Visiting the USS Midway Aircraft Carrier Museum is already a standout San Diego experience—but why stop there? Once you've explored the deck, checked out the historic aircraft, and taken in the harbor views, you'll find a whole world of waterfront charm just steps away. From outdoor adventures and cultural hotspots to great food and relaxing spots to watch the sunset, this part of San Diego packs in plenty to keep the day rolling. Whether you’re a history buff, foodie, or beach stroller, there’s something nearby that’ll float your boat.
Maritime Museum of San Diego
Just a short stroll north along the Embarcadero, the Maritime Museum of San Diego feels like a natural next port of call after the USS Midway. This floating collection of historic vessels is home to one of the finest maritime fleets in the world, and whether you’re a history lover or just enjoy quirky, hands-on experiences, it’s well worth your time.
The star of the show? The Star of India—the world’s oldest active sailing ship. Step aboard and you’ll be transported back to 1863, when long-haul voyages and wind-powered navigation were still the norm. Her weathered wood, narrow corridors, and towering rigging bring the Age of Sail to life in a way that museum displays on land simply can’t.
But the Star is just the beginning. The museum also includes submarines, steam ferries, and a replica of the 16th-century galleon San Salvador, built using traditional methods and materials. Each ship is docked along a single pier, so you can easily hop from one to the next while soaking up San Diego Bay views.
The vibe is immersive and fun—part museum, part time machine. Volunteers and staff are passionate and knowledgeable, often sharing little-known tidbits that make the experience even richer. And it’s not all about the past. Some of the exhibits explore the future of ocean exploration, touching on modern research vessels and environmental challenges facing our oceans today.
Families will find plenty of child-friendly displays and open-air decks to roam, while solo travelers and couples can linger over the detailed exhibits or join one of the museum’s guided tours. If you’re visiting on a weekend, check for special sailing events—you might even spot one of the museum’s tall ships in action on the bay.
In short, the Maritime Museum complements the Midway beautifully. Where the Midway celebrates military might and innovation, this museum leans into cultural heritage and seafaring tradition. Both tell the story of San Diego’s deep relationship with the sea, and both leave you with a renewed appreciation for life on the water.
Seaport Village
Seaport Village
Just a 10-minute walk south from the USS Midway Museum, Seaport Village is where the waterfront swaps warships for whimsical shops, casual bites, and a whole lot of chill. This open-air seaside shopping village has been charming visitors since the 1980s with its cobblestone paths, leafy courtyards, and postcard-perfect bay views—and it still holds up as a fun, easygoing way to spend a couple of hours.
What makes Seaport Village such a great stop is the variety. Want to pick up a quirky souvenir? You’ll find shops selling everything from kite gear and vintage toys to beachwear and eco-friendly gifts. Need a sweet treat? Head to the fudge shop or grab a cone from the local ice cream parlor. Hungry for something more substantial? There’s no shortage of casual cafes and patio-friendly eateries where you can sip a cocktail while watching the sailboats drift by.
One of the standout dining spots here is San Diego Pier Café—a rustic seafood shack on stilts that offers fresh fish, shrimp tacos, and sweeping views across the water. If you’re after something sweet, Seaport Coffee & Fudge has been winning hearts (and teeth) with its gooey, handmade fudge and espresso drinks. And don’t miss the carousel—a beautifully restored antique that’s a hit with kids and nostalgia lovers alike.
The atmosphere here is calm but lively. On weekends, you might catch live music, local artists sketching portraits, or street performers keeping the energy high. It’s also one of the best spots downtown to just sit on a bench, soak up the sun, and do a little people-watching with the harbor as your backdrop.
Because it’s so close to the Midway, Seaport Village makes an ideal place to decompress after a morning of exploring ships and exhibits. You can grab lunch, browse, and recharge before deciding on your next adventure. It also connects easily to the San Diego Bay Walk, so it’s great as a jumping-off point if you’re in the mood for a scenic stroll.
Relaxed, charming, and full of character, Seaport Village is a lovely reminder that not every great San Diego moment has to come with a ticket or a timeline.
