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Gaslamp District from convention center

26 Things to Do in Downtown San Diego With Your Family

Are you considering traveling to San Diego? Where exactly can you visit in the city and have a whole lot to enjoy? You’ll be excited to see the vibrant downtown San Diego. You’ll be so thrilled to learn that there are tons of activities waiting for you to explore here in the heart of San Diego. Whether you’re preparing to go as a couple or with your kids, you’ll leave your entire team stunned with awe at the sights and glamor of this beautiful city. 

From stunning waterfront views to popular attractions, there are plenty of family-friendly activities to keep you entertained. Now, brace up. Let’s step into San Diego’s downtown area and see the best things you can engage in when touring this awesome Southern California destination.

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Gaslamp District street marquees and cars on street
Gaslamp District Street Lined with Shops and Eateries

1. Explore the Historic Gaslamp Quarter

The Gaslamp Quarter is a unique area with stunning old buildings and a vibrant entertainment scene. Buildings here have distinctive Late Victorian and Art Deco architectural styles. They have intriguing tales to tell about the residents and workers who once called them home. 

Ghost tours in this area are also popular for the more daring visitors. Walking through the streets is like entering a different dimension! It’s buzzing with excitement and energy. 

Gaslamp District Sign over a city street lined with cars
Gaslamp District Sign

Be sure to stop and take your picture under the Gaslamp District Entrance Sign on the corner of 5th and L Street.

The Gaslamp Quarter offers a wide variety of sights and activities. During the day, you can enjoy a leisure stroll while exploring the unique shops. You can find unusual keepsakes to remember your trip by. 

Making the most of your vacation, visit the distinctive Gaslamp Museum to find out more about the local history. It has intriguing exhibits and savvy tour guides who can address your inquiries. There is also the New Children’s Museum//Museo de los Niños, which opened in 2008.  This museum is known for its interactive exhibits and activities that are great for kids.

At night, the Gaslamp Quarter truly comes alive! Music pours out of the restaurants and bars, filling the air with infectious energy. There are many mouthwatering restaurants here too that serve great food. They serve foods like burgers, pizza, tacos, and ice cream or sweets for dessert.

2. Discover the New Children’s Museum

Children can explore, play, and learn via interactive exhibitions and art installations at this Museum. It includes a range of exhibitions intended to stimulate young brains. It features playing music, constructing with blocks, creating artwork, and climbing unusual buildings. 

Also, the museum offers unique seminars and art classes where guests may pick up new skills and methods from working artists. 

Some of the key features we highly recommend are:

  • The Art Yard: Visitors to the Art Yard can climb, and slide in this outdoor play space. They may explore and get in touch with nature in a garden. They can also get through interactive sculptures and water elements. 
  • Learn about science, wildlife, and the outside world. You may study the human body, play around with light and sound, and learn about the marvels of nature. Learning is made fascinating by this enjoyable educational experience! Children of all ages can take part in activities and events at the New Children’s Museum. 
  • Storytelling Sessions: There is always plenty going on to interest and amuse young guests, from storytelling sessions to dancing classes. It resembles a center for imagination and creativity. The museum is intended to be a secure and welcoming environment for all kids. 
  • Visit the museum shop: Before you leave, pick up some original toys, books, and painting supplies here so that you may continue to express yourself creatively at home. It’s like having access to a portable idea vault! 
San Diego Harbor ferry with city skyline behind
San Diego Harbor ferry boat with a view of the city skyline

3. Take a Harbor Cruise

A harbor tour is a unique boat excursion that takes you through San Diego’s harbor. You’ll see imposing buildings, lovely gardens, and magnificent bridges as you go. You may even see some playful dolphins swimming next to the boat. Two highlights are the USS Midway aircraft carrier and the Coronado Bridge that spans the sea like a big rainbow and connects San Diego to the picturesque Coronado Island. 

Beautiful Coronado Island has lovely beaches and villas along the water. A skilled guide during the cruise will share fascinating tales about San Diego’s past and famous sites.

If a sunset cruise is your goal, you could witness a stunning sunset with vivid orange, pink, and purple colors. Also, the majority of boats feature a snack bar. You can have a good snack or a cool beverage to enjoy the scenery while appeasing your palate. 

Here are a few harbor activities you can book via Viator and enjoy during your visit.

I recommend Viator for their ease of booking, cancellation policy, and low price guarantee.

