40 Things to Do in San Diego
Your Ultimate Guide to America's Finest City
The Iconic San Diego Experiences
You Can't Miss These
1. Balboa Park: Where Culture Meets Nature
If San Diego has a heart, it's Balboa Park. Beautiful Spanish Colonial buildings, 17 museums, and year-round blooming gardens may all be found on this 1,200-acre urban paradise. I recommend starting your day early at the Japanese Friendship Garden San Diego before the crowds arrive, there's something magical about the morning mist over the koi ponds.
Traveler's Tip:
Purchase a multi-museum pass if you're planning to visit several institutions. The Museum of Us and the San Diego Natural History Museum are personal favorites. Park at Inspiration Point on weekend mornings when parking can be challenging elsewhere.
2. USS Midway Museum: Step Aboard America's Naval Legacy
The USS Midway Museum, which is permanently docked at Navy Pier, provides one of the most engaging historical experiences available. After 47 years of service, this enormous aircraft carrier is currently home to more than 30 repaired aircraft. No wonder it is among top San Diego attraction. Tickets to the USS Midway Museum are well worth the money, and you'll spend hours touring the engine room, sleeping quarters, and flying decks.
Traveler's Tip:
Download the audio tour app before you arrive, and don't miss the flight simulator experiences (book these separately as they fill up quickly). Wear comfortable shoes as you'll be climbing steep stairs and walking several miles throughout the ship.
3. La Jolla Cove: Where Sea Lions Steal the Show
La Jolla Cove isn't just one of the most beautiful San Diego beaches, it's a complete ecosystem. Crystal-clear waters ideal for snorkeling, striking cliffs for photography, and local sea lions make it one of the best places to visit in San Diego.
Traveler's Tip:
Arrive before 9 AM to secure parking and avoid crowds. Bring your own snorkeling gear to save on rentals, and watch for leopard sharks in the shallow waters during summer months. They're harmless and amazing to swim alongside!
4. Gaslamp Quarter: San Diego's Beating Nightlife Heart
The historic Gaslamp Quarter, a hotspot for San Diego ativities transforms from a charming Victorian district by day to one of California's premier entertainment destinations by night. With over 100 restaurants, bars, and clubs packed into 16½ blocks, this is where San Diego activities for adults truly come alive.
Traveler's Tip:
For sunset views, start your evening with dinner at one of the rooftop eateries like Altitude Sky Lounge. Afterward, stroll away from your meal before exploring the nightlife. Here, parking is costly and scarce, so Uber or Lyft are your buddies.
Coastal Adventures and Beach Life
Where the Ocean Meets Paradise
5. Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve: Hiking with Ocean Views
This protected wilderness area offers some of the most spectacular coastal hiking in California. The trails wind through rare Torrey pine trees (found only here and on Santa Rosa Island) and lead to pristine beaches below dramatic sandstone cliffs.
Traveler's Tip:
The Beach Trail rewards you with a private beach at the bottom, but it is somewhat challenging. There are no facilities on the paths, so bring plenty of water. If you want to visit the beach below, check the tide tables.
6. Coronado Beach: Sand Like Powdered Sugar
Consistently ranked among best San Diego places to visit beaches, Coronado's wide, flat shoreline features sand that sparkles with mica and feels impossibly soft beneath your feet. For sunset pictures, the famous Hotel del Coronado offers a breathtaking backdrop.
Traveler's Tip:
Rent bikes and travel all the way to Imperial Beach along the Silver Strand Bikeway. The journey passes through portions of Naval Air Station North Island (the cradle of naval aviation) and gives breathtaking views of the harbor.
7. Sunset Cliffs Natural Park: Nature's Art Gallery
If you're searching for fun things to do in San Diego for free, add Sunset Cliffs to your list. These dramatic coastal bluffs in Point Loma offer some of the most photogenic sunsets you'll ever witness. The sandstone formations create natural arches and caves that change with the light throughout the day.
Traveler's Tip:
On weekends, the best photo locations fill up an hour before dusk. Stay on designated paths because the cliff edges are unstable and several people have been seriously injured venturing too close. For the walk back to your car after dark, carry a flashlight.
8. Mission Beach and Pacific Beach: The Classic California Beach Experience
These adjacent beach communities embody the laid-back California surf culture. Mission Beach features a vintage boardwalk with a classic wooden roller coaster, while Pacific Beach attracts a younger crowd with its beach bars and volleyball courts.