Unconditional Surrender Statue
One of the most talked-about photo ops along the San Diego waterfront is the towering Unconditional Surrender statue, located just a stone’s throw from the USS Midway Museum. If the sight of a sailor dipping a nurse into a dramatic kiss looks familiar, that’s because it’s a 25-foot-tall nod to the famous WWII photograph snapped in Times Square on V-J Day.
Whether you find it romantic, nostalgic, or just plain striking, there’s no denying its presence. The statue’s sheer scale catches your eye the moment you exit the Midway, and it tends to spark immediate conversation. Visitors often line up to recreate the pose beneath it—some with flair, some with humor, but all with cameras ready.
The statue sits on a small grassy patch along Tuna Harbor Park, framed by palm trees and set against the backdrop of the bay. It’s a peaceful place to pause, grab a drink from a nearby vendor, and soak up the mix of public art and harbor activity. On a clear day, the reflections on the water and the occasional Navy ship passing by create a cinematic atmosphere that feels distinctly San Diegan.
What makes this statue more than just a photo stop is its emotional resonance. It’s not just about a kiss—it’s about a moment in history when the war ended, peace was declared, and people flooded the streets to celebrate. For many, it serves as a symbol of relief, resilience, and joy after one of the darkest chapters in modern history. That context adds emotional weight to what might otherwise seem like a playful landmark.
And because it's right next to the Midway, it makes for a natural next stop—especially if you’re already in “WWII history” mode. Combine it with a walk down the adjacent harbor path or pair it with a visit to Tuna Harbor Dockside Market if you’re there on a Saturday morning.
It doesn’t take long to visit, but it adds something special to the day. Call it a kiss from history—bold, unexpected, and full of feeling.
Embarcadero Marina Park North
Embarcadero Marina Park North
Just south of Seaport Village and a pleasant 10-minute walk from the USS Midway, Embarcadero Marina Park North is where locals and visitors alike go when they want to take it slow. This wide-open waterfront space is ideal for unwinding after a museum-heavy morning or for working off a seafood lunch with a breezy stroll.
The first thing you’ll notice? The views. The park wraps around a small peninsula that juts out into the bay, giving you uninterrupted panoramas of Coronado Island, passing sailboats, and downtown’s glimmering skyline. If you’re into photography—or simply enjoy a great spot to sit and take it all in—this place delivers. You’ll often spot artists sketching, paddle boarders coasting through the marina, and families tossing frisbees on the lawn.
There’s a generous paved path that loops around the entire park, perfect for walking, jogging, or renting a bike or e-scooter. Benches are plentiful, and there are shady spots under trees if you need a breather from the sun. For something more active, there’s also space for yoga, tai chi, or even a casual game of catch.
What sets this park apart is its relaxed, open feel. It doesn’t try to impress you with ornate landscaping or grand monuments—it simply invites you to be present. Bring a picnic, kick off your shoes, and enjoy the simplicity of grass, water, and sky. On weekends, you might catch a small event or music performance, and it’s not uncommon to see someone strumming a guitar or walking a slackline between trees.
And if hunger strikes again? You’re within easy reach of Seaport Village eateries or the restaurants at The Headquarters. Or you can bring something takeaway from the Tuna Harbor Dockside Market (if it’s Saturday) and make your own picnic by the bay.
In a city known for sunshine and sea breezes, Embarcadero Marina Park North quietly ranks as one of the best places to experience both. It’s laid-back, unpretentious, and the perfect counterpoint to the structured museum vibe you started the day with.
The Headquarters at Seaport
Once a historic police station, now a stylish lifestyle hub, The Headquarters at Seaport is where heritage meets boutique charm. Just a couple of blocks from the USS Midway and tucked right next to Seaport Village, this beautifully restored complex blends San Diego history with modern-day shopping, dining, and culture.
You’ll immediately notice the architecture. The 1930s Spanish Revival building has been thoughtfully preserved, with original jail cells, vintage tilework, and courtyard fountains adding character and a splash of intrigue. Walking through the open-air space feels like stepping into a secret corner of the city that locals whisper about—and it’s every bit as photogenic as it is functional.