Balboa Park
Balboa Park

4. Explore Balboa Park

A distinctive location filled with family activities in San Diego  is Balboa Park surrounded by luxuriant gardens, tall trees, and vibrant flowers. There are restaurants, outdoor activities, the world-famous attractions including the San Diego Zoo and the Botanical Building. A wide range of exotic plants and flowers are kept at the Botanical Building too.

The Fleet Science Center is a distinctive museum that offers interesting experiments. It features interactive displays and a fantastic planetarium presentation. Playing catch, having a picnic, and riding a bike are examples of outdoor activities. 

There is also the Balboa Park Carousel, a vintage carousel you won’t want to miss with lovely horses that ride up and down. Nearby the carousel is the Balboa Park Miniature Train Ride which allows you to ride on a ½ mile loop around 4 acres of the park.

5. Experience the San Diego Zoo

Experience the wonder of the globe’s magnificent creatures at the world-famous San Diego Zoo, without even leaving the city! It’s like a safari, where you can get up close and personal with majestic animals like cheetahs, lions, and tigers. The zoo’s delight is being surrounded by royalty!

male baboon at San Diego Zoo
male baboon at San Diego Zoo

But there’s more! Playful primates like chimpanzees, baboons, and gorillas may also be found here in the zoo. You may see them interacting with one another as they swing from tree to tree. It’s like seeing a jungle performance from the front row! 

If you enjoy cuddly, adorable animals, you’re in for a treat. You’ll fall in love with the zoo’s cuteness factor. The polar bears, koalas, Andean (Spectacled) Bear and more will grab your heartstrings with their adorable faces and lovable personalities.

And if you’re looking for something a little more exotic, there are plenty of rare creatures to explore too. Get ready to see zebras, antelopes, kangaroos, otters, and meerkats.

Don’t forget about the birds, either. From magnificent eagles to colorful parrots, the zoo is home to a wide variety of feathered creatures. You may enjoy their catchy tunes while admiring their stunning plumage. Like being in a bird sanctuary, actually!

Visitors may engage with some of the animals up close and personal at the San Diego Zoo. They may engage in activities like feeding giraffes, and petting stingrays. They can also have intimate encounters with amiable reptiles. The zoo also provides educational talks and performances all day long so visitors may learn more about the animals. 

The zoo also offers a range of food alternatives to enjoy while taking in the scenery and fresh air. The gift shop also sells apparel, toys, and mementos with animal themes to help you remember the day. 

Note: If you plan to also visit the San Diego Safari Park (not downtown), save money with a 2-day admission ticket booked through Viator.

Related: San Diego is a great year-round destination. See more ideas for summer vacations for families here. 

6. Visit the San Diego Air and Space Museum

Get to know everything there is to know about the development of flying at the San Diego Air & Space Museum. This museum in Balboa Park is like a hidden treasure of intriguing exhibits and engaging displays that will astonish both children and adults! 

The museum’s collection of old airplanes is one of its centerpieces. You may watch aircraft from many eras, including early flight pioneers and contemporary jets. It feels as though there are sky giants all around you! 

vintage planes at San Diego Air & Space Museum
vintage planes at San Diego Air & Space Museum

The museum contains displays highlighting the marvels of the universe if you’re interested in space travel. The International Space Station and other celestial bodies are among the topics you can study. It’s like seeing through a window into infinity! But there’s more! 

Don’t miss the interactive exhibits and simulations that let you get a feel for what it’s like to be an astronaut or a pilot. You may enter a simulated space voyage or sit in a cockpit and experience the controls. Like getting a taste of the thrilling realm of space and flight! The exhibitions here are wide-ranging and interactive, exactly like those at the Peoria Riverfront Museum (Illinois)

The exhibits that highlight the science of flying will appeal to you if you enjoy engineering and technology. You may discover more about propulsion systems, and aerodynamics. You can also learn about technological advancements that have changed the aviation sector. It’s like taking a science and engineering crash course! 

There is a gift store inside the San Diego Air & Space Museum where you can buy mementos, books, and toys with aviation themes. It’s a terrific way to get a souvenir from your trip and keep the fun going even after you leave. 

7. Discover the San Diego Museum of Art

View a wide variety of great works of art at the San Diego Museum of Art. It has old relics, antique paintings, and sculptures that depict historical events. 

