What is San Diego Known For?

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

By Seren Morris
Published: July 18, 2024
San Diego Visitor Info

San Diego is a city in southern California famous for its gorgeous weather and stunning beaches. It'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.

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...

  • San Diego Padres
  • Gaslamp Quarter
  • San Diego beaches
  • Old Town San Diego
  • Balboa Park
  • San Diego Zoo
  • San Diego breweries
  • And more!

San Diego Padres

petco-park-san-diego

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’s downtown PETCO Park stadium, take a behind-the-scenes tour to learn all about the team’s home.

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.

San Diego Zoo

hamadryas_baboon_san_diego_zoo

This is the most visited zoo in the United States, which is not surprising, as the San Diego Zoo is home to more than 4,000 animals, with over 650 species. The various habitats, such as ‘Lost Forest’ and ‘Northern Frontier’ are located across a massive 100-acre lot, so you can explore all day.

If that wasn’t enough, the zoo also has a separate Safari Park, which is located just north of the city, spans over 1,800 acres, and has more than 2,600 animals.

Having trouble choosing between the zoo and the safari park? Consult our handy guide!

San Diego beaches

La Jolla

San Diego is famous for its beaches, 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:

Kayaking

Kayaking is a great way to explore the local area while taking in the city views from the water. From Coronado, you’ll get great views of the skyline, PETCO Park, USS Midway, Glorietta Bay, and more. Or, head to La Jolla to explore the caves and get up close to marine life.

Kayaking

Why not try a 90-minute tandem kayak rental in Coronado or La Jolla, the perfect amount of time to enjoy a paddle beneath the San Diego sun.

Snorkeling

To get up close to San Diego’s marine life, snorkeling in La Jolla is a must. Rent all the equipment you need, including a mask, wetsuit, and flippers, and spend the day exploring San Diego’s unique ocean life. All kinds of animals live in La Jolla’s waters, so you have the opportunity to see dolphins, sea lions, leopard sharks, and garibaldi fish. Remember to take an underwater camera!

Surfing

What better way to experience the SoCal lifestyle than surfing? 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 surfing in La Jolla, 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’ll have hours to perfect your moves.

Stand up paddleboarding

Paddleboarding San Diego

Paddle-boarding is the ultimate California sport, so where better to try it out than San Diego? At Coronado Island, take 90 minutes to paddle-board around San Diego Bay, and take in the city’s sights. Alternatively, explore Harbor Island by paddle-board with a one-hour equipment rental. Or, if you’re more into marine life, you can also explore the Ecological Reserve at La Jolla for 90 minutes. Wherever you decide to go, paddle-boarding should be on your San Diego itinerary.

Whale watching and dolphin cruise

Take the opportunity to go on a Whale Watching and Dolphin Cruise 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!

Be sure to check out our guide to whale watching for top tips on making the most of your tour.

Visit Old Town San Diego

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’s a great area to visit for its attractions. 

Whaley House 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...

Balboa Park

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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. 

Go City® San Diego passes include admission to the following Balboa Park attractions:
 

Gaslamp Quarter

vintage-gaslamp-quarter-sign-san-diego

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 Gaslamp Museum at Davis-Horton House.

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'll help you learn more about this wonderful city.

Be sure to check out our guide to the Gaslamp Quarter before you visit!

San Diego breweries

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.

Beer flight

At Pure Brewing, 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.

Can't choose? No need, see it all with Go City® 

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've chosen your fave and have a specific bucket list you're dreaming of ticking off. Pick the perfect San Diego pass for you and get to it! 

☀️ Compare San Diego passes ☀️– 🌏 Explore other destinations 🌏 –  ✈️ Buy a pass ✈

Seren Morris
Go City Travel Expert

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San Diego Labor Day Weekend 2019 - 10+ Fun Things to Do in September

