San Diego, California is one of those cities you need to visit at least once. Whether you’re a foodie, an avid shopper, an adventure seeker or someone who loves art galleries and museums, the city will have more than enough for you to do. Here are some of our favourite San Diego must-dos.
Balboa Park
Balboa Park is known as the largest urban cultural park in the U.S. and you could easily spend days exploring it. Keep in mind that this is not your average “park”, here you’ll find 15 major museums, the San Diego zoo, a carousel, gardens and a rotating roster of performances, plays, concerts and exhibitions. Head to the visitor’s centre when you arrive to get a better idea of what’s on offer.
Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve
You don’t have to leave the city in order to experience the wilderness of southern California. Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve is a must for anyone who enjoys nature, and here you’ll find 2,000 acres of it. This includes the rare Torrey Pine tree, as well as beaches, a lagoon, hiking trails and the opportunity to spot a varieties of birds.
Old Town San Diego State Historic Park
Step back in time with a visit to this historic park that gives visitors the chance to experience the history of early San Diego. In particular, the focus is on life in the Mexican and early American periods of 1821 to 1872. There are restored historic buildings, in addition to reconstructions, making for a unique and fascinating peek into the past.
Gaslamp Quarter
No trip to San Diego is complete without a visit to the Gaslamp Quarter, a section of 16 blocks that are home to both Victorian-era buildings and modern skyscrapers. This is where you’ll find more than 100 of the city’s best restaurants, pubs and bars, as well as great shopping, galleries and museums.
Belmont Park
Whether you have kids with you, or you’re a kid at heart, you’re sure to love San Diego’s Belmont Park. Most of the fun activities you could ever think of are available here, from mini golf and amusement park rides, to a rock climbing wall, arcade, midway games and roller coasters. Oh, and there is shopping and food as well.
Cabrillo National Monument
The Cabrillo National Monument commemorates the arrival of Juan Rodriguez Cabrillo at San Diego Bay. His arrival marked the first time a European expedition landed on what would later become the west coast of the United States. In addition to the monument itself, the park where it sits is a great place to come for picture-worthy views of San Diego harbour and skyline.
Seaport Village
If you’re looking for shopping, entertainment and restaurants all within one scenic and accessible area, look no further than Seaport Village. The waterfront complex is home to more than 50 shops and 17 eateries to choose from, along with live entertainment and movie nights.
Old Town Trolley Tour
Get to San Diego from the comfort of an Old Town Trolley Tour. Not only will you be checking a must-do off your San Diego bucket list, you’ll be learning about the city from the perspective of tour guides who know it best.
Lead photo: B Garrett