Notable collections featuring European paintings by masters include Vincent van Gogh, Claude Monet, and Diego Velázquez. The museum also has a varied collection of artwork from several international civilizations. 

There is a lovely sculpture garden at the museum. You can view magnificent statues and sculptures in a serene outdoor environment. It’s like being surrounded by works of natural art. 

The San Diego Museum of Art hosts special exhibitions with varying subjects and artistic styles throughout the year. For those who are artistic, it also provides interactive activities and workshops. Such workshops include art-making sessions, learning new techniques, and producing works of art. 

The museum also features a gift store. Visitors may buy postcards, tiny copies of well-known artworks, and books about art. It’s a terrific spot to look for a one-of-a-kind present or souvenir for an art enthusiast. 

Old Town San Diego walkway
Old Town San Diego walkway

8. Visit the Old Town State Historic Park

San Diego’s history and culture are preserved at the Old Town State Historic Site. Visitors may take a self-guided tour of historic Adobe homes. They can stroll around streets lined with wooden stores, and see inside a long-gone schoolhouse at this living museum. 

This is also a great location where guests may get a taste of the region’s thriving Mexican history. Taste great Mexican cuisine, folkloric dance performances, and traditional music. My favorite Mexican restaurant in Old Town San Diego is Fiesta de Reyes. Seating in the open area patio is a must.

Old Town San Diego State Park
Old Town San Diego State Park

The park also features artifacts that depict the tales of those who first inhabited the region. These include indigenous American tribes, Spanish settlers, and American pioneers. It’s like embarking on an intriguing time-travel adventure. 

Old Town is one of the best things to do in san diego with teens. There are exceptional activities take place in this park. It features historical reenactments, joyous festivals, and ghost tours. The park also features eateries and cafés. 

Tourists can savor delectable meals like classic American fare or Mexican cuisine. Also, the park’s gift stores provide one-of-a-kind keepsakes, handcrafted items. It has traditional Mexican ceramics to help tourists recall their trip to this historic location. 

things to do in downtown San Diego - Visit the Embarcadero neighborhood
Visit the Embarcadero area

9. Visit San Diego’s Embarcadero

Around San Diego Bay, there is a particular area known as the Embarcadero. The Embarcadero is a great place to take a stroll and appreciate the city’s maritime heritage. Along the path, you can visit several historic ships including the Star of India, Berkeley, USS Midway Museum and Maritime Museum of San Diego. There are plenty of attractions for everyone to enjoy!

Outdoor activities are fantastic at the Embarcadero too. You may wander along the waterfront promenade while enjoying the pleasant wind and stunning views of the bay. It’s like a welcome respite from the clamor of the city! For individuals who like to travel at their leisure, the Embarcadero is a well-liked location by locals and tourists alike. 

There are several waterfront eateries here. There are also places where cultural activities, concerts, art festivals, and fireworks are held. For those seeking adventure, the Embarcadero is a wonderful location. It provides a variety of bike lanes, dining options, and activities all year. 

But there’s more! You can see some of the key attractions including the Maritime Museum of San Diego, Seaport Village, and the USS Midway Museum.

tall masted ship in san diego called the Star of India
tall masted ship in San Diego called the Star of India

10. Visit the Maritime Museum of San Diego

You can view a variety of magnificent ships up close in this exclusive location. It features large, small, and vintage ships from long-ago ocean voyages. The Star of India, a majestic ship that is more than 150 years old, is one of the highlights. You may visit the USS Dolphin, an actual submarine housed in the museum. Here, you’ll discover more about the courageous sailors who served aboard it. 

You’ll like San Salvador, a recreation of a Spanish galleon that traveled the oceans in the sixteenth century. The Maritime Museum is a fantastic resource for learning about maritime history. It provides interactive exercises like raising sails, making knots and navigating a ship. 

Furthermore, the museum offers young visitors special events and educational programs to enrich their experience. These programs encompass workshops, storytelling sessions, and pirate-themed activities. The on-site store is a great destination for buying souvenirs. With books, toys, and keepsakes related to seafaring vessels, the store is a wonderful way to commemorate your visit.

