Top San Diego Cultural Tours - page 2

While San Diego may be famous for its sunshine, the city also has a dark side lurking beneath the surface. Uncover the hidden history of gangsters, gunslingers, ghosts, and ladies of the night on an entertaining walking tour through the city's historic Gaslamp Quarter. It's the only haunted history tour in San Diego that actually goes inside buildings for a closer look at what goes bump in the night (pending COVID restrictions).

Explore San Diego’s mountains, desert, and backcountry on a self-guided scenic driving tour from Escondido to Julian via Palomar Mountain and Borrego Springs. This 152-mile route takes you along some of the best backroads in Southern California, with GPS-triggered audio guiding you to overlooks, historic sites, and hidden stops along the way. Climb to the summit of Palomar Mountain to visit the famous Palomar Observatory, then descend into the desert landscapes of Anza-Borrego. Along the way, you’ll spot Borrego Springs’ iconic metal sculptures, sweeping valley views, and roadside viewpoints worth stopping for. The route finishes in the historic town of Julian—perfect for a slice of its famous apple pie. This flexible, self-paced tour lets you explore on your own schedule. Allow a full day to take in viewpoints, small towns, and optional short hikes like Borrego Palm Canyon. Bring water, snacks, and sun protection if you plan to stop and explore.

Discover the historic Gaslamp Quarter, explore the cultural landmarks, and the stories of the people who shaped San Diego's history. Go at your own pace, anytime. The tour is location aware and plays as you walk. It's theatrically created to tell the story and bring the area to life. You’ll hear about Wyatt Earp’s, The Stingaree, the story of Bud and how this wild west town became the Birthplace of California.

Explore some of the top highlights of San Diego with your or or two day trolley pass (depending on option selected) for the city’s Hop-on, Hop-off Trolley Tour. Choose your own adventure as you get on and off the trolley at any of the 11 included stops, covering famous sights including the Gaslamp Quarter, the San Diego Zoo, USS Midway and the Cruise Ship Terminal, Little Italy, and many more. This San Diego trolley tour also features live commentary from the on-board guide during your ride.

In just four hours, experience the scenic highlights of San Diego and its neighboring areas. Watch sea lions and pelicans on the beaches of La Jolla and capture fantastic views from the top of Mt Soledad. Soak up the Old World elegance of the mansions and Hotel Del on Coronado Island, and find peace in the urban oasis of Balboa Park. Wind through downtown and Old Town San Diego, learning about the city’s history along the way. Enjoy personalized attention on this small-group tour limited to just 14 people.

Ghosts & Goblets: A Haunted Bar Tour in San Diego Welcome to San Diego’s Gaslamp Quarter, where both spectral and liquid spirits await! Ghosts & Goblets isn’t just a pub crawl—it’s a journey through the city’s most haunted bars, with spine-chilling tales and eerie drinks. You’ll enter 3 haunted locations and sip 3 mysterious concoctions like The Tanglefoot or The Werewolf. Which one will materialize? Only the spirits know! What makes Ghosts & Goblets special? Exclusive Route: No other tour takes you to these haunted bars. Mysterious Drinks: Admission includes 3 unique, themed drinks inspired by ghostly tales. Real Ghost Stories: True, spine-tingling stories delivered with a theatrical twist. Local Legends: The only locally-owned ghost tour in downtown San Diego. Book your tickets now for an unforgettable night of haunted tales and drinks—if you dare!

Venture south of the border from San Diego to explore the Mexican border city of Tijuana in a safe and engaging way. Tijuana can be somewhat daunting for tourists, but a local guide shows you around, from historic landmarks like the Tijuana Arch and Avenida Revolucion to shopping hotspots like the El Popo market, where you can pick up handmade Mexican souvenirs.