When it comes to shopping, The Headquarters focuses on quality over quantity. Expect independent boutiques and specialty stores offering artisanal home goods, eco-conscious accessories, and curated gifts you won’t find at big-name malls. It’s a great spot to pick up something a little more unique for yourself or someone back home.
The food scene here is just as curated. Puesto is a standout—this modern Mexican eatery has earned a cult following for its bold tacos, colorful cocktails, and Instagram-worthy interiors. The grilled shrimp and filet mignon tacos are house favorites, and their aguas frescas or smoky mezcal drinks are perfect for cooling down. For dessert, swing by Gelato Paradiso—a charming little gelateria tucked along the arcade, where the pistachio and stracciatella flavors are local legends.
What really makes The Headquarters special is the vibe. It’s calmer than Seaport Village, more intimate than a mall, and full of small touches that make wandering feel fun and rewarding. You’ll often find pop-up craft markets, live acoustic music, or seasonal décor turning the courtyard into a low-key event space.
If you’re into history, you can even peek inside one of the preserved holding cells—complete with iron bars and interpretive displays. It’s a fun, unexpected reminder of the building’s storied past, and a playful contrast to the chic boutiques that now occupy the space.
Whether you’re shopping, snacking, or simply strolling, The Headquarters is an easy and elegant add-on to your Midway-area adventure—an experience that feels uniquely San Diego.
San Diego Bay Walk
San Diego Bay Walk
If you’re in the mood to stretch your legs and soak in those signature SoCal views, the San Diego Bay Walk is the perfect next step after visiting the USS Midway. This waterfront promenade winds along the edge of the Embarcadero, linking together some of the city’s best attractions, parks, markets, and lookout points—all with the bay glimmering beside you.
What makes the Bay Walk so appealing is its flexibility. You can commit to a long scenic walk that leads all the way to the convention center and marina areas, or just meander between nearby highlights like Seaport Village, Tuna Harbor, and the Unconditional Surrender statue. Every stretch brings something new—public art, playful fountains, street performers, and even the occasional seal popping up in the harbor.
The path itself is smooth and stroller-friendly, with wide lanes perfect for pedestrians, joggers, or e-scooter riders. There are plenty of benches and shady patches if you want to pause, plus water refill stations and food vendors if you need a boost. And the views? Let’s just say this is where San Diego’s coastal charm shines brightest. From sleek sailboats to aircraft carriers, there’s always something to look at.
Along the way, you’ll pass a variety of points of interest, including the Maritime Museum, Portside Pier, Ruocco Park, and several ferry and harbor cruise docks. If you're walking around golden hour, the path becomes a front-row seat to one of the best sunsets in the city.
One of the underrated pleasures of the Bay Walk is its atmosphere. You’re surrounded by locals walking dogs, couples snapping selfies, and fellow travelers discovering the city at a relaxed pace. It feels open, friendly, and full of good energy—a reminder that sometimes, the best way to experience a place is simply to walk through it.
You don’t need a plan to enjoy it—just follow the water. Let your feet take you where they may, and enjoy the sights, sounds, and salty breeze that make San Diego’s waterfront such a memorable part of the city.
Coronado Ferry Ride
Looking for a breezy change of perspective after the USS Midway? Hop aboard the Coronado Ferry, one of San Diego’s most scenic (and surprisingly budget-friendly) water experiences. This quick ride across the bay delivers stunning skyline views, easy access to Coronado Island, and a chance to feel the wind in your hair as you glide past some of the city’s most photogenic spots.
The ferry terminal is just a short walk south of the Midway, tucked behind the Broadway Pier. Boats run frequently throughout the day, and the trip takes around 15 minutes—just long enough to enjoy the ride without it turning into a time commitment. Tickets are inexpensive and can be purchased on-site or online, and bikes are welcome aboard if you’re planning to pedal once you reach Coronado.