11. Enjoy Seaport Village

Seaport Village is a unique shopping and dining venue located on the waterfront of San Diego Bay. The seaport offers a variety of unique boutiques, galleries, and outdoor cafes with breathtaking views of the harbor. 

flag awnings seaport village
Plaza Fountain at Seaport Village

As you explore Seaport Village, you can also take in live musical performances, catch outdoor movies, fly a kite in the open area field, and embark on historic sailboat tours for an up-close area by the lake where you can spend the entire day. The area features distinctive stores which sell a variety of fun items including toys, clothing, and souvenirs. 

Seaport Village is home to several mouthwatering restaurants. They provide meals like ice cream, pizza, and seafood. There is a carousel with lovely horses that go up and down. It also features an antique carousel with lovely horses that go round and round. 

Old Town Trolley and Whaley House street view
Old Town Trolley in front of the Whaley House in Old Town San Diego

The Seaport Village Seal Tour is a fun tour aboard an amphibious vehicle. It offers beautiful views of the harbor and the downtown skyline while providing interesting facts about Seaport Village and its surroundings. The area has a rich history which can be explored in several different ways including this tour as well as San Diego Hop On Hop Off Trolley Tour that stops in Seaport Village. 

jet on the USS Midway
jet on the USS Midway

12. Visit the USS Midway Museum

The USS Midway once floated on the water and carried aircraft during its long service. Today, it is a museum where visitors can explore different parts of the ship and view artifacts related to its history.  The USS Midway is a must-visit for anyone interested in learning more about San Diego’s maritime history.

The Midway offers fascinating exhibits about naval life and other historical topics. Visitors may explore the same decks where the sailors once toiled. You can witness the large cannons that were once used to defend the ship and climb into some real airplanes. 

Visitors may also look around the kitchen and the bedroom quarters. It is where the sailors ate, slept, and passed their leisure time while not working. It’s like getting a glimpse of a mysterious universe that exists below the ocean’s surface. 

The USS Midway Museum has many displays that detail the ship’s past. You can also learn about the valiant crew members through these exhibits. The flight simulator allows guests to sit inside a unique device to simulate piloting a real plane. 

Friendly docents at the museum are also available to answer queries. They also provide engaging tales to make you enjoy the moment. The USS Midway’s upper deck is the ideal location for photos and lasting memories. It provides a stunning perspective of the San Diego cityscape and the ocean.

Get Skip the Line Admission Tickets to the USS Midway on Viator.

The Kissing Statue San Diego
The Kissing Statue in San Diego next to the USS Midway

13. The Kissing Statue

Just south of the USS Midway Museum complex/pier is Tuna Harbor Park with the larger-than-life Kissing Statue, also called the Unconditional Surrender Statue. Based on a photograph by photographer Alfred Eisenstaedt on August 14, 1945, this 25ft tall sculpture was created by J. Seward Johnson.  

The statue depicts a sailor kissing a woman in victory on V-J Day, celebrating the surrender of Japan to the United States and thus ending World War II. It is a symbol of enduring love and patriotism.

Visitors can take pictures with this iconic piece of art, and also explore Tuna Harbor Park, an urban waterfront park that features the Taffy 3 Tribute wall, the Tribute to Bob Hope statue, and at the Fish Market restaurants. 

To get here, just walk south of the Midway pier and it’s the next peninsula on your right (to the west). 

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family activities in downtown san diego

14. Museum of Contemporary Art Downtown

The Museum of Contemporary Art San Diego (MCASD) is located in La Jolla, but the downtown expansion (MCASD Downtown) is spread across two buildings. The Joan and Irwin Jacobs Building is a Nationally Registered Historic Landmark that was the current Santa Fe Depot train station’s former baggage building. 

To find MCASD Downtown, look for the Spanish Mission-Colonial Revival-style exterior. The structure, which was constructed in 1915 for the Panama-California Exposition, offers more than 10,500 square feet of brand-new display space for modern art.

The second is the David C. Copley Building, a newer structure adjacent to Jacobs. Together the galleries showcase contemporary art (mostlt dating after 1950 to present day). The collection focuses on San Diego, Southern California, and Baja California works, with frequent programs featuring local artists. There are also installations, sculptures, paintings, photographs and video pieces that explore a variety of topics.

15. Explore Little Italy

Enjoy the warmth and beauty of Italian history in Little Italy. It is a distinct destination nestled between’s downtown’s core and the waterfront with vibrant structures and charming streets. 

