Our top San Diego vacation ideas for couples and groups of friends - from romantic cruises to crowd pleasing theme parks.

Check out our favorite things to do in San Diego for adults.

Things to Do in San Diego for Adults

<p>San Diego is a delightful city for an adult-centric vacation. While the city is certainly well-known for its many family-friendly attractions, there are a ton of options that adults will love.</p>

<p>Whether it&#39;s searching for something romantic with a partner or fun with friends, there&#39;s an activity to suit every interest and style of travel. If you&rsquo;re looking for things to do in San Diego for adults, check out our list of the top activities that couples and groups of friends will enjoy, including...</p>

<ul>
	<li>Whale Watch or Harbor Cruises</li>
	<li>San Diego Zoo</li>
	<li>San Diego Museum of Art</li>
	<li>Hop-on Hop-off San Diego Trolley</li>
	<li>San Diego Speedboat Ride</li>
	<li>PETCO Park Tour</li>
	<li>Coronado Island</li>
	<li>The Gaslamp Quarter</li>
	<li>and more!</li>
</ul>


<h2>San Diego cruises and boat tours</h2>


<p>Feel like a kid again with a visit to&nbsp;<a href="https://gocity.com/san-diego/en-us/products/all-inclusive/attractions/belmont-park-all-access-combo-pass" rel="noopener" target="_blank">Belmont Park</a>, a delightfully retro amusement park featuring all your classic favorites like a giant roller coaster, arcade games, and cotton candy. Of course, there are plenty of modern rides, too, like the refreshing Beach Blaster or the fun Krazy Kars. Spend an afternoon enjoying rides, slides, and strolls along their palm-lined boardwalk and we know you&#39;ll have a wonderful time.</p>


<p>Head down to PETCO Park for a Padres game any time in the season, or if they&#39;re out of town,&nbsp;<a href="https://gocity.com/san-diego/en-us/attractions/petco-park-tour" rel="noopener" target="_blank">take a tour of PETCO Park</a>. This gorgeous downtown stadium is one of Major League Baseball&#39;s finest, and it&#39;s more than worth your time to at least stop by.</p>

<p>If you&#39;re a real sports buff, then you have more options depending on the time of year. Torrey Pines has a well-regarded golf course, and there are several college options</p>


<h2>Make the most of the great outdoors</h2>


<p>There are so many wonderful neighborhoods in San Diego that it can be hard to pinpoint the must-visits, but the historic Gaslamp Quarter is definitely on that list. Combining Victorian architecture and modern buildings to form one striking neighborhood, the Gaslamp Quarter is home to both historic attractions like the&nbsp;<a href="https://gocity.com/san-diego/en-us/products/all-inclusive/attractions/davis-horton-house" rel="noopener" target="_blank">Davis-Horton House</a>,&nbsp;modern nightlife and dining. Head here for a wide variety of options from dance clubs to fine dining establishments.</p>


<p>There&#39;s nothing in the world quite like the magnificent Balboa Park. It&#39;s the country&#39;s largest urban cultural park, filled to the brim with&nbsp;<a href="https://gocity.com/en/san-diego/blog/balboa-park-discounts" rel="noopener" target="_blank">top museums, gardens, concert venues, and so much more</a>. Explore this beautiful expanse to relax and unwind with a picnic or leisurely walk, or, opt to explore with a visit to a couple of their many world-renowned institutions.</p>

<p>Be sure to have your camera at the ready -- between the lush gardens and historic architecture, you&#39;ll want to snap a photo every few feet!</p>


<h2>There&#39;s so much to see in San Diego</h2>

<p>We hope you&#39;ve found our round-up of fun things to do in San Diego for adults during your vacation helpful. These ideas are great for couples or if you are traveling with a group of friends. So, whether you&#39;re the get-out-and-go type of friend who can&#39;t wait for those long bike rides on the beach or the casual meandering couple who wants to soak up all the culture they can, San Diego has endless delightful attractions to help you craft that perfect vacation.</p>


<h2>Can&#39;t choose? No need, see it all with Go City&reg;</h2>

<p>With an <a href="https://gocity.com/en/san-diego/passes?duration=3" target="_blank">All-Inclusive Pass</a> from Go City, you can visit both attractions for a fraction of the cost. Plus, you could save up to 50% on all your San Diego must-sees. Or pick an <a href="https://gocity.com/en/san-diego/passes/explorer?duration=3" target="_blank">Explorer Pass</a>, if you&#39;ve chosen your fave and have a specific bucket list you&#39;re dreaming of ticking off. Grab whichever <a href="https://gocity.com/en/san-diego" target="_blank">San Diego attraction pass</a> suits you, and go exploring!</p>

<p>☀️<a href="https://gocity.com/en/san-diego" target="_blank">Compare San Diego passes</a>&nbsp;☀️ &ndash; 🌏 <a href="https://gocity.com/en/" target="_blank">Explore other destinations</a> 🌏 &ndash; ✈️ <a href="https://gocity.com/en/san-diego/passes?duration=3" target="_blank">Buy a pass</a> ✈️</p>


<p>Active couples and groups of friends will love the chance to get out and explore the beautiful weather and scenery of the San Diego area.&nbsp;<a href="https://gocity.com/san-diego/en-us/products/all-inclusive/attractions/bike-rental-coronado" rel="noopener" target="_blank">Bike rides</a>&nbsp;are a perfect boardwalk activity for you and your friends, allowing you the freedom to beach hop while getting a little exercise.</p>

<p>Or, if you prefer to enjoy the beautiful waters of the coves and harbors in the region, try your hand at a&nbsp;<a href="https://gocity.com/san-diego/en-us/products/all-inclusive/attractions/bike-and-kayak-tours-coronado-90-minute-tandem-kayak-rental" rel="noopener" target="_blank">tandem kayak</a>?! There&#39;s even&nbsp;<a href="https://gocity.com/san-diego/en-us/products/all-inclusive/attractions/bike-and-kayak-tours-coronado-stand-paddle-board-rental" rel="noopener" target="_blank">stand-up paddleboarding</a>&nbsp;for the even more adventurous.</p>


<p>This lovely island community is a must-see part of San Diego that visitors often overlook. It&#39;s part beachy delights, part historic heritage, all wonderful. Explore the historic Hotel Del Coronado - today the home of many weddings and high-end parties. Bike the beaches and visit museums. It&#39;s just a quick ferry ride from downtown San Diego!</p>

<p>You could also spend a little time in the&nbsp;<a href="https://gocity.com/san-diego/en-us/products/all-inclusive/attractions/coronado-museum-history-art" rel="noopener" target="_blank">Coronado Museum of History and Art</a>, which features informative and interesting exhibits about this charming island.</p>


<p>After indulging in all this exciting fun, you may want to unwind a little and reconnect with the slower side of things. While you may not be able to squeeze in a yoga class while traveling, you can pay a visit to the lovely&nbsp;<a href="https://gocity.com/san-diego/en-us/products/all-inclusive/attractions/japanese-friendship-garden" rel="noopener" target="_blank">Japanese Friendship Garden</a>&nbsp;in Balboa Park. (For more things to do in Balboa Park, see below.)</p>

<p>This serene garden is a haven from the hustle and bustle of the outside world, featuring a koi pond, a sand and stone garden, and many other beautiful plants within a cultivated gardenscape.</p>


<p>Searching for a way to explore the city that isn&#39;t just the same old bus tour? Check out the revolutionary&nbsp;<a href="https://gocity.com/en/san-diego/attractions/gocar-san-diego-tours-one-hour-navigational-tour" rel="noopener" target="_blank">San Diego GoCar Tours</a>&nbsp;- the world&#39;s first GPS-guided storytelling car. Let it do the talking and navigating while you worry about nothing but enjoying the ride. It&#39;s an ideal way for adults to explore the city because it lets you go at your own pace, and stop and start the tour any time or place you want. Simply hop back in and the narration resumes.</p>

<p>Or, if you prefer something a little more charming and traditional, try a&nbsp;<a href="https://gocity.com/en/san-diego/attractions/2-day-hop-hop-san-diego-trolley-old-town-trolley-tours" rel="noopener" target="_blank">trolley tour of the city</a>. This hop-on hop-off option gives you the flexibility to explore at your own pace over two days, guided by your interests.</p>


<p>Do you love the water, but want something more exciting than a leisurely cruise? San Diego has several options for you to choose from. Our favorite is the&nbsp;<a href="https://gocity.com/en/san-diego/attractions/patriot-jet-boat" target="_blank">Flagship Patriot Jet Boat</a>, the most patriotic speedboat experience on the planet - patent pending. Experience high speed turns along San Fran Bay, skid along waves like some a certain fast and furious cinematic family, and do it all atop the red, white, and blue of the American flag. Does it get more patriotic than that? No, it does not.</p>


<p>If you&#39;re an active bunch, there&#39;s nothing quite like getting out on the water in this wonderful temperate city. The Pacific Ocean is full of marvels, big and small, so why not scope them out on an afternoon&nbsp;<a href="https://gocity.com/en/san-diego/attractions/whale-watching-hornblower-cruises-winter" rel="noopener" target="_blank">Whale Watch</a>? See the great gray whales alongside tiny seabirds and go home with a collection of phenomenal photographs.</p>

<p><strong>Please note:</strong> this tour is only available in the winter.</p>

<p>Looking for something more along the lines of a relaxing sightseeing cruise? Then check out the&nbsp;<a href="https://gocity.com/en/san-diego/attractions/90-minute-best-bay-harbor-tour-city-cruises" rel="noopener" target="_blank">Best of the Bay Harbor Cruise</a>&nbsp;for a combination of informative narration and peaceful sailing.&nbsp;</p>

<p>This harbor boat tour takes in dozens of the city&#39;s best sights including&nbsp;Seaport Village, Shelter Island, Coronado Island, Point Loma, and Cabrillo National Monument. You&#39;ll cover&nbsp;20 miles worth of incredible landmarks and locations.&nbsp;</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>


<p>Do you simply adore animals? Then San Diego is the perfect destination for you! There are attractions to suit animal lovers of all stripes, from the amazing&nbsp;<a href="https://gocity.com/en/san-diego/attractions/san-diego-zoo" rel="noopener" target="_blank">San Diego Zoo</a>&nbsp;to their sister park, the&nbsp;<a href="https://gocity.com/en/san-diego/attractions/san-diego-zoo-safari-park" rel="noopener" target="_blank">San Diego Safari Park</a>&nbsp;(maybe best known for its magnificent big cats).</p>

<p>If you prefer sea creatures to land mammals, another great option is&nbsp;<a href="https://gocity.com/en/san-diego/attractions/seaworld-san-diego-3-day" rel="noopener" target="_blank">SeaWorld San Diego</a>. This amazing aquatic attraction combines the best parts of a theme park and an animal park all into one delightful package.</p>


<h2>Check out San Diego&#39;s museums</h2>


<p>It&#39;s nearly impossible to narrow down the&nbsp;<a href="https://gocity.com/en/san-diego/blog/top-san-diego-museums" rel="noopener" target="_blank">list of San Diego Museums</a>&nbsp;to a few top choices, so we&#39;ll just have to settle for naming some of our favorites. The&nbsp;<a href="https://gocity.com/san-diego/en-us/products/all-inclusive/attractions/uss-midway-museum" rel="noopener" target="_blank">USS Midway Museum</a>&nbsp;is a definite must-see; as one of the most popular attractions in all of San Diego, it&#39;s got a lot to offer fans of military history and naval culture.</p>

<p>Art lovers will also find much to enjoy about San Diego&#39;s museum scene, which features everything from fine arts museums (like the&nbsp;<a href="https://gocity.com/en/san-diego/attractions/san-diego-museum-art" rel="noopener" target="_blank">San Diego Museum of Art</a>) to those that focus on photography and contemporary offerings (like the Museum of Contemporary Art. Of course, with nearly 20 museums and attractions to choose from in the Balboa Park area alone, you&#39;ll never run out of things to explore.</p>


Check out our favorite things to do in San Diego for adults. Save on admission to many of these popular attractions that are fun for adults.

10+ Things to Do in San Diego for Adults (Couples & Friend Ideas)

Let's look at the main differences between the two parks

Trying to decide whether to visit San Diego Zoo vs SeaWorld? Both are iconic San Diego attractions, but both offer different experiences. Our guide has all you need to know about admission, thrill rides, practical details, and more.

