Let’s go to California! San Diego is located just south of the west coast of the United States, very close to the Mexican border. With more than 1.3 million inhabitants, it is the eighth largest city in the country, and also the most visited city on the American West Coast.
Its ideal weather and its long white sand beaches promise you moments of absolute idleness. For the most curious, the city is full of attractions of all kinds, typical neighborhoods, museums and even incredible parks! Historic cradle of California, San Diego is a city that has a lot to show you, and in which there is no risk of getting bored. Its surroundings are just as attractive and interesting to discover!
Fun things to do in San Diego
Seaport Village
Seaport Village is a beachfront shopping and dining complex in downtown San Diego. Very pleasant for strolling, along the quays and the marina and eating. On weekends, the place comes alive and brings together a good number of shows and street concerts.
Firehouse Museum
Created in 1962, this museum retraces 100 years of history on the firefighters of San Diego. It is located in the oldest fire station in the city, which gives it all its charm and authenticity.
Old Town
Translation: the “ old town ”. And this district bears its name well since it is here that it all began, when the first Spanish colony arrived in California and settled on this soil. Certainly very touristy, an authentic character and a friendly atmosphere emerge from this district that you absolutely must see if you come to visit San Diego.
This is where the Visitor Center is located, where you can ask for a lot of information and schedule a guided tour, but also the McCoy House Museum which traces the history of the Old Pueblo, La Casa de Machado y Stewart, the Schoolhouse which was the city’s first public school or the sublime collection of vintage cars housed in the Seeley Stable .
Gaslamp Quarter
Visiting San Diego and looking for a place to go out and party? Then it is in Gaslamp Quarter that you will find your happiness! With its 200 restaurants, clandestine bars and various concerts, this once “disreputable” district has now become one of the nicest places in town. Entirely renovated, you will fall in love with its gas lampposts and its Victorian buildings. Green spaces, theatres, street shows, lively bars… You’ll love it!
La Jolla
Looking for what to do in San Diego? How about a bit of shopping! The La Jolla district —pronounced “hoya”—is a chic district with a good number of luxury boutiques, especially on Girard Avenue.
But relaxing on a white sand beach is also possible and very pleasant, because it is also a seaside district, with a breathtaking coastline where it is possible to hike. You’ll also find the University of California, and the San Diego Aquarium , one of the largest and most beautiful on the West Coast.
Petco Park Baseball Game
If you are still wondering what to do in San Diego, then we advise you to immerse yourself in American culture and attend a baseball game at Petco Park ! Here, it is the Padres team that must be supported. No need to understand the rules, just soak up the atmosphere while enjoying a hot dog!
Las Americas Premium Outlets
Fashionistas are bound to find what they’re looking for at Las Americas Premium Outlets , located in the San Ysidro district , south of the city, on the Mexican border. Here, there are 125 clothing stores of all brands ( Levis, Nike, Tommy Hifigler, etc.) offering reductions ranging from 25 to 65%.
The Mormon Temple
If you are looking for what to do in San Diego, do not miss to admire the magnificent San Diego Mormon Temple ! Located near the La Jolla district, this immaculate white marble edifice is a 26-year-old architectural marvel.
Whale migration
If you are going to visit San Diego between November and April, then do not miss this incredible show! During this time, thousands of whales leave Alaska for Mexico, and offer a magical ballet off the Californian coast. To make the most of it, choose an observation cruise, there is no shortage of them in San Diego!
USS Midway Museum
Be sure to head to the marina and visit the historic USS Midway aircraft carrier, now a United States Navy museum . On the program, visit the dormitories, the officers’ quarters, the engine room, projection of historical videos, and even a flight simulator.
Parc Balboa
The Hispanic touch that emanates from San Diego is even more present in this magnificent park. You will be captivated by the beauty of Casa de Balboa and its pond in the heart of the park.
While visiting the park, you can also visit beautiful museums, such as the Museum of Man, the Science Center, or the Air and Space Museum (similar to the Intrepid Sea Air & Space Museum of New York ). The park also has a magnificent zoo of 40 hectares, grouping more than 650 species, and a splendid rose garden where you can admire more than 130 varieties of roses.
The Anza-Borrego desert
Visiting San Diego also means exploring its surroundings. You can explore (in 4×4 if possible) its 240,000 hectares covered with canyons, cacti and incredible oases! In addition, access is free and you can camp there for free. Ideal to disconnect a little from the city and its tumults!
Legoland
Wondering what to do in San Diego with your kids? Drive north, about 40 minutes, and visit the Legoland theme park ! Over there, 60 rides and attractions await you, on more than 50 hectares. Your children (and you!) will be delighted to discover more than 22,000 Lego models, in an incredible universe!
Tijuana
In just half an hour, you can travel to Mexico , to the famous city of Tijuana ! To do what? Honestly, nothing spectacular, a bit of shopping, partying, saying that we went to Mexico! But above all, be careful, some areas of the city have a bad reputation.
Coronado
Located just across from Downtown , it ‘s the island that closes San Diego Bay. Easy to access since it is connected to the city by a bridge – the Coronado Bridge – the island is famous for its mythical hotel with astonishing architecture, the Hotel del Coronado, and its long white sand beach.
Mission Beach et Pacific Beach
Visiting San Diego also means taking advantage of the mild Californian climate to laze around on the beach, or to immerse yourself in the culture and go surfing! Mission Beach and Pacific Beach are the city’s best-known beaches. The promenade along Mission beach is pleasant and relaxing, lined with surf shops. While Pacific Beach is very popular, and very lively. You will find many trendy nightclubs, bars and restaurants there!
