San Diego in 3 days: must-see sights and hands-on fun

Fifteen minutes north of downtown San Diego, Birch Aquarium nestles among the cliffs of La Jolla. Serving as the public outreach center for Scripps Institution of Oceanography at UC San Diego, Birch Aquarium offers hands-on exhibits that spotlight cutting-edge ocean research and introduce guests to an incredible cast of ocean creatures.Discover the wonders of the ocean in Adam R. Scripps Living Seas Gallery, get hands-on with tide animals at the Tide Pool Plaza, and learn so much more about the magic of the aquatic world at this immersive aquarium in San Diego.You'll see everything from sharks and lobsters to turtles while learning all about ocean science and the marine environment. There are daily feedings and sea life interactions to watch, and if you want to get hands-on, you can head to the touch pool and pet sea stars and crabs.Birch Aquarium interprets the research and discoveries of Scripps Institution of Oceanography – a world leader in marine science – so you'll be learning straight from the source.

Find something for every adventure-seeker at this fun-filled park.

You'll journey through the history of flight and explore beautifully-restored aircraft and hands-on exhibits. There's a model of the Montgolfier brothers’ hot air balloon of 1783, a Spitfire Mk XVI and a 4D theatre where you can take to the skies.Learn all about the history of aviation, space flight, and get a sense of the danger and excitement involved in air combat.

Sit back, relax and enjoy spectacular views of San Diego Bay. This professionally-narrated harbor boat tour takes in dozens of the city's best sights including Seaport Village, Shelter Island, Coronado Island, Point Loma, and Cabrillo National Monument. You'll cover 20 miles-worth of incredible landmarks and locations. As well as enjoying the sights, you'll also learn about San Diego's local history from the onboard narration and admire the area's stunning natural scenery. City Cruises' onboard staff will point out any marine animals you happen to pass by and you'll have plenty of chances to take photos along the way.

Get a whistle-stop tour of the city with this 2-Day Hop-On Hop-Off Trolley Pass from Old Town Trolley Tours. It's the perfect way to get your bearings when you first arrive.Once you start your tour, you can hop off at any of the 12 stops along the route and re-join when you're ready. Friendly and knowledgeable guides provide the 'transportainment' along the way, giving you the history, context, and trivia relating to everything you’ll see.