San Diego Zoo vs. SeaWorld

<p>While both are animal-centric theme parks, these two attractions offer two completely different experiences. In our guide, we&#39;ve reviewed the major differences between&nbsp;<a href="https://gocity.com/san-diego/en-us/products/all-inclusive/attractions/san-diego-zoo" rel="noopener" target="_blank">San Diego Zoo</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://gocity.com/san-diego/en-us/products/all-inclusive/attractions/seaworld-san-diego-3-day" rel="noopener" target="_blank">SeaWorld San Diego</a>. This will help you choose the park you want to add to your San Diego sightseeing itinerary.</p>

<p><strong>Or, if you truly can&#39;t decide, visit both with your&nbsp;Go City&reg; San Diego pass!</strong></p>

<p>☀️<a href="https://gocity.com/en/san-diego/passes?duration=1" rel="noreferrer noopener" target="_blank">Compare San Diego passes</a>☀️ &ndash; 🌏 <a href="https://gocity.com/en" rel="noreferrer noopener" target="_blank">Explore other destinations </a>🌏 &ndash;&nbsp; ✈️ <a href="https://gocity.com/en/san-diego/passes/all-inclusive?duration=1" rel="noreferrer noopener" target="_blank">Buy a pass ✈️</a>&nbsp;</p>

<h2>Admission</h2>

<h3>What is included in admission to the San Diego Zoo?</h3>


<ul>
	<li>One ride on the Guided Bus Tour</li>
	<li>Unlimited use of the Kangaroo Express Bus</li>
	<li>One ride on the Skyfari Aerial Tram</li>
	<li>Scheduled Zookeeper talks throughout the day</li>
	<li>General admission exhibits and shows</li>
	<li>Free parking</li>
</ul>


<h3>What is included in admission to SeaWorld San Diego?</h3>


<h2>Exhibits &amp; things to do:</h2>

<p><strong>Low thrill level rides:</strong><br />
&nbsp;</p>

<ul>
	<li>Abby&#39;s Sea Star Spin - A&nbsp;classic spinning ride that lets you control your spinning speed</li>
	<li>Aqua Scout - A&nbsp;kid-friendly flying ride</li>
	<li>Bayside Skyride - An elevated cable ride that takes you above the park for aerial views of the park and Mission Bay</li>
	<li>Elmo&#39;s Flying Fish - An up-and-down flying fish ride</li>
	<li>Octarock - A family-friendly swinging ride</li>
	<li>Oscar&#39;s Rockin&#39; Eel - A&nbsp;side-to-side ride of adventure</li>
	<li>Sea Dragon Drop - An outward-facing elevator-style drop ride geared towards kids</li>
	<li>Submarine Quest - An underwater voyage/submarine mission</li>
	<li>Tentacle Twirl - A&nbsp;classic spinning swing ride</li>
</ul>


<h2>Exhibits and things to do at San Diego Zoo<br />
&nbsp;</h2>

<ul>
	<li><strong>Guided Bus Tour:</strong>&nbsp;Double-decker bus tour of the entire zoo with a guide that points out interesting features of the zoo and any activity you can see as you pass the exhibits</li>
	<li><strong>Animal Shows/Keeper Talks: </strong>Check the daily schedule to plan your day around which animal shows and demonstrations you want to go to.</li>
	<li><strong>Northern Frontier &amp; Polar Bear Plunge: </strong>An&nbsp;exciting polar bear exhibit where visitors can get a unique underwater view of bears playing in the water and see other animals from the North, including white foxes, caribou, maned wolves, and more.</li>
	<li><strong>Elephant Odyssey:</strong>&nbsp;This exhibit focuses on lots of California-native animals, from prehistoric times to the present day, including large birds, cheetahs, lions, and meerkats.</li>
	<li><strong>Lost Forest:</strong>&nbsp;This lively exhibit features animals that call the forest their home, including tigers, hippos, monkeys and gorillas. You can find the Scripps Aviary and Owens Aviary in this section of the zoo, as well.</li>
	<li><strong>Urban Jungle: </strong>Home to giraffes, kangaroos, koalas, flamingos, rhinos, and more.</li>
	<li><strong>Discovery Outpost:</strong> An exhibit geared towards the younger crowd, kids can climb and play in the playground, touch animals in the petting zoo, and get up close to reptiles, insects, birds, and more.</li>
	<li><strong>Skyfari&reg; Aerial Tram:</strong>&nbsp;This elevated cable car ride soars over the park providing visitors an aerial view of the zoo and surrounding Balboa Park.</li>
</ul>


<ul>
	<li>Sea Lions Live: See what resident sea lions, Clyde and Seamore, are up to with their latest TV and music spoofs.</li>
	<li>Dolphin Days: Dolphins and pilot whales show off their athleticism in this trainer and animal show</li>
	<li>Pets Rule! A&nbsp;heartwarming show featuring pets rescued by animal trainers</li>
	<li>Sea Rescue: An award-winning show that tells stories of marine animal rescue, rehabilitation, and release to the wild by the SeaWorld Rescue Team.</li>
</ul>


Animal shows:

<p>There are countless rides and roller coasters at SeaWorld to suit everyone. There&#39;s a good mix of lower thrill rides such as Aqua Scout, Octarock, Sea Dragon Drop and Tentacle Twirl, all the way up to high thrill rides such as the Emperor and Electric Eel rollercoasters.</p>

<p><strong>Medium thrill level rides:</strong><br />
&nbsp;</p>

<ul>
	<li>Riptide Rescue - A spinning ride with a few unexpected twists</li>
	<li>Shipwreck Rapids - A&nbsp;classic lazy river ride with whitewater rapids and waterfalls</li>
	<li>Wild Arctic - A&nbsp;flight simulator multi-media experience that navigates through the treacherous Wild Arctic</li>
</ul>

<p><strong>High thrill level rides</strong><br />
&nbsp;</p>

<ul>
	<li>Journey to Atlantis - Inspired by the legend of Atlantis, this ride plummets to great depths and makes a splash</li>
	<li>Manta - This multi-media launch coaster whips visitors around at high speeds</li>
	<li>Tidal Twister. You will accelerate at 30mph as you twist and turn around the figure-8 track.</li>
</ul>


<h2>Save on admission &amp; visit both attractions with a pass by Go City&reg;</h2>

<p>Visit both San Diego Zoo vs SeaWorld, plus many other popular San Diego attractions for one low price with a&nbsp;<a href="https://gocity.com/san-diego/en-us&amp;allInc=true" rel="noopener" target="_blank">San Diego All-Inclusive Pass</a>. You&rsquo;ll make great savings on combined admission to your choice of attractions, including the San Diego Zoo Safari Park, LEGOLAND&reg; California, USS Midway Museum, theme parks, harbor cruises, bike rentals, tours, and more. So pick the <a href="https://gocity.com/en/san-diego" target="_blank">San Diego pass</a> that suits you best, and go exploring!</p>

<p>☀️<a href="https://gocity.com/en/san-diego/passes?duration=1" rel="noreferrer noopener" target="_blank">Compare San Diego passes</a>☀️ &ndash; 🌏 <a href="https://gocity.com/en" rel="noreferrer noopener" target="_blank">Explore other destinations </a>🌏 &ndash;&nbsp; ✈️ <a href="https://gocity.com/en/san-diego/passes/all-inclusive?duration=1" rel="noreferrer noopener" target="_blank">Buy a pass ✈️</a>&nbsp;</p>


<p>The San Diego Zoo and SeaWorld San Diego are both must-see San Diego attractions but offer very different experiences.</p>

<p><strong>San Diego Zoo: </strong>Larger variety and quantity of animals, comprehensive guided tour bus and aerial tram ride included, historic park, botanical garden, more centrally located, free parking.</p>

<p>The San Diego Zoo has animals from all over the world in exhibits that mimic their natural habitats and it features animal presentations and keeper talks throughout the day. If you choose to visit the zoo, check out our more in-depth&nbsp;<a href="https://gocity.com/en/san-diego/things-to-do/san-diego-zoo-guide/">guide to San Diego Zoo.</a></p>

<p><strong>SeaWorld San Diego: </strong>Narrower focus on marine life and animals from the ocean. SeaWorld admission includes access to all thrill rides, from kid-friendly to adrenaline-seeking. SeaWorld features animal shows and presentations throughout the day, and aquarium-like exhibits, including the underwater glass shark tunnel. If you choose to visit SeaWorld, check out our&nbsp;<a href="https://gocity.com/en/san-diego/things-to-do/seaworld-san-diego-guide/">guide to SeaWorld San Diego.</a></p>


<h3>Special events</h3>

<p>SeaWorld has special events taking place all summer until September, such as Sesame Street Party Parade and Electric Ocean.</p>


<ul>
	<li>General admission to exhibits and shows</li>
	<li>Unlimited access to all thrill rides</li>
	<li>One ride on the Bayside Skyride</li>
</ul>

<p><strong>Please note:&nbsp;</strong>parking is not included with SeaWorld admission and starts at $25 per car for general parking. Preferred parking spots will cost you $30 &ndash; $35.</p>


<h2>Where is each zoo located and how easy is it to get to?</h2>

<p>Both attractions are located close to downtown San Diego and are easy to get to via public transportation.</p>

<h3>San Diego Zoo</h3>

<p>Located right in the popular Balboa Park, near lots of other&nbsp;<a href="https://gocity.com/en/san-diego/things-to-do//balboa-park-discounts/" rel="noopener" target="_blank">Balboa Park attractions</a>, the San Diego Zoo is very centrally located and close to Downtown San Diego. The zoo is easy to get to by car, bike, walking, and public transportation. The parking is also free, which is a nice bonus.</p>

<h3>SeaWorld San Diego</h3>

<p>Located just north of Downtown San Diego in Mission Bay, SeaWorld San Diego is on a peninsula-like piece of land in the bay. SeaWorld is easy to get to by car and public transportation, but not immediately close to other attractions.</p>

<h2>Animals, exhibits &amp; things to do</h2>


<ul>
	<li>You can find animals from all over the globe, including polar bears, gorillas, penguins, elephants, grizzly bears, birds, and more.</li>
	<li>Animals can be viewed in enclosures that mimic their natural habitats and provide great viewing opportunities for visitors.</li>
</ul>


San Diego Zoo

<p>You can find animals native to ocean environments, including octopi, sharks, penguins, tropical fish, and more.</p>


<h2>Tips for visiting SeaWorld and the San Diego Zoo:</h2>

<p><strong>San Diego Zoo Tips:</strong></p>

<ul>
	<li>If you use your&nbsp;Go City&reg; San Diego pass to visit the zoo, you can skip the ticket booth and go straight to the turnstiles for park entry. Your admission&nbsp;includes unlimited use of the Guided Bus Tour, Kangaroo Express Bus, Skyfari aerial tram, and all regularly scheduled shows and keeper talks.</li>
	<li>Wear comfortable shoes and dress for the weather. You&#39;ll be doing a lot of walking around 100 acres of hilly terrain.</li>
	<li>Use the hop-on hop-off Kangaroo Bus to get around to the bus routes&#39; 4 stops throughout the park. Buses run every&nbsp;15 minutes.</li>
	<li>Pack a lunch or snacks if you want to avoid paying for food in the zoo.</li>
	<li>Bring a water bottle to fill up at water fountains or purchase a souvenir fountain drink cup for discounted refills throughout the day.</li>
	<li>Plan to spend almost a full day at the park and go as early as you can--the animals tend to be the most active in the morning.</li>
</ul>

<p><strong>SeaWorld San Diego Tips:</strong></p>

<ul>
	<li>Check the daily schedule when you arrive and plan your day in the park around any shows or presentations you may want to see.</li>
	<li>Pack a waterproof camera or cell phone or use waterproof cases to protect them from getting wet on rides.</li>
	<li>Prepare to get soaked - whether you&#39;re on a water ride or sitting in the Splash Zone at one of the animal shows, it&#39;s hard to avoid getting wet at SeaWorld. Wear quick-dry or water-resistant clothing, or pack a change of clothes.</li>
	<li>Arrive to show theaters and auditoriums with plenty of time before the shows, there&#39;s often pre-show entertainment that comes into play during the &#39;real&#39; show later with information or inside jokes you might otherwise not pick up.</li>
	<li>Stay the whole day; the park offers a whole new experience at night with shows and entertainment.</li>
</ul>

<h2>In summary:</h2>


<p>Broadly speaking, the San Diego Zoo has a greater quantity and variety of animals from different types of habitats from all over the world while SeaWorld&#39;s animal exhibits are exclusively focused on ocean life and marine animals from various parts of the world.&nbsp;Visitors can easily spend a full day at both parks.</p>

<p><strong>SeaWorld&#39;s thrill rides and animal shows</strong>&nbsp;are the biggest focus at the park, while&nbsp;<strong>San Diego Zoo features animal exhibits and presentations,</strong>&nbsp;with a large focus on education about animal species.</p>


San Diego Zoo vs SeaWorld? Compare the differences between these 2 popular San Diego attractions and see which one, or both, is a great for your vacation.

San Diego Zoo vs SeaWorld - Compare Major Differences

With world-class SoCal beaches, a staggering 17 museums in Balboa Park, animal adventures, and a charming Old Town, San Diego's got it all.

The birthplace of California is a vacation hotspot, and for good reason!

What is San Diego Known For?