Traveler's Tip:
To cycle the concrete boardwalk between the two beaches, rent a beach cruiser. Get a craft beer in the afternoon at one of PB's many beach bars after stopping by The Mission for breakfast burritos (be prepared for a wait on weekends).
Family-Friendly San Diego Experiences
Adventures for All Ages
9. San Diego Zoo: The World's Most Famous Zoo
Set within Balboa Park, the San Diego Zoo houses over 3,700 animals representing more than 650 species. From the African Rocks exhibit to the Absolutely Apes display, the creative habitat designs let you to see animals in settings that closely resemble their natural habitats. Weekday mornings are the best time to visit because animals are more active and there are fewer people. Admission includes the guided bus trip, which offers an excellent overview. Take it first, then revisit areas that interest you most. Don't skip the Skyfari aerial tram for bird's-eye views of the entire zoo.
10. San Diego Zoo Safari Park: Where Wildlife Roams
Located in nearby Escondido, this 1,800-acre park offers a completely different experience from the zoo. Animals roam in massive enclosures that replicate African and Asian plains. The Africa Tram tour passes past areas where antelope, rhinoceros, and giraffes congregate just feet away. If your budget permits, treat yourself to the Cart Safari or Roar & Snore camping experience. Visit during colder months or arrive before the park's gates open because it gets hot in the summer. Since there are few and expensive dining options, bring your own lunch to save money.
11. SeaWorld San Diego: Marine Life and Thrills
Love it or question it, SeaWorld remains one of San Diego's most visited attractions for things to do in San Diego with kids. Beyond the shows, the park features excellent aquariums, interactive touch pools, and surprisingly thrilling roller coasters like the Manta and Electric Eel. If you visit during summer, arrive at opening and hit the rides first before lines get long. The air-conditioned Shark Encounter and Penguin Encounter provide welcome relief from afternoon heat. Consider the Quick Queue pass if visiting during peak season.
12. Belmont Park: Vintage Beachfront Fun
The San Diego attraction, oceanfront amusement park in Mission Beach has been entertaining families since 1925. The Giant Dipper wooden roller coaster is a National Historic Landmark that still thrills riders with its classic rickety feel and ocean views. If you're only riding the Giant Dipper and carousel, buy individual tickets rather than an all-day pass. Come in the evening when the neon lights up and the beach breeze keeps you cool.
Cultural and Historical Attractions
Stories of the Past
13. Old Town San Diego State Historic Park: Where California Began
This preserved historical village showcases San Diego's Mexican and early American periods from 1821 to 1872. Adobe buildings, working artisans, and authentic Mexican restaurants transport you back to California's early days. The self-guided walking tour is free and fascinating. Visit Casa de Estudillo for the best-preserved example of a wealthy family's home from the period. Skip the touristy restaurants on the main plaza and walk to El Agave for exceptional tequila selection and authentic regional Mexican cuisine.
14. Cabrillo National Monument: History Meets Natural Beauty
Perched at the tip of Point Loma, this monument commemorates Juan Rodriguez Cabrillo's 1542 landing – the first European expedition to reach the West Coast. The site offers things to do San Diego with panoramic views of San Diego Bay, the city skyline, and Mexico. Time your visit for low tide (check tide tables online) to explore the incredible tide pools on the ocean side. From December through March, the monument becomes one of the best land-based whale watching spots in California.
15. The New Children's Museum: Art Meets Play
This isn't your typical children's museum. Located downtown, this innovative space features large- scale art installations that kids can climb through, create within, and completely experience. It's designed for children activities in San Diego up to age 12 but adults will find it equally engaging. Visit on the first Friday of each month when the museum stays open until 8 PM and often hosts special artist-led workshops. Pack a change of clothes if visiting with toddlers. Some installations involve paint and messy play.
16. Maritime Museum of San Diego: Historic Ships Await
This floating museum along the Embarcadero features one of the finest collections of historic ships as San Diego tourist spot. The Star of India, built in 1863, is the world's oldest active sailing ship. You can board and explore multiple vessels, including a Soviet submarine. Purchase the all-ship ticket to maximize your experience. The submarine tour is fascinating but involves climbing through tight spaces – not recommended if you're claustrophobic. Check their schedule for opportunities to sail on the historic ships (additional cost but absolutely worth it).