The amazing culinary scene in Little Italy is one of its main draws. Genuine Italian eateries, quaint cafés, and gelato parlors line the streets, satiate your palate and make your mouth swim. There is something for everyone to enjoy. From delectable pasta dishes to freshly baked pizza. It’s like taking a gastronomic tour of Italian delicacies! 

girl leaning over Fountain at Little Italy San Diego
Fountain at Little Italy San Diego

Key attractions are:

  • Farmers market: A weekly farmers market is held every Wednesday from 9:30am to 1:30pm and Saturday from 8am to 2pm in Little Italy. You can buy artisanal goods, locally grown food, and handcrafted crafts. It resembles a crowded market where you may find unique local goods and indulge in delectable delicacies. 
  • Studios and Galleries: Visit the various art studios and galleries located around the area if you enjoy art and culture. You may peruse unusual artwork, enjoy the works of accomplished painters, and perhaps even locate a particular item to take home. It resembles a brief art tour in a beautiful location. Little Italy is renowned for its joyous occasions and festivities. 
  • Boutiques: Discover quaint boutiques in Little Italy. Find specialized stores in the area. Encounter contemporary boutiques while strolling around.
  • Piazzas: Also, there are lovely piazzas and public areas around the neighborhood. You can unwind and take in the ambiance. You may take in a pleasant atmosphere while strolling. enjoy a gelato while people-watching, or listening to live music performances. It’s like discovering a serene sanctuary in the middle of the city! 

16. Attend a Padres Baseball Game at Petco Park

The San Diego Padres’ home field is Petco Park, which is situated in the city’s center. Fans may witness America’s favorite sport in action on a large playground. The exciting atmosphere at a Padres game, which comes alive with shouts, music, and the sound of baseballs striking gloves, is one of the main draws to go. 

Before the game, visitors may tour the stadium and make use of the facilities. They may take a stroll down the concourse, a trip to the team store, or a stop at the concession stands to have a snack. 

Fans may join in on the shouts during the game, wave a foam finger, and support their preferred players. Like being a part of a sea of blue and white people who are all united in their support of the team.

A special amenity at Petco Park, lets visitors unwind on a grassy hillside. Visitors can have a picnic and watch the game on a big screen here. Fans may also eat traditional ballpark fares like hot dogs, nachos, and popcorn while watching the game. 

It’s not only about the baseball when you watch a Padres game at Petco Park. It’s also about the friendships and memories made. Fans will have a sense of exhilaration and belonging. Whether they are high-fiving a stranger after a home run or singing along to the team’s victory song. 

17. Relax at Waterfront Park

A variety of services and entertainment are available for visitors of all ages. It is a roomy, well-kept Waterfront Park with breathtaking vistas of San Diego Bay. They afford you opportunities to observe passing ships, and even playful dolphins. See the beautifully designed gardens with colorful flowers, emerald green grass, and shaded trees in the park. 

The park offers a range of recreational amenities. There are splash fountains and basketball courts. It has soccer fields, for individuals who like playing. The park also features plenty of benches, lounging places, and covered pavilions. 

Guests may unwind and take in the tranquil ambiance in these facilities. It’s like discovering a serene haven in the middle of the city! Public art pieces in Waterfront Park are well-known for bringing a sense of creativity and culture to the area. 

Also, it has a kids’ play area with entertaining and secure toys. The park holds some events and performances throughout the year. These events help liven up the surroundings. Waterfront Park has plenty to offer everyone. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful retreat or a location for recreational activities. It’s a spot where you can unwind, commune with nature, and re-energize. 

18. Shop at Westfield Horton Plaza

A multi-level shopping complex adjacent to the Gaslamp District is Westfield Horton Plaza. It features a large selection of retail establishments, boutiques, and specialty retailers. It’s like a shopping paradise. You can find the newest accessories, technology, and fashion trends. Its distinctive architectural style is one of the main draws. 

The Westfield Horton Plaza is home to a wide range of specialty shops besides fashion. You can look through bookshops, and uncover one-of-a-kind housewares. Investigate health and beauty goods also, and even find gadgets and computer accessories. It’s almost like a paradise for all your purchasing needs! 

A variety of restaurants, a movie theater, and special events are here. You can also find deals, and promotions available at the downtown San Diego shopping area, Westfield Horton Plaza. It is ideally situated in the center of San Diego’s city. This makes it accessible to both residents and visitors. From fast food joints to fine dining establishments, the mall provides a broad variety of cuisines and flavors. The mall also has a cinema theater where you can see the newest blockbusters. 

