Things to Do

Top Ten Things to Do in Balboa Park

There’s a lot to see and do in San Diego, and a great deal of it can be experienced by making a trip to the city’s iconic Balboa Park. In many ways, Balboa Park is the heart and soul of the San Diego community, and no visit here is truly complete without spending some time roaming its beautiful open spaces and exploring its many fabulous attractions. Home to museums, gardens, restaurants, shops, a world-famous zoo, and more, Balboa Park features something for everyone. Read on for a list of ten highlights of this special place.

San Diego Museum of Art

Widely considered San Diego’s premier art institution, the San Diego Museum of Art is one of Balboa Park’s many can’t-miss attractions. The San Diego Museum of Art’s collection is varied and eclectic, but counts among its strengths especially well-regarded holdings in fields like 19^th and 20^th Century American paintings, South Asian art, and 17^th and 18^th Century European paintings. There’s always a special exhibit or two running here, and best of all, the San Diego Museum of Art is free for all guests under the age of 17 years old.

Museum of Photographic Arts

For as much as photography is a huge part of our world today, when you stop and think about it, there aren’t all that many museums you’ll come across that are devoted solely to the subject. In fact, the Museum of Photographic Arts in Balboa Park proudly touts itself as one of only three (3!) such independent museums in the United States! All of which is to say you should visit this special place, which has a permanent collection of roughly 10,000 items and has a remarkable “Pay-What-You-Wish” admission policy.

San Diego Air & Space Museum

This Balboa Park landmark is proudly affiliated with the Smithsonian Institution, and regularly heralded as one of the finest air and space museums found anywhere in the entire United States. Here you’ll find artifacts from throughout the history of flight, which the museum teaches us dates back way longer than we might have originally thought! These include multiple reproductions of the Wright Brothers’ gliders, a replica of Charles Lindbergh’s legendary Spirit of St. Louis, and many different NASA spacecrafts. The San Diego Air & Space Museum also routinely hosts special exhibits and traveling shows.

San Diego Zoo

One of San Diego’s most famous attractions, the San Diego Zoo occupies 100 acres at the heart of Balboa Park. There you can get up close and personal with approximately 12,000 animals numbered from almost 700 distinct species. And though the stars of the show here are perennial crowd pleasers like elephants, polar bears, and lions, the San Diego Zoo also has its very own botanical garden where some 700,000 plants, drawn from over 3,000 species, are grown. If you’ve got the time, consider going on one of the zoo’s “special experiences.” These include guided tours, live feedings, and more.

San Diego Natural History Museum

In essence, the San Diego Natural History Museum is five full floors of fascinating family fun. Known locally as “The Nat,” the San Diego Natural History Museum is home to educational exhibits on dinosaurs, minerals, California’s varied ecosystems, and so many more natural subjects. Whether you’re interested in hands-on learning, or just want to sit back and watch an adventure film on a giant theater screen, this is the Balboa Park attraction for you.

Institute of Contemporary Art San Diego

Aficionados of contemporary art won’t want to miss out on a visit to the Institute of Contemporary Art San Diego. Borne out of a recent merger of the San Diego Art Institute and the LUX Art Institute, this modern facility focuses on uplifting the work of local artists, while also hosting a half-dozen or so special exhibitions each year featuring artists from all over the world. Live performances and enlightening workshops are staples of the Institute of Contemporary Art San Diego’s rich programming calendar of events. No matter what time of year you find yourself in Balboa Park, the Institute of Contemporary Art San Diego will be running something noteworthy.

Balboa Park Trails

For all there is to see and do in Balboa Park, it is, at its core, a park—a lovely public space where you can get some fresh air, go for a stroll, and bask in the natural beauty of San Diego. To that end, next time you find yourself visiting Balboa Park, consider going for a hike on one of its roughly 20 different trails. Balboa Park contains some 65 miles of trail, suitable for hikers of all backgrounds and experiences, and they’re just waiting for your next adventure!

Balboa Park Gardens

Balboa Park is also home to several distinctive gardens worth exploring. These include the 1935 Cactus Garden, a historic site designed for the 1935 California Pacific International Expositions that is devoted to succulents; the Alcazar Garden, which was modeled after the gardens of a Spanish castle and can be found near the San Diego Art Institute; and the Botanical Building and Lily Pond. And that’s but three of over a dozen unique garden experiences available to you here in Balboa Park!

Balboa Park Miniature Train

This one’s perfect for the younger visitors to Balboa Park. The Balboa Park Miniature Train is an antique G-16 model miniature train, one of only a handful of its kind remaining anywhere in the world. You’ll find this tiny train’s station just outside of the entrance to the San Diego Zoo. There you’ll be able to board the G-16 for a brief, half-mile journey across a scenic expanse of Balboa Park. It’ll make for a delightful excursion that’ll delight the kids.

Balboa Park Dining

Finally, Balboa Park is a terrific spot to grab something to eat. Within Balboa Park’s 1,200 acres you’ll find over a dozen different restaurants and cafés just waiting for you to try them. Two best bests are the Prado and the Tea Pavilion at the Japanese Friendship Garden. Whether you’re searching for something fast and casual, a bite that’ll satisfy even the pickiest eater in your crew, or you just want to unwind with a friend over a glass of wine in a scenic setting, you’ll find it in Balboa Park.

San Diego for First-Time Visitors

If you’re on the way to San Diego for the first time in your life, then you have every reason to be excited and then some. As renowned as San Diego is for its amazing weather—and justifiably so, given the nature of its terrific climate—the city really is so much more than that. Home to picture-perfect beaches, inspiring museums, fine restaurants, acclaimed craft breweries, unique wildlife, and so much more, San Diego really does feature a little bit of something for everyone.

Given how much there is to see and do in San Diego, it’s important for first-time visitors to have a sense of just where exactly to start their adventures. Keep reading for a few suggestions regarding what San Diego attractions truly are can’t-miss destinations.