Unique San Diego Experiences
You Won't Find These Anywhere Else
17. Potato Chip Rock Hike: Instagram's Favorite Challenge
This challenging 7.5-mile round-trip hike in Poway leads to a thin rock formation that looks like a giant potato chip jutting out over the valley. It's become one of Southern California's most photographed spots, and for good reason – the views are spectacular.
Traveler's Tip:
Start before dawn to beat crowds and heat. You'll wait in line to get your photo on the rock (yes, really), but early birds often have it to themselves. Bring more water than you think you need, and be prepared for full sun exposure. Weekdays are significantly less crowded than weekends.
18. Spreckels Organ Pavilion: Free Concerts Under the Sun
Hidden within Balboa Park sits the world's largest outdoor pipe organ and offers cool things to do in San Diego. Free concerts happen every Sunday afternoon, and the International Summer Organ Festival brings renowned organists from around the world each summer.
Traveler's Tip:
Bring a picnic and arrive 30 minutes early to snag a good seat in the pavilion. The acoustics are incredible, and the experience is uniquely San Diego. Where else can you enjoy world-class music outdoors year-round?
19. Wreck Alley: Diving San Diego's Underwater Museum
For certified divers, Wreck Alley off Mission Beach features intentionally sunken ships and Coast Guard cutters that have become artificial reefs. The highlight is the Yukon, a 366-foot destroyer that sits upright at 100 feet depth. This is an advanced dive site with strong currents. Go with a local dive operator who knows the conditions. If you're not certified, several companies offer introductory dives in the shallower La Jolla Shores area where you can still see abundant marine life.
20. Barrio Logan and Chicano Park: Culture and Community
Chicano Park features the largest concentration of Chicano murals in the world is one of most vibrant places in San Diego, painted on the concrete pillars of the Coronado Bridge. The surrounding Barrio Logan neighborhood has evolved into one of San Diego's most vibrant arts districts, with galleries, craft breweries, and authentic Mexican restaurants. Visit on the last Saturday of the month for the Barrio Logan Art Crawl. Las Cuatro Milpas is a neighborhood institution serving exceptional bean and cheese burritos cash only, and expect a line. Park carefully and respect this residential neighborhood.
Things to Do in San Diego This Weekend
Your Weekend Adventure Awaits
21. Little Italy Mercato: Saturday Morning Perfection
Every Saturday, Little Italy's main street transforms into one of California's best farmers markets and becomes one of the best places to visit in San Diego. With over 200 vendors selling everything from organic produce to artisanal crafts, it's a feast for all senses. Arrive by 9 AM for the best selection and before it gets mobbed. Grab breakfast from one of the food vendors (the paella stand and crepe vendors are exceptional) and eat in Amici Park. Check out the Little Italy Food Hall for more culinary adventures after browsing the market if you are looking for San Diego food spots.
22. Mission Bay Aquatic Sports: Get on the Water
Mission Bay's calm waters make it perfect for kayaking, paddle boarding, sailing, and jet skiing, ideal if you are searching for San Diego water activities or fun things to do in San Diego. Multiple rental facilities along the bay offer equipment and lessons for all skill levels. Rent from one of the operators near Crown Point Shores – the bay is more protected there and perfect for beginners. If you're experienced, paddle over to Fiesta Island for quieter waters and better bird watching. Weekday rentals are significantly cheaper than weekends, making it top choice for San Diego weekend activities.
23. San Diego Bay Cruises: See the City from the Water
Whether it's a whale watching expedition, harbor tour, or sunset dinner cruise, getting out on San Diego Bay offers unique perspectives on the city's maritime heritage and stunning skyline, one of classic San Diego attractions. For whale watching (mid-December through April), morning trips generally offer calmer seas and better wildlife viewing. If you're prone to seasickness, take medication 30 minutes before boarding. The sunset harbor cruises provide incredible photo opportunities with the city lights reflecting off the water and are included in San Diego tours.
24. Hillcrest and North Park: The Hip Neighborhoods
These adjacent neighborhoods northeast of downtown showcase San Diego's creative side with independent boutiques, vintage shops, craft breweries, and farm-to-table restaurants. Park once and explore on foot. In Hillcrest, check out Babycakes for brunch (arrive early or expect a wait). North Park's 30th Street is craft brewery central – Modern Times, Belching Beaver, and North Park Beer Company are all within walking distance. Visit on the second Saturday evening for the North Park Art Walk a popular option among San Diego activities for adults.