<p>San Diego is a city in southern California famous for its gorgeous weather and stunning beaches. It&#39;s also known for the San Diego Zoo, San Diego Padres, and more recently, its craft beer industry, which also makes it a city worth visiting.</p>

<p>So, what is San Diego known for? Here is a list of reasons why San Diego is famous and the top attractions you need to visit, including...</p>

<ul>
	<li>San Diego Padres</li>
	<li>Gaslamp Quarter</li>
	<li>San Diego beaches</li>
	<li>Old Town San Diego</li>
	<li>Balboa Park</li>
	<li>San Diego Zoo</li>
	<li>San Diego breweries</li>
	<li>And more!</li>
</ul>

<h2>San Diego Padres</h2>


<p>The Major League baseball team, the San Diego Padres, is one of the reasons San Diego is famous. Why not try to get tickets to see a Padres game while on vacation in San Diego? Or, as the Padres play in San Diego&rsquo;s downtown PETCO Park stadium, take a&nbsp;<a href="https://gocity.com/san-diego/en-us/products/all-inclusive/attractions/petco-park-tour" rel="noopener" target="_blank">behind-the-scenes tour</a>&nbsp;to learn all about the team&rsquo;s home.</p>

<p>Your guide will take you around the stadium and you will have access to exclusive areas like the dugout, press box, and the hall of fame. Sports fans should also check out our guide to sports in San Diego for more athletic-themed ideas to add to your itinerary.</p>


<p>This is the most visited zoo in the United States, which is not surprising, as the&nbsp;<a href="https://gocity.com/en/san-diego/attractions/san-diego-zoo" rel="noopener" target="_blank">San Diego Zoo&nbsp;</a>is home to more than 4,000 animals, with over 650 species. The various habitats, such as &lsquo;Lost Forest&rsquo; and &lsquo;Northern Frontier&rsquo; are located across a massive 100-acre lot, so you can explore all day.</p>

<p>If that wasn&rsquo;t enough, the zoo also has a separate&nbsp;<a href="https://gocity.com/en/san-diego/attractions/san-diego-zoo-safari-park" rel="noopener" target="_blank">Safari Park</a>, which is located just north of the city, spans over 1,800 acres, and has more than 2,600 animals.</p>

<p>Having trouble choosing between&nbsp;<a href="https://gocity.com/en/san-diego/things-to-do/san-diego-zoo-vs-safari-park" rel="noopener" target="_blank">the zoo and the safari park</a>? Consult our handy guide!</p>


<h3>Kayaking</h3>

<p>Kayaking is a great way to explore the local area while taking in the city views from the water. From Coronado, you&rsquo;ll get great views of the skyline, PETCO Park,&nbsp;<a href="https://gocity.com/en/san-diego/things-to-do/uss-midway-museum-guide" rel="noopener" target="_blank">USS Midway</a>, Glorietta Bay, and more. Or, head to La Jolla to explore the caves and get up close to marine life.</p>


<p>Why not try a&nbsp;<a href="https://gocity.com/san-diego/en-us/products/all-inclusive/attractions/bike-and-kayak-tours-coronado-90-minute-tandem-kayak-rental" rel="noopener" target="_blank">90-minute tandem kayak rental in Coronado</a>&nbsp;or&nbsp;<a href="https://gocity.com/san-diego/en-us/products/all-inclusive/attractions/90-minute-tandem-kayak-rental" rel="noopener" target="_blank">La Jolla</a>, the perfect amount of time to enjoy a paddle beneath the San Diego sun.</p>


<h3>Whale watching and dolphin cruise</h3>

<p>Take the opportunity to go on a&nbsp;<a href="https://gocity.com/san-diego/en-us/products/all-inclusive/attractions/whale-watching-dolphin-cruises-newport-landing" rel="noopener" target="_blank">Whale Watching and Dolphin Cruise</a>&nbsp;while visiting San Diego. This two-hour and 30-minute guided cruise will take you out into the ocean on a double-decker ship specifically designed for whale watching. You have the chance to see all kinds of whales, including the California Gray Whale, the Blue Whale, and orcas. Cameras at the ready!</p>

<p>Be sure to check out our&nbsp;<a href="https://gocity.com/en/san-diego/things-to-do/a-guide-to-whale-watching-in-san-diego" rel="noopener" target="_blank">guide to whale watching</a>&nbsp;for top tips on making the most of your tour.</p>

<h2>Visit Old Town San Diego</h2>

<p>One of the most famous areas of San Diego is the Old Town. Old Town San Diego is the birthplace of California and is the site of the first permanent Spanish settlement in California. Aside from its historical significance, it&rsquo;s a great area to visit for its attractions.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://gocity.com/san-diego/en-us/blog/haunted-san-diego" rel="noopener" target="_blank">Whaley House</a>&nbsp;should absolutely be on your San Diego itinerary. The Whaley House is one of the most important buildings in San Diego and is perhaps the most haunted house in the USA. Discover the Whaley family history and keep an eye out for ghosts roaming the halls, of course...</p>

<h2>Balboa Park</h2>


<p>Paddle-boarding is the ultimate California sport, so where better to try it out than San Diego? At&nbsp;<a href="https://gocity.com/san-diego/en-us/products/all-inclusive/attractions/bike-and-kayak-tours-coronado-stand-paddle-board-rental">Coronado</a><a href="https://gocity.com/san-diego/en-us/products/all-inclusive/attractions/bike-and-kayak-tours-coronado-stand-paddle-board-rental">&nbsp;Island</a>, take 90 minutes to paddle-board around San Diego Bay, and take in the city&rsquo;s sights. Alternatively, explore&nbsp;<a href="https://gocity.com/san-diego/en-us/attractions/2-hour-stand-paddleboard-rental" rel="noopener" target="_blank">Harbor Island</a>&nbsp;by paddle-board with a one-hour equipment rental. Or, if you&rsquo;re more into marine life, you can also explore the Ecological Reserve at&nbsp;<a href="https://gocity.com/san-diego/en-us/products/all-inclusive/attractions/bike-and-kayak-tours-la-jolla-stand-paddleboard-rental" rel="noopener" target="_blank">La Jolla</a>&nbsp;for 90 minutes. Wherever you decide to go, paddle-boarding should be on your San Diego itinerary.</p>


<h2>Can&#39;t choose? No need, see it all with Go City&reg;&nbsp;</h2>

<p>With an All-Inclusive Pass from Go City, you can visit both attractions for a fraction of the cost. Plus, you could save up to 50% on all your San Diego must-sees. Or pick an Explorer Pass, if you&#39;ve chosen your fave and have a specific bucket list you&#39;re dreaming of ticking off. Pick the perfect <a href="https://gocity.com/en/san-diego" target="_blank">San Diego pass</a> for you and get to it!&nbsp;</p>

<p>☀️ <a href="https://gocity.com/en/san-diego/passes?duration=1" rel="noreferrer noopener" target="_blank">Compare San Diego passes</a> ☀️&ndash; 🌏 <a href="https://gocity.com/en" rel="noreferrer noopener" target="_blank">Explore other destinations </a>🌏 &ndash;&nbsp; ✈️ <a href="https://gocity.com/en/san-diego/passes/all-inclusive?duration=1" rel="noreferrer noopener" target="_blank">Buy a pass ✈</a></p>


<p>At&nbsp;<a href="https://gocity.com/san-diego/en-us/attractions/pure-brewing-tasting-3-locations" rel="noopener" target="_blank">Pure Brewing</a>, you have the choice of three fabulous locations in which to try their sample of colorful beer flights. Consisting of five different 5oz. pours based on your personal preferences, these flights give you the chance to get a taste of the varied brews on offer at Pure Brewing. In a setting replete with plants and soft lighting, this is an excellent spot to seek shade and cool off with a crisp and refreshing beer.</p>


<h3>Snorkeling</h3>

<p>To get up close to San Diego&rsquo;s marine life,&nbsp;<a href="https://gocity.com/san-diego/en-us/products/all-inclusive/attractions/full-day-snorkel-adventure" rel="noopener" target="_blank">snorkeling in La Jolla</a>&nbsp;is a must. Rent all the equipment you need, including a mask, wetsuit, and flippers, and spend the day exploring San Diego&rsquo;s unique ocean life. All kinds of animals live in La Jolla&rsquo;s waters, so you have the opportunity to see dolphins, sea lions, leopard sharks, and garibaldi fish. Remember to take an underwater camera!</p>

<h3>Surfing</h3>

<p>What better way to experience the SoCal lifestyle than&nbsp;<a href="https://gocity.com/en/cancun/things-to-do/best-places-to-learn-to-surf" rel="noopener" target="_blank">surfing</a>? Surfing is a great way to immerse yourself in San Diego culture while getting to enjoy the great beaches and weather. Beginners and pros alike will enjoy&nbsp;<a href="https://gocity.com/san-diego/en-us/products/all-inclusive/attractions/la-jolla-surf-board-rental" rel="noopener" target="_blank">surfing in La Jolla</a>, as its waters are calmer, making it a great place to practice riding the waves. Plus, you can rent a surfboard for the full day, so you&rsquo;ll have hours to perfect your moves.</p>

<h3>Stand up paddleboarding</h3>


<p>A San Diego vacation would be incomplete without a trip to Balboa Park. Not only does it have beautiful gardens and a zoo, but there are also 17 museums located within the park. From the Natural History Museum to the San Diego Museum of Art, there is something for everyone.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Go City&reg; San Diego passes&nbsp;include admission to the following Balboa Park attractions:<br />
&nbsp;</p>

<ul>
	<li><a href="https://gocity.com/san-diego/en-us/products/all-inclusive/attractions/san-diego-museum-art" rel="noopener" target="_blank">San Diego Museum of Art</a></li>
	<li><a href="https://gocity.com/san-diego/en-us/products/all-inclusive/attractions/fleet-science-center-imax" rel="noopener" target="_blank">Fleet Science Center</a></li>
	<li><a href="https://gocity.com/san-diego/en-us" rel="noopener" target="_blank">San Diego History Center</a></li>
	<li><a href="https://gocity.com/san-diego/en-us/products/all-inclusive/attractions/japanese-friendship-garden" rel="noopener" target="_blank">Japanese Friendship Garden</a></li>
	<li><a href="https://gocity.com/san-diego/en-us/products/all-inclusive/attractions/natural-history-museum" rel="noopener" target="_blank">Natural History Museum</a></li>
	<li>and more!</li>
</ul>


<p>The Gaslamp Quarter is one of the most beautiful places in San Diego. Its Victorian architecture and impressive variety of bars and restaurants make it one of the most lively areas of the city. To learn more about this unique neighborhood, head to the&nbsp;<a href="https://gocity.com/san-diego/en-us/products/all-inclusive/attractions/davis-horton-house" rel="noopener" target="_blank">Gaslamp Museum at Davis-Horton House</a>.</p>

<p>The Davis-Horton House has a fascinating history and is the oldest surviving structure in San Diego. Alonzo Horton, the founder of San Diego, lived there. A visit to the Gaslamp Quarter should be on your itinerary - it&#39;ll help you learn more about this wonderful city.</p>

<p>Be sure to check out our&nbsp;<a href="https://gocity.com/en/san-diego/things-to-do/guide-to-the-gaslamp-quarter-san-diego" rel="noopener" target="_blank">guide to the Gaslamp Quarter</a>&nbsp;before you visit!</p>


<h2><strong>San Diego breweries</strong></h2>

<p>San Diego has more recently become famous for its craft beer industry. The city boasts more than 150 breweries and is one of the best cities for beer in the USA. While visiting San Diego, take a guided brewery tour or taste some local craft beers.</p>


<p><a href="https://gocity.com/en/san-diego/things-to-do/best-beaches-in-san-diego">San Diego is famous for its beaches</a>, including, Coronado, La Jolla, Pacific Beach, and Ocean Beach. With all these shorelines come plenty of water activities to choose from, including kayaking, snorkeling, surfing, paddleboarding, and whale watching. Here is our list of the best water sports to try while in San Diego:</p>


San Diego is a city in southern California with gorgeous weather and stunning beaches. However, San Diego is known for the San Diego Zoo, San Diego Padres, and more recently, its craft beer industry, also make this a famous city worth visiting. So what is San Diego known for? Here is a list of reasons why San Diego is famous and the top attractions you need to visit including...  

What is San Diego Known For? | Go City®

Our top tips for visiting the iconic San Diego Zoo Safari Park – what to bring, what to wear and what not to miss!

Home to over 3,500 animals across 260 species from six continents of the world, the San Diego Zoo Safari Park offers visitors the opportunity to explore a 1,800-acre wildlife preserve.