San Diego Zoo

First up on your list should be a visit the world-famous San Diego Zoo. Everyone’s sad that the wildly popular giant panda bears no longer call the San Diego Zoo home, but there’s still a fabulous number of animals to see up close and personal here. Perennial favorite exhibits include habitats for cheetahs, lions, elephants, grizzly bears, and hippos, and there are also several special tour experiences available like the 60-minute Discovery Cart tour, live animal feedings, zookeeper talks, and more.

San Diego Zoo Safari Park

Though San Diego Zoo Safari Park is a sister facility of the San Diego Zoo, it’s a very different attraction, and well worth exploring on its own merits. Located 35 miles outside of downtown San Diego, the Safari Park is home to almost 4,000 animals living on nearly 2,000 acres of beautiful California countryside. Here you can walk around under spacious skies and feel as though you’re experiencing the Safari Park’s approximately 300 distinct species in something more akin to their actual natural habitats than a more conventional zoo.

La Jolla

Just north of San Diego you’ll find La Jolla, a seaside area that many consider one of the loveliest stretches of coastline in the world. La Jolla is the sort of place where you don’t really need to do anything—it’s well worth heading there just to sit on the cliffs in the sun, feel the ocean breeze on your face, and bask in the breathtaking scenery all around you (which frequently incudes seals and sea lions!). However, if you desire a more active experience, you’re in business, too, because there’s a lot to explore around La Jolla. Hiking, biking, kayaking, snorkeling, and scuba diving are popular activities in the area, and there’s plenty of dining and shopping nearby as well. Be sure to make time for La Jolla Cove and Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve! They’re particularly standout attractions in what is a wonderful spot to visit.

Coronado

Coronado is an essential part of the San Diego experience. Situated on a narrow strip of land just southwest of San Diego Bay from the city’s downtown core, it’s here that you’ll find Coronado Beach, which routinely rates as one of the most popular beaches in the entire country, as well as plentiful opportunities for outdoor fun like kayaking, biking, and paddleboarding. An absolute must-see part of a visit to Coronado is the Hotel del Coronado. This legendary establishment first opened its doors way back in 1888, and in the intervening years has hosted countless celebrities and world leaders while being featured in numerous movies. Even if you don’t stay here, it’s worth checking out for its architectural grandeur and historical importance

**USS Midway Museum**

The USS Midway Museum is one of the more unique museums you’re liable to encounter: it’s a museum located entirely on a ship! And not just any ship, mind you, but a massive United States Navy aircraft carrier that was fully operational from 1945 to 1992. Nowadays the USS Midway houses approximately 30 restored aircrafts, and features 60 interactive exhibits. A variety of tours are available, too, and the museum is regularly one of the most popular attractions found anywhere in the greater San Diego area.

SeaWorld San Diego

SeaWorld San Diego is the original SeaWorld location, meaning that it’s a local institution that has become a global brand. There are a bunch of different things to do at SeaWorld San Diego—so many, in fact, that many visitors spend multiple days here. The fascinating marine animals that call SeaWorld San Diego home are the true headliners, of course, and include fan favorites like all types of sharks, whales, dolphins, and penguins, just to name few. That’s just scratching the surface, though. There are more rides here than you can imagine, dining and shopping opportunities galore, and Sesame Street Bay of Play, an entertaining and educational attraction the kids will love.

Balboa Park

Last but most definitely not least, your very first trip to San Diego must budget in a healthy amount time for the one and only Balboa Park. In many ways, Balboa Park is the heart and soul of San Diego. Though this 1,200-acre park contains scenic hiking trails and beautiful flower gardens, it’s ultimately so much more than your conventional city park. That’s because Balboa Park is also home to theaters, stores, restaurants, the San Diego Zoo, and 17 museums and cultural institutions, including standouts like the Fleet Science Center, San Diego Museum of Art, San Diego Natural History Museum (sometimes called The NAT), San Diego Air & Space Museum, San Diego Model Railroad Museum, and the Institute of Contemporary Art, San Diego.

San Diego on a Rainy Day

It’s difficult to think of all that many places in the United States more beloved for their beautiful weather than San Diego. Year in and year out, no matter the season, people flock to San Diego from all over the world to experience the city’s sun and sand for themselves. When we think of San Diego, in fact, that’s quite often what comes to mind first: sun, sand, and smiles.

Alas, nothing in life is perfect, and even in San Diego a little rain must fall from time to time. And so the question comes to mind: what to do when you find yourself visiting San Diego on a rainy day? Fear not, there’s still much to do in San Diego on a day when the weather is not your friend. Keep reading for a list of some suitable solutions to this rainy-day riddle.

San Diego Natural History Museum

Lovingly referred to by locals as “The Nat,” the San Diego Natural History Museum is every bit as neat of a place as you would expect a museum with a hip nickname to be. There’s so much to experience at The Nat that it’s likely you’ll struggle to decide where to begin your adventure, but when in doubt, follow this simple rule and you’ll be just fine: Dinosaurs. That’s right, the San Diego Natural History Museum is home to some wonderful dinosaur-centric exhibits. These include Fossil Mysteries—which catalogs a staggering 75 million years’ worth of locally discovered remains—and a prominently displayed Allosaurus fragilis skeleton fondly known as “Al.” Al would have been a cousin of the mighty T. rex, so yeah, he’s pretty cool.

Birch Aquarium

The Birch Aquarium at Scripps (helpful shorthand for the “Scripps Institution of Oceanography at the University of California, San Diego”) will help you shake your rainy-day blues in no time at all. Over 5,000 different sea creatures, spread out across nearly 60 unique exhibits, call this charming facility home. It’s impossible in this short space here to describe everything there is to discover at Birch Aquarium, but some favorite attractions would have to be Tidepool Plaza, Shark Shores, and the Giant Kelp Forest exhibit, a two-story, 70,000-gallon tank that lets you experience these “underwater forests” like never before. Not only does Birch Aquarium make for a great visit, but its remarkable physical setting gifts it with breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean and La Jolla.