Summer may be almost over, but that doesn’t mean the fun has to stop! Enjoy one last summer weekend in San Diego this Labor Day – we know you’ll have a blast. There is so much to do in San Diego this Labor Day weekend, from exciting attractions to local activities. If you’re looking for San Diego Labor Day Weekend 2019 ideas, check out some of these local activities and fun things do in San Diego in September, including... San Diego Zoo Nighttime Zoo Summer Nights at SeaWorld US Sand Sculpting Challenge Kayak or bike ride on Coronado Island And more! Save on Attraction Admission Regular admission to a number of these San Diego attractions are included on the Go San Diego® pass. Choose as you go from dozens of top attractions and save up to 55% on combined admission vs paying at the gate. See all available passes, attractions & prices – Learn more. Please note, the special events taking place at these attractions may be separately ticketed and not included on the Go San Diego pass. Electric Ocean at SeaWorld San Diego San Diego Zoo Nighttime Zoo US Sand Sculpting Challenge & Dimensional Art Exposition Whale Watch at Newport Landing Board a ship and embark on a voyage over the open water to seek out San Diego's most famous marine denizens -- whales! A whale watch is a convenient and exciting way to see these astonishing animals and is sure to make the end of summer special. Newport Landing is located next to one of the largest marine sanctuaries in California, with over 75 square miles of protected waters and coast. The marine park ensures that the rich ecosystem and its mammals will be in place for generations to come. As a result, you're sure to see plenty of whales on your trip: don't forget that camera! Getting In: Whale Watching & Dolphin Cruises-Newport Landing tickets are included on the Go San Diego pass. Remember to Save on Attraction Admission There you go - plenty of fun ideas for things to do in San Diego in September to help you plan your Labor Day weekend itinerary. Remember, some of these great attraction options are included on the Go San Diego pass, where you can save up to 55% on combined admission vs paying at the gate. Please note, the Labor Day weekend events taking place at some of these attractions may be separately ticketed and not included with the Go San Diego pass. We hope you consider visiting some of these attractions to help round out your summer vacation in style.
Katie Sagal
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Belmont Park is special because it's made up of many smaller rides and attractions, meaning there's something for the whole family. Read on for our top tips on spending a day here.
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San Diego Air & Space Museum Discount Tickets & Tips for Visiting