Join us for a 2.5 hour guided electric bike tour around the stunning city of San Diego. Beginning from our store location, the first stop on this leisurely tour is the historic Gaslamp Quarter, established in the 1860s and redeveloped in the 1980s. From there, you’ll ride your pedal assist eBikes to the San Diego Bay, where you’ll learn the history of the USS Midway, Billionaire Row, and The Bob Hope Memorial. Our licensed tour guides will then lead you through Balboa Park, measuring just under five kilometers or 1,200 acres. In Balboa Park, you will ride past and learn about the San Diego Zoo, the Spanish Village Art Center, and the famous Casa de Balboa. This city is perfect for animal lovers, beach enthusiasts, and outdoorsy folks! Our guides are happy to take plenty of pictures for you so you can cherish the memories. The tour ends back at our store location on K Street. Please note: there will be a good deal of street riding on this tour.

Traveling by Segway is not only fun and different, but allows you to cover more ground in a short amount of time. On this guided, small-group Segway tour, explore downtown San Diego, and admire views of San Diego Bay from the Embarcadero. Then, take a ferry ride to Coronado Island to check out still more sights, including pretty Coronado Beach and the historic Hotel del Coronado.

Experience San Diego’s scenic highlights and historic landmarks all in one day on this hassle-free, time-saving tour. Skirt the bay to Coronado Island, explore the Embarcadero, and then follow lush roads into Balboa Park’s elegant gardens and museums. Pause to find lunch in a Gaslamp Quarter restaurant, take in La Jolla’s world-class shopping district and sweeping coastline, and more, and while learning insider facts and stories along the way.

Enjoy a professionally escorted historical walking tour of Balboa Park in San Diego, California. Relax as your Tour Guide Extraordinaire from Another Side Tours makes sure you see all of the most interesting and historic spots without skipping a thing. We take our guests to Balboa Park daily and we are the experts on this crown jewel in the heart of San Diego. Balboa Park is America’s largest urban cultural park, but it is so much more than that! Balboa Park is a national treasure and it is just a fascinating place with a rich history and it is here waiting to be explored by YOU! Besides open areas and natural vegetation, the park contains a variety of cultural attractions including the Spanish Village Art Center, an assortment of museums, theaters, numerous beautiful gardens, shops and restaurants as well as being the home to The World Famous San Diego Zoo. Balboa Park was declared a National Historic Landmark in 1977 and we are sure that you will love it too.

Get whisked away to Coronado Island for a personalized tour of the affluent beach resort. A private guide drives you across the San Diego–Coronado Bridge and accompanies you to the iconic Hotel del Coronado for an up-close look at this National Historic Landmark. Spend time at Coronado Beach and the Glorietta Bay Inn, and get plenty of photo ops of San Diego Bay and the city skyline. Bottled water, snacks and round-trip hotel transport by luxury vehicle are included.

While San Diego may be best known for beaches and sunshine, the city does have a darker side. Delve into San Diego's haunted history tour through Old Town. Hear tales of gamblers, gunslingers, and other shady characters whose spirits are said to live beyond the grave, and be on the lookout for paranormal activity as you visit graveyards, historic buildings, the Campo Santo Cemetery, and the grounds of the Whaley House—considered one of the most haunted homes in America.

Take a tour of San Diego's most-popular park during this Segway exploration of Balboa Park. Follow your friendly local guide to all of the hot spots and learn why locals love the laid back vibe of this coastal destination.

Indulge in a captivating journey through the heart of Downtown San Diego, where history intertwines with delectable cuisine, and the undeniable allure of the famous Little Italy beckons. Prepare to embark on an extraordinary adventure, for our Little Italy tour promises to deliver an experience like no other. Unlike other towns that may have seen their own Little Italy neighborhoods fade away over time, our Little Italy thrives vibrantly, emerging as the most coveted area to reside in the entire city. Its remarkable transformation into a bustling urban hub owes its gratitude to the tenacity and hard work of Italian immigrants in the 1920s, a legacy proudly carried forward by their grandchildren to this day. As you explore this enchanting district, you'll witness a captivating model of urban life, where charming homes, boutique grocery stores, and iconic landmarks pay homage to the rich heritage that laid its foundations.