USS Midway Museum

The USS Midway Museum is housed on the retired aircraft carrier Midway, which means that parts of the museum experience here are located outside. “Wait, what?” you’re asking right about now, operating as you are under the belief that this article is about rainy-day suggestions. Hear me out, though, as there’s a certain method to the madness of suggesting visiting the USS Midway Museum on a rainy day. The USS Midway Museum is one of San Diego’s most popular attractions—it’s more often than not a really busy place. However, since some of the museum is located outside, that’s liable to scare away guests on a day when the weather is a bit crummier. Yet a great deal of the USS Midway Museum’s exhibits—features like the Hangar Deck and Below Deck exhibits—are found indoors. So, if you aren’t afraid of a little bit of rain, you can enjoy this fine attraction and all it has to offer while also beating the crowds—all by visiting on a rainy day!

Fleet Science Center

Just because the weather outside is not cooperating, that doesn’t mean you and the kids will be prevented from “being active” on a rainy day in San Diego. That’s because a terrific place to visit in San Diego is the Fleet Science Center. This popular attraction is full of interactive marvels that’ll cheer up any one feeling blue at the prospect of not being able to run around the beach all day. Take in a movie at the Giant Dome IMAX Theater, prepare to be an astronaut at the Space Gallery’s Off-World Training Base, learn about the power of water in the San Diego’s Water: From Source to Tap exhibit, and inhabit an alternate reality with the Pulseworks Virtual Reality Transporter ride.

San Diego Museum of Art

The heart of the matter is that the San Diego Museum of Art is well worth your time regardless of the weather outside, but if you can slot it into your schedule on a day when outdoor conditions are less-than ideal, then that’s even better. The San Diego Museum of Art’s permanent collection alone is reason even to visit, as it contains works by brilliant artists as diverse as Francisco Goya, Hieronymus Bosch, Pierre-Auguste Renoir, El Greco, and Henri Matisse. Beyond those fine holdings, though, the San Diego Museum of Art regularly hosts live performances, educational events, and special exhibits from all over the world. Whether you’ve got an hour to kill, or desire to spend an entire afternoon losing yourself in the power of art, this San Diego attraction is for you.

San Diego Air & Space Museum

Located in Balboa Park, the San Diego Air & Space Museum makes for a great place to spend the day—and, if we’re being honest, that’s true whether it’s raining outside or not! Here you’ll find all sorts of educational exhibits and cultural artifacts pertaining to the history of flight. The museum’s collection of historic airplanes and space craft is second to none, and includes highlights like a replica of Charles Lindbergh’s Spirit of St. Louis, the Apollo 9 command module Gumdrop, and multiple reproductions of Orville and Wilbur Wright’s early experimental gliders. In addition to these treasures, visitors can enjoy touring an assortment of rotating special exhibits, as well as grab a bite to eat at the tasty Flight Path Grill.

You’re about to Discover SeaWorld San Diego’s Five Rip-Roaring Roller Coasters!

Take your next vacation to new heights. Discover SeaWorld San Diego’s five outstanding roller coasters. Best known for its marine animal shows, SeaWorld San Diego gives you a chance to get up close to dolphins. Soon you’ll be acrobatic, too when you ride these five rip-roaring roller coasters.

SeaWorld San Diego has thrilling rides, all with marine themes named after your favorite sea creatures. Don’t miss a chance to try out the latest edition, the Emperor Dive Roller Coaster, opening just in time for summer in May, 2020. Electric Eel and the new Emperor Dive get to speeds of 60 mph. Climb 150 feet before racing down hair-raising drops. Go on gravity-defying twists and turns that will have you screaming for more. Younger guests can enjoy the fun, too, at the Tidal Twister with zooming figure eights. Cool off with a splash down the Journey to Atlantis. Why not try them all?

Manta

Sit down and hold on tight. It’s time for the Manta Roller Coaster! You’ll find this ride on the shore of Mission Bay. On the way to the entrance, observe California bat rays and diamond stingrays swimming in the tanks. Then the ride begins with a cruise through a wrap-around high definition tunnel that feels just like it would underwater. Suddenly, Manta takes you on twists and turns with two launches and a surprising 54-foot drop (but no inversions on this one).

Electric Eel

If you want speed then head straight to Electric Eel Roller Coaster in San Diego. Feel EElectrified on San Diego’s tallest, fastest roller coaster. Hold on tight as the ride propels you 60 mph forwards and backwards. Feel the rush on 853 feet of fun! This high-energy coaster debuted in 2018. It has become a park favorite, taking riders on twists and inversions with its famous triple-launch feature and a slow-motion inline twist. Find the Electric Eel right next to the Journey to Atlantis roller coaster.

Journey to Atlantis

Hop off the Electric Eel and head next door to discover the Journey to Atlantis roller coaster. This world-famous ride originally opened back in 1998 and continues to mesmerize. New additions to the ride include ambient, magical music featured in the SeaWorld’s former cirque-style show. Before you hop on, check out the small aquarium exhibit, “Jewels of the Sea”. Then take a “boat ride” through the mythic underwater land. Climb hills overlooking the park then zoom down steep drops as you splash to the pool below. Hold onto your hats!

Tidal Twister

SeaWorld San Diego debuted its Tidal Twister in 2019. Despite some setbacks, the coaster has returned. This time, better than before! The family-friendly Tidal Twister roller coaster accommodates younger children looking for a thrill. It features a 300-foot track that rises to 16 feet above the ground. Sixteen-passenger trains reach 30 mph and speed through figure eights. The unique dueling coaster lets guests face forward and backward. Height requirements are 48”, perfect for younger guests at the park.

Emperor Dive

Some might not realize that SeaWorld San Diego is the only place in North America where you can see the emperor penguin. And to celebrate this awesome animal, SeaWorld will debut its Emperor Dive Coaster. The new ride opens in May, 2020, just in time for summer. The first floorless dive coaster in California ascends 150 feet before dropping 90 degrees. The ride bursts to 60 mph through frosted cliffs and then deep into the “ocean”. You’ll feel like the king of all penguins as you speed through loops with a 143 face down drop.