The retail complex also holds unique events, promotions, and specials throughout the year, enhancing the thrill of your shopping experience. As Westfield Horton Plaza is centrally positioned in San Diego’s downtown, both locals and visitors can readily reach it. 

19. Experience the San Diego Symphony

The San Diego Symphony performs at the renowned Copley Symphony Hall, a stunning location renowned for its superb acoustics and regal atmosphere. The symphony presents a range of performances and activities throughout the year to suit various preferences and interests. 

To produce engaging and immersive performances, the symphony works with famous guest artists, dancers, and visual performers. It provides unique activities and concerts catered to the interests of families and young music lovers. The symphony also takes pleasure in its dedication to the neighborhood. It takes part in outreach programs, educational projects, and neighborhood activities to make music available to everyone. 

A concert by the San Diego Symphony is an unforgettable event that will leave you in amazement. It is filled with admiration for the wonder of music. 

20. Visit the San Diego Central Library

The San Diego Central Library is a fantastical place where creativity knows no boundaries and books come to life. With its contemporary style and streamlined lines, its breathtaking architecture is a masterpiece. There are several divisions and departments inside that cater to various interests and requirements. 

The library is more than simply a collection of books; it is also a center for education and research, complete with designated areas for reading, researching, and using computers. The library has a special children’s area with age-appropriate books, exhibits, and storytelling opportunities for families and young readers. 

For young minds, the San Diego Central Library is a magical place where they can develop a lifelong love of reading and education. It holds several free educational events, and activities for individuals of all ages, such as author presentations, open chess games, and book groups. 

21. Enjoy the Views from Cabrillo National Monument

Juan Rodriguez Cabrillo, the first European explorer to step foot on the American West Coast, is honored with a particular location called Cabrillo National Monument. It is located on a picturesque peninsula just minutes from downtown.

Old Point Loma Lighthouse
Old Point Loma Lighthouse

The Old Point Loma Lighthouse, which was used to direct ships across the perilous seas, inspired the name of the structure. The breathtaking panoramic vistas of the Pacific Ocean extend as far as the eye can see. 

The real gem of Cabrillo National Monument is its stunning views. From the top of Point Loma, visitors can see for miles out and may see sailboats skimming over the lake. They can see the awe-inspiring waves breaking against the rocks. If they’re lucky, they could even see some wildlife, such as distant dolphins swimming or whales breaking the water’s surface. It was like being in a nature documentary shot on location. 

Visitors to Cabrillo National Monument may experience the area’s natural splendor on lovely walking routes. They may go for a stroll along the beach path and take in the tranquility and fresh sea air. 

If you visit at low tide, be sure to see the tidal pools at the Rocky Intertidal Zone. These are some of the best tidepools in the San Diego area, and they are teeming with colorful sea life. Here you can experience firsthand the amazing diversity of marine life that exists in this part of California’s coastline.

The tourist center features instructive displays that outline the history of the region and the discovery of Cabrillo. They also provide picnic areas where guests may relax and eat while admiring the breathtaking vistas. 

Sunset Cliffs at sunset
Sunset Cliffs at sunset

22. Enjoy sunset at Sunset Cliffs Natural Park

This is a coastal beauty with expansive vistas of the Pacific Ocean. It features craggy cliffs and stunning scenery. Although not in downtown SD, the sunsets here are true spectacles to behold and worth the short (9 mile) drive. Make sure to bring a blanket and relax and enjoy the show as night falls!

Sunset Cliffs Natural Park’s breathtaking sunset turns the sky into a vibrantly colored painting, which is one of its main draws. If you go to the park around sunset, you can experience this magnificent scene firsthand. 

Sunset Cliffs Natural Park also provides a variety of other enjoyable pursuits. These include leisure strolls along the coastal walks, inhaling the clean sea air, and soaking in the breathtaking vistas.

Nature enthusiasts will delight in the park’s unique wildlife and plant species. Sunset Cliffs Natural Park is a great place to connect with nature and witness its wonders up close. Photographers and artists will find endless inspiration in picturesque landscapes, dramatic cliffs, and vibrant sunsets. 

If you’re feeling adventurous, you can explore the tide pools scattered along the coastline. To help protect the area’s natural beauty, respect the environment and adhere to park rules.