What makes the ferry so enjoyable is how effortlessly it turns transportation into an experience. On the way over, you’ll pass naval ships, sailboats, and maybe even a cruise liner docked in the harbor. The downtown skyline unfolds behind you, while the red-roofed Hotel del Coronado and palm-lined island approach from the front. It’s one of those rare moments where transit doubles as a postcard.
Once you arrive on Coronado, you’ll dock at the Coronado Ferry Landing, a charming spot in its own right. The area is home to shops, cafes, and restaurants that make it easy to turn your short jaunt into a longer outing. Grab a scoop from Cold Stone Creamery, rent a bike, or sit with a coffee and admire the view you just sailed away from.
If you're feeling ambitious, it’s about a 25-minute walk or 10-minute bike ride to Coronado Beach, consistently ranked among the best in the U.S. Or keep it low-key and hang out by the landing, watching the waves and browsing the boutiques.
San Diego Harbor Cruise
San Diego Harbor Cruise
If you loved the views from the deck of the USS Midway, imagine getting even closer to the action—on the water itself. A San Diego Harbor Cruise is a laid-back but immersive way to explore the bay, complete with expert narration, panoramic skyline views, and a fresh perspective on the city’s maritime roots.
Departing from the same stretch of waterfront where the Midway is moored, harbor cruises are easy to catch and usually last between one and two hours. Choose between a North Bay route, a South Bay route, or do both for a full-circle view of San Diego’s working harbor and natural beauty. Either way, you’ll be treated to fascinating commentary on naval operations, local landmarks, and hidden facts about the region’s rich maritime history.
Onboard, expect comfortable open-air decks, indoor seating options, and the welcome presence of a snack bar (or cocktail bar, depending on the cruise). The vibe is relaxed and scenic—think seabreeze and sunshine, not splash zones and speedboats. It’s perfect for couples, families, or solo travelers who want a low-effort, high-payoff way to experience the bay.
As you glide along the water, you’ll pass the Coronado Bridge, naval shipyards, sea lion lounging spots, and a variety of military vessels—some active, some retired. You’ll also get prime views of the Midway from the water, offering an entirely new appreciation for the scale and engineering of the aircraft carrier you just explored.
The cruises typically include live narration from friendly, knowledgeable guides who strike a balance between informative and entertaining. Whether they’re sharing anecdotes about celebrity visitors, pointing out pelicans mid-dive, or explaining how the harbor was shaped by both nature and industry, they keep the journey engaging from start to finish.
If you're a shutterbug, keep that camera close—this is one of the best places in town to snap photos of the skyline, the Midway, and maybe even a dolphin or two. And if you're just looking to unwind after walking through museums and parks, this is your chance to sit back and enjoy San Diego at its most effortlessly beautiful.
Star of India
If you thought the USS Midway was impressive, wait until you meet her older cousin—the Star of India. Anchored just up the Embarcadero at the Maritime Museum of San Diego, this iron-hulled beauty isn’t just historic—she’s legendary. Launched in 1863, she’s the world’s oldest active sailing ship, and walking her decks is like stepping back in time to the era of global exploration, immigrant voyages, and salty sea tales.
Unlike the Midway’s aircraft and steel catapults, the Star of India whispers stories with creaking floorboards, thick rope rigging, and heavy wooden wheels. She sailed around the world multiple times, surviving storms, collisions, and decades of wear before retiring to her current home. Her restoration is a labor of love, and it shows—every inch feels authentic and alive with maritime history.
What’s unique about visiting the Star of India is how hands-on it feels. You’re not just looking at exhibits—you’re in them. You can duck into the cramped bunks where passengers once slept, peek into the galley, and check out the cargo holds that once carried everything from jute to immigrants headed for a new life. Each section is staged to reflect a different period in her long and varied career.
For kids (and curious adults), there are interactive elements, informative plaques, and docents who are more than happy to share stories about life at sea—no filters, no frills, just solid storytelling. You’ll walk away with a new appreciation for the courage and grit it took to cross oceans under sail.