Who wants to wait in long lines? Jump the line at the main entrance with your Go San Diego Pass. It will get you into almost every attraction in town including SeaWorld San Diego, San Diego Zoo, Safari Park, and USS Midway. Pay nothing at the gate – simply scan your digital pass. Then go on an adventure at the top San Diego theme park with roller coasters, rides, and shows. Experience it all, at a discount.

5 of San Diego’s Coolest Farmers Markets

San Diego is uniquely positioned to take full advantage of the organic and natural foods movement, since Southern California is an agricultural mecca of citrus, avocado, and nut groves, organic farms, dairy farms, sustainable ranches, and of course, the ocean. Local farmers markets provide venues for farmers, ranchers, and fishermen to give San Diegans and visitors an authentic farm to consumer experience. Here are five of the top farmers markets, certified by the County Agricultural Commissioner, and what you can expect from each.

Ocean Beach Certified Farmers Market

Ocean Beach is San Diego’s last classic bohemian beach town. The tight-knit community hosts its Wednesday evening farmers market on Newport Avenue, the neighborhood’s social and commercial hub. “It’s like a neighborhood gathering every week,” says OB Farmers Market Manager, David Klaman. The market’s laid-back vibe reflects the neighborhood’s personality. Each week features two live musical performances ranging from classic rock to country to beat box.

This is the place for baskets of strawberries, bunches of fresh-cut flowers, and stacks of green and red peppers, chilis, cucumbers, zucchini, and squash. You’ll find bins of half shucked white sweet corn, fat round watermelon, deep purple eggplant, and a plethora of other vegetables, fruits, greens and herbs. They sell home-made grocery products like jams, dressings, and pickled raw garlic. There are artisan goods, an array of aromatic eats, a children’s play area, and of course the beach. It’s a great place to spend a cool weekday evening supporting local farmers and artists.

4900 Newport Avenue, San Diego, CA, 619-279-0032
Wednesdays, 4:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.

North Park Thursday Market

This certified farmers market is held Thursdays on North Park Way between the popular 30^th Street corridor and Utah Street. You’ll find high-end reputable farms you know and love represented here like Suzie’s Farm, Valdivia Farm, and JR Organics, among others. Artisan grocers like GreenFix Organic Smoothie, Baby Clydesdale, and Bitchin’ Sauce sell their grocery products here. Spring Hill Farms is here with organic cheese and butter, The Bread Barn Artisan Bread Company and Da Le Ranch, purveyors of locally-raised meats, are also on hand. This is a serious celebration of natural foods with 80 booths in total.

Local top chefs from restaurants like Waypoint Public and Urban Solace host cooking demonstrations and tastings utilizing fresh ingredients sourced from the market. Community partners have a healthy snack area set up for kids, and offer fun activities that teach nutrition. Live music permeates the festive atmosphere with local entertainers like Barrie Dempsey and Ace Tropic. Rotating selections of artisan gifts are also available. This is the place to be on Thursdays.

3000 North Park Way, San Diego, CA, 619-233-3901
Thursdays, 3:00 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.

Little Italy Mercato Farmers’ Market

Little Italy Mercato Farmers’ Market sets the bar for all other farmers markets in San Diego. Everything about Little Italy is done with artistry and flair, so why should the Mercato be any different? You’ll find the widest variety of truly artisan offerings from produce to nuts to wine found anywhere in the county with over 175 vendors and farmers. Not only are well-established California certified farmers and ranchers represented here, but smaller local organic producers like African Sisters vegetables and greens, Mountain Meadow mushrooms, and San Diego Hometown Harvest microgreens and sprouts have a place too. There are almonds from Hopkins almond Growers, macadamia nuts from Fancy Treats, and walnuts from Terra Bella Ranch. You’ll find raw honey from Farmer’s Daughter, farm fresh eggs from Hilliker’s Ranch and fresh-cut blooms from Hidalgo Flower Growers. Little Italy Mercato is also the place for fish of every variety.

Little Italy is one of San Diego’s premier art enclaves, so it isn’t surprising the Mercato includes a long list of unique and high quality artistic products. They offer artisan wood crafts, tablecloths, jewelry, candles, lavender products, recycled art, greeting cards, ornaments, and a wide range of other treasures.

519 W Cedar Street, San Diego, CA, 619-233-3901
Saturdays, 8:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.

La Jolla Open Aire Market

The upscale La Jolla Open Aire Market has an artistic street-fair ambiance and features treasures like eco-chic tree furniture and art objects, original fine art paintings, hand woven rugs, hand-blown glass bottle stoppers, locally made boutique quality clothing, and imported Italian glassware and ceramics. In the midst of the market there is a shaded picnic area, and a kids’ play structure. Open Aire is away from the busy tourist area at La Jolla Elementary School with lots of room to browse.

Morning Star Ranch sells organic produce and bottled green drinks, Belen Artisan Bread offers organic breads, and Mangi Con Amore has organic Italian pasta, sauces, and dessert products. Terra Bella Ranch has black mission figs, walnuts, sun-dried apricots and tomatoes, and almonds; they pick their citrus and avocados on Fridays to bring to Sunday market. It doesn’t get much fresher than that. There are organic olive oils and spices, organic toffees, specialty cookies, and red velvet cake pops along with rows of produce, cheeses, and flowers. Stop by Windansea Beach or La Jolla Cove after the market!

7300 Girard Avenue, San Diego, CA, 858-454-1699
Sundays, 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.

Hillcrest Certified Farmers Market & Open Air Bazaar

Hillcrest Farmers Market is “fresh and fabulous, just like Hillcrest.” It’s the only San Diego farmers market to rival Little Italy’s Mercato in both size and selection, and is reflective of the community’s friendly and inclusive personality. The diverse ethnic restaurant scene is well represented, so don’t bother to eat before you go. Thirsty? How about a watermelon jalapeño lemonade? If you skipped breakfast, grab some coconut pancakes or stuffed cassava breakfast pies. You’ll find boutique clothes, specialty handcrafts, and unique gifts galore. Check out chiropractic, energy work, and massage services. There are skin care products, artisan candles, metal art, African folk art, tee shirts, and more. You can even bring your culinary knives for sharpening.

