San Diego Neighborhoods Guide - Where to Go & What to Visit for Tourists

UPDATED SEPTEMBER 2024
By Casey Makovich

Planning a vacation to San Diego? Our local experts put together a helpful San Diego neighborhoods guide so you can make the most of your time in San Diego. We highlighted a handful of the top attractions, places to see, and which neighborhoods in San Diego to visit during your vacation.

Balboa Park

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Balboa Park, a 1,400 acre urban park located between Downtown and Mission Valley, is home to an abundance of attractions, museums, and recreational facilities. The park itself features beautifully landscaped gardens and stunning Spanish Colonial Revival architecture. Take a stroll along El Prado, a wide walkway that runs through the middle of park. El Prado will take visitors by many main attractions and park features such as the Reflection Pond, the latticed Botanical Building, and the Bea Evenson Fountain. There are a LOT of amazing museums in this area - check out our list of more things to do in Balboa Park (many of which are included on the Go San Diego® Card).

Things to Do in Balboa Park

  • Be sure to check out the Giant Pandas and over 800 species of other animals from all over the globe at the world-famous San Diego Zoo.
  • Find a new appreciation for nature and the environment at the Natural History Museum.
  • Learn about aviation history at the Air and Space Museum.
  • Explore your scientific side with a trip to the Fleet Science Center, which offers plenty of fascinating permanent exhibits plus delightful special exhibitions and events.
  • The Japanese Friendship Garden is another popular option, offering the promise of true serenity in the midst of your busy vacation.
  • Check out the Spanish Colonial inspired architecture of the iconic Casa de Balboa.

North County Coastal

San Diego’s North County Coastal region is home to many top attractions, beautiful beaches, natural preserves, and seaside villages.

Things to Do in North County Coastal San Diego

  • Go on a family adventure at the popular LEGOLAND® California and SEA LIFE® Aquarium.
  • Check out the beautifully landscaped gardens and exhibits at the San Diego Botanic Garden.
  • Explore animal wildlife of the Savannah on a mini-safari excursion at the San Diego Zoo Safari Park.

La Jolla

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Just 15 minutes from downtown San Diego, La Jolla is a top destination for adventure-seekers looking to experience that Southern California beach lifestyle. Named “the jewel” of San Diego, La Jolla features a beautiful coastline, upscale dining and shopping, prestigious art galleries, and more.

Things to Do in La Jolla

  • Explore the coastline La Jolla on a kayaking adventure or put on some snorkeling gear and get up close to the sea life.
  • If you’re a fan of fine art, be sure to visit the region’s foremost forum devoted to exploring contemporary art at the Museum of Contemporary Art (La Jolla).
  • Check out a variety of marine habitats at Birch Aquarium at Scripps where you’ll get an unforgettable view overlooking La Jolla and the Pacific Ocean.

Mission Bay & the Beaches

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The contagious California laid-back lifestyle in Mission Bay and the Beaches makes it a top destination for locals and visitors alike. Ocean Beach, Mission Beach, and Pacific Beach feature expansive sandy beaches, good surf, active nightlife, a fun theme park, and casual dining. Mission Bay is comprised of 4,200 acres of ocean landscape that make it a popular spot for water sports like surfing, waterskiing, sailing, windsurfing, kayaking, and more. Its 27 miles of bike paths weave through the beach communities and provide cyclists and pedestrians with a fun way to explore the coastline.

Things to do in Mission Bay & Mission Beach

  • Head to Sea World San Diego for an unforgettable family experience. You can enjoy classic rides, innovative attractions, and plenty of animal encounters.
  • You may also enjoy a visit to Belmont Park in Mission Beach, which offers plenty of classic amusement park fun including mini golf, bumper cars, roller coasters, a carousel, and much more.

Mission Valley & Old Town

Mission Valley is a popular place for visitors to stay. Its main street, Hotel Circle, is lined with moderately priced hotels that attract families and budget travelers. The Old Town Historic Park is where California began. Old Town is home to several museums that document the city’s unique history and lots of shops and casual restaurants. Be sure to visit the most haunted house in America for a spooky take on San Diego’s history. You can also opt to take a trolley ride of San Diego's Old Town, which will offer an excellent overview of the neighborhood and the city's impressive history.

Hillcrest

Hillcrest is San Diego’s first self-contained suburb and is known for being the central hub of San Diego’s gay and lesbian community. Visitors will notice the towering pride flag where the famous annual LGBT Pride Parade begins. The area features walkable streets complete with eclectic shops, cafes, restaurants, bars, and nightclubs.

