Known for its sunny skies and beautiful attractions, the California city of San Diego has a rich history from it’s Native American roots to it’s Spanish missionary heritage. San Diego is a city full of beautiful beaches and military pride, which make it one of the most visited cities by tourists from all around the world. Even if you are pressed on time, you have to get the full experience of San Diego’s dynamic and fascinating heritage! Here is a list of places that really encompass San Diego’s culture and are must-see places to stop on your vacation to San Diego!
- Take a stroll in the Gaslamp Quarter
Enjoy dinner and San Diego history in the Gaslamp quarter at one of the many restaurants, entertainment venues, shops and art galleries, to really capture the modern city essence San Diego has to offer. The Gaslamp has all kinds of great foods, but it’s really known for being the home to the best seafood in San Diego. If you stay at one of the many beautiful hotels that are located in every city corner, you can go shopping by day at the multi-level mall Horton plaza, and watch the Gaslamp transform into a cultured metropolitan city by night.
- Old Town State Park
First established in 1821 and known as the birthplace of California, San Diego is where the Europeans first settled. While visiting, you can see the 17 museums that are featured along with its finest professional theater and historical site, Old Town State Park. This site has so much to explore, you are able to learn about the first settlements in California and discover the original structures that were built in the 1850’s. At the heart of Old Town you will experience museums, shops and artisans all within walking distance of live entertainment and San Diego’s favorite restaurants.
- Balboa Park
Balboa Park is home to 15 museums, beautiful gardens and many performance venues. This is a place you cannot pass up on your next visit! The 1,200 square foot urban cultural park also has a great restaurant to visit, El Prado, which has delicious cuisine and a unique historic charm. The San Diego Zoo is only minutes away, so after your stop at the park, you can spend a few hours exploring the zoo.
- Coronado Island
Experience the beautiful beaches of Coronado Island and its famous historic hotel, Hotel Del Coronado. This hotel is a San Diego monument that was built in 1888, had many famous celebrities stay and royalty, it has become a beautiful attraction that is a must see for tourists. Coronado is also home to a few notable Military bases, including the Naval Air Station and Naval Amphibious Base. Take a stroll down the beach overlooking the waters and the nature scenery, where you will encounter chic shops, galleries and boutiques to unravel while walking by the waters of Coronado Island.
- San Diego Harbor
Journey through the historic Embarcadero and Seaport Village for a one of a kind San Diego tour that the whole family is sure to enjoy! The cities most famous attractions include the USS Midway, Shelter Island and The Star of India, where you can hop onto a 60 minute harbor cruise and really get an inside view of the cities favorite sites.
- Take a stroll in the Gaslamp Quarter
Enjoy dinner and San Diego history in the Gaslamp quarter at one of the many restaurants, entertainment venues, shops and art galleries, to really capture the modern city essence San Diego has to offer. If you stay at one of the many beautiful hotels that are located in every city corner, you can go shopping by day at the multi-level mall Horton plaza, and watch the Gaslamp transform into a cultured metropolitan city by night.