Hillcrest Farmers Market hosts many of the same farmers you know and trust that you find at the Mercato like Smit Ranch, Valdivia’s Farm, and Suzie’s Farm. Nicolau Farms Goat Cheese, Valley Center Growers, Whole Earth Acre, and Pedro’s Organic Avocado Ranch are also here among many others. On your way out, you can buy an armful of flowers and stop by the craft beer and wine tasting tent. Do Sundays get any better?

3690 Normal Street, San Diego, CA, 619-237-1632
Sundays, 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.

Hike Like a Local: 9 Spectacular Hiking Trails in San Diego

When people think of San Diego they think of sandy beaches, incredible surf, and a lively city, but what they don’t know is this is also a hiker’s paradise. Its unbelievably diverse backcountry is one of its best kept secrets where everything from a palm oasis to a mixed-conifer forest can be found. Whether you’re a novice hiker, experienced hiker, or somewhere in the middle, it’s easy to find a trail to challenge you and more often than not an incredible view awaits at the end. Below are our top 9 hiking trails in San Diego.

3 Essential San Diego Trails for Beginner Hikers

Borrego Palm Canyon

Borrego Palm Canyon is a 3.2-mile hiking trail within the Anza-Borrego Desert State Park located at the foot of San Diego County. This relatively flat trail has hikers traveling through a desert oasis filled with bighorn sheep (Borrego), cactus gardens, and wildflowers in a magnificently isolated area that ends at the third biggest palm refuge in California. It is the ideal sunset hike due to the colorful beauty of the area and perfect for beginner hikers.

Trail Level: Easy

Sunset Cliffs Natural Park

Hikers can easily access these 1.5 miles of hiking trails at Sunset Cliffs Boulevard and Ladera Street in the Ocean Beach neighborhood of San Diego. It is by far the most enchanting and relaxing hike in the city boasting extraordinary views while walking along the majestic sea cliffs in the cool ocean air, and the perfect spot to glimpse the elusive green flash. A sunset hike or evening stroll provides picturesque views and frequent seal and bottlenose dolphin spottings.

Trail Level: Easy

Balboa Park Trails

Balboa Park is known for its world renowned museums, botanical gardens, art exhibitions, and prominent cultural events. Very few realize this is 1,200-acre cultural oasis is also encircled by miles and miles of hiking trails perfect for any level. Their five trails range in length and difficulty, ensuring anyone can find a trail, and it’s easy to navigate. All trails are numbered, with Trail #1 being the easiest at 1.5 miles, to the most difficult Trail #5 at 6.6 miles.

Trail Levels: Easy to Difficult

3 Challenging San Diego Trails for Mid-Level Hikers

Palomar Mountain

Palomar Mountain is a demanding half day hike with a round trip total of 13 miles, and one of the highest peaks in San Diego County at just over 6,100 feet. It offers hikers a Sierra Nevada-like ambiance with cedar trees, massive Douglas firs, and stunning views of the San Jacinto peaks. Those who are ready to take on this challenging adventure should consider making the 4.5 mile hike to the Palomar Observatory where they can see the 200-inch reflecting telescope.

Trail Level: Moderate

Cowles Mountain

Any San Diego hiker will tell you that the hike up Cowles Mountain is the most popular in the city, and it has much to do with the awe-inspiring 360-degree views of the city from the top. It’s known for its steep switchbacks, but is still a relatively manageable hike for most novices and dogs sure seem to love it. This is most commonly a mid-day hike, sneaked in during a busy day. It’s just under 1,600 feet high, 1.5 miles to the top, making it the highest peak within the city limits.

Trail Level: Easy to Moderate

Torrey Pines State Reserve

The Torrey Pines State Reserve offers hikers diversity both in the geological terrain and trail systems that allow visitors to choose the intensity level that is best for their day. The rugged sea cliffs, pine trees, and native flowers showcase the one-of-a-kind beauty San Diego is known for with roughly eight miles of trails that end at stunning lookout points. Among the highlight trails are the Guy Fleming, Razor Point, and the Beach Trail that finishes on the sand allowing hikers to indulge in a leisurely stroll while watching a beach sunset.

Trail Level: Moderate to Difficult

3 Daring San Diego Trails for Experienced Hikers

Iron Mountain

Iron Mountain is a 6-mile hike located in Poway, a well maintained and clearly marked trail system that features the diverse beauty of California. It’s one of the more popular hikes among experienced hikers surrounded by sprawling hills, gigantic boulders, and covered with stunning purple lilacs. The hike itself doesn’t provide much cover from the sun so its recommended hikers begin their journey in the morning. This is a family-friendly trail and passing by a horseback rider or two along the way isn’t uncommon.

Trail Level: Difficult

Mount Woodson

Mount Woodson better known as Potato Chip Rock is a local favorite and photo opt hot spot for San Diegans and visitors alike, and most prominently known for this incredibly unique rock formation at the top. The 6.4 miles of twisting trail is lined with huge boulders as hikers make their way to the top of one of the county’s highest peaks; it ends with stunning views of Palomar Mountain and Lake Poway. While it is one of the most visually stunning hikes, it is also one of the most challenging and visitors are encouraged to bring along plenty of water as well as some protein-laden, energy-inducing snacks.

Trail Level: Difficult

El Cajon Mountain

El Cajon Mountain is by far the most strenuous and exhausting hikes on this list, but also the one that will make hikers feel the most accomplished. IRONMAN triathletes use this 11-mile hike for their training, so it is most assuredly not for novice hikers. The hike follows the route of an old mining trail and traverses up to an almost 3,700 foot peak giving its victors magnificent views of the mountainous range. It can get extremely hot on this trail and even closes during the month of August due to the heat, so hikers need to be careful and plan accordingly.

Trail Level: Extremely Difficult

These are our favorites, but we know there are many more out there we didn’t mention so what are some of yours? Any we’ve missed that you think deserve to be on the list? Let us know.