And while she’s part of the Maritime Museum collection, the Star of India stands out enough to deserve her own spotlight. She’s not just a ship—she’s a survivor. In fact, she still sails once a year with a fully trained volunteer crew. If you happen to be in town during her rare excursions, you’re in for a rare treat.
Whether you’re a history buff, a romantic, or someone who just loves old-world craftsmanship, the Star of India is worth the visit. Quiet, majestic, and full of character, she offers a grounding counterpoint to the Midway’s modern might—proof that adventure doesn’t need afterburners to leave a lasting impression
Tuna Harbor Dockside Market
Tuna Harbor Dockside Market
If you're in San Diego on a Saturday morning, set your alarm and make a beeline to the Tuna Harbor Dockside Market. Just around the corner from the USS Midway Museum, this open-air fish market is as fresh and local as it gets—no frills, just fisherman and fish, dockside and direct.
This isn’t your typical supermarket seafood counter. The market features fishermen and women selling their own catch straight from boats moored along the pier. Think whole tuna, spot prawns, live sea urchin, rock crab, and whatever else the Pacific yields that week. You can chat with the people who caught your food just hours earlier and learn more about sustainable fishing along the California coast.
For foodies, it’s a rare treat. Not only can you shop for ingredients, but you can also snack on the spot. One of the highlights? Fresh uni, sliced open and served sea-to-mouth from live urchins. It’s an unforgettable taste of the ocean—briny, creamy, and slightly sweet. If sea urchin isn’t your thing, no worries—there’s usually a stall or two serving poke bowls, grilled fish tacos, or ceviche that will win over even the most landlocked eater.
The atmosphere is laid-back and full of local flavor. You’ll hear sea birds overhead, smell the salt air, and see everything from professional chefs to families to curious tourists lined up with coolers. It’s an experience that feels organic and a little bit off the beaten path—something that hasn’t been overly polished for Instagram, and is all the better for it.
What really sets Tuna Harbor apart is its authenticity. It’s a window into San Diego’s fishing culture, a tradition that’s been part of the city for generations. Whether you’re buying, tasting, or just exploring, you get a sense of how close this city still is to the ocean—not just geographically, but culturally and economically too.
Come early for the best selection (things do sell out), bring cash just in case, and don’t be afraid to ask questions—the vendors are proud of their catch and love to share tips on how to cook it. Even if you leave empty-handed, you'll walk away with a great story—and maybe a bit of sea spray on your shoes.
Portside Pier
Just a few steps north of the USS Midway Museum, Portside Pier is where seafood meets skyline, and the vibes are as fresh as the oysters. This multi-restaurant waterfront complex floats above the harbor like a modern glass-and-steel ship, offering panoramic views, casual elegance, and a handful of dining options all under one roof—literally hovering over the water.
Whether you're in the mood for a seafood platter, a prime steak, or just a sunset drink, Portside Pier has something for every taste. The standout here is Brigantine Seafood & Oyster Bar, a San Diego favorite known for its fish tacos, chilled seafood towers, and generous happy hour. The oysters are shucked to order, the margaritas are well-poured, and the open-air patio makes everything taste better with a breeze.
If you’re craving something more classic, head to Top of the Market, an upscale option upstairs offering refined seafood dishes, elegant plating, and sweeping views that stretch from Point Loma to the Coronado Bridge. Their miso-glazed sea bass and lobster bisque are local legends, and the wine list doesn’t mess around either.
For a more laid-back bite, Ketch Grill & Taps delivers solid pub fare, tacos, burgers, and a local craft beer lineup that pairs perfectly with harbor views. It’s the go-to spot if you want something easy and tasty without the formality. Just want a coffee or snack? Portside Coffee & Gelato serves exactly what the name promises—ideal for a sweet pit stop between sights.
What makes Portside Pier extra special is the public viewing deck on the top level, which is completely open to visitors—even if you're not dining. It’s one of the best places in the city to catch the sunset, watch boats glide by, or simply soak up the cityscape from above the waves. Bring your camera—it’s that good.