San Diego Zoo Safari Park Guide

<p>Its most famous feature is the expansive free-range enclosure that is home to herds of giraffes, rhinos, antelope, zebras, and buffalos. Visitors can ride the Africa Tram that encircles the enclosure to see the animals up close and in natural habitats.</p>

<p>The San Diego Zoo Safari Park&#39;s extensive individual animal enclosures help visitors observe breathtaking animals from a short distance. Many are endangered species, and the San Diego Zoo Safari Park has an active world-renowned conservation and breeding program.</p>


<h2>How to visit San Diego Zoo Safari Park with Go City&reg;</h2>

<p>We&rsquo;ve got you covered &ndash;&nbsp;<a href="https://gocity.com/en/san-diego/attractions/san-diego-zoo-safari-park" rel="noopener" target="_blank">San Diego Zoo Safari Park admission</a>&nbsp;is available with the below money-saving options, so you can choose the attraction pass that&rsquo;s right for you:</p>

<p>1.&nbsp;<a href="https://gocity.com/en/san-diego/passes/all-inclusive?duration=3" target="_blank"><strong>All-Inclusive Pass</strong></a>&nbsp;&ndash; All you can do. Includes admission to dozens of attractions, including both San Diego Zoo and Safari Park.</p>

<p>2.&nbsp;<a href="https://gocity.com/en/san-diego/passes/explorer?duration=3" target="_blank"><strong>Explorer Pass</strong></a>&nbsp;&ndash; You&#39;ll have the choice of&nbsp;<a href="https://gocity.com/san-diego/en-us/products/explorer/attractions/choice-san-diego-zoo-or-san-diego-zoo-safari-park" rel="noopener" target="_blank">San Diego Zoo or Safari Park</a>&nbsp;to add to your pass. You can only redeem one choice during the life of your Explorer Pass.</p>


<h2>Africa Tram</h2>

<p>The Africa Tram Safari (included with your admission) is the primary exhibit at the Safari Park, and guests ride around it in tram cars while the tour guide points out the various species. The ride also gives visitors a view of many of the field exhibits to visit by foot. The tour lasts approximately 20-30 minutes, and the guides are well educated about the various species.</p>

<p><strong>Insider tip:</strong>&nbsp;Plan to do the Africa Tram as soon as you get to the park because there is often a long wait to ride.</p>


<h3>Flightline Safari</h3>

<p>For an additional cost, you can experience zip lining over the Africa savanna for nearly two-thirds of a mile with breathtaking views of the herds running free in the fields below. You can upgrade your experience even more (at an additional cost) and wear a helmet with a camera to film your flight in high definition.</p>


<h3>Jungle Ropes Safari</h3>

<p>Another optional extra at Safari Park involves climbing, balancing, and swinging your way through Safari Park&#39;s Jungle Ropes Safari like a monkey. This challenging course features bridges, aerial tightropes, swinging steps, and obstacles to navigate through the treetops, plus, the safety of a harness and instruction from a trained staff member.</p>


<h2>Nearby Attractions</h2>

<p>Although the San Diego Zoo Safari Park is located in an agriculture preserve, visitors may have an interest in enjoying three other attractions along the way on San Pasqual Road and San Pasqual Valley Road.</p>

<p><strong>LEGOLAND&reg; California</strong>&nbsp;- adventures await at&nbsp;<a href="https://gocity.com/en/san-diego/attractions/legoland-california" rel="noopener" target="_blank">LEGOLAND California</a>, including over 60 rides, shows, and attractions featuring all things LEGO&reg;. Admission is included with a your pass.</p>

<p><strong>Orfila Vineyards and Winery</strong>&nbsp;- this high-quality boutique winery is nestled in the hills of the San Pasqual Valley approximately three to four miles from the Safari Park. The winery produces Rhone-style wines from its own grapes and other vineyards from within the coastal range of California. Orfila offers tastings and verdant picnic grounds.</p>

<p><strong>The San Pasqual Battlefield Historic Park</strong>&nbsp;- visit the memorial dedicated to the soldiers who fought in the bloodiest battle between the United States and California forces in the Mexican-American War in 1846. The park provides insight into the history of California during the Mexican period that lasted from 1821 to 1848.</p>

<p><strong>The San Diego Archaeological Center</strong>&nbsp;- this organization is dedicated to the care, curation, and management of archaeological artifacts discovered throughout the San Diego area.</p>


<h2>Places to eat nearby</h2>

<p>If you&#39;re looking for a bite to eat after visiting the Safari Park, the nearest eateries are located about five miles away near Kit Carson Park and Westfield North County Mall.</p>

<ul>
	<li><strong>On the Border Cantina</strong>&nbsp;- their menu features a variety of Mexican favorites such as enchiladas, burritos, chimichangas, quesadillas, salads, and margaritas.<br />
	&nbsp;</li>
	<li><strong>Cheesecake Factory</strong>&nbsp;- known for its vast menu with over 250 selections including hamburgers, sandwiches, pizzas, salads, and cheesecake as well as other desserts. Everyone in your party is bound to find something they&#39;ll like.<br />
	&nbsp;</li>
	<li><strong>BJ&#39;s Restaurant and Brewhouse</strong>&nbsp;- head here for gourmet burgers, steaks, pastas, pizzas, soups and salads, as well as a full complement of award-winning craft beers.</li>
</ul>


<h2>More details about visiting San Diego Zoo Safari Park</h2>

<h4><strong>Hours</strong></h4>

<ul>
	<li>Typically 9am&nbsp;&ndash; 5pm. However, hours vary seasonally, so be sure to&nbsp;<a href="https://sdzsafaripark.org/plan-your-visit" rel="noopener" target="_blank">check online</a>&nbsp;for the most up-to-date information.</li>
	<li>Check out our blog post on&nbsp;<a href="https://gocity.com/en/san-diego/blog/san-diego-zoo-vs-safari-park" rel="noopener" target="_blank" title="San Diego Zoo vs Safari Park">San Diego Zoo vs Safari Park</a>, to understand the differences between the two.</li>
</ul>

<h4><strong>Directions &amp; Address</strong></h4>

<p><a href="https://www.google.com/maps/place/15500+San+Pasqual+Valley+Rd,+Escondido,+CA+92027,+USA/@33.1017034,-117.003488,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m5!3m4!1s0x80dbf21a055f2ddd:0x4499869c73a7c262!8m2!3d33.1017034!4d-117.0012993" rel="noopener" target="_blank">15500 San Pasqual Valley Road Escondido, CA 92027.</a></p>

<p><strong>Driving:</strong>&nbsp;From the North (Southbound): From I-5 (Orange County, Los Angeles), take the State Route 78 East and exit at Oceanside. Proceed East to I-15 South and exit at Via Rancho Parkway. Follow the signs to the Park. From I-15 (Riverside), exit at Via Rancho Parkway and follow the signs east to the Park.</p>

<p>From the South (Northbound): From State Route 163 (downtown San Diego, Mission Valley), proceed to I-15 to the Via Rancho Parkway exit. Go east and follow signs to the Park. From I-5 or 805 (Mexico), proceed to State Route 163, then to I-15 North. Exit at the Via Rancho Parkway and follow signs east.</p>

<p><strong>More info:</strong>&nbsp;check the San Diego Zoo Safari Park&nbsp;<a href="https://www.sdzsafaripark.org/" rel="noopener" target="_blank">website</a>&nbsp;for more information.</p>


<h2>Can&#39;t choose? No need, see it all with Go City&reg;</h2>

<p>With an All-Inclusive Pass from Go City, you can visit both attractions for a fraction of the cost. Plus, you could save up to 50% on all your San Diego must-sees. Or pick an Explorer Pass, if you&#39;ve chosen your fave and have a specific bucket list you&#39;re dreaming of ticking off. Pick the perfect <a href="https://gocity.com/en/san-diego" target="_blank">San Diego attraction pass</a> for you, and go see the sights!</p>

<p>☀️ <a href="https://gocity.com/en/san-diego/passes?duration=1" target="_blank">Compare San Diego passes</a> ☀️&ndash; 🌏<a href="https://gocity.com/en"> Explore other destinations</a> 🌏 &ndash; ✈️<a href="https://gocity.com/en/san-diego/passes?duration=1"> Buy a pass </a>✈</p>


<h3>Elephant Valley</h3>

<p>Get an up-close view of the Park&#39;s African elephants. The exhibit includes an amphitheater in which the keepers give educational talks and the elephants demonstrate their abilities. You&#39;ll learn all about the amazing work the staff do to care for the animals and what initiatives the Park leads to care for wild animals in Africa and elsewhere in the world.</p>


<h3>Gorilla Exhibit</h3>

<p>The gorilla exhibit is a stunning enclosure that gives visitors an up-close encounter of the gorilla family without fences to block the view.</p>


<h3>Lion Camp</h3>

<p>See the lions from multiple angles at the Lion Camp exhibit. Their habitat features lots of open space and views into their dens. You&#39;re bound to be able to get a good view of these large animals.</p>


<h3>Cheetah Run</h3>

<p>The famous cheetah run takes place once a day. The keepers bring Shiley the cheetah out to a 330-foot race track and release the cat, who can reach speeds of up to 70-miles per hour.</p>


<h3>Tiger Trail</h3>

<p>Follow the Tiger Trail through a bamboo forest into a lush, verdant exhibit with several Sumatran tigers. In addition to giving you the opportunity to see these majestic cats, the exhibit includes education about illegal poaching and logging that threatens their livelihood. The enclosure includes a pool for the cats and a waterfall that guests can walk under. In addition, the shop has a viewing area with tables and chairs in front of windows that look over the enclosure.</p>


<h2>Tips for visiting San Diego Zoo Safari Park</h2>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<ul>
	<li>Plan for a full day at the park, there&#39;s lots to do and see in the tranquil and lush environment.<br />
	&nbsp;</li>
	<li>Grab a map at the stations on the right when you enter the park. Check the list of animal encounters to plan your day around the presentations you want to see.<br />
	&nbsp;</li>
	<li>Expect at least a 45-minute trip each way to and from the park from downtown San Diego.<br />
	&nbsp;</li>
	<li>Take advantage of&nbsp;<a href="https://sdzsafaripark.org/plan-your-visit" rel="noopener" target="_blank">San Diego Zoo Safari Park&#39;s Plan Your Visit</a>&nbsp;online tool to scout out which activities and events you want to do when you&#39;re there. The park is expansive, so it will save you time if you&#39;re familiar with the layout and plan to tackle activities close to each other. Use this link to find the park map and park app!<br />
	&nbsp;</li>
	<li>Wear comfortable shoes for walking. In addition, bring layers&nbsp;as the weather can be cooler in the morning, but very warm in the afternoon.<br />
	&nbsp;</li>
	<li>Consider purchasing a guided safari trip upgrade to your ticket, such as the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.sdzsafaripark.org/safari/behind-scenes-safari" rel="noopener" target="_blank">Behind the Scenes Safari</a>&nbsp;and enjoy a personal jeep tour inside the animal enclosure with opportunities to feed some animals.<br />
	&nbsp;</li>
	<li>Pack a picnic. The Safari Park has many restaurants and food kiosks, but park fare can be pricey. To save money, bring a lunch and eat at one of the many picnic tables.<br />
	&nbsp;</li>
	<li>Arrive early. You&#39;ll avoid the larger afternoon crowds, plus the animals tend to be most active in the cool morning hours.<br />
	&nbsp;</li>
	<li>If possible, plan an overnight camp out at the Safari Park called a&nbsp;<a href="https://www.sdzsafaripark.org/safari/roar-snore-safari" rel="noopener" target="_blank">Roar and Snore</a>&nbsp;for a totally unique experience. There&#39;s nothing quite like hearing lions roar through the night.<br />
	&nbsp;</li>
	<li>Study the park map available online to get oriented before you go.<br />
	&nbsp;</li>
	<li>Utilize the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.sdzsafaripark.org/visitor-info/guests-disabilities" rel="noopener" target="_blank">Guests with Disabilities</a>&nbsp;services if anyone in the group has difficulties walking or any other restrictions. The park is quite hilly and many areas are accessible only by foot.</li>
</ul>


<h2>Best times to visit San Diego Zoo Safari Park</h2>

<p>The best time to visit is in the springtime during the birthing season, while the busiest times of the year are from June &ndash; August and during school vacations. The park offers many nursery exhibits to see the baby animals, including enclosures that let visitors watch them as they take their first steps or are fed from a bottle.</p>

<p>If you happen to travel in October, take advantage of yearly&nbsp;<a href="https://gocity.com/san-diego/en-us/blog/san-diego-kids-go-free-in-october-offers-guide" rel="noopener" target="_blank" title="San Diego free October">Kids Go Free</a>&nbsp;events,&nbsp;allowing kids to visit top attractions for free.</p>

<p>Regardless of the time of year, the best time of day to visit is in the morning as the animals tend to be most active then, before the temperatures reach afternoon highs.</p>

<p><strong>Tip:&nbsp;</strong>To avoid crowds, plan to visit the park on a weekday if possible.</p>