8 San Diego Tours by Land or by Sea

No matter what time of year it is in San Diego, there are plenty of sunny days to go exploring. According to BestPlaces, San Diego has a Comfort Index of 9.2/10, making it one of California’s most pleasant climates, hence our motto, “Always sunny and 72.” With a climate like this, it’s no wonder San Diegans live life outdoors. Join us in the California sunshine on your next visit with these eight tours of San Diego.

5 San Diego Tours for Landlubbers

Whether docent led or self-guided, these tours give visitors a taste of San Diego. They range from far-reaching tours like Old Town Trolley tours and GoCar Tours to neighborhood tours like Gaslamp Quarter Tours to attraction tours like PETCO Park Tours. Here are our favorite on-land tours in San Diego.

PETCO Park Tour

Baseball fans will love this behind-the-scenes tour of the home stadium of the San Diego Padres. This state-of-the-art facility includes Padres Hall of Fame, a theater, a kids’ entertainment zone, a three-acre “park within a park”, and a 250-seat auditorium. Most tours include Padre’s dugout, the field, writers’ row, skyboxes, visiting teams’ clubhouse, batting cages, and more.

Old Town Trolley Tours

Old Town Trolley Tours are classic hop on, hop off tours with over 100 points of interest. The Day Tour has 11 stops from Old Town San Diego State Park to Coronado Island’s Orange Avenue. The San Diego, La Jolla, Mission Beach Tour showcases area beaches and Mount Soledad. There’s even a 90-minute Frightseeing Tour for the adventurous.

GoCar Tours

GoCar Tours have been dubbed, “The cure for the common tour.” These GPS-guided storytelling cars follow prescribed routes that describe everything from scenic overlooks to attractions. Tours come in one-, two-, three-, and five-hour options. You have to keep it moving to see everything on a tour, but you can discover your favorites for a later visit.

Gaslamp Quarter Tours

Gaslamp Quarter Tours are 90-minute tours that focus on the rich cultural heritage and architecture of this spectacular San Diego neighborhood. These docent-led walking tours are on Saturdays and leave from the William Heath Davis House. The historic neighborhood is dense with dining and shopping opportunities, so be sure to take advantage after your tour.

Hotel del Coronado Walking Tour

The Hotel Del Coronado was built in 1888 and designated a National Historic Landmark in 1977. Ninety-minute tours of this historic hotel, the second biggest wooden structure in the world, are led by docents from the Coronado Museum of History and Art. You’ll learn about the rich and storied past of this majestic Victorian beach resort that San Diegans adore.

3 San Diego Tours on the Water

There is a lot to explore along the 90-mile San Diego coastline, but two areas that are particularly popular are San Diego Bay and La Jolla Cove. San Diego Seal Tours and Flagship Cruises specialize in Bay tours, and Kayak and Bike La Jolla specializes in tours of La Jolla Cove.

San Diego Seal Tours

San Diego Seal Tours is actually a combination land and sea tour that begins at Seaport Village. The 90-minute tour travels the streets of San Diego pointing out facts about the Star of India, USS Midway, and Old Town, among others. It then plunges into San Diego Bay where you’ll see the mansions of Point Loma, the Marine Mammal Training Center, playful sea lions, and more.

Flagship Cruises

For those who want to get out on the water and explore the San Diego Bay and coastline, there are plenty of options with Flagship Cruises. They include Patriot Tours, North, South, and Full Harbor Tours, Whale Watching Tours, Patriot Jet Boat Tours, Dining Cruises and a variety of yacht and charter tours.

Kayak, Bike, or Snorkel La Jolla

Bike and Kayak Tours in La Jolla offers visitors two ocean experiences. Ninety-minute kayak tours leave from their La Jolla Shores beachfront office every hour from 9 a.m. to sunset. They cross La Jolla Ecological Reserve to the seven caves of La Jolla. The other tour is a Swim with the Sharks Tour, a 50-minute snorkel experience with La Jolla’s leopard sharks.

This is by no means a definitive list of all the tours available in America’s Finest City, but it’s a good place to start, especially if it’s your first time here. Save money on these and other tours, plus all of San Diego’s biggest attractions with a single, easy to use discount card from Go San Diego.

San Diego Zoo Global Provides Relief to Australia

Recent Australian wildfires have burned stunning images of wildlife and habitat loss into our collective consciousness. Acres of blackened trees devoid of greenery, hundreds of charred wildlife carcasses – primarily koalas and kangaroos, and an endless landscape of scorched and smoldering earth are all that remain of many parts of mainland Australia and Kangaroo Island. The wildfires have delivered a devastating blow to the ecological diversity of a nation.

Fortunately, relief has poured in from around the world including from our own San Diego Zoo Global. This nonprofit conservation organization supports international projects that save species from extinction. They are sending monetary support to Australia to provide immediate rescue and recovery efforts of animals that have survived. They are also supporting researchers in affected areas actively working to save entire threatened species.

San Diego Global Zoo is raising money for these desperate animals to provide them with immediate emergency food, water, and injury rehabilitation, as well as long-term population recovery. The Zoo’s global arm has been working with Australia for nearly 100 years on common wildlife protection goals, but now is intensifying the on-the-groundwork to meet the overwhelming needs of fire ravaged habitats and their wildlife inhabitants.

How to Support and Save Australian Wildlife

You and all friends, patrons, and visitors of the San Diego Zoo are encouraged to participate in these direct emergency actions by donating to the Zoo’s fundraising efforts at endextinction.org/help.

By donating through San Diego Zoo Global, you are assured that your dollars are going to researchers and animal care providers who have a long history of working in Australia and know firsthand what is needed most, and where, during rescue and recovery efforts. San Diego Zoo Global takes a scientific approach to both immediate and long-term needs providing aid and expertise during this crisis.

Even if you can’t donate, your San Diego Zoo and San Diego Zoo Safari Park visits help support their global conservation efforts.

If it isn’t possible to donate or visit the zoo, San Diego Zoo invites you to visit “Animals and Plants of Australia” on their website to educate yourself about the wide variety of wildlife, trees, and plants being threatened by the fires. You’ll find complete descriptions and photos of 80 Australian species, some that are at the Zoo or Safari Park, and others that are not.

