Things to do in  San Diego

Step aboard a floating piece of American history at the USS Midway Museum, one of San Diego’s most visited attractions. This retired aircraft carrier offers an up-close look at life at sea, with more than 60 exhibits—including more than 30 restored aircraft—and interactive displays throughout the ship. From walking the flight deck to climbing into cockpits, the experience brings naval aviation to life in a way that’s hands-on, family-friendly, and unforgettable.

Across the bay from downtown San Diego, the small resort town of Coronado, with its wide sandy coastline and tree-lined main street, is ideal for scenic strolls, browsing boutiques, or stopping for a bite to eat on Orange Avenue. Visitors also come here to relax on the beach or explore historical sights, or just to unwind and watch the sunset.

Sprawling and stunning, San Diego’s Balboa Park is a nexus for culture, nature, history, and recreation. The various gardens are home to flora from around the world—from the eucalyptus-perfumed paths of the Australian Garden to the delicate magnolia and cherry blossoms of the Japanese Friendship Garden and Museum. Hosting more than a dozen museums, assorted sports complexes, and attractions such as the San Diego Zoo, Balboa Park is a must-visit.

On the southern tip of the Point Loma peninsula, which separates the Pacific Ocean from San Diego Bay, Cabrillo National Monument stands in honor of Portuguese explorer Juan Rodriguez Cabrillo, who journeyed up the California coast in the mid-1500s. Stop at the statue for views of the open sea, bay, and San Diego skyline.

Though it’s the epicenter of San Diego’s party scene, the lively Gaslamp Quarter offers more than just nightlife. The charming downtown neighborhood is also rich with museums, galleries, concert venues, and symphony halls, plus destination-worthy eateries. In the evenings, clubs, dive bars, and cocktail lounges draw student crowds, while diverse audiences fill the Spreckels and Balboa theaters for performing arts, comedy shows, and live music.

From steamships to submarines, the Maritime Museum of San Diego welcomes you aboard an array of historic ships, letting you delve into the rich maritime history of San Diego. Each vessel offers its own exhibits and experiences. The museum’s fleet ranges from the world’s oldest active sailing ship—Star of India—to modern submarines.

In the middle of sprawling Balboa Park, the San Diego Zoo contains a whole world within its miniaturized biomes. From the gorillas roaming the rainforest to the polar bears splashing in their icy pond, the open-air enclosures create an immersive experience, allowing you to see the animals in an environment that's close to their natural habitat.

At 48 square blocks, Little Italy San Diego is one of the largest Little Italy districts in the United States. Once home to Italian fishing families, it’s now a lively and walkable neighborhood that’s filled with restaurants, cafés, wine bars, and craft brewpubs. This trendy district also has upscale boutiques, art galleries, boutique hotels, and live music venues, so there’s far more to experience than just its delicious food and drink.

Established in 1769, Old Town San Diego is the site of California's first European settlement, earning it the nickname "the birthplace of California." Highlights include Old Town San Diego State Historic Park, with its preserved adobe buildings and living-history demonstrations, such as blacksmithing, showcasing the city’s evolution from Kumeyaay village to Mexican pueblo to American settlement. The area is also home to restaurants, shops, and live entertainment.

A harborside hub buzzing with shopping, dining, and entertainment, Seaport Village attracts tourists and locals alike. The historic-style waterfront has everything from upscale eateries to vendors selling fresh fish. Stroll the boardwalk, ride the carousel, or indulge in seafood while listening to live music.

Point Loma sits on a hilly peninsula west of Downtown San Diego, overlooking the Pacific Ocean and San Diego Bay. This seaside community is best known for its tide pools, historical landmarks, and sweeping views of the bay and the San Diego skyline. With plenty to do and see, it’s no wonder it’s one of the city’s most photographed spots.

In downtown San Diego's East Village, Petco Park is best known for being the home of the Padres. This modern stadium—which was built in 2004—features open-air concourses and beautiful views of the city skyline. Visitors come here for baseball games and behind-the-scenes tours, as well as to attend concerts and events throughout the year.

Dedicated to the preservation and education of air and space technology and history, the San Diego Air & Space Museum (SDASM features a variety of aircraft and aerial vessels, as well as artifacts and photos that depict the past, present, and future of aviation. Dating back to 1961, the SDASM is one of the country’s top aerospace museums.

Just west of downtown San Diego across the northernmost waters of San Diego Bay, Shelter Island is in the middle of the city but feels worlds away. The neighborhood is known for its nautical vibe with marinas, bayside parks, hotels, and restaurants.

Between the South Mission Jetty and Pacific Beach Point stretch 3 miles (5 kilometers) of pure, unadulterated sun-kissed southern California beach scene. The center of this scene is Ocean Beach Pier, the largest concrete pier on the West Coast, perfect for strolling, fishing, and just watching the waves. Though currently closed for repairs, the pier remains a beloved landmark and symbol of Ocean Beach’s vintage California vibe.