<h2>What you should bring with you to the park<br />
&nbsp;</h2>

<ul>
	<li>Sunscreen, snacks,&nbsp;water or a refillable water bottle. In addition, bring clothes that can be layered as the weather can vary throughout the day and you&#39;ll be spending time in the shade and sun.<br />
	&nbsp;</li>
	<li>Quarters for buying duck food for the birds and operating the telescopes to get a closer look at&nbsp;the animals.<br />
	&nbsp;</li>
	<li>A camera is a must! There are lots of opportunities to get excellent photos of lions, cheetahs, tigers, giraffes, rhinos, gorillas, and more.<br />
	&nbsp;</li>
	<li>Binoculars for viewing the animals in the free-range enclousure.</li>
</ul>


<p>There&#39;s lots to do and see within the 13 habitats and distinct regions at the park. Visitors enter at Safari Base Camp which includes restaurants, shops, and the Children&rsquo;s Discovery Station. From there, you can tour Gorilla Forest, Nairobi Village, Elephant Valley, Condor Ridge, Asian Savanna, African Plains, The Grove, Lion Camp, and African Woods.</p>

<p>The park also includes expansive botanical gardens with miles of trails and lots of unique species from all over the globe. In addition to seeing the animals and regular exhibits, the Safari Park has a wide array of add-on activities including a zip line, balloon rides, camp outs, playgrounds, behind the scenes safaris, rope climbing through the trees, encounters with animal ambassadors, a petting kraal, trike safaris, and customized experiences with personal guides.</p>

<p>You can really make a whole day of fun out of your visit and tailor your experiences to your party&#39;s interests!</p>


<h3><strong>Walkabout Australia</strong></h3>

<p>This exciting exhibit features all of your favorite Aussie critters including fearsome kangaroos, adorable wallabies, feisty cassowaries, talented tree kangaroos, and many more.</p>

<p>There&#39;s also a collection of botanical specimens that are indigenous to or acclimatized to Australia including Banksia, Bottlebrush, Wollemi Pine, and others. These plants are uniquely adapted to Australia&#39;s climate and flourish in the most radical conditions.</p>

<p><strong>Tip:</strong>&nbsp;Don&#39;t miss out on the opportunity to feed the most iconic Aussie critter, the kangaroo!</p>


Save up to 55% on San Diego Zoo Safari Park tickets. Make the most of your visit with these tips, highlights & more.

San Diego Zoo Safari Park Tips for Visiting With Your Family

We've broken down the main features of San Diego Zoo and Safari Park in key categories so you can choose which park suits you and your trip the best.

Though often confused as the same park, the two parks actually offer very varied experiences. 

San Diego Zoo or San Diego Zoo Safari Park?

<p>Don&#39;t want to choose? With an Explorer Pass you can only pick one, but if animals are your thing, grab an All-Inclusive Pass and you can visit both! Plus, you&#39;ll get access to loads more top attractions, tours and experiences for a fraction of the cost.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>☀️<a href="https://gocity.com/en/san-diego/passes?duration=1">Compare San Diego passes</a>☀️&nbsp;&ndash; 🌏 <a href="https://gocity.com/en">Explore other destinations&nbsp;</a>🌏 &ndash;&nbsp; ✈️ <a href="https://gocity.com/en/san-diego/passes/all-inclusive?duration=1">Buy a pass&nbsp;✈️</a></strong></p>


<h4>San Diego Zoo general admission includes:</h4>

<p>🚌 Unlimited use of the&nbsp;Guided Bus Tour<br />
🚎&nbsp;Unlimited use of the Kangaroo Express Bus<br />
🚠&nbsp;Unlimited use of the&nbsp;Skyfari Aerial Tram<br />
👩🏻&zwj;🌾 Scheduled Zookeeper talks throughout the day<br />
🦜 General admission exhibits and shows<br />
🚘 Free parking</p>

<h4>San Diego Zoo Safari Park admission includes:</h4>

<p>🚌 Unlimited use of the Africa Tram.<br />
👩🏻&zwj;🌾 Scheduled animal shows throughout the day.<br />
🦜 General admission exhibits and shows.</p>

<h2>What animals do they have?</h2>


<h3><strong>Can&#39;t choose? No need, see it all with Go City&reg;</strong></h3>

<p>With an All-Inclusive Pass from Go City, you can visit both attractions for a fraction of the cost. Plus, you could save up to 50% on all your San Diego must-sees. Or pick an Explorer Pass, if you&#39;ve chosen your fave and have a specific bucket list you&#39;re dreaming of ticking off. So what are you waiting for? Pick up your <a href="https://gocity.com/en/san-diego" target="_blank">San Diego pass</a> and get out there!</p>

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<p>The San Diego Zoo and Safari Park are surprisingly very different and have lots of different experiences to offer.</p>

<p><strong>San Diego Zoo: </strong>home to a<strong>&nbsp;</strong>larger variety and quantity of animals, and the guided tour bus and aerial tram ride are included. The park itself is considered a historic San Diego icon, located in downtown San Diego in Balboa Park.&nbsp; The zoo is close to lots of other popular San Diego attractions and offers free parking to visitors, and is easily accessible on public transport.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>San Diego Zoo Safari Park:</strong>&nbsp;features a more specific focus on animals from arid environments. It&#39;s a larger park in size which requires more walking between exhibits, but a guided safari-like ride is included. It&#39;s located a 45-60 minute drive outside of San Diego and is harder to reach by public transport.&nbsp;</p>

<p><br />
So there you have it, all you need to know about the differences between the San Diego Zoo and Safari Park!</p>


<h4>San Diego Zoo tips</h4>

<p>🌺 Check out the plant life there too. Little known fact: the zoo also qualifies as a botanical garden.</p>

<p>🚌 Get there early and do the included Guided Bus Tour first to make a note of the exhibits you want to plan your day around.</p>

<p>👟 Wear comfortable footwear, pack a water bottle, and plan to do a lot of walking.</p>

<h4>San Diego Zoo Safari Park tips</h4>

<p>🔎 Bring binoculars, if you have them. Because the animals are in more open, natural settings, sometimes they&#39;re hanging out a considerable distance away from the viewing areas.</p>

<p>🚎 Get there early and do the Africa Tram ride when you first arrive. Wait times tend to increase throughout the day and are busiest around lunchtime.</p>

<p>👟 Wear comfortable footwear, pack a water bottle, and plan to do a lot of walking.</p>

<p>🦒 Don&#39;t miss Okavango Outpost restaurant, it has a unique vantage point where you can see the giraffes roam and be fed.</p>

<h2>In summary &ndash; the biggest differences between the San Diego Zoo and San Diego Zoo Safari Park</h2>


<h2>Insider tips for visiting San Diego Zoo and Safari Park</h2>


<p>Sometimes when deciding whether to visit the San Diego Zoo vs the Safari Park, or both, it just comes down to logistics and what fits best with your Diego sightseeing itinerary.</p>

<p>One common misconception is that the Safari Park is near San Diego Zoo; on the contrary the Safari Park is&nbsp;<em>not&nbsp;</em>in Balboa Park but is actually a decent drive north of downtown San Diego.<br />
&nbsp;</p>


<h4>San Diego Zoo</h4>

<p><strong>🐾 &nbsp;Animals from all over the world</strong>: polar bears, koalas, apes, gorillas, penguins, elephants, giraffes, grizzly bears, hippos, birds, reptiles, lions, zebras, tigers, and more.</p>

<p><strong>🐾 &nbsp;Animal habitats</strong>: animal enclosures are generally smaller than those at the Safari Park to ensure that visitors see lots of animal activity.</p>

<p><strong>🐾 Top exhibits &amp; attractions:</strong></p>

<ul>
	<li>Guided&nbsp;bus tour: narrated double-decker bus tour of the entire zoo.</li>
	<li>Northern Frontier: home of the zoo&#39;s polar bears, where you can get a unique underwater view of the playful bears, see snow white foxes, caribou, maned wolves, and more.</li>
	<li>Elephant Odyssey: see lots of elephants and other California-native animals of the past and present, including large birds, cheetahs, lions, and meerkats, among others.</li>
	<li>Lost Forest: home to tigers, hippos, monkey&#39;s gorillas and&nbsp;Scripps Aviary,&nbsp;this is one of the livelier exhibits.</li>
	<li>Skyfari&reg; Aerial Tram: take a ride over the exhibits for an aerial view of the zoo and surrounding Balboa Park.</li>
</ul>

<h4>San Diego Zoo Safari Park</h4>

<p><strong>🐾&nbsp; Animals from Arid Environments:</strong>&nbsp;these animals include rhinos, camels, cheetahs, gorillas, herons, giraffes, lemurs, lions, meerkats, river hogs, tigers, warthogs, wild cattle, zebras, insects, and more.</p>

<p><strong>🐾&nbsp; Animal habitats:</strong>&nbsp;animal enclosures are generally larger with more free-range enclosures so that visitors can see animals in more natural settings.</p>

<p><strong>🐾&nbsp;Top exhibits &amp; attractions:</strong></p>

<ul>
	<li>Africa Tram: take a 20-30 minute ride on the covered, open-air tram to see lots of animals, including giraffes, rhinos, and more.</li>
	<li>Elephant viewing: visit the park&#39;s elephants and catch an educational talk at the amphitheater to learn about elephant care.</li>
	<li>Gorilla Forrest: get an unobstructed view of the large and active gorilla family.</li>
	<li>Lion Camp: see lions interact and play in their open space den.</li>
	<li>Tiger Trail: follow the guided trail through the bamboo forest and see several Sumatran tigers along the way.</li>
</ul>


<h4>📍 San Diego Zoo location</h4>

<p>Centrally&nbsp;<a href="https://zoo.sandiegozoo.org/plan-your-visit" rel="noopener" target="_blank">located right in Balboa Park</a>&nbsp;near downtown San Diego, the San Diego Zoo is very easy to get to by car, bike, walking or public transportation. While driving in downtown San Diego can be challenging, remember that parking is free at the zoo. It&#39;s also located near&nbsp;lots of other Balboa Park museums &amp; attractions&nbsp;that are included on a pass so you can check off some other attractions while you&#39;re in the area.</p>

<h4>📍 San Diego Zoo Safari Park location</h4>

<p>The San Diego Zoo Safari Park is located in Escondido, which is about a 40-60 minute&nbsp;<a href="https://sdzsafaripark.org/plan-your-visit" rel="noopener" target="_blank">drive</a>&nbsp;north of downtown San Diego. Taking <a href="https://www.sdmts.com/schedules-real-time/trip-planner" rel="noopener" target="_blank">public transportation</a>&nbsp;to the Safari Park is possible but it would likely be at least 2 hours each way from downtown San Diego. Plan on taking a car and be sure to factor in the extra cost of parking. Prices start at $20 for cars.</p>


<h2>What&#39;s included with general admission?</h2>


<p>San Diego Zoo</p>

<p>🌿 100 acres of animal exhibits<br />
🐨 Over 3,700 animals and more than 650 species</p>

<h4>San Diego Zoo Safari Park</h4>

<p>🌿 1,800 acres of wildlife sanctuary<br />
🐯 Over 2,600 animals and more than 300 species</p>

<p><br />
We won&#39;t lie, you&#39;ll be walking a lot at both parks. The San Diego Zoo provides a convenient hop-on hop-off bus that takes visitors around to each area of the park and the Safari Park is significantly bigger, so one to think about if you&#39;re not up for much walking.&nbsp;</p>


San Diego Zoo vs Safari Park? Compare the major differences between these 2 popular San Diego must-sees and save on entry to dozens of top San Diego attractions with Go City®.

San Diego Zoo vs Safari Park - Compare the Differences | Go City®

Kids stay and play for free in San Diego this fall. Take a look at our guide to making the most of this annual offer!

If you're taking the family to San Diego this fall, you're in luck. That's because, for the month of October, kids go free to some of the city's best bits. In this guide, we'll explore San Diego in October, how the promotion works, and the best attractions and experiences that support it! 

Kids Free San Diego is back this October!

<h3>What month is Kids Free San Diego?</h3>

<p>Good news, parents! Kids Free San Diego runs the entirety of October. So, if you&#39;re visiting San Diego this October or live in the local area, you can enjoy these great offers and ensure your little ones have a great time in the run-up to Christmas!</p>

<p><strong>☀️<a href="https://gocity.com/en/san-diego/passes?duration=1">Compare San Diego passes</a><br />
☀️&nbsp;<a href="https://gocity.com/en/san-diego/passes/all-inclusive?duration=1">Buy a pass&nbsp;</a></strong></p>


<p>Yes, Kids Go Free San Diego takes place every year, at least for the foreseeable future. Sadly, we are not fortune tellers, so it&#39;s hard to say if it will always exist. But for now, sleep well, and enjoy the savings!</p>


Is Kids Go Free San Diego in October every year?