Adventure and Outdoor Activities
For the Thrill Seekers
25. Torrey Pines Gliderport: Soar Like a Bird
Watch (or join!) paragliders launching off the cliffs above Black's Beach, one of the most scenic San Diego beaches. Even if you don't fly, the spectacle of colorful wings floating against the ocean backdrop is mesmerizing. Tandem flights with experienced instructors are available for first-timers.
Traveler's Tip:
Flying conditions are best in the afternoon when thermals develop. The cliff-top cafe serves decent food with million-dollar views. If you're adventurous but not ready to fly, the trail down to Black's Beach (a clothing-optional beach) is steep but manageable and perfect for outdoor activities in San Diego.
26. Mount Soledad: 360-Degree Views
This 823-foot peak in La Jolla offers panoramic views of the entire San Diego region, from the Pacific Ocean to the mountains east. The Korean War Veterans Memorial at the summit features black granite walls with thousands of names and photos.
Traveler's Tip:
Visit at sunrise or sunset for the most dramatic lighting. It's a quick stop but worth the drive up the winding road. The clearest views happen in winter after storms have cleared the air.
27. Cowles Mountain: The Summit with City Views
The highest point in San Diego at 1,593 feet, Cowles Mountain is the most popular hike in the city. The 3-mile round-trip trail gains about 950 feet of elevation and rewards you with stunning 360- degree views.
Traveler's Tip:
Start early as this trail gets extremely hot in afternoon sun, and parking fills up by mid-morning on weekends. Bring at least a liter of water per person. The trail is mostly exposed with no shade, so sunscreen and a hat are essential.
28. Mission Trails Regional Park: Urban Wilderness
This 7,220-acre park within city limits offers over 60 miles of hiking and biking trails through diverse landscapes ranging from riparian valleys to rugged peaks. The visitor center features excellent exhibits on local ecology and Native American history. The Oak Grove Loop is a gentle 4-mile trail perfect for families. For more adventure, climb Fortuna Mountain for views rivaling Cowles Mountain with fewer crowds. Stop by the Old Mission Dam, built in 1816 and one of the first major irrigation projects in California.
29. Harbor Island and Shelter Island: Waterfront Walks
These man-made islands offer paved paths perfect for walking, jogging, or biking with spectacular views of downtown, Point Loma, and Coronado. They're especially beautiful at sunset. Harbor Island has the better downtown views and benches every few hundred feet for resting and photo ops. Shelter Island offers more dining options and marinas full of boats. Both are popular spots for wedding photos on weekends.
30. Embarcadero: San Diego's Waterfront Promenade
This mile-long waterfront walkway connects downtown to the bay, passing the Maritime Museum, USS Midway, Seaport Village, and the Convention Center. Street performers, bay views, and ocean breezes make it perfect for a leisurely stroll. Rent bikes or scooters to cover more ground. Stop at the Headquarters at Seaport for upscale shopping and dining in a renovated historic police headquarters. The Fish Market restaurant at the north end serves excellent fresh seafood with waterfront dining.
Food and Drink Experiences
Taste the Flavors of San Diego
31. Craft Brewery Tours: San Diego's Liquid Gold
San Diego has earned its reputation as one of America's craft beer capitals with over 150 breweries. Ballast Point, Stone, and Modern Times are just a few of the city's brewers that have received numerous worldwide honors. "Beervana" refers to the Miramar region, which has numerous breweries nearby. Make a brewery tour bus reservation or assign a driver. Stone Brewing's Liberty Station site is a must-see because of its expansive outdoor garden area.
32. Convoy District: Asian Food Paradise
This stretch of Convoy Street in Kearny Mesa features the highest concentration of Asian restaurants outside Asia itself – Chinese, Japanese, Korean, Vietnamese, Thai, and Filipino cuisines all within a few miles. Convoy Tofu House serves incredible Korean comfort food 24 hours a day. Tajima Ramen consistently has lines but moves quickly. Overnight stay visitors should try the 24-hour restaurants – they're packed at 2 AM with students and night workers for good reason.
