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Home > Things To Do in San Diego
Things to do in San Diego
As with any major city, San Diego has plenty to offer. This coastal city is home to somewhere in the vicinity of 1.3 million people (and over 3 million in the metro area), so there’s plenty for everyone to see and do. Below are just some of the more popular sights and attractions. If you’re in town long enough to catch them all, there’s a lot more than this going on that you’ll find while around town, so be prepared to be open to new traveling ideas!
Attractions and Sights
The San Diego Zoo is one of the world's largest; home to more than 4000 animals.
SeaWorld San Diego is an aquatic zoo and entertainment venue where visitors can find everything from sharks and beluga whales to penguins and polar bears.
Harbor Excursion offers tours and cruises around San Diego and is a great way to see the town or just to get around.
Parks and Outdoor Activities
Balboa Park is a 1200-acre city park located just outside San Diego's downtown core. It's home to the San Diego Zoo, Botanical Building, Starlight Bowl, and more.
Old Town San Diego State Historic Park offers a first-hand look at life in San Diego around 1821 to 1872 through historic buildings and people in character of the times.
Belmont Park is a theme and ride park and icon to the city, in operation since 1921.
Landmarks
San Diego's Gaslamp Quarter is home to 94 historic buildings, full of boutique shopping, restaurants, bars, clubs and more.
Coronado Bridge is a long, well-known icon of San Diego.
San Diego's Mormon Temple is a striking icon, well-known in the area, and visible from quite far away.
Cabrillo National Monument stands in honor of explorer Juan Rodríguez Cabrillo. The site boasts a fantastic view of the the city and the ocean.
Shopping
Seaport Village is a shopping district with over 70 shops, restuarants and galleries, among other amenities.
Festivals and Events
Mainly Mozart Festival has been running since 1989, showcasing live orchestral music and offering educational programs for low-income or at-risk area.
The San Diego Wine and Food Festival features the talents of 170 wineries and 70 restaurants in this delectable annual occasion.
Great live music, seafood galore, and all of your closest friends together in one fantastic event: Gator by the Bay Zydeco, Blues & Crawfish Festival.
Arts and Entertainment
The San Diego Museum of Art houses a permanent collection of pieces dating back as far as 5000 B.C., as well as hosting many traveling exhibits each year.
The Maritime Museum of San Diego is home to three historical ships that visitors can board and explore on their own or take guided tours.
The San Diego Symphony is the city's number one symphonic orchestra. They are renowned for their stunning sound, and great shows.
Nightlife
Whiskey Girl features live bands, DJs, a fully-stocked bar, and an impressive kitchen menu.
The Bitter end features three floors - each their own destination, and is found in the historic Gaslamp Quarter.
Side Bar is a trendy, sexy club right downtown. An all-female staff and bumping dance scene make this a hot spot on weekends!
Altitude Sky Lounge is located in the Gaslamp area, on top of a 22-story building, offering a one-of-a-kind view of town and a very cool nightspot.
Convention Centers
San Diego Convention Center is San Diego's most popular convention facility hosting everything from huge auto shows to small meetings.
Arenas and Stadiums
Petco Park is home to the San Diego Padres of MLB.
San Diego Sports Arena hosts many sports and major events such as concerts.
Qualcomm Stadium is home to the San Diego Chargers of the NFL, and hosts many other sports and major events.
Food and Drink
Royal India - the Gaslamp's best authentic East Indian restaurant.
Rama is one of San Diego's most highly acclaimed restaurants, serving possibly the best Thai food in town.
Mr. Tiki blends Asian, Central and North American cuisine together in this trendy spot.
Specializing in Brazilian barbecue and an original blend of flavors, Rei Do Gado is truly unique, and a great place for dinner.