Our Fun Things to Do in San Diego, CA post could have been entitled Top Ten Things to Do in San Diego, but since there are numberless options and so many types of tourists, it would have been too restrictive. From fun things to do in San Diego at night to family things to do downtown or near the city, here are some really fun and inexpensive things to do and see.
Free Things to Do In San Diego
Having fun in San Diego doesn’t mean you need lots of money. So here are the best totally free or really cheap things to do in San Diego, California.
- Enjoy basking in the sun at Coronado Beach or Mission Beach, or hike along the sandstone cliffs of Torrey Pines State Reserve. San Diego is one of the best summer climates in the US. Plus, the view from Coronado over the city during sunsets is spectacular.
- Visit the Sunset Cliffs Natural Park for one of the most beautiful unspoiled beaches around San Diego, as well as for some of the most fantastic views.
- Go on a bike tour in San Diego Bay area.
- Visit The San Diego Botanic Gardens.
- Do you fancy surfing? Get informed on the origins of surfing at California Surf Museum.
- If you are looking for more cultural experiences, hit the museum. Almost all of them offer a free day for San Diego residents.
Romantic Things to Do In San Diego
One of the most romantic things to do in San Diego could be flying a kite together along the grassy field of Mission Bay Park. Or, you can also gather for a peaceful picnic at Torrey Pines State Beach, one of the top-rated things to see in San Diego.
What do you say about stargazing? The San Diego Astronomy Association sets up telescopes for guests to get a magnificent view of all the stars in the night sky. Surprise your loved one with a less usual romantic experience.
You could also make a cozy beach bonfire at one of the many beaches around San Diego, or drive to the top of Mt Helix and enjoy spectacular views over the city’s East County.
Best Things to Do In San Diego Today
Looking for things to do today in San Diego? You can spend all day at Balboa Park, San Diego’s cultural and natural hub. If you don’t fancy exploring museums and would prefer spending more time outside, visit the renowned San Diego Zoo.
Head to the Gaslamp Quarter, the city’s urban district, for more things to do in San Diego this weekend. With over 200 bars, restaurants, nightclubs, boutiques, and galleries, this is a premier destination for those who want to feel the city’s vibe.
Things to Do in San Diego with Kids
One of the coolest things to do with kids in San Diego is watching a Sea World show. Sea World San Diego is an ocean-themed park and one of the main attractions of the city, especially for kids. Here, your little ones can see the famous Shamu, the killer whale, have fun and learn many interesting facts about marine life. Also, there’s a water play area where you can take them and spend a couple of pleasant hours.
There are many other family things to do in Old Town San Diego too. The Old Town district used to be the cultural hub of the city, but it is not its present-day downtown. Even so, it stands for the most significant historic area with plenty of nice places to see like the Whaley House, California State Park, the oldest schoolhouse in San Diego, or El Campo Santo Cemetery. For a family friendly experience, you could spend some time at the Historic Site Family Fun, which offers many interactive activities for kids. The admission is free, as well as a cinema tour.
Things to Do in San Diego at Night
Now, let’s take a look at the fun things to do in San Diego at night, and start with the things to do in downtown San Diego. The nightlife here is vibrant.
Start with an excellent dinner at one of the taverns in Gaslamp Quarter, continue with a couple of cocktails and go on with a Rock Out Karaoke experience at Tin Roof, 710 or other venues that catch your attention.
Cool Things to Do in San Diego
If you are more the adventurous type of traveler and crave for unusual experiences, you can explore the bay area in a different way. Going on a sailing tour is definitely one of the top things to do in San Diego. Absorb the sea’s energy and let the sun and fresh salty air cast away your worries. Don’t forget to take your friends with you and sail off for the adventure together.
You can also plan your trips around San Diego major and exciting events. For instance, there’s the so-called Restaurant Week in January and September
During winter, in January or February, there’s the annual PGA tour event called Farmers Insurance Open Golf Tournament where you can spot famous golfers like Tiger Woods, Jon Daly, and Phil Mickelson.
During spring, in March and April, there’s the Flower Fields Ranunculus Season, where you can see amazingly colored ranunculus flowers in blossom. This part of the year is ideal for those who are keen on photography, especially on flower close-ups and portraiture.
When summer is round the corner, in June, the Rock and Roll Marathon & Half Marathon brings out hundreds of runners who are supported by rock bands playing music. They are positioned every mile to help runners pick up the pace.
If you want to explore more the food and culture of San Diego, every June, there’s also San Diego County Fair taking place. If you are a fan of homemade apple cider, try organizing a trip from September on and don’t miss the Julian Apple Harvest. The event is located 45 minutes North-East of San Diego but the experience is totally worth the time.
Photo Credits: Tripadvisor.com, Travel.usnews.com, SanDiegan.com.
Leave a Reply