33. Liberty Public Market: Culinary Collective
Located in the historic Liberty Station arts district (a former Naval Training Center), this food hall features 30+ artisan vendors, from fresh pasta makers to craft cocktail mixologists to international street food. Stay hungry and explore with your senses. On Fridays, there's a celebratory atmosphere and live music. There are galleries, stores, and the NTC Park in the Liberty Station neighborhood, which is a great place to stroll after dinner
34. Fish Tacos: A San Diego Tradition
While fish tacos originated in Baja California, San Diego perfected them. From high-end restaurants to beach shacks, everyone serves their version of this local staple. : Blue Water Seafood Market & Grill downtown offers some of the freshest fish (they source their own catch). Oscar's Mexican Seafood has multiple locations serving authentic Baja-style fish tacos with handmade tortillas. Mariscos Nine Seas in City Heights serves Sinaloa-style seafood that locals rave about.
35. Farmers Markets: Fresh and Local
Due to San Diego's year-round growing season, there are amazing farmers markets all week long. Every community has its own, showcasing prepared delicacies, flowers, local products, and handcrafted items. On Sundays, visit the Hillcrest Farmers Market, which is one of the biggest in the area, in addition to the Little Italy Mercato. Not all sellers take credit or debit cards, so bring cash and reusable bags. For the finest choices, get there early in the day, particularly for specialized items like in-season stone fruit and heirloom tomatoes, perfect for San Diego family activities.
Unique Day Trips and Extended Experiences
Venture Beyond the City
36. Tijuana, Mexico: International Adventure
Just 20 minutes south, Tijuana offers world-class cuisine, vibrant street art, craft breweries, and cultural experiences. The culinary scene has exploded in recent years with multiple restaurants earning international acclaim. Take the San Diego Trolley to San Ysidro, walk across the border (much faster than driving), and use Uber or taxis in Tijuana. Stick to tourist areas like Avenida Revolución, Plaza Rio, or the Zona Rio. Bring your passport (required for return to the US) and notify your bank you'll be using cards in Mexico. Check current border wait times before returning.
37. Julian: Apple Pie and Mountain Air
This former gold mining town in the Cuyamaca Mountains, about 60 miles northeast of San Diego, is famous for apple pies, charming bed-and-breakfasts, and autumn colors (relatively speaking for Southern California). A favorite recommendation in many San Diego travel guide lists. Visit in fall during apple season, though the town is charming year-round. Mom's Pies and Julian Pie Company both serve excellent pie – order whole pies to take home. The drive through Cuyamaca Rancho State Park is scenic, and many hiking trails access the park from Julian. Book lodging well in advance for October weekends.
38. La Jolla Kayak Tours: Sea Caves and Marine Life
The only way to reach the seven sea caves etched into the sandstone cliffs of La Jolla is by water. When conditions allow, guided kayak tours take you within the caverns and through the ecological reserve, where you'll probably see garibaldi fish, dolphins, and sea lions. Better access to caves and calmer waters are provided by morning tours. You will get wet if you wear your swimwear underneath clothing. Businesses depart from La Jolla Shores, where parking quickly fills up (get there half an hour early). Tours still provide great wildlife watching in the reserve even if caves are closed because of choppy seas.
39. Carlsbad Flower Fields: Spring Spectacular
From early March through early May, 50 acres of ranunculus flowers bloom in rainbow stripes on a hillside overlooking the Pacific. It's one of the most photographed spots in Southern California during spring.
Traveler's Tip:
Peak bloom typically occurs mid-to-late March, but check their website for current conditions. Arrive early on weekends to avoid crowds and harsh midday light for photos. Combine your visit with Carlsbad Village shopping and dining or nearby LEGOLAND if you have kids.
40. Anza-Borrego Desert State Park: Wildflowers and Stars
The largest state park in California is located ninety miles east of San Diego. The desert is covered with vibrant carpets of color when wildflowers bloom in the spring, especially after a wet winter. Excellent stargazing and trekking through striking badlands and palm oasis are available all year long in the park.
Traveler's Tip:
Check wildflower reports online before making the drive – blooms are unpredictable and short-lived. Borrego Springs is a designated Dark Sky Community with minimal light pollution for incredible stargazing. The desert gets extremely hot from May through October, so visit in cooler months. Bring all your water and supplies – services are limited in the park.