The atmosphere is sophisticated without being stuffy, family-friendly without being chaotic, and whether you come for brunch, lunch, or date night, it always feels like a bit of an occasion. It’s one of the rare places where locals and tourists both feel at home, and where the food, the views, and the setting come together to create something effortlessly San Diego.
Museum of Contemporary Art San Diego – Downtown
Museum of Contemporary Art San Diego – Downtown
Tucked away in a sleek, minimalist space just a short walk from the USS Midway, the Museum of Contemporary Art San Diego – Downtown (MCASD) offers a welcome contrast to all the naval hardware and historic ships nearby. If you’ve spent the morning immersed in steel hulls and fighter jets, this light-filled gallery invites you to engage with something more cerebral—bold, modern, and thought-provoking.
MCASD’s downtown location focuses on contemporary art from the 1950s to the present, with a strong emphasis on artists from California and the broader border region. The result? A collection that feels relevant, diverse, and deeply connected to San Diego’s bicultural identity. Expect powerful installations, mixed media, photography, and video art that often explore themes like migration, identity, climate, and urbanism.
One of the most compelling things about this space is how it presents art in conversation with the city itself. Large windows and carefully placed sculptures frame views of the downtown skyline and harbor, blurring the line between the gallery and the world outside. You’re encouraged to slow down, reflect, and let the work speak to you—which is part of the magic.
MCASD also rotates its exhibitions frequently, so there’s often something new to discover. From solo shows spotlighting emerging artists to curated group exhibitions tackling timely themes, the programming is consistently sharp and engaging. Docents and staff are approachable and happy to chat, and QR codes next to the artworks make it easy to learn more on your own pace.
Admission is affordable, and free on certain days (check ahead), making it an easy add-on to your day of exploration. There’s also a petite gift shop filled with design-forward prints, books, and art-inspired keepsakes, perfect for browsing if you’re not quite ready to dive back into the sunshine just yet.
What makes this museum special isn’t just the art—it’s the context. Nestled between the bay and the bustle of downtown, MCASD serves as a quiet, thoughtful oasis in the middle of a vibrant urban day. If you’re looking to balance your itinerary with something introspective, beautiful, and locally resonant, this gallery is a solid bet.
Portside Pier
Just a few steps north of the USS Midway Museum, Portside Pier is where seafood meets skyline, and the vibes are as fresh as the oysters. This multi-restaurant waterfront complex floats above the harbor like a modern glass-and-steel ship, offering panoramic views, casual elegance, and a handful of dining options all under one roof—literally hovering over the water.
Whether you're in the mood for a seafood platter, a prime steak, or just a sunset drink, Portside Pier has something for every taste. The standout here is Brigantine Seafood & Oyster Bar, a San Diego favorite known for its fish tacos, chilled seafood towers, and generous happy hour. The oysters are shucked to order, the margaritas are well-poured, and the open-air patio makes everything taste better with a breeze.
If you’re craving something more classic, head to Top of the Market, an upscale option upstairs offering refined seafood dishes, elegant plating, and sweeping views that stretch from Point Loma to the Coronado Bridge. Their miso-glazed sea bass and lobster bisque are local legends, and the wine list doesn’t mess around either.
For a more laid-back bite, Ketch Grill & Taps delivers solid pub fare, tacos, burgers, and a local craft beer lineup that pairs perfectly with harbor views. It’s the go-to spot if you want something easy and tasty without the formality. Just want a coffee or snack? Portside Coffee & Gelato serves exactly what the name promises—ideal for a sweet pit stop between sights.
What makes Portside Pier extra special is the public viewing deck on the top level, which is completely open to visitors—even if you're not dining. It’s one of the best places in the city to catch the sunset, watch boats glide by, or simply soak up the cityscape from above the waves. Bring your camera—it’s that good.
The atmosphere is sophisticated without being stuffy, family-friendly without being chaotic, and whether you come for brunch, lunch, or date night, it always feels like a bit of an occasion. It’s one of the rare places where locals and tourists both feel at home, and where the food, the views, and the setting come together to create something effortlessly San Diego.