This park provides all you want if you’re seeking a quiet escape, a distinctive location to watch the sunset, or a spot to get back in touch with nature. If you want to witness a stunning sunset, pack a lunch and a blanket.

23. Take a Trip to Coronado Island

Just over the water from Downtown San Diego is Coronado Island. It is famous for its beautiful beaches, including Coronado Central Beach. It’s also famous for the  Hotel del Coronado. 

You can access the island by car taking the Coronado Bridge or take the ferry that departs from downtown. There are plenty of activities to keep you busy whether you’re looking for relaxation on the beach, a day of sightseeing or shopping, or an exciting night.

Historic Hotel de Coronado and Coronado Beach
Historic Hotel de Coronado and Coronado Beach

Historic Hotel del Coronado

This hotel has been greeting visitors since 1888. It has housed several leaders and celebrities and is a must-see for history buffs. You may wander around its stately halls, and savor a delectable dinner at one of its restaurants. You can also marvel at its Victorian architecture. It feels as though you’ve entered a time of beauty and grandeur long ago. 

Orange Avenue

Coronado Island’s lovely downtown district is along Orange Avenue. It is where tourists may browse small stores, boutiques, and art galleries. The island also offers a range of dining alternatives, including elegant restaurants and expensive coastal cafés. 

Visitors may also hire scooters or bicycles to explore the island. They can take in the beautiful scenery and stop at vistas or parks along the route. Coronado Island has a gorgeous golf course where guests can hone their swing and take in the breathtaking views of the bay. 

24. Take a Gondola Ride in Coronado Cays

Coronado Cays is a charming waterfront community located in Coronado, just a short distance from downtown San Diego. It is known for its picturesque canals, beautiful homes, and serene atmosphere. 

A gondola ride is a long, narrow boat that is propelled by a skilled gondolier using a single oar. The swaying of the boat, the calming murmur of the river, and the stunning vistas all combine to create a romantic and private ambiance. The gondolier will guide you through the waterways, sharing interesting facts and stories about the area. It is like having your tour guide as you soak in the sights and sounds of Coronado Cays.

The gondola ride offers a unique perspective of Coronado Cays that you wouldn’t get from land. It offers the opportunity to see wildlife up close, and many operators offer additional services like wine or champagne, flower bouquets, and live music. 

Gondola rides are available during the day but become even more magical at night when the canals are illuminated by soft lights. A gondola ride is a must-do activity whether you’re visiting Coronado Cays with your significant other, friends, or family. It’s an opportunity to unwind, relax, and make enduring memories.

25. Experience the Birch Aquarium at the Scripps Institution of Oceanography

La Jolla, is a short 20-minute drive from downtown San Diego, is home to the unique Birch Aquarium. It’s like a window into the ocean, allowing you to see the amazing marine life that live there. 

The diversity of unusual species in the aquarium, many of which are colorful, is one of its features. You may view exquisite seahorses, colorful tropical fish, and even captivating jellyfish. It’s like walking into a vibrant underwater rainbow of splendor! 

There are amazing marine displays to explore at the Birch Aquarium. The displays highlight various habitats and ecosystems. You may investigate kelp forests, coral reefs, and even a tide pool exhibit. Get up close and discover the life that inhabits the intertidal zone. It’s like taking a virtual trip across the ecosystems of the ocean! 

The aquarium provides informative events and engaging exhibits. You can learn more about marine conservation and research here too. Explore what vital research experts do to safeguard our seas. Learn about astounding adaptations that enable marine life to thrive. It’s like having a day in the life of a marine scientist! 

Visit the Birch Aquarium if you want to get up close to several shark species, including elegant rays and enormous sea turtles. 

Outdoor Displays and Observation Decks: Also, the aquarium offers outdoor displays and observation decks with stunning Pacific Ocean views. Visitors may discover intriguing things and get a closer look at the creatures during the aquarium’s special events. There are also presentations including feedings and informative sessions. 

Related: When in the La Jolla area, be sure to check out the La Jolla Sea Caves and Children’s Beach where you can see sea lions lounging in the sand. I highly recommend booking a kayaking trip of the La Jolla Caves. It’s an incredible experience to be able to observe wildlife up close in a natural habitat!

