San Diego is a tourist hotspot. People from all over the world pay outrageous prices to walk on the beautiful beaches, eat the delicious food and entertain themselves at San Diego’s countless attractions. I have to say that it is money well spent. For those who live or have visited San Diego, I’m sure you would agree that San Diego is one of the most beautiful cities in the world with much culture and activities for just about anyone.
I grew up in San Diego, and as a child I took it for granted. Instead, I would often share that I desired to live in Florida and travel the world to experience other cultures. Well, soon after graduating from High School, I moved to Florida and started my journey to travel the world. While I visited and lived in many countries and filled my scrapbooks with unique and unforgettable experiences, I returned home six years later with a newfound respect for America’s finest city.
Over time, my husband and I decided that Green Bay, Wisconsin would be the best place for us to establish a home for our children, but I am a Cali girl through and through. We are looking forward to our next visit to San Diego to enjoy our old activities and visit our favorite hotspots. While there are too many to list, below are a few noteworthy locations I would like to share with those who desire to explore San Diego.
Seaport Village
It is rare that San Diego experience an overcast or rainy day, making Sea Port Village a year-round location to relax, enjoy a walk or eat some delicious food. Just minutes away from the San Diego Convention Center, Seaport Village is home to many cute shops, restaurants and family friendly activities. My favorite coffee shop, Upstart Crow, takes center stage and attracts those eager to pick up a good book, browse through local art and fill up on pastries and coffee that puts Starbucks to shame. Upstart Crow used to be my fortress of solitude – a place to relax with a good book or write in the corner of the common room near the window.
During the spring, summer, and fall; sometimes in the winter, people flock to Seaport Village to fly their kite on the long stretch of grass that hugs the bay. It’s a beautiful site. Street performers set up shop along the walkway to advertise their talent for tips; some of which are amazing. At night, small bands play in the courtyard near the carousel. To add, Seaport Village is one of many of the best spots to capture the sunset while drinking wine or a cold beer.
Historic Gaslamp Quarter
The Gaslamp Quarter in San Diego is popular for its nightclubs, fine restaurants, shopping and entertainment. Among the Victorian style homes and skyscrapers, San Diegans and tourists fill the streets day and night eager for a good time or a simple outing. My husband and I love trying new restaurants in the Gaslamp; all of which exceeded our expectations. Since my husband is a fine art photographer, we also enjoy walking around the Gaslamp to capture more the unique buildings and busy activity among the streets. If you find yourself in the San Diego Gaslamp, and I hope you do, keep an eye out for copper plaques displayed on many of the buildings. Each plaque shares a snippet of San Diego history that will help you see San Diego in an interesting light.
Old Town
If you’re seeking additional insight on the history of San Diego and more delicious food, take a trip to Old Town San Diego State Park. Old Town is popular among supernatural enthusiasts who flock to the grounds seeking a haunting experience at the old Whaley House, Cosmopolitan Hotel or town cemetery. On weekends, the streets of Old Town are often filled with artistic vendors eager to share their trade. My husband and I would escape to Old Town when we needed to slow down and take a stroll in the past. Since the Mexican food is amazing, we would always leave Old Town with full bellies and plans to return soon. Oh, and if you are a chocolate lover like my husband and I, check out Cousin’s Candy Shop. They have a favorable variety of all things sweet.
Coronado Island
Coronado is one of my favorite places to visit in San Diego. My husband and I would visit the island regularly to walk barefoot along the beach, enjoy a meal at a restaurant, shop at the cute boutiques and hold hands as we walk through the beautiful neighborhoods. Coronado is known for its San Diego-Coronado Bridge and historic Hotel del Coronado, which I urge you to take the time to walk through. It’s beautiful! From the bayside of Coronado, visitors can see the San Diego skyline, which is a view worthy of capturing.
La Jolla Shores
When my husband and I would rise early, we would often take a drive to La Jolla Shores to walk along the beach and take photos. Many runners and pet owner had the same idea and would provide kind greeting as we passed one another. It was the perfect way to start our day. La Jolla Shores is a peaceful location where people are invited to sunbath, boogie board, surf board, or play some sand sports. It’s within walking distance to some great restaurants and a cute shopping district. Visitors can also make their way to the nearby Children’s Pool to view the seals that are often found sunbathing on the rocks and at play in the water. Also nearby is the infamous Scripps Pier, which I wrote about months ago titled, Scripps Pier California – Interesting Photos and Facts. It has a fascinating history and is one of the most beautiful piers photographed. In the early morning and into the night, La Jolla Shores is one of the finest and calming beach get-always that I encourage all to explore.
Balboa Park
San Diegans and tourists flock to Balboa Park daily to walk through the colorful gardens, authentic buildings, and popular museums. It is home to the Old Globe theatre where free organ concerts take place on Sundays and regular plays are held. My husband and I would visit Balboa Park often. Its beauty never gets old. On Tuesdays, California residents are given the opportunity to visit three of the museums for free; a great opportunity to take the kids on a fun field trip.
Amusement Parks
San Diego is home to many amusement parks, but the most notable is Sea World, Legoland, the Wild Animal Park and the San Diego Zoo. All make great day trips and offer an amazing experience for the whole family. While I think Legoland is more suitable for families with small children, couples without children can enjoy the park by walking around to view the creative lego pieces. My husband and I would visit Sea World each year. The shows are fantastic and the park is beautiful. There are few rides, but the real entertainment is the exhibits where visitors can view the animals, and in some interact with them. Our favorite parks are the San Diego Zoo (within walking distance from Balboa Park) and the San Diego Zoo Safari Park. These parks take each visitor on an adventure to different parts of the world to experience the habitat of each animal. Visitors are also educated on the care, lifestyles and conditions of each animal. Make sure to wear comfortable walking shoes because the day is jammed packed with much walking and standing, but well worth it.
Prepare Your Trip to San Diego
There is much more to see and do in San Diego that I didn’t mention. Needless to say, if you plan a trip to San Diego, you certainly won’t be disappointed. Boredom is not an option. There are too many sunsets to watch, beaches to explore, mountains to climb, attractions to visit, food to eat and socializing to do. To add, there really isn’t a bad time to visit San Diego as the weather rarely changes.
I encourage you to leave a comment to share your favorite places to visit in San Diego.