<h3>How does Kids Go Free San Diego in October work?</h3>

<p>Thankfully, it&#39;s actually very simple. Throughout October, a ton of attractions, experiences, and even restaurants let up to two children through the door if a paying adult accompanies them. This could be free meals or tickets, depending on the location.</p>

<p>And, before you get any ideas, you can&#39;t combine Kids Go Free San Diego with other offers.</p>

<p>Now let&#39;s talk about the best attractions you and your little ones will enjoy this October with Kids Go Free San Diego!</p>


<p>If your little ones love animals, then San Diego Zoo should be locked on. Inside, they&#39;ll meet all of their favorite critters, from gorillas to elephants and plenty more beyond.</p>

<p>The zoo contains several unique biomes that let you and your little ones see animals from all over the planet. One minute, you&#39;ll be exploring the cool arctic winds of the Northern Frontier, where you&#39;ll come face to face with polar bears, caribou, and snow foxes. The next, you&#39;ll see monkeys swinging on vines above gorillas and tigers in the Lost Forest. Those are just two examples that scratch the surface - there&#39;s so much more to see and do and so many more animals to meet; you could easily spend an entire day there with the kids.</p>

<p>And best of all, throughout the entire month of October, children 11 years old and younger receive free admission.</p>


<p>Speaking of dinosaurs, if your kids are more wowed by the hulking monsters that existed millions of years before us, then the San Diego Natural History Museum will excite and delight them in equal measure. In October, up to two children 12 and under can go free with one full-price paid adult.</p>

<p>Featuring four floors of wonder that date back millions of years, a huge 300-seat theater showing educational and inspirational movies, and a deep dive into San Diego and California&#39;s natural history, it&#39;s a feast for little minds and will surely inspire them in the fall and winter semesters.</p>

<p>In Fossil Mysterious, they&#39;ll examine fossils and use archaeological tools to unearth prehistoric giants. And, at Coast to Cactus in Southern California, they&#39;ll take a wander through all the major biomes present in California, from deserts to mountains.</p>


San Diego Natural History Museum

<p>At SeaWorld&reg; San Diego, you and your brood will get to hang out with a metric ton of weird and wonderful underwater critters they may have seen in person.&nbsp;One child can go free with the purchase of one full-price adult ticket throughout October.</p>

<p>Fully immerse yourselves in the glass underwater viewing tunnel at Shark Encounter, where hundreds of sharks and various fish will float about. Go nose to nose with our finned friends and realize they aren&#39;t nearly as scary as Hollywood would have you believe.</p>

<p>Hanging out with happy penguins at Penguin Encounter&reg;, and see them run, play, and feed in their natural habitat. There are even rides and rollercoasters to enjoy, if your little ones hit the height requirements!</p>

<p>But perhaps SeaWorld&reg; San Diego&#39;s piece de resistance is Sesame Street Bay of Play, where Elmo, Abby Cadabby, and all their favorite Sesame Street characters sing songs and tell stories about the conservation work that SeaWorld&reg; San Diego undertakes. Sure, it might be more for the very little ones, but the message is powerful for all ages.</p>


SeaWorld® San Diego

<p>And finally, why not sprinkle a bit of recent history into the mix? Hop aboard the USS Midway Aircraft Carrier and explore this decommissioned World War 2 vessel.</p>

<p>You&#39;ll find more than 60 exhibits spread throughout the ship&#39;s many corridors and rooms that detail the lives of people who spent time on board. Explore at your own pace, or take a self-guided tour narrated by Midway sailors throughout the years.</p>

<p>Take a walk along the expansive Flight Deck, where planes took off for battle, and then head below deck to get a closer look a the sleeping quarters, the engine room, and then emerge in the Hanger Deck to see a whole host of aircraft up close.</p>

<p>Kids with even a passing interest in history will love it. And, in October, up to two kids go free with one paying adult, so if you&#39;re in San Diego this fall, why not check it out?&nbsp;</p>


USS Midway Aircraft Carrier Museum

<p><strong>And that&#39;s everything you need to know about Kids Go Free in October! If you&#39;re looking for more ways to enjoy San Diego when you visit, check out Go City. With our&nbsp;<a href="https://gocity.com/san-diego/en-us/products/all-inclusive" rel="noopener" target="_blank">All-Inclusive Pass</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://gocity.com/san-diego/en-us/products/explorer" rel="noopener" target="_blank">Explorer Pass</a>, you can see all the city&#39;s best bits for one low price!</strong></p>


If you're taking the family to San Diego this fall, you may be in luck. That's because, for one month of the year, kids go free to some of the city's best bits. In this guide, we'll explore San Diego in October, how the promotion works, and the best attractions and experiences that support it! 

San Diego Kids Go Free in October - Offers Guide | Go City®

Dodge the tourist traps and dive into our eccentric collection of the quirkiest and most offbeat things to do in San Diego! 

San Diego is an absolute treat for sightseers, and perhaps especially those who like their attractions with a large side order of quirky. 

Quirky Things to do in San Diego

<p>This is a city where traditional tourism hotspots &ndash; sandy beaches, verdant parks, world-class museums and fine-dining restaurants &ndash; rub shoulders with haunted houses, Victorian carousels, outdoor art trails and, um, permanent memorials to fallow deer.</p>

<h2><strong>Balboa Park&rsquo;s Hidden Gems</strong></h2>


<p>Spend any time at all in San Diego and you&rsquo;re bound to see at least a little of&nbsp;<a href="https://gocity.com/en/san-diego/blog/things-to-do-in-balboa-park-san-diego" style="text-decoration:none" target="_blank">Balboa Park</a>. And why not? This is where you&rsquo;ll find San Diego Zoo &ndash; widely considered one of the best in the world &ndash; plus the quite excellent San Diego Museum of Art, Natural History Museum and Air &amp; Space Museum. But you came here for quirky, right? So quirky, dear reader, is what you shall have. Hit up the eye-popping exhibits at the Museum of Us for anthropological treasures that include one of only six Ptolemaic children&rsquo;s coffins known to exist, as well as the notorious Lemon Grove Mummies. Lighten the mood with a zen wander through the Japanese Friendship Garden, which turns pink with cherry blossoms in spring, and unleash your inner child on the charming Victorian carousel, a menagerie of ever-revolving beats that includes stately horses, fierce lions and &ndash; because why not? &ndash; a dragon.</p>


<p>Head for heights? Get yourself down to the Spruce Street Suspension Bridge, a somewhat inconspicuous concrete&rsquo;n&rsquo;cable footbridge in residential Bankers Hill that also happens to be one of the most hair-raisingly quirky experiences in town. This feat of 1912 engineering spans the lush Kate Sessions Canyon just west of Balboa Park and remains incredibly well-concealed despite its epic 375-foot length. Prepare for a bit of a bumpy ride on breezy days, when the bridge shakes and shimmies in the wind. Just because it&rsquo;s designed to do precisely that doesn&rsquo;t make it any less terror-inducing, so be sure to steady those shattered nerves in the brewpubs of nearby <a href="https://gocity.com/san-diego/en-us/blog/things-to-do-in-hillcrest-san-diego" style="text-decoration:none" target="_blank">Hillcrest</a> afterwards.</p>

<h2><strong>Tip-Tip Topiary</strong></h2>


<p>Gardening enthusiasts might think they&rsquo;ve taken &lsquo;leaf&rsquo; of their senses at Harper&rsquo;s Topiary Garden in Mission Hills, a hedge art extravaganza at which even Edward Scissorhands might raise an appreciative eyebrow. Owners Edna and Alex Harper have spent years preening, pruning and primping their bushes into a menagerie of beautifully coiffed creatures including a whale, a dinosaur, a Buddha and a whole herd of elephants. It&rsquo;s endearing, whimsical, charming and totally bonkers all at the same time. Do Not. Miss.</p>

<h2><strong>Al Fresco Art</strong></h2>

<p>The sunny suburb of <a href="https://gocity.com/san-diego/en-us/blog/things-to-do-in-la-jolla-san-diego" style="text-decoration:none" target="_blank">La Jolla</a> is where it&#39;s at for some of the most eye-catching outdoor art in San Diego. Get your quirk on for a walking tour of the Stuart Collection, which includes more than 20 unique al fresco sculptures and installations, all centered around the La Jolla campus of the University of California in San Diego. Take the short walking trail and brace yourself for a whole host of eye-popping oddities, such as Do Ho Suh&rsquo;s <em>Fallen Star,</em> a tiny cottage that teeters precariously atop an otherwise unassuming college building, and <em>Bear</em>, Tim Hawkinson&rsquo;s oversized (not-so) cuddly toy constructed from eight huge granite boulders.</p>

<h2><strong>Good Old-Fashioned Family Fun</strong></h2>


<p>The jewel in the crown of <a href="https://gocity.com/san-diego/en-us/blog/things-to-do-in-mission-beach-san-diego" style="text-decoration:none" target="_blank">Mission Beach</a>, Belmont Park is an old-fashioned seaside amusement park par excellence, guaranteed to charm (or scare) the pants off anyone who steps through its hallowed gates. Can you even say you&rsquo;ve been to San Diego if you haven&rsquo;t taken a ride on the Giant Dipper at least once? No, you cannot. This beautiful wooden roller coaster has been here since the park opened a century ago, and is still going strong today. There are also bumper cars, carnival games and a traditional carousel, in case you prefer your thrills a little more sedate.</p>

<h2><strong>To The Lighthouse</strong></h2>


<p>Our brief journey through San Diego&rsquo;s quirkiest attractions concludes at the Old Point Loma Lighthouse, a historic monument 20 minutes&rsquo; drive south of <a href="https://gocity.com/san-diego/en-us/blog/things-to-do-in-ocean-beach-san-diego" style="text-decoration:none" target="_blank">Ocean Beach</a> at the tip of the peninsula. Take a peek inside where, with luck, you might find yourself face to face with a sailor or serf &ndash; volunteers in period costume there to reenact memorable moments from the lighthouse&rsquo;s 170-year history. Visit between December and April for some of San Diego&rsquo;s best whale-spotting opportunities and note that the lighthouse tower is only open to visitors twice a year: on August 25 and November 15.</p>

<h2><strong>Save on quirky things to do in San Diego&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>Save on admission to San Diego attractions with <a href="https://gocity.com/en/san-diego" style="text-decoration:none" target="_blank">Go City</a>. Check out @GoCity on <a href="https://www.instagram.com/gocity/" style="text-decoration:none" target="_blank">Instagram</a> for the latest top tips and attraction info.</p>


<p>Last but by no means least, don&rsquo;t miss your chance to catch a show at the largest outdoor pipe organ in the world. Free-to-attend performances at the century-old Spreckels Organ Pavilion, an elaborate confection in the Italian Renaissance style, take place every Sunday at 2PM.</p>

<h2><strong>Get Spooked at Whaley House</strong></h2>


<p>It&rsquo;s the stuff slasher movies are made of: house said to be built on the site of an old gallows sees subsequent inhabitants meet grisly ends across several decades. All this familiar plot requires now is a hapless investigator (i.e. you) to step inside and become the star of your very own horror flick. So what are you waiting for? The Whaley House has been called &lsquo;the most haunted house in America&rsquo; by <em>LIFE</em> magazine, so you know it means business. Step inside for an evening tour with your spooky expert (g)hosts and discover the true story of this notorious San Diego building.</p>

<h2><strong>A Date With The Del</strong></h2>


<p>Hotel del Coronado &ndash; affectionately known as &lsquo;The Del&rsquo; is a San Diego institution, set on <a href="https://gocity.com/san-diego/en-us/blog/things-to-do-in-coronado-san-diego" style="text-decoration:none" target="_blank">Coronado Island</a> with commanding views of the bay and Point Loma. The Del&rsquo;s distinctive terracotta turrets and white wooden buildings inspired the Emerald City in L. Frank Baum&rsquo;s <em>The Wonderful Wizard of Oz</em> and have been attracting A-listers &ndash; think Madonna, Marilyn Monroe and Clark Gable &ndash; since Victorian times. But you don&rsquo;t have to be a celeb to enjoy it: just spread your towel on the golden sands of Coronado Beach and chill to the sounds of the gently rolling surf. And keep your eyes peeled for local legend The Sandcastle Man, an award-winning wizard of beach-based construction art, going about his elaborate work.</p>

<h2><strong>Oh, deer!</strong></h2>


<p>There are many reasons to visit pretty Presidio Park in <a href="https://gocity.com/san-diego/en-us/blog/things-to-do-in-mission-valley-san-diego" style="text-decoration:none" target="_blank">Mission Hills</a>, not least the epic tower that crowns the Jun&iacute;pero Serra Museum, offering sweeping views across the park&rsquo;s manicured lawns to the Old Town and beyond. But if you&rsquo;re looking for quirky things to do in San Diego, look no further than the Memorial to the White Deer of Mission Hills, a peaceful hilltop monument to Lucy (for that was her name) who roamed these here glades for a decade in the 60s and 70s. Why was she so special, I hear you ask? Well, fallow deer are not native to the area, so locals took this snow-white beauty to their hearts, and there was outrage when she was accidentally killed by rangers in a rescue operation gone wrong. Some say you can still see her ghostly silhouette up here at Inspiration Point at sunrise and sundown.</p>

<h2><strong>Spruce Street Suspension Bridge</strong></h2>


San Diego's quirkiest attractions, featuring haunted houses, a wobbly suspension bridge, a deer memorial, and totally awesome topiary!

