, and Soarin'
Disney California Adventure Park | Disneyland Resort
Seaworld is such a fun place especially with kids. They always have fun events going on so be sure to check out the schedule!
SeaWorld San Diego
This aquarium is a lot of fun. It feels like just the perfect size. Plus they have an outdoor area where you can touch sea creatures and catch a beautiful view of the ocean!
Birch Aquarium at Scripps
If you have a lego lover this is a must stop! So much fun! Rides, Waterpark and aquarium. Check the website for ticket pricing. Plus your little one will be so excited to get their very own Legoland Driver's license!
LEGOLAND® California Resort
Take a tour of the USS midway! Explore sleeping quarters, engine room, the mess hall and more! You can take an audio tour or self guided tour!
USS Midway Aircraft Carrier | San Diego Museum | San Diego Tours ...
Food
Delicious Italian food approved by the whole family!
Mamma Rosa Italian Restaurant - El Cajon
Real authentic Mexican food! This is our go to! A favorite for everyone you can't go wrong with anything you order! Surf and Turf, Rolled tacos, and their quesadillas are a favorites.
Lolita's Mexican Food | Lolita's Restaurants, Inc.
Delicious steaks served here in an amazing environment! So good!
Cowboy Star
Their Guava Cream Cheese danish is delish!
Azucar
Our favorite ice cream is the honey lavendar. They have seasonal flavors so be sure to check back often!
Salt & Straw | Ice Cream
Delicious Italian food on Coronado island with views of the San Diego bay. Perfect for celebrations or everyday outings!
Il Fornaio | Italian
A Mexican restaurant with a little flair! You will love their tacos they are so good! There are several locations to choose from!
Puesto | Award-Winning Mexican Restaurant in California