Australian Wildlife at the San Diego Zoo

San Diego Zoo is one of the city’s top five tourist attractions, receiving more than 4 million visitors last year. Combine that with the San Diego Zoo Safari Park, and that number rises to 5.1 million visitors.

You can watch the courtship of gorgeous Australian Raggiana birds of paradise in the San Diego Zoo’s aviary in the Lost Forest, or discover laughing kookaburras in the Zoo’s Australian Outback. The Zoo’s Outback exhibit also includes a colony of over 20 cuddly koalas where you can watch them curled around tree branches eating eucalyptus leaves or napping on a perch. You’ll be happy to know that funds from the Zoo’s Koala Loan Program are donated to Australia’s koala habitat conservation effort.

You can learn more about koalas inside Queenslander House that overlooks the colony, including how keepers prepare koala meals from eucalyptus. You’ll also discover cockatoos, Tasmanian devils, and wombats in the Outback exhibit.

Walkabout Australia at the San Diego Zoo Safari Park

The new $17.4 million Walkabout Australia exhibit sits on over three acres at the San Diego Zoo Safari Park in North County. You walk barrier-free exhibit paths throughout that allow you to see red-necked wallabies, western gray kangaroos, agile tree kangaroos, regal southern cassowaries, and other animals and plants up close. Although you can’t wander off the paths, there is nothing preventing the animals from approaching you.

Get to know these creatures to better understand the devastating losses in Australia and appreciate the ongoing global efforts to save them.

Grab Your San Diego Zoo and San Diego Zoo Safari Park Discounts

The pay-one-price Go San Diego Card that gets you into 48 tourist attractions with savings of up to 50% is the best way to enjoy San Diego’s biggest attractions and best museums. This money-saving card gets you discounted prices at both the San Diego Zoo and San Diego Zoo Safari Park as well as many other fun-filled attractions.

Don’t Let the Budget Stop the Fun: 10 Things to Do in San Diego under $10

In this economy when prices are continuously on the rise while our paychecks stay the same it can be hard to find fun activities to do while still staying in budget. This is especially true when living in San Diego which is the 7^th most expensive city to live in according to Travel + Leisure, but it’s not impossible. All it takes to stay well within your means while also getting out and exploring is a little imagination, planning, and our list of the 10 best things to do when on a budget in San Diego.

Explore the Great Outdoors

San Diego is best known for its sunny blue skies, magnificent coastline, and almost constant 72-degree, breezy weather, so it’s no surprise that many of the best and cheapest activities are found outdoors. A beach day with a prepared picnic is the obvious choice for many locals, but it’s not the only choice. You can easily zest up a typical beach day, or engage in an activity by the beach that doesn’t require a swimsuit.

1. Rent a Board
Where: Anywhere
Price: $5-$10

With 17 miles of coastline it’s not hard to find a beach to hang ten near your home or hotel and several surf shops in the city offer surfboard and body-board rentals for an entire day for under $10.

2. Fish on Crystal Pier
Where: Pacific Beach
Price: $7

Located in the heart of Pacific Beach at the end of Garnet Avenue is the iconic Crystal Pier, a place that doesn’t require you to have a fishing license. Simply rent a pole from the Crystal Pier Bait and Tackle shop and cast your line. The rental provides you with everything you need including the pole, tackle, bait, knife, towel, pair of pliers, and a bucket.

3. Go for a Bike Ride
Where: Various Locations
Price: $7-$10

Thanks to DECOBIKE, a self-serving rental station you can rent a bicycle almost anywhere in the city especially near the most popular beaches such as Ocean, Mission, and Pacific Beaches for just $7 an hour. Grab a beach cruiser and take a journey along the many beachside boardwalks, or inland bicycle trails.

4. Ride the Coaster
Where: Mission Beach
Price: $3-$6

Be a kid again and head out to the famous Belmont Park in Mission Beach where you can ride the majority of the rides for $5 or less and take a ride on the historical wooden roller coaster, the Giant Dipper, for just $6. You’ll have just enough change left over to indulge in a cool treat like the delicious Dole whips.

5. Go Tidepooling and Whale Watching
Where: Point Loma
Price: $5-$10

Head to the Cabrillo National Monument to enjoy a day of whale watching and tidepooling. For just $5 per bike, $7 per motorcycle, and $10 per car, you can gain entry and explore the area. There is even a hidden cave worth exploring if you can manage to find it.

The Other Side of San Diego – Inside

Outdoor adventures are great, but sometimes it’s too hot or too cold for your particular taste, or you just need a break from the beach. (Your words, not ours.) San Diego is here for you whether you want to catch a concert or do a little beer tasting; you’d be surprised what this great city can give you for just $10. Here are five of our favorite indoor activities that barely put a dent in the wallet.

6. Check out a Concert
Where: Little Italy
Price: $6-$10

It might be surprising to know you can easily catch a concert for under $10, but it is entirely true. Now they might not be the big names like Beyonce, but there are plenty of talented musicians constantly rockin’ the casbah quite literally at Rock the Casbah in Little Italy. Concert admissions are $6 during the week, and a few of the weekend shows are just $10 to enter.

7. Jump, Jump, Jump Around
Where: Various Locations
Price: $10

Find your inner child and head out to a trampoline park for some high energy fun. Rockin’ Jump, Bounce California, and Sky Zone welcome free spirits to enjoy 30 minutes of jump time for just $10.

8. Take a Tour and Enjoy a Beer Tasting
Where: Escondido or Spring Valley
Price: $3-$10

Yes, you can actually enjoy a distillery tour and indulge in a beer tasting for under $10 in two locations in San Diego. For just three dollars, Tour Stone Brewing Co. in Escondido gives guided tours of their facilities, provides four-ounce beer samples, and even gives you a complimentary glass to take home with you. Plus, it’s just an amazing place to be with a great ambiance in a natural garden setting. Tourist Tour at Kill Devil Spirit Co. in Spring Valley provides a tour of their distillery, six quarter-ounce tasters, and a mason sampler glass for $10.