The San Diego Air & Space Museum is a stunning collection of authentic and reproduced artifacts related to air and space technology set in Balboa Park. The museum’s motto is “Preserve, Inspire, Educate, Celebrate!” and it certainly succeeds in its mission. Check out our helpful guide for visiting the San Diego Air & Space Museum in Balboa Park, packed full of ways to save on admission, tips for visiting, other nearby attractions, and much more. How to get San Diego Air and Space Museum discount tickets? We’ve got you covered – San Diego Air and Space Museum admission is available with the below money saving options, so you can choose the attraction pass that’s right for you: 1. All-Inclusive Pass – All you can do. Includes admission to dozens of attractions. 2. San Diego 4-Choice Flex Pass – Choose as you go. Includes admission to 4 attractions. 3. Build Your Own Pass – Select the attractions you want to visit prior to visiting. See all available passes, attractions & prices – Learn more. Tips for Visiting the San Diego Air & Space Museum The Museum offers free admission for San Diego County residents and active duty military and their families on the 4th Tuesday of each month. Definitely scout out parking options prior to going to the museum. It is located in Balboa Park, which is extremely popular for both tourists and locals. You can find a printable map on the Balboa Park website. It includes instructions for parking at Inspiration Point to catch a tram to the park. Plan on visiting several of the park’s excellent museums and attractions. They are all within walking distance of the San Diego Air & Space Museum. Check with the admissions staff when entering to see if any of the docents are available for tours. They are excellent sources of information. Bring a little extra cash if you wish to enjoy the flight simulators. Plan on spending a little extra time to watch one or more of the museum’s videos highlighting the role aviation played in armed forces throughout the twentieth century. Special exhibits are not included with the Go San Diego Card. For current exhibit and upgrade information, please call (619) 234-8291. When is the best time to visit San Diego Air & Space Museum? Since the museum exhibits are indoors, just about any time of year is a good time to visit the San Diego Air & Space Museum. Parking lots in Balboa Park fill up quickly. If you prefer not to use the tram, arrive by 9:00 a.m. and enjoy walking in the gardens until the museum opens. Avoid Tuesdays if possible. The museums and other attractions in Balboa Park are free to San Diego residents on a rotating basis on Tuesdays. This is a popular day for school field trips, and the museums are quite busy. What should I bring to the San Diego Air & Space Museum? Bring your shopping list for holiday and birthday presents! The gift shop has a wide selection of space and flight themed merchandise that make excellent, unique and fun gifts for kids and adults alike. Bring a snack or picnic to enjoy in the atrium that is located in the middle of the museum. The atrium is light and airy as well as peaceful, and you will enjoy looking up at the vintage aircraft hanging from the ceiling. Wear a nice outfit if you wish to have your picture taken standing on the moon! The pictures are a whimsical addition to any photo display at home. What to do at the San Diego Air & Space Museum? The museum guides you through several galleries containing exhibits that highlight the unique role San Diego played in aviation. See exhibits including the Theodore Gildred Rotunda, the World War I Gallery, and the World War II Gallery. Plus, the Golden Age of Flight Gallery, and the Modern Jet and Space Age Gallery. The museum is located in the Ford Building which was constructed for the California Pacific International Exposition. In 2005 it became affiliated with the Smithsonian Institution. Only ten aerospace museums exist in the United States. The San Diego Air & Space Museum is the only one to have such an affiliation. Upon entering the foyer, you will find the actual landing module from Apollo 9. This is only the beginning of an amazing journey through aviation and space flight technology and history. The history of aviation represents a significant element of our history. The museum includes displays including a model of the Montgolfier brother’s hot air balloon launched in 1783. It the very first manned contraption in history to break free from gravity and fly humans above Earth. You can also see the advancement of flight technology. Progress from vintage aircraft from the two world wars, the Korean War and the Vietnamese War. Guests can visit the rotunda free of charge and shop at the gift store, although admission is required for the remaining exhibits. World War I Gallery The World War I gallery includes realistic touches such as a boardwalk and tent displays from the era. Plus, it. features reproductions of a Fokker Dr. I, Albatros D. Va, and Fokker E. III Eindecker. In addition, you will find authentic specimens of the Nieuport 28, Sopwith Pup, and a SPAD VII c. 1. The museum removed the fabric skin from the Sopwith Pup for visitors to have a clear view. See the craftsmanship and technology that went into making the aircraft up close. By pressing a button, you can see rotary engine and propeller movements and how they coordinated with the triggers so pilots could avoid shooting their own plane. World War II Gallery The World War II Gallery has exhibits of a Curtiss P-40E Warhawk, Stearman N2S-3 Kaydet, and North American P-51D Mustang. Additionally, it features a Supermarine Spitfire Mk.XVI, Messerschmitt Bf109G-14, and a Douglas C-47 nose and cockpit section. The gallery has a wide array of other aircraft from the era, in addition to movies highlighting battles and other actions in the war. In addition, the exhibit includes engines used in the war such as the Rolls-Royce Merlin 62, Junkers Jumo 004B-1, and the Pratt & Whitney R-1830-17. Golden Age of Flight Gallery The Golden Age of Flight Gallery has vintage aircraft on deck and hanging from the rafters. Exhibits include a Consolidated Pt-1 Trusty, Lincoln Standard J-1, Aeronca C-3 Collegian, Gee Bee R-1, Albatross, Pitts Special, Fleet Model 2, Piper J-3 Cub, and a Ryan B-5 Brougham. Modern Jet & Space Age Gallery The Modern Jet & Space Age Gallery offers a thrilling view into the space race and modern flight era. The gallery has a Bee Aviation Wee Bee, F/A-18 A Hornet Blue Angel 1, Douglas A-4B Skyhaw, Apollo Command and Space Module, and Gemini spacecraft. In addition, you will find a Boeing GPS-12 satellite that was operational and launched into orbit with the original 23 GPS satellites. The exhibit includes displays honoring the astronauts of the Mercury, Gemini and Apollo missions. Edwin D. Mckeller Pavilion of Flight The Edwin D. McKeller Pavilion of Flight includes the Education Center that hosts Family Day activities occurring monthly. It includes a comprehensive exhibit of artifacts from the now defunct Pacific Southwest Airlines, and a display honoring women in flight. What attractions are near the San Diego Air & Space Museum? The San Diego Air & Space Museum is located in Balboa Park, which offers visitors choices that include art museums, exhibits, botanical gardens and more. Here are a few we suggest adding to your itinerary... The Japanese Friendship Garden is just steps away from the San Diego Air & Space Museum, and it represents an expression of friendship between sister cities San Diego and Yokohama. The gardens utilize a design method known as shibui, which highlights elegant simplicity and quiet beauty. They combine the elements of shrubs, trees, water and rock to create a harmonious, contemplative environment. The San Diego Natural History Museum is a short walk within the park from the Air & Space Museum. It was founded in 1874, and it is the oldest scientific institution in Southern California. You will enjoy a stunning collection of fossils, artifacts and environmental displays in the four story building. The Botanical Building in Balboa Park includes the tranquil lily pond near the entrance. The building was constructed for the 1915 Exposition, and it is one of the biggest lath structures worldwide. The Botanical Building has over 2,000 permanent plants such as ferns, cycads, orchids and an array of tropical palms and plants. Where to eat near the San Diego Air & Space Museum? The Prado Restaurant is located in the House of Hospitality near the Visitor Center in Balboa Park. It offers elegant, full service dining. The menu includes beautiful salads, seafood, braised short ribs, duck, steaks and other delectable fare. Anthony’s Seafood is a short drive to the harbor district. This iconic restaurant offers a wide array of delicious seafood dishes. In addition, the restaurant sits at the water’s edge. It has stunning views of the San Diego bay, Coronado Island and Point Loma. Need to Know Hours Daily, 10:00 am-4:30 pm. Hours subject to change. Please contact (619) 234-8291 or visit the museum website for current hours. Closings: Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Day. All holiday hours are subject to change without notice. Address 2001 Pan American Plaza San Diego, CA 92101 Save on Tickets with a Go San Diego Card Remember, the Go San Diego® Card is the best choice for maximum savings and flexibility, which includes San Diego Air & Space Museum tickets, plus admission to your choice of other top attractions. Save up to 55% on top museums, tours, and activities vs. paying at the gate. Visit multiple attractions for one low price.
Lindsay Eagan

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