Quirky Things to do in san Diego | Go City®

Kick off summer with our top things to do in San Diego in May. 

There are a ton of adventures for the whole family in San Diego around Memorial Day weekend, from strawberry festivals to insightful museums and activities for kids of all ages!

What to do in San Diego for Memorial Day Weekend

<p>Memorial Day Weekend traditionally marks the unofficial start of summer (yay) and what better place to spend it than sunny San Diego.</p>

<p>If you&rsquo;re looking for San Diego Memorial Day Weekend ideas, check out some of these local activities and fun things do in San Diego in May.</p>


<p>The world-famous San Diego Zoo is home to more than 800 global species, from alligators and eagles to koalas and pandas. It&rsquo;s also a leader in the conservation of wildlife, and is a must-see attraction for animal lovers.</p>

<p><strong>Top tip</strong>: you&#39;ll want to plan to spend at least half a day here.</p>

<p>The warm climate of sunny San Diego provides the perfect opportunity to get out and see the beauty of the animal kingdom in realistic habitats, surrounded by staff who are dedicated to their conservation and well-being.</p>

<p>Big animal fans may also wish to visit the San Diego Zoo Safari Park, an exciting animal park that offers unique encounters and experiences with creatures that you might typically find on safari in Africa. If you want help choosing between them, check out our&nbsp;<a href="https://gocity.com/en/san-diego/things-to-do/san-diego-zoo-vs-safari-park/">comparison guide to the two.</a>&nbsp;</p>


Visit the San Diego Zoo

<h3>Stroll through Balboa Park</h3>

<p>Balboa Park is a beautiful place you&rsquo;ll never tire of exploring. You can ride bikes, have a picnic, or stop in any of the 17 museums dotted around the park (just a few to pick from!). Even if you don&#39;t explore the museums inside, they&#39;re also well known for their spectacular and unique architecture and definitely worth a look.</p>

<p>There are also several performing arts spaces, so try to see if you can attend a special seasonal show.</p>

<p>Enjoy extended hours at nine of the Balboa Park museums during&nbsp;<strong>Balboa Park After Dark<em>,&nbsp;</em></strong>which begins Memorial Day Weekend and runs through Labor Day.&nbsp;</p>


<p>Check out your outdoorsy options in La Jolla. Enjoy the sun and surf of San Diego&rsquo;s waterfront, and snorkel at La Jolla Cove. <a href="https://gocity.com/en/san-diego/attractions/one-hour-bike-rental" target="_blank">Take a bike ride </a>along the shore, or explore Mission Bay.</p>

<p>If it&#39;s a hot day, take a dip in the water.<a href="https://gocity.com/en/san-diego/attractions/90-minute-tandem-kayak-rental" target="_blank"> You can also rent kayaks</a> and kayak the famous 7 caves of La Jolla! These activities are great for kids and adults and are a fun way to get some exercise and spend the day outdoors. Of course, a stroll along the beach is free for all!&nbsp;</p>


Get active in La Jolla

<p>An amazing way to see tons of top spots in San Diego is with a Hop-On Hop-Off San Diego Trolley Tour. Some of the usual places to stop off at include:<br />
&nbsp;</p>

<ul>
	<li>Old Town San Diego State Historic Park</li>
	<li>Seaport Village</li>
	<li>Horton Plaza</li>
	<li>Gaslamp Quarter</li>
	<li>McP&rsquo;s Irish Pub near Hotel del Coronado</li>
	<li>Balboa Park, San Diego Zoo, &amp; El Prado Museums<br />
	&nbsp;</li>
</ul>

<p>This is a great way to explore lots of the city, without walking the feet off anyone with a bit less stamina!</p>


Hop-On Hop-Off Trolley Tour

<p>So there you have it, San Diego is officially the perfect place for a fun-filled Memorial Day weekend with the family.</p>

<p>Whether you&#39;re exploring world-class attractions, enjoying the great outdoors, or soaking up the sun by the sea, there&rsquo;s something for everyone. So pack your picnic, grab your sunscreen, and get ready to make some unforgettable memories in America&rsquo;s Finest City!</p>

<p><br />
<strong>Enjoyed this read? Why not have a look at <a href="https://gocity.com/en/san-diego/things-to-do/san-diego-zoo-vs-seaworld" target="_blank">our guide to SeaWorld vs. San Diego Zoo</a>? Or our <a href="https://gocity.com/en/san-diego/things-to-do/san-diego-for-adults" target="_blank">top things to do in San Diego for adults</a>!</strong></p>


<p><a href="https://gocity.com/en/san-diego/attractions/uss-midway-museum" target="_blank">The USS Midway </a>was an operational US Navy Aircraft Carrier for nearly 50 years and is now an important part of San Diego&rsquo;s maritime history.</p>

<p>The ship has been turned into a floating museum, complete with sleeping quarters, a flight control deck, and more. Fans of military technology and American history alike will relish a visit here.</p>

<p>Memorial Day is an especially great time to visit the USS Midway and honor veterans. Curious visitors will love it - it&#39;s among the most-visited attractions in the entire city every year.&nbsp;</p>


Step aboard the USS Midway Museum

<p>There&#39;s nothing quite like a good old street festival to get you in the mood for summer. Food trucks, beer, games, live entertainment &ndash; it&#39;s basically summer waiting to happen.</p>

<p>A few great local options usually held on Memorial Day Weekend include the&nbsp;<a href="https://santeestreetfair.com/" target="_blank">Santee Street Fair &amp; Craft Beer Festival</a>&nbsp;and the&nbsp;<a href="https://vistastrawberryfest.com/" target="_blank">Vista Strawberry Festival.</a>&nbsp;The Strawberry Festival is especially popular with kids!</p>


Celebrate at a local festival

<p>Explore <a href="https://gocity.com/en/san-diego/attractions/legoland-california">LEGOLAND&reg; California.</a> A one-of-a-kind place, LEGOLAND&reg; is a unique theme park dedicated to the creative potential of LEGO&reg;.</p>

<p>Walk through a village made of DUPLO blocks, explore a LEGO&reg; kingdom, and marvel at the African safari populated by LEGO&reg; animals. Be sure to visit the girls at LEGO Heartlake City and make new friends. Or, the Dragon Coaster is an exciting but kid-friendly ride for the little ones to enjoy. You and the kids can spend an entire day &ndash; or more here.</p>


Explore LEGOLAND® California

<h3>Go to a Memorial Day ceremony</h3>

<p>Head to the Richard Nixon Library &amp; Museum for its annual Memorial Day Commemoration. Parts of the ceremony include a wreath-laying by the Medal of Honor recipient, the 21-gun salute, and more.</p>

<p>After the ceremony, other activities usually take place, so keep an eye out, there will be plenty to keep the whole family entertained.&nbsp;</p>


<p>Southern California is home to several theme parks, and they&rsquo;re a great way to spend the afternoon or an entire day.</p>

<p>It&#39;s finally time for the weather to start being really warm, too, so a day spent outside is the perfect way to take advantage of that fine San Diego climate. Two local favorites are <a href="https://gocity.com/en/san-diego/attractions/knotts-berry-farm" target="_blank">Knott&rsquo;s Berry Farm </a>and <a href="https://gocity.com/en/san-diego/attractions/knotts-soak-city-water-park" target="_blank">Knott&rsquo;s Soak City</a>. Knott&rsquo;s Berry Farm was the country&rsquo;s first theme park, and Soak City is the newer water park.</p>

<p>Both are sure to thrill the kids (and the grown-ups too!)</p>


Visit a Theme Park

<p>San Diego lies on the shore of some of the most beautiful waters in the world. Explore your aquatic side by embarking on a <a href="https://gocity.com/en/san-diego/attractions/90-minute-best-bay-harbor-tour-city-cruises" target="_blank">90-minute Best of the Bay cruise</a> of the San Diego harbor.</p>

<p>Visit landmarks like Shelter Island, the Point Loma Lighthouse (where colonies of sea lions often gather), the Cabrillo National Monument, and Coronado Island.</p>

<p>Not to mention that sea breeze is heavenly in the summer sun!</p>


Set Sail on San Diego Harbor

<h3>Enjoy a visit to the Fleet Science Center</h3>

<p>The kids will delight in a visit to this fascinating science center. Dozens of interactive exhibits await the whole family, like Power Play San Diego, Kid City, and Look! Touch! Listen!</p>

<p>If you&#39;re looking for an adult-friendly approach to enjoying<a href="https://gocity.com/en/san-diego/attractions/fleet-science-center-imax" target="_blank"> the Fleet Science Center,</a> the museum sometimes holds events where all profits support the educational mission of the Fleet. Be sure to check the website!</p>

<h3>Check out the Birch Aquarium</h3>

<p>Explore the oceans of the world at the <a href="https://gocity.com/en/san-diego/attractions/birch-aquarium-scripps" target="_blank">Birch Aquarium.</a> Perched right on the Pacific Ocean, the Birch Aquarium at Scripps displays a stunning collection of marine habitats and creatures from around the world. Learn all about coral reefs, pet some starfish, and visit the seahorse nursery. There&rsquo;s even a giant shark reef!</p>

<p>A few featured exhibits at the Birch Aquarium include: There&#39;s Something About Seahorses, Whales: Voices in the Sea, and the all-important Feeling the Heat: The Climate Challenge.</p>


Check out our favorite things to do in San Diego in May and for Memorial Day Weekend. Save on admission to many of these popular San Diego attractions!

San Diego Memorial Day Weekend - 10+ Things to Do in San Diego in May

Hop into Easter travels and explore these family-friendly activities in sunny San Diego!

Spring has sprung and for San Diego that means perfect scenes for a great vacation. With mild weather on the horizon, explore the city outdoors without sizzling summer heat. But we all know the best bit is the mountains of chocolate you get at Easter! If you’re planning a little springtime getaway for the family, here’s a few things that really have to hit your bucket list... 

Best Easter Activities for Families in San Diego

<p>Okay, so how could we not talk about chocolate first? This sugary treat seems to be enjoyed by kids mostly in egg form, and even more when they have to search high and low for it. San Diego is brimming with &quot;eggciting&quot; egg hunts so there are plenty of options for the family. And the best part is that most of these are free, so no need to worry about tickets. Here are a few honorable mentions:</p>

<p>The Mission Valley Center is hosting an Easter Market complete with local vendors and, you guessed it, an egg hunt for the kids. While they&rsquo;re running around, why not browse the stalls or grab a refreshment?&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Easter Egg Pluck will take place at Mesa Church in the lovely Serra Mesa neighbourhood. Free and welcome to all, this event also has face painting and a chance to grab a photo with the Easter Bunny themself.</p>

<p>And if you&rsquo;re passing by Willie James Jones Ave, you&rsquo;ll stumble upon their annual egg hunt complete with lunch, crafts and games - just don&rsquo;t forget to bring your basket!&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>These are free events in the city and are not included on a pass with Go City.</em></p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>


Egg Hunts

<p>A chance to see some baby animals? Yes please. Often regarded as the best zoo in the world and the most visited zoo in the United States, <a href="https://gocity.com/en/san-diego/attractions/san-diego-zoo" target="_blank">San Diego Zoo</a> is home to over 12,000 animals and more than 680 species and subspecies (we challenge you to try and see them all).&nbsp;</p>

<p>It&rsquo;s located right in Balboa Park and is a great way to spend a chunk of time with the family, with something for everyone. Of course you&rsquo;ll see exciting animals like pandas, elephants, koalas, and even a komodo dragon. But the zoo also has extra activities like a play area to keep the kids entertained, gripping wildlife presentations, a 35-minute guided bus tour, plus loads more to see and do.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Admission to the zoo is included in your pass (you&rsquo;re welcome) which makes your travel life a whole lot easier - head straight to the entry turnstile and show your pass and your ID. And don&rsquo;t forget to grab a free Giant Panda Timed Ticket when you enter for the best chance to see these black and white cuties.</p>


San Diego Zoo + Balboa Park

<p>We&rsquo;d also strongly recommend checking out the rest of Balboa Park while you&rsquo;re there. It&rsquo;s a public park great for walking, or you can <a href="https://gocity.com/en/san-diego/attractions/gaslamp-and-balboa-park-bike-rental-unlimited-biking" target="_blank">rent a bike</a> to get around quicker. The park is a beautiful space with stunning nature and architecture, and springtime is the best time to witness the glory of the blooming flowers. Try to visit near golden hour if you can - you won&rsquo;t want to miss the fab opportunity to snap a great pic to make everyone at home jealous.</p>