Downtown

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San Diego’s Downtown is a thriving neighborhood for business, dining, shopping, and entertainment. The Downtown area encompasses Little Italy, Cortez Hill, Columbia, Core-Columbia, Gaslamp Quarter, East Village, Marina, and includes the Embarcadero (waterfront boardwalk). We've got some fun recommendations for things to do in Downtown San Diego - if you want to spend some time in that area during your trip.

Little Italy

As its name suggests, Little Italy is an area in Downtown San Diego rich with Italian culture from its early roots as a fishing neighborhood. Its Italian culture is apparent in its cuisine, little shops, and architecture.

Things to Do in Little Italy

  • Check out over 150 booths featuring fresh produce, artisan foods, and specialty items at the popular Farmer’s Market every Saturday between 8 am and 2 pm at W. Cedar and India streets.
  • Leave your guidebook behind and hop into a GoCar for a GPS guided tour of the city. As you drive, the GoCar narrates the tour based on your surroundings.
  • Learn all about the maritime history of the western world at the Maritime Museum of San Diego.

Cortez Hill

Cortez Hill is one of the oldest San Diego neighborhoods in Downtown. Visitors will enjoy the quaint, Victorian and row style townhomes and poking around the various shops.

Things to Do in Cortez Hill

  • Visit El Cortez hotel, a San Diego landmark built in 1926 in Spanish Colonial Revival Style. You’ll get a view of downtown San Diego and Balboa Park from the top of the hill.
  • Get a little shopping in at the pedestrian-friendly area complete with shops and sidewalk cafes lining Fifth and Sixth Avenues.

Core-Columbia

unique-perspective-uss-midway-aircraft-carrier

The Columbia neighborhood is a hub of activity with lots of green space, the Embarcadero Promenade, the Sante Fe Depot, museums, and more.

Things to Do in Core-Columbia

  • Take a tour of the USS Midway aircraft carrier, a floating museum of American military history at the Midway Aircraft Carrier Museum.
  • Museum of Contemporary Art is known for showcasing works by upcoming and under-recognized artists in addition to major figures in international contemporary art.
  • Explore the sea life of San Diego’s coastal waters on a whale watching tour.
  • Go on an informative and exciting harbor cruise and catch the best highlights of San Diego’s coast.

Gaslamp Quarter/ Horton Plaza

Named for its gas lamp lined streets, the Gaslamp Quarter is a top destination for shopping, fine dining, nightlife, and entertainment.

Things to Do in the Gaslamp Quarter

  • Visit the oldest surviving structure located in Downtown San Diego -- The Gaslamp Museum at the David-Horton House (formerly known as the William Heath Davis House), which was actually built in 1850.
  • Head to the Horton Plaza, a multi-level shopping plaza, movie theatre, and recreational facility.
  • Check out the popular nightclub scene for an evening packed with fun.

East Village

Located on the eastern side of Downtown San Diego, Eastern Village is home to the San Diego Padres and PETCO Park. Catch a game at the park or check out the fantastic view from home plate on a tour of the stadium.

Marina

The Marina district is home to the Embarcadero, Seaport Village, the bayside San Diego Convention Center, and more.

Things to Do in the Marina District

  • The New Children’s Museum features hands-on creative activities and innovative artwork that kids can touch, move, or climb.
  • Head to Seaport Village, a 14-acre waterfront shopping, dining, and entertainment destination.

Embarcadero

The Embarcadero boardwalk runs along San Diego’s downtown waterfront extending from the Embarcadero Marina to the Maritime Museum of San Diego.

Coronado

coronado-famous-attraction-beach-san-diego

Coronado peninsula, often referred to as an island, features pristine beaches, gentle surf, and a welcoming community feel. Coronado is connected to the mainland by a long, sandy strip called Silver Strand. Hop on a ferry from Downtown for a fun way to get to Coronado and experience the bay.

Things to Do in Coronado

  • Check out the famous Hotel del Coronado and learn more about Coronado’s history on a Coronado Heritage Walking Tour.
  • You could also opt to enjoy a lunch at the historic Hotel, if you're looking for a special experience.
  • Explore the coastline of the peninsula on bike or take a kayak out on the water for a fun adventure.

Save on Attraction Admission in San Diego Neighborhoods

If you're exploring this many different parts of San Diego, you're bound to want to visit a few of these exciting attractions. Consider picking up a San Diego attractions pass to suit your traveling needs. Whether you're in town for only a day or two, or even a whole week, you'll find the perfect pass for you. Save up to 55% versus paying at the gate!

