San Diego - Things To Do

It is hard to believe, but San Diego is not only made up of beaches and attractions. Museums, botanical gardens, historical buildings, State parks, hiking trails, bird watching, and desert wildflowers along with time spent in Mexico to the south all make up San Diego. These are just of the few of the things that make this city a special place, and some of the things that keep millions coming back year after year. Are you ready for the vacation of your lifetime? If so, then San Diego is your destination.

Anza-Borrego Desert State Park
With over 600,000 acres, Anza-Borrego Desert State Park is the largest state park in the contiguous United States. 500 miles of dirt roads, 12 wilderness areas and miles of hiking trails provide visitors with an unparalleled opportunity to experience the wonders of the Colorado Desert. 200 Palm Canyon Drive. 760.767.5311

Cuyamaca Rancho State Park
Just forty miles east of San Diego, Cuyamaca Rancho State Park offers beautiful pine and oak forests, broad meadows, and little streams that are a special delight in the generally dry Southern California landscape. Note: - This park was heavily damaged by the Cedar wildfire, please call the park for current operating hours and trail openings/closures. 619.765.0755

Pacific Southwest Railway Museum
The Museum's main facility is located in Campo, California, about 45 miles east of downtown San Diego. A restored depot is also operated adjacent to the trolley tracks in La Mesa. The Museum runs weekend excursions, open to the public, on portions of the San Diego and Arizona Railway utilizing actual vintage equipment. 619.478.9937

Viejas Casino & Outlet Center
The Viejas Band of Kumeyaay Indians welcome you to their fantastic entertainment complex/casino/outlet center. Come and find great deals on designer clothes, have a gourmet meal and enjoy some time with Lady Luck. Alpine. 800.847.6537.

Museum of Man
EXPLORE THE MYSTERY, BEAUTY, AND EXCITEMENT of San Diego's only anthropological museum. 619.239.2001.

Reuben H. Fleet Science Center
Come and experience the thrills, excitement and San Diego's only IMAX theater. Balboa Park. 619.238.1233.

Visit Tijuana Mexico
Day trip to our friendly neighbor to the south and eat, drink & shop to your hearts content. 800.775.2417.

San Diego ZOO
One of the largest ZOO's in the world, the San Diego ZOO is a must see here in San Diego. Balboa Park. 800.434.7894

SeaWorld San Diego
Come see Shamu, a living reef, Journey to Atlantis and all the fun that only Sea World can offer. Mission Bay. 800.434.7894

Padres Baseball
Why not catch a baseball game at the new home of the San Diego Padres in the heart of downtown. Gaslamp. Walk up ticket purchases available.

Scripps Institute of Oceanography
Home to the Birch Aquarium and great programs for both young and old. La Jolla. 714-633-2022.

Ocean Beach Pier ,
One of the longest piers on the west coast, the OB pier offers great fishing, fantastic sunset views & a restaurant if you get hungry. Ocean Beach. 619.235.1169

Children's Pool La Jolla
Located at 850 Coast Blvd, this protected beach is a favorite spot for the California Sea Lions and their young. La Jolla 619.235.1169

Old Point Loma Lighthouse
Located at the tip of Point Loma and offering commanding views of the city, the Old Point Loma Lighthouse is a must see. Point Loma. 619.557.5450.

Mission Bay Park
This 4,200 acre aquatic park offers fun for the whole family. Mission Bay. 619.235.1169.

Border Field State park
One of the least visited parks in the system, Border Field offers wetlands, long stretches of beach and a unique view of the International Border. Call for current conditions and access information. 619.575.3613.

Belmont Park
Home to the Giant Dipper (one of the last wooden roller coasters), Belmont Park is a real California amusement park. Mission Beach. 858.228.9283.