Brigantine at Portside Pier
Brigantine at Portside Pier
Located within the gleaming glass façade of Portside Pier, Brigantine serves up bold flavors, bay views, and a relaxed yet refined coastal dining experience. Just a five-minute walk from the USS Midway Museum, this seafood-centric spot blends SoCal freshness with a menu that’s equally ready for happy hour bites or full-on dinner indulgence.
Known locally as “The Brig,” the restaurant is part of a beloved San Diego chain with roots stretching back to the 1960s—and it’s earned its reputation. This waterfront location elevates things a notch, pairing the Brigantine classics with one of the most scenic dining rooms on the Embarcadero. You’ll dine overlooking sailboats gliding past, with Coronado and Point Loma visible across the water. Golden hour here is nothing short of golden.
Let’s talk food. The fish tacos are legendary—crispy, beer-battered, and topped with shredded cabbage and house-made white sauce. Locals will tell you they’re a must-order. But don’t stop there. The swordfish tacos, grilled shrimp skewers, and daily catch specials are all solid picks. If you’re not in a seafood mood, the filet medallions and short rib enchiladas make strong arguments too.
Their appetizers make great shareables: calamari with jalapeño-lime aioli, crab and shrimp fondue, and spicy ahi poke stack are all bold, flavorful, and beautifully presented. The full bar offers signature cocktails with a tropical twist—try the pineapple-jalapeño margarita or the coconut mojito—and there’s an extensive list of local craft beers and wines to match the coastal fare.
The vibe strikes that perfect balance: lively but not loud, stylish but still casual. It’s great for families, groups of friends, and anyone looking to cap off their Midway visit with a sunset meal that hits all the right notes. Service is attentive and friendly, with just the right amount of laid-back California charm.
And if you're not ready for a full meal? The bar area is open for walk-ins and offers the same great views with a quicker turnaround. Perfect for sipping a drink and snacking while you regroup after a day of exploring.
Brigantine at Portside Pier wraps up everything you want in a San Diego dining experience—seafood, sunshine, and a front-row seat to the waterfront.
Waterfront Park
Just a 10-minute stroll north of the USS Midway Museum, Waterfront Park offers a wide-open, family-friendly space where city meets sea—and playtime meets peace and quiet. It’s one of those rare urban parks that manages to be fun, photogenic, and surprisingly serene, all while being smack in the middle of downtown San Diego.
The first thing you’ll notice? The fountains. A long stretch of shallow reflecting pools doubles as an interactive splash zone for kids during the day, with jets of water arcing in graceful patterns that light up at night. On warm afternoons, it’s one of the most joyful sights in the city—kids running barefoot through the streams while parents lounge under nearby shade structures or grab a bite from a food truck.
The park is big, clean, and cleverly designed. There are spacious lawns for picnics and yoga, whimsical playgrounds with climbing structures, and walking paths lined with native plants and modern benches. It’s also surrounded by striking public art installations and framed by the grand architecture of the San Diego County Administration Center, adding a touch of civic elegance to the laid-back vibe.
Because of its central location, Waterfront Park often hosts festivals, concerts, and night markets—so check the schedule if you’re in town on a weekend. Even when there’s no event on, the park feels lively and inviting. Joggers breeze through, dogs trot happily alongside their humans, and couples settle into the swings with coffee and city views.
For those with kids, it’s an absolute winner—safe, open, and full of things to climb, splash, and run across. For those without kids? It’s still a fantastic spot to unwind after a day of museum-hopping or harbor walking. Grab a takeout lunch from a nearby deli or café and claim a patch of grass under the palms—it’s one of the best picnic settings in the city.
Waterfront Park is a local favorite for a reason. It’s the kind of place that naturally makes you slow down and take a breath, offering that sweet Southern California blend of sunshine, design, and ease. If you’re looking to round out your Midway adventure with a bit of fresh air and people-watching, this is your spot.