Casey Makovich
Go City Travel Expert

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10+ Romantic Things to Do in San Diego

Spending time in sunny San Diego around Valentine’s Day and looking for some ideas on how to spend this special day? If you’re looking for romantic things to do in San Diego, whether that's for Valentine's Day or for a romantic date night any time of year, check out our a few of our suggested activities. Wander Balboa Park San Diego is one of the most temperate cities in the country, and is likely to be pleasant even in mid-February. So there’s no reason why you can’t spend an afternoon or an evening walking with your loved one through the nation’s largest urban cultural park. In addition to its beautifully cultivated gardens and striking architecture, Balboa Park also features some of the region’s premier museums. So whether your love’s deepest desire is to visit the pandas at the San Diego Zoo, or gaze upon the stars at the Fleet Science Center, you will find plenty to do indoors and out. Stroll the Japanese Friendship Garden Part of the pleasure in Valentine’s Day is the personal time spent with the one you love. For a uniquely romantic setting for your personal time this year, take a stroll through this one-of-a-kind garden. Nearly 100 years old, the Japanese Friendship Garden, San-Kei-En is designed to offer Zen serenity and peace. It was originally created as a gesture of friendship between the U.S. and Japan, and now attracts visitors from all over the world with its simple design and classic features. A visit to the Japanese Friendship Garden will cultivate the perfect state of peace and harmony for you and your partner. Explore the Art World Since the dawn of time, man has turned to art to express his love. In fact, some of the most famous pieces in history were inspired by this universal emotion. To soak up some of that passion yourself, stroll through the galleries of San Diego’s nationally renowned fine arts museum – the San Diego Museum of Art. Collections feature everything from the European old masters, 19th and 20th-century paintings, and new works of modernism to sculpture, artifacts, and multi-media artwork. Over Valentine's 2020, you could stop by the Art After Hours for only $5 after 5:00 p.m. on Fridays, experience exhibitions and the Museum’s 20 galleries while live music plays at Panama 66 in the May S. Marcy Sculpture Court. Alternatively, on the 15th from 9AM - 1PM, drop in to their Valentine's Workshop where you will join Museum Educator Sheena Dowling for an interactive workshop that takes its inspiration from the many forms and expressions of love depicted in the Museum’s works of art. Learn about traditional printmaking techniques and use them to create your own embellished prints or card sets. Other artsy options in the San Diego area include the San Diego Art Institute and the Museum of Contemporary Art. Hit Up a Ball Game For the sporty couples out there, there are plenty of San Diego sports activities to enjoy. One of our favorite sporty date ideas is an afternoon or evening at the San Diego Padres Stadium, PETCO Park. You can take a tour of the park most days, or take in a home game when they're in town. There are few things as fun and date-like than a good, old-fashioned baseball game, complete with beer and hotdogs! Of course, this won't be available as Valentine's date idea -- you'd need to wait until March 26 for the 2020 MLB season to begin. If you're still interested in exploring PETCO Park, take a course of this beautiful establishment to see its unique architecture and the perfect situation. These tours are available in the off-season, so you could make it part of a larger Valentine's day plan. Reflect on Your History Valentine’s Day is not only a time for romance but also one of a reflection when we think about our personal histories and how we came to be with the people we love today. San Diego’s unique Museum of Man is on a mission to help answer questions about that quintessentially human quality. It’s the only institution in the region devoted to the celebration of diversity, and one of the only in the world that’s all about the human experience. Nestled in the heart of San Diego’s historic Balboa Park, the Museum of Man brings together beauty, history, anthropology, art, and artifacts from ancient and contemporary cultures. It’s a great way to learn something about our past as you plan for the future. After all, what is more essential to mankind than the idea of love? Adventure Through La Jolla Views don't come much more striking than this. If you’re the outdoorsy sort of couple who would love nothing more than to enjoy the fresh and beautiful weather of a San Diego winter, then some time spent in La Jolla sounds like the perfect date idea. Whether you want to hike, bike, snorkel, or swim, there are plenty of options to keep everybody happy. Plus, it's easy to rent the necessary equipment and gear, so no need to bring your own. Even better? You don't need a lot of (or any!) experience to enjoy these activities, so why not take the opportunity this Valentine's Day to try something new? Take a tour of the area, or explore on your own – there’s no shortage of beautiful vistas and stunning ocean scenery to keep you happy. Hop Aboard a Romantic Cruise Another tried-and-true option is the romantic cruise. There are several options floating around for your enjoyment (pun intended), like the champagne brunch cruise or the weekend cruises offered by Hornblower Dinner Cruises. Or, if you’d prefer something a little less formal and overtly lovey-dovey, then a regular cruise might do the trick, like a scenic one-hour Harbor Tour. This thoughtful cruise is an excellent sight-seeing option, too, so it's good for those of you who have come to San Diego for a special getaway trip. Indulge in a Romantic Dinner Call me old-fashioned, but to my mind there are few things as enjoyable as a good romantic dinner. Fortunately, San Diego has some of the most amazing food in the region for you and your Valentine to sample, whether you’re interested in high-end seafood or street-side Mexican. If you’re looking for ideas for great romantic restaurants, explore areas like the Gaslamp Quarter/Banker’s Hill, Downtown, La Jolla, and Del Mar. We recommend using a service like OpenTable to book your free reservations - just do it early! Take in a Show If you want to really impress your culturally-inclined date, then a musical performance or theatrical show is a reliable option. This time of year, San Diego has plenty of great shows in town for you to choose from, although there isn't necessarily a lot on the holiday itself because it falls in the middle of the week this year. If you can be flexible in your dates, the Civic Theatre has a performance by the San Diego Opera, and the Balboa Theatre is hosting the California ballet. Sweetheart Sail at the Maritime Museum Hop on board the Californian or San Salvador and enjoy a three-hour scenic tour of San Diego Bay on a special 'Sweetheart Sail.' You'll get to see native wildlife, the stunning San Diego skyline, and landmarks along the way. Enjoy chocolates and champagne while onboard your romantic cruise. Remember to Save on Attraction Admission From the classical to the quirky, and everything in between, we’ve put together some of our favorite romantic things to do in San Diego and we just know you’ll find something to help you put together that perfect date. Remember, some of these great 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 special events taking place at some of these attractions may be separately ticketed and not included with the Go San Diego pass.
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San Diego Neighborhood Guide