The Private San Diego Tour: The Full Experience from La Jolla This private tour offers tiered pricing for up to 14 guests—the more in your group, the lower the per-person rate. Ideal for families, friends, or corporate outings. Start w/ panoramic coastal views from Mount Soledad, then head to La Jolla Cove to see sea lions lounging on the rocks and waves crashing below the cliffs. In Old Town San Diego, explore adobe buildings, historic plazas, and vibrant shops that bring California’s past to life. Break for lunch at Seaport Village along the Embarcadero (meals not included), where harbor breezes and waterfront dining set the tone. Drive through the Gaslamp Quarter as your guide shares tales of its Wild West past—think Wyatt Earp and saloons. Cross the Coronado Bridge for sweeping bay views, stop at the legendary Hotel del Coronado, then cruise down Orange Avenue. Wrap up with scenic drives through Balboa Park and Little Italy for a perfect blend of history, beauty, and SoCal charm.

Explore the beauty and culture of Balboa Park on this engaging walking tour. With an expert guide, wander through lush gardens, admire Spanish Revival architecture, and visit local artist galleries. Discover the history of this iconic park, including its role in the 1915 Panama-California Exposition, as you pass the stunning Botanical Building and California Tower. This tour includes access to hidden gems and stories that breathe life into San Diego's largest urban park. - Duration: 2 hours of informative walking through Balboa Park - Learn about the park's architecture and history from knowledgeable guides - Visit the Botanical Building, lily pond, and Spanish Village Art Center - Perfect for art lovers and history enthusiasts; suitable for ages 6+

Put your sea legs to good use while in port and see San Diego’s sights by both land and water on a shore excursion by amphibious vehicle. Listen to stories that bring San Diego’s history to life as you travel along the water’s edge, then steer straight into San Diego Bay. Take in sweeping views of SeaWorld, watch for the seals and sea lions that play, eat and bask at Quivira Basin, and return to your ship along the scenic Harbor Drive.

This comprehensive city tour is ideal for first-time visitors to San Diego who want to see and experience the highlights without the hassle of finding their own way around. With a small group you'll visit the white-sand beaches of La Jolla, the Spanish settlement of Old Town, the Gaslamp Quarter, Coronado Island, and more. Hotel pickup adds convenience to your day. Find your new favorite spots to visit independently later.

Explore San Diego’s iconic parks, from Balboa to Petco, and go on to Hillcrest by GoCar. There are loads of places to see, including the Gaslamp Quarter, Seaport Village, and the Maritime Museum. You’ll be provided with maps and helmets, so you just need to hit the streets and enjoy.

Witness a San Diego sunset with a local craft beer in hand on this evening tour with a private guide. You and your private party will enjoy commentary tailored to your interests and visits to some of the city's top beaches. Your guide will be happy to play photographer as they share commentary on both the beer scene and the history of the city and its beaches.

The Private San Diego Tour: The Full Experience from Downtown San Diego This private tour accommodates up to 14 guests and offers tiered pricing—the more guests, the lower the per-person cost. Perfect for families, friends, or team outings. Start your tour with sweeping coastal views from Mount Soledad, then visit La Jolla Cove to see sea lions, tide pools, and ocean cliffs. Step back in time in Old Town San Diego, then enjoy lunch and shopping at Seaport Village (meals not included). Cruise through the Gaslamp Quarter as your guide shares tales of Wyatt Earp and San Diego’s Wild West past. Cross the scenic Coronado Bridge for panoramic bay views, stopping at the historic Hotel del Coronado before driving down Orange Avenue. You’ll also pass through Balboa Park’s gardens and Spanish Revival architecture, and finish with a drive through vibrant Little Italy. With hotel pickup, narration, and curated highlights, it’s the ultimate San Diego day—starting right from downtown.

If you're not sure where to start in San Diego, get a customized introduction to its sunny beaches, historic quarters, and multicultural neighborhoods on a private, half-day driving tour. Skip the stress of navigating California freeways and let a local show you around while you relax and enjoy the views, from La Jolla’s coastal mansions and Old Town’s missions to Balboa Park gardens and the Victorian architecture of the Gaslamp Quarter.

In Baja we are known for our beautiful, one of a kind, virgin beaches and the most popular one you will find it in Rosarito territory. Becoming the tourism center of Baja California this a great destination you don’t want to miss, don’t worry if you are short of time or budget, this introduction experience it ideal for you