<p>Harvest some good vibes at <a href="https://gocity.com/en/san-diego/attractions/knotts-berry-farm" target="_blank">Knott&rsquo;s Berry Farm</a> with the family this spring. At California&rsquo;s first theme park, there&rsquo;s plenty to do over an Easter weekend to ensure you have a &ldquo;berry&rdquo; good time.</p>

<p>Located in Buena Park, its humble beginnings date back to the 1920s as a berry farm owned by the Knotts. Then one day a man named Rudolph Boysen wondered what would happen if he crossed a blackberry with a raspberry and a loganberry. It was coined the boysenberry and turns out California couldn&rsquo;t get enough of it. It was popularized by the Knotts and has since become a beloved symbol of California&rsquo;s agricultural heritage. Crazy how things happen, right?</p>

<p>Spring is a great time to visit the park because of the annual Knott&rsquo;s Boysenberry Festival. That&rsquo;s right, the famous berry became so popular they made a whole month of celebrations dedicated to it. Indulge yourself in pies and jams (wine and beer for the grown-ups) and enjoy live music and fun activities that all ages can get stuck into. A great day out for parents and kids alike, why not grab yourself a pass and visit Knott&rsquo;s Berry Farm?</p>


Knott’s Berry Farm

<p>Located along the San Diego waterfront, you&rsquo;ll find a charming and walkable shopping and dining village. This is the perfect place to find those little trinkets and souvenirs to take back home and it also offers some stunning views of San Diego Bay (you won&rsquo;t be able to resist taking a pic).&nbsp;</p>

<p>If you&rsquo;re looking for another free activity to do with the kids over Easter, then head down to Seaport Village for their annual Beach Bunny Kite Festival. Grab a photo with the Beach Bunny, enjoy a complimentary kite rental and gaze at all the kites soaring across the glistening water. Sounds like a great day out to us, so why not make it a reality this spring?</p>

<p><em>This is a free event in the city and is not included on a pass with Go City.</em></p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>


Seaport Village

<p>While you&rsquo;re in the area and looking for more things to do, could we tempt you with a <a href="https://gocity.com/en/san-diego/attractions/whale-watching-hornblower-cruises-winter" target="_blank">whale watching experience</a>? Of course we could - who doesn&rsquo;t want to see some whales (and maybe even a dolphin or sea lion)? During spring, a variety of whales are still migrating to warmer waters so there&rsquo;s a good chance to catch sight of these magnificent creatures during March into early April.</p>

<p>Just a short walk up the waterfront you&rsquo;ll find the harbor where you can flash your pass (if you&rsquo;ve bought one with us) and hop on board a comfortable yacht to be taken out to sea. Enjoy four hours of whale watching and live commentary from the experienced captain and get a glimpse of the city and the bay&rsquo;s wildlife from a new perspective.</p>


Whale Watching

<p>This is unlikely in San Diego but you never know. If these outdoor activities are dampened by unexpected bad weather, there&rsquo;s still plenty to do indoors.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Balboa Park is home to a whopping 17 museums so there&rsquo;s tons of knowledge right at your fingertips. Not necessarily Easter-related, but you may be able to spot a rabbit or two on display in the <a href="https://gocity.com/en/san-diego/attractions/natural-history-museum" target="_blank">San Diego Natural History Museum</a>.</p>


Weather not behaving?

<p>Easter is all about eggs so why not explore the diversity of eggs in the ocean? There may not be an actual egg hunt event here so imagine your own one at <a href="https://gocity.com/en/san-diego/attractions/birch-aquarium-scripps" target="_blank">Birch Aquarium at Scripps</a> and see if you can spot some shark eggs, seahorse eggs, and even penguin eggs.</p>

<p>If all of this sightseeing is making you hungry, San Diego has many restaurants and eateries offering special Easter brunches for the whole family. Some may offer an egg hunt for the kids too so there&rsquo;s a wide variety for whatever you&rsquo;re looking for.</p>

<p><em>Brunches are hosted by venues in the city and are not included on a pass with Go City.</em></p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>


<p>And that&rsquo;s just a few of the things that San Diego has to offer this Easter. If you&rsquo;re interested in these great travel options or looking for even <a href="https://gocity.com/en/san-diego/attractions" target="_blank">more attractions</a> in this sunny city, grab yourself a <a href="https://gocity.com/en/san-diego" target="_blank">San Diego</a> pass with us and explore even more for one low price. Happy Easter!</p>

<p><strong>Enjoyed this? Check out our comparison guide&nbsp;<a href="https://gocity.com/en/san-diego/things-to-do/san-diego-zoo-vs-safari-park" target="_blank">San Diego Zoo and San Diego Zoo Safari Park</a>&nbsp;</strong><strong>or take a look at our list of <a href="https://gocity.com/en/san-diego/things-to-do/balboa-park-discounts" target="_blank">Balboa Park Museums</a>&nbsp;for more inspo!</strong></p>


Check out these great things to do at Easter in San Diego. Save up to 50% on combined admission to many of these top attractions & activities. Enjoy!

A white Christmas sounds nice, but it may not necessarily be your thing. 

Why not opt for a temperate Christmas in a lovely city like San Diego? San Diego has plenty of wonderful activities and seasonal events to enjoy.

Christmas in San Diego - Holiday Things to Do & Fun Seasonal Activities

<p>No matter who you&rsquo;re spending the holidays with, San Diego has something for everyone. Not only are many of the most popular attractions still open, but many of them will host special seasonal events throughout the holiday season! If you&rsquo;re traveling to Southern California this holiday season, check out our list of the top things to do for Christmas in San Diego including...</p>

<ul>
	<li>Jungle Bells at San Diego Zoo</li>
	<li>LEGOLAND</li>
	<li>SeaWorld</li>
	<li>December Nights</li>
	<li>And more!</li>
</ul>


<p>If you needed another reason to visit&nbsp;<a href="https://gocity.com/san-diego/en-us/products/all-inclusive/attractions/san-diego-zoo" rel="noopener" target="_blank">San Diego Zoo</a>, the #1 Zoo in the World, look no further: Jungle Bells returns! The Northern Frontier&rsquo;s forest will transform into a Holiday Forest, complete with exquisitely decorated trees and lights strung in all directions. Catch a showing of Jingle Brass, a caroling group that will wow you with their jazz-inspired takes on classic Christmas music. In addition to festive animal feedings and talks, you&rsquo;ll also get to enjoy musicians, dance performances, and a performance of &ldquo;Twas the Night Before Christmas.&rdquo;&nbsp;<strong>Getting in:</strong>&nbsp;San Diego Zoo tickets are included in the Go San Diego pass.</p>


Jungle Bells at the San Diego Zoo December, through to January each year

<h2><strong>San Diego Model Railroad Museum</strong></h2>

<h3>Early December through early January; Exact dates TBD</h3>

<p>The&nbsp;<a href="https://gocity.com/san-diego/en-us/products/build-your-own/attractions/model-railroad-museum" rel="noopener" target="_blank">San Diego Model Railroad Museum</a>&nbsp;puts on an array of different holiday celebrations, from a screening of a Christmas classic to a special display about the importance of toy trains during the season. On select dates, bring the kids to the museum for a showing of&nbsp;<em>The Polar Express.&nbsp;</em>Bring a blanket and pillow for the kids, then sit back, relax, and enjoy the show. For adults, they also host a fun &ldquo;Ales and Rails&rdquo; event, which combines beer tasting with an ugly Christmas sweater competition. Dates for the rest of their Christmas events are announced annually, so keep checking the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.sdmrm.org/" rel="noopener" target="_blank">San Diego Model Railroad Museum website</a>&nbsp;for updates.&nbsp;<strong>Getting in:</strong>&nbsp;San Diego Model Railroad Museum tickets are included in the Go San Diego pass.</p>


<p>This is a unique experience the kids will never forget. Hop aboard the ferry out to Coronado and enjoy a charming Polar Bear Tea at the historic Hotel Del Coronado. The Polar Bear Tea is especially for kids, with festive activities and readings with Mrs. Claus. Plus, if you bring a new, unwrapped toy to donate to a child in need, you&rsquo;ll be able to go home with a polar bear plush! Looking to explore more of this historic little island? Check out the&nbsp;<a href="https://gocity.com/san-diego/en-us/products/all-inclusive/attractions/coronado-museum-history-art" rel="noopener" target="_blank">Coronado Museum of History and Art</a>&nbsp;to learn more about the heritage and culture of this standout vacation spot in San Diego.&nbsp;<strong>Getting in</strong>: Polar Bear Tea at the Hotel Del Coronado is not included with the Go San Diego pass and tickets must be purchased separately.</p>


Pre Christmas in December

<h2><strong>Save on Holiday Attraction Admission</strong></h2>

<p>So here&rsquo;s our brief list of the top things to do in San Diego during Christmastime and the holidays. Remember, many of these options are included with&nbsp;<a href="https://gocity.com/san-diego/en-us">Go City</a>!&nbsp;</p>

<p>Please note, that the Christmas events taking place at some of these attractions may be separately ticketed and not included on a pass. We hope you&rsquo;ll consider adding an idea or two from this list to your holiday itinerary.</p>

<p>Happy Holidays from Go City!</p>


<h2><strong>LEGOLAND</strong>&reg;&nbsp;<strong>Holidays</strong></h2>

<h3>November - December</h3>

<p>Photo by LEGOLAND&reg; California</p>

<p>Come to&nbsp;<a href="https://gocity.com/san-diego/en-us/products/all-inclusive/attractions/legoland-california" rel="noopener" target="_blank">LEGOLAND&reg; California</a>&nbsp;Resort to celebrate your favorite holiday with your favorite toys. Enjoy character meet and greets at the new LEGO&reg; Holiday Village. Meet LEGO&reg; Santa Claus, Mrs. Claus, elves, and more. Marvel at the world&#39;s largest LEGO&reg; Christmas tree, bedecked with over 400 LEGO ornaments and more than 11,000 LED lights. It&#39;s the perfect place to pose for your family&#39;s holiday card. There will also be holiday performances, shows, and even a Cookie Decorating Workshop. LEGOLAND Holidays will take place between November and December.&nbsp;<strong>Getting in:</strong>&nbsp;LEGOLAND California tickets are included in the Go San Diego pass.</p>


<h2><strong>SeaWorld&rsquo;s Christmas Celebration</strong></h2>


<p>For something that will make your kids&rsquo; holiday experiences truly special, head to&nbsp;<a href="https://gocity.com/san-diego/en-us/products/all-inclusive/attractions/seaworld-san-diego-3-day" rel="noopener" target="_blank">SeaWorld San Diego</a>. Their Christmas Celebration is among the best and brightest in the region, offering seasonal food and drink, festive shopping, live performances, and much more. Visitors will also be delighted to meet Rudolph and friends, soak up the beauty of illuminated trees, and find that perfect gift for a loved one. Each year brings a new Nativity show with a unique theme and special one-off events and performances. SeaWorld San Diego&#39;s Christmas Celebration will take place from November to December.&nbsp;<strong>Getting in:</strong>&nbsp;SeaWorld San Diego tickets are included in the Go San Diego pass.</p>


Mid-November through early January;

<h2><strong>December Nights at the San Diego Museum of Art</strong></h2>


<p>Following the Balboa Park December Nights, the park&#39;s resident art museum hosts holiday-themed celebrations as well. The&nbsp;<a href="https://gocity.com/san-diego/en-us/products/build-your-own/attractions/san-diego-museum-art" rel="noopener" target="_blank">San Diego Museum of Art</a>&nbsp;weaves the best and brightest of the holidays in with their impressive artistic offerings. For both days, the museum will close during normal operating hours and will open at 5 PM to celebrate the long-standing tradition with special galleries, concerts, and holiday treats. Hear the La Jolla Renaissance Singers, check out the intricately designed Nativity Scene, and explore the Hibben Gallery. If you&#39;re looking to make an entire day of&nbsp;<a href="https://gocity.com/blog/balboa-park-discounts/" rel="noopener" target="_blank">exploring Balboa Park</a>, be sure to check out other top local museums and attractions during Balboa Park December Nights. More on that below!&nbsp;<strong>Getting in:</strong>&nbsp;San Diego Museum of Art tickets are included in the Go San Diego pass.</p>


December

<p>Head to the famous park for the 42nd celebration of December Nights, held every year on the first Friday &amp; Saturday of December. It&#39;s the largest free holiday festival in San Diego. Enjoy gorgeous light displays, a decadently decorated Christmas Tree as the centerpiece, and plenty of fun-filled attractions. There will be performances, like a rendition of Dr. Seuss&#39;&nbsp;<em>How the Grinch Stole Christmas,&nbsp;</em>local-made crafts and gifts to choose from, and plenty more to get you into the holiday spirit.&nbsp;<strong>Getting in:</strong>&nbsp;December Nights at Balboa Park is free and open to the public.</p>


<h2><strong>Polar Bear Tea at the Hotel Del Coronado</strong></h2>


Check out these popular things to do during Christmas in San Diego. Save on admission to many of these top attractions with Go City. Enjoy!