San Diego is a delightful vacation destination. Filled with top-notch cultural attractions, exciting sports teams, and sunny, sandy beaches—San Diego's neighborhood variety makes it practically perfect. It’s also, however, quite large, making it difficult to truly tackle the whole city in one single vacation. The best way to handle San Diego on any one single vacation is to target your explorations on a specific neighborhood or two to really get to know those areas. You’ll be able to visit more attractions in each neighborhood, too, since you’ll be cutting down on transit time by sticking within a few core areas. To help you plan your San Diego vacation, we’ve put together this helpful guide to the major neighborhoods in San Diego, including those that technically lie outside the city limits. And because you’re probably also looking for things to do in those neighborhoods, we’ve listed a few of the best attractions in each area, too. If you’re hoping to make one of these neighborhoods your home base, we also recommend a few for San Diego hotels, including: La Jolla Gaslamp Quarter Old Town Little Italy North Park Hillcrest And more! These neighborhoods are organized alphabetically. Carlsbad Coronado East Village A trendy downtown neighborhood anchored by the striking PETCO Park, you’ll find most of the bars and restaurants clustered around the ballpark. There are also, however, a number of top San Diego breweries in the area, so beer drinkers might want to check it out, too. Encinitas About 26 miles north of downtown, this neighborhood is artsy without being too rough around the edges. There are some great beaches here, as well as many shops and restaurants along Highway 101. Check out the San Diego Botanic Garden if you’re into plants or play a round of golf just to enjoy the outdoors. Gaslamp Quarter Hillcrest La Jolla Little Italy Mission Hills While predominantly residential, Mission Hills is also home to a wide variety of shops and restaurants, with something to please every palate. You can find everything from diners to chic New American cuisine, plus plenty of retail off the Pacific Highway. The “hotel circle” of budget hotels is also found around here and is a good place to look for deals. North Park This trendy neighborhood is populated by beer gardens and breweries, shops and boutiques, restaurants and food trucks—you name it, North Park probably has a few. Visitors can also enjoy many art galleries and a monthly evening art walk called Ray at Night. The San Diego hotels here are good for those looking to stay in a happening area. Ocean Beach A typical, laid-back beach town, Ocean Beach is filled with the best beachy things like surf shops, outdoor cafés, great dog parks, and more. It’s just north of Point Loma (with its historic lighthouse and famous tide pools) and a just south of the ever-popular Belmont Park. A charming little area, OB is also a nice place to look for hotels. Old Town San Diego Pacific Beach Right by the boardwalk, this beachfront neighborhood is known for its collection of casual bars, restaurants, and shops. If you’re interested in dining here, you can enjoy Mexican street food, French haute cuisine, or California casual fare. It’s a great place to hang out as an adult couple, or with friends. Save on Things to do in San Diego Once you’ve figured out what you want to do in San Diego and where you want to target your explorations, you’re sure to be looking for good deals. Save up to 55% on attraction admission with a Go San Diego pass. Visit the most popular attractions across the neighborhoods listed here, including many museums, tours, cruises, and so much more with a San Diego attraction pass! Share Your Adventure with Us Tag @GoCity or use the hashtag #GoCityPass in your vacation photos and we'll feature you on our page. Follow the Go City Instagram and Facebook pages for competitions, special offers, and events and inspiration for your chosen destination, too!
Katie Sagal

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