Little Italy
Little Italy
A 15-minute walk or quick scooter ride from the USS Midway Museum, Little Italy is where San Diego’s historic charm meets modern energy—and where you’ll definitely want to arrive hungry. What started as a humble fishing neighborhood is now a buzzing enclave filled with al fresco dining, craft coffee shops, boutique stores, and some of the city’s best Italian food (and more than a few surprises).
Wander along India Street and you’ll be greeted by the aroma of garlic, fresh bread, and wood-fired pizza wafting from patios and trattorias. The area is known for its culinary scene, but it’s not all old-school red sauce. You’ll find handmade pasta at Bencotto, Neapolitan-style pizza at Filippi’s, elegant date-night dining at Juniper & Ivy, and unbeatable aperitivo hours at places like Civico 1845. Craving something sweet? Extraordinary Desserts lives up to its name—think towering cakes, edible flowers, and a serious wow factor.
Little Italy also happens to have one of the best weekend farmers’ markets in the city, stretching across several blocks every Saturday. Local produce, handmade soaps, gourmet street food, and live acoustic music create a vibrant, community-driven scene that’s a feast for the senses.
Beyond the bites, the vibe here is part old-world charm, part modern cool. There are vintage neon signs, string lights draped between buildings, and the Piazza della Famiglia—a European-style plaza with fountains, public seating, and a welcoming feel that’s perfect for sipping a cappuccino or people-watching. Don’t miss the views from the Top of the Market Piazza, a tucked-away spot with great photo ops and a lovely breeze.
Shopping here leans boutique, with design-forward home goods, indie bookstores, and locally made jewelry all in the mix. And if you’re into art, you’ll spot murals and street art scattered throughout the neighborhood, adding color and character around every corner.
It’s a bit of a walk from the Midway, but totally worth it—especially if you’re looking to wind down the day with a great meal or cocktail. Whether you come for brunch, dinner, or just to wander, Little Italy always delivers: atmosphere, flavor, and a taste of local San Diego living with a Mediterranean twist.
RADM Charles W. Parks Reserve
Tucked away just north of the Maritime Museum and a gentle walk from the USS Midway, the RADM Charles W. Parks Reserve is one of those blink-and-you’ll-miss-it green spaces that locals love precisely because it’s not trying to be a hotspot. Small, shaded, and refreshingly simple, it offers a peaceful pause between the busier stretches of the Embarcadero.
Named in honor of Rear Admiral Charles W. Parks, a decorated naval officer and civic leader, this unassuming reserve is a tribute to San Diego’s deep military heritage. The space is part park, part memorial, and part quiet lookout—offering benches, mature trees, and a direct view of the Star of India’s graceful silhouette against the harbor.
What makes this spot special isn’t grand features—it’s the stillness. After a full day of sightseeing, boats, seafood, and people, the reserve feels like a soft exhale. It’s a place to rest your feet, reflect, or simply sit with a cup of coffee and watch the harbor life go by. You’ll find joggers cooling down, readers flipping pages, and locals using it as a gentle detour from the crowds.
There’s no playground, food vendors, or scheduled events—just well-placed benches, shady patches, and a quiet that feels rare in the heart of downtown. For travelers who enjoy slow travel moments, or for anyone needing a breather between the Maritime Museum and Little Italy, it’s a welcome, green pause button.
Because of its proximity to other major sights, it’s easy to fold into your route. Take a moment here to regroup, hydrate, check your map, or simply enjoy the breeze off the bay. It’s especially lovely in the late afternoon, when the sun begins to lower and the water takes on that warm, golden sheen.
Sometimes, the best discoveries are the ones that aren’t crowded, curated, or commercialized. The RADM Charles W. Parks Reserve is one of those places—a small, soulful tribute tucked into a big, buzzing city.
Whether you're here for the history, the harbor views, or the fish tacos, the area around the USS Midway Aircraft Carrier Museum has plenty to offer. From waterfront parks to floating museums, local seafood joints to world-class art galleries, it's easy to turn a quick visit into a full day (or more) of discovery. So once you've stepped off the Midway, don’t head straight back to your hotel—stick around and let the Embarcadero surprise you.
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