9. Head to the Adult Arcade
Where: North Park
Price $10

This one cuts it kind of close, but still hits the mark; the Coin Op in North Park offers a craft cocktail menu where you can get drinks from between $7.50 and $9.50. With the change you can travel back in time and play a few rounds on their vintage arcade games.

10. Skate It Up
Where: Linda Vista
Price: $8-$10

Enjoy a little old school fun and be a teenager again at Skate World in Linda Vista; grab your funky four-wheel skates and spend a few hours cruising around the rink while listening to some amazing tunes. You can even call ahead to find out when they’re having the beginner roller derby classes, and try your hand at a new sport.

These are our top ten favorite activities to do in San Diego for less than $10, but there are plenty more. We’ve included a little hit list below to give you a broader taste, and would love to hear your suggestions too.

The Hit List

Padre’s Games, Petco Park, Downtown, $5 to $8 during spring training, lawn seats.
Disc Golf, Morley Field, North Park, $3 to $4.
Brunswick Bowling, Chula Vista, Tuesdays for $2 games, and $2 shoe rentals.
Drive In Movie, Imperial Beach, South Bay Drive In, $9.
Swap Meet, Sports Arena, Saturdays & Sundays, $2 entry.
Beach Yoga, Pacific Beach, NamaSteve, Saturday mornings, end of Law Street, from 10 a.m. to 11:30 a.m., donation based.
Ride the ferry to Coronado, Downtown, $4.75, Flagship Ferry.

9 Ways to Start the New Year with a Bang in San Diego

What better way to celebrate than in sunny San Diego? 2020 has a calendar packed with exciting things for the entire family to enjoy! Dish on local San Diego cuisine, jam out to legendary musicians on stage, or witness gravity-defying acrobatics… on stage and on ice! It’s all in here in America’s Finest City.

Willie Nelson and Family – Jan 3

Legendary country singer Willie Nelson will take the stage at Balboa Theatre in the Gaslamp Quarter to start off 2020 this January 3rd. Touring with his band, Willie Nelson and Friends, the country musician will play hits from his six-decade career. While in the neighborhood, explore the historic Gaslamp Quarter in downtown San Diego. When you’re ready to eat, The Werewolf American Pub hosts one of the best country karaoke nights along with classic American bar fare.

San Diego Brew Fest – Jan 11

Experience food trucks and craft beers, West Coast style, at the 8th Annual San Diego Brew Fest. Brought to you by 70 breweries and food trucks, this fun-filled celebration gives unlimited beer samplings with admission. VIP Admission comes with an exclusive beer tasting. The festival starts at noon in Liberty Station, Point Loma, and runs until 4 p.m. Enjoy a day of food, live music, and beer to start the new year right in San Diego.

Guided Tide Pool Adventures – Jan 11 and Jan 25

December through March marks the best time for tidepooling in San Diego. First, check for daily low tide times, then explore the marine life that thrives in this habitat where land meets sea. The Birch Aquarium welcomes marine enthusiasts of all ages to explore the beaches and tide pools on guided adventures. Trained naturalists teach all about local tide pools and how to better protect our planet. Ready for a DIY tide pool adventure? Here’s your San Diego tidepooling guide.

Boomshaka Music Fest 2020 – Jan 18

Celebrate the new year jamming to some of SoCal’s finest local bands. The Boomshaka Music Fest hosts one day of live reggae and hip hop with headliners Iration and Cypress Hill. On January 18, the music festival will serve beers and cocktails in Pechanga Arena San Diego. Snack on local fare or shop the artisan stands. Get your tickets in advance, so you don’t miss out.

Los Lobos – Jan 18

Los Lobos will perform a benefit concert this January at Spreckels Theater with proceeds going toward the homeless youth of San Diego. The three-time Grammy winning and Rock and Roll Hall of Fame Nominees, Los Lobos, has teamed up with local businesses and nonprofits for the event. B-Side Players will open this year. Purchase your tickets to celebrate the new year and to help homeless youth find safe housing. Catch an upscale dinner before the show at Grant Grill in the US Grant Hotel, or head to Lucha Libre for a casual bite.

Martin Luther King Jr. Day Parade 2020 – Jan 19

San Diego has a longstanding tradition of celebrating the life of Reverend Martin Luther King Jr. Join the Martin Luther King Jr. Day Parade 2020 starting on Harbor Drive between Grape Street and Broadway. The parade will take place between 2 and 4 p.m. on January 19. Take advantage of the opportunity to have lunch at Queenstown Public House and explore the enchanting Little Italy neighborhood before the parade.

Farmers Insurance Open at Torrey Pines – Jan 23-26

Golf enthusiasts will not want to miss this year’s Farmers Insurance Open at world-famous Torrey Pines Golf Course in La Jolla. The three-day tournament features top PGA tour players vying for a win on this gorgeous course with stunning Pacific Ocean views. Enjoy the event in luxury with a stay at The Lodge at Torrey Pines. Unwind in the evening over a high-end meal at A.R. Valentien where you just may spot a player, or two.

Disney on Ice: Mickey’s Search Party – Jan 23-26

Bring the whole family to see your favorite Disney characters take to the ice. Mickey and Minnie Mouse, Donald Duck, and the rest of the gang show off high flying acrobatics and stunts on ice. Head to Pechanga Arena on Sports Arena Boulevard to enjoy favorite Disney tunes at a new year celebration the kids will love.

Shen Yun – Jan 24-26

Witness gravity defying stunts with Shen Yun. Performers combine ancient Chinese folk legends told through acrobatics, dance, and breathtaking costumes. Shen Yun shows at the San Diego Civic Theater, an ideal location for an overnight stay at the swanky Westgate Hotel.

Whether you prefer a top tier golf competition, ice shows, beer tasting, live music, or all the above, you’ll find it in San Diego this January. Every day in January and all year long, you can get the best deals on San Diego’s top attractions like SeaWorld, San Diego Zoo, and LEGOLAND California with a Go San Diego Card. Catch all the celebrations and don’t miss an attraction in 2020.