26. Indulge in Local Cuisine

Enjoy the local cuisine, which includes scrumptious Mexican meals and fresh seafood. This dynamic city provides a unique gastronomic experience. San Diego is known for its diversified food scene because of its proximity to the beach and its rich cultural past. The following are some worthwhile activities you should try: 

  • Fish Tacos: When visiting San Diego, you must eat the city’s famous fish tacos. Crispy battered fish is the star of these delectable snacks; it’s often served in a soft corn tortilla with fresh salsa, cabbage, and a squeeze of lime on top. To enjoy this local delicacy, go to one of the seafood restaurants nearby or a beach shack.
  • The California burritos: This is another meal that you should try. Tender carne asada (grilled meat), French fries, cheese, salsa, and guacamole are all included in this flavorful burrito. It’s a filling dish that skillfully combines Mexican and American culinary elements.
  • Seafood: San Diego has an abundance of fresh seafood because of its seaside setting. Enjoy delectable crab, delicious shrimp, or tantalizing lobster. All around the city, seafood restaurants can be found in both elegant and informal settings. Don’t forget to sample the local delicacy, the well-known “shrimp cocktail,” which is made of plump shrimp served in a tangy tomato-based sauce.
  • Craft Beer: San Diego is well-known for its craft beer industry. Several regional brewers produce a broad variety of excellent and distinctive brews. Visit a brewpub or take a tour of the brewery to try a range of beers, from silky stouts to hoppy IPAs. Cheers to San Diego’s growing beer scene!
  • Farm-to-table Cuisine. There are several farm-to-table restaurants in San Diego. They provide food prepared using the best seasonal ingredients. These eateries highlight the gastronomic diversity of the area. They promote regional farmers with anything from colorful salads to avant-garde dishes.
  • Mexican food: Because San Diego is so close to the border with Mexico, it has a great selection of real Mexican food. Tacos, enchiladas, tamales, and more tasty dishes are available. Don’t forget to sample delectable street treats like churros (crispy fried dough dusted with cinnamon and sugar), elote (grilled corn on the cob), and a mangonada (a combination of mango, chili powder, and lime juice).
  • Asian Fusion: A thriving Asian fusion aspect may be seen in San Diego’s culinary scene. You may enjoy mouthwatering delicacies that combine the tastes of East and West. Enjoy sushi burritos, Korean BBQ tacos, or sandwiches with Vietnamese influence. Your experimental palette will be satisfied by these creative and delectable concoctions.

Wrapping Up

Attractions and family activities in Downtown San Diego abound, which, in summary, cater to a variety of interests. This dynamic city has plenty to offer everyone, regardless of your interests in history, art, nature, or cuisine.

The Gaslamp Quarter immerses you in the city’s rich history and offers a lively nightlife scene. The USS Midway Museum provides a fascinating glimpse into naval history. The harbor cruises showcase the city’s stunning waterfront. Seaport Village offers picturesque shopping and dining experiences. The Maritime Museum of San Diego captivates maritime enthusiasts with its historic ships. A must-visit location is Balboa Park, which has museums, parks, and cultural activities.

The San Diego Museum of Art and the Museum of Contemporary Art will delight art enthusiasts, and history aficionados may tour the Old Town State Historic Park and the Cabrillo National Monument. 

Families can enjoy the San Diego Zoo, the Birch Aquarium, and the New Children’s Museum. Coronado Island offers a tranquil escape, while Little Italy tantalizes taste buds with authentic Italian cuisine. Sports fans can catch a Padres baseball game at Petco Park, and music enthusiasts can experience the San Diego Symphony. The city also offers serene spots like Waterfront Park and Sunset Cliffs Natural Park to relax and connect with nature.

There are many things to do in Downtown San Diego, from taking gondola rides at Coronado Cays to seeing the San Diego Central Library. To round off your trip, be sure to sample some of the regional fare, including Mexican treats and fresh seafood, along with artisan beers from nearby breweries. 

Downtown San Diego truly offers a vibrant and unforgettable experience for both locals and visitors alike.

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About Nicky Omohundro

Nicky Omohundro is a travel and active family lifestyle blogger and social media influencer based out of Oklahoma City, Oklahoma. She shares stories, destinations, and ideas on food, family, health, and outdoor recreation to help families find their own adventures. Her spirit animal is a caffeinated squirrel fueled by coffee, real food, and the desire to seek new adventures.

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