The 18 best things to do in San Diego right now

What is it? A 1,200-acre urban park in the middle of the city.

Why go? San Diego is not short of beautiful parks, but Balboa is the undisputed king of them all. You’re going to want to factor in at least half a day for this, as the park is home to 18 fantastic museums, some international houses, organ pavilion concerts, and the unmissable Old Globe Theatre. You could get lost for hours strolling through gardens and admiring architecture, but if you want to do it properly, book a walking tour of the park. 

Don’t miss: In addition to museums, be sure to visit these free points of interest: Botanical Building and Lily Pond, Bea Evenson Fountain, Inez Grant Parker Memorial Rose Garden, the Moreton Bay Fig Tree, Spreckels Organ Pavilion, House of Hospitality, and the House of Pacific Relations International Cottages (open on weekends). At mealtime, head to Artifact at Mingei for eclectic international cuisine, The Prado for a Spanish-leaning menu, or Panama 66 for beers and apps. 

What is it? A world-renowned, 100-acre zoo with more than 12,000 animals including some rare and endangered species.

Why go? As the first zoo to introduce cageless, open-air exhibits, San Diego Zoo pioneered these natural animal habitats, which are really something to behold. It’s one of the only places outside China where you can spot Giant Pandas, and the zoo offers everything from strolls at sunrise to overnight camping. And if you can't get enough, the San Diego Zoo Safari Park is located about 30 minutes north of the San Diego Zoo in Escondido.

Don’t miss: Little ones will be thrilled to play at Denny Sanford Wildlife Explorers Basecamp, a new interactive play area for kids of all ages. It's all about the Giant Pandas right now (they returned to China and are now back in San Diego after nearly five years), but the elephants, koalas, polar bears, lions, tigers giraffes, hippos, and grizzly bears are also a big draw. Nighttime Zoo during the summer offers extended operating hours, and Jungle Bells in December brings festive decor and holiday lights to the zoo. 

What is it? A vintage, beachside amusement park in Mission Beach.

Why go? Celebrating it's 100th birthday in 2025, Belmont Park is not just for kiddos. Mini golf, laser tag, a climbing wall, arcade, and zipline make for a fun night at this approachable park that sits right along the busy boardwalk in the heart of Mission Beach. There's also concessions like funnel cakes, ice cream, fudge, churros, and even Dole Whips to help fuel your time between thrilling rides. Purchase a ticket bundle if you plan to go on multiple rides, or a Ride & Play Pass for unlimited rides and attractions. 

Don’t miss: The thrilling centerpiece of this historic amusement park is called the Giant Dipper—and it's a national, historic landmark in its own right. Why? Because the construction of this incredible wooden roller coaster dates back to 1925, the so-called "Golden Age" of wooden coasters, but it can still be ridden today thanks to a $2 million restoration. For just $8 per person, you can ride its famous dips and turns (at 48 mph!) while you take in beautiful views of neighboring Mission Bay and the Pacific Ocean—if you keep your eyes open, that is.

What is it? An upscale seaside town for dining, shopping, and looking out over the Pacific.

Why go? Dubbed the “jewel of Southern California,” La Jolla is a curiously quaint Mediterranean-style village just a few minutes drive from downtown—but feels like you’ve accidentally taken the exit for Greece or Italy. There’s plenty to keep you entertained here, including some of the city’s finest restaurants like Nine-Ten in the Grande Colonial Hotel. Don't miss the nearby Legends Gallery, which boasts a nice collection of artwork by former La Jolla resident Dr. Seuss. 

Don’t miss: Crowds gather around the Instagram-friendly Children's Pool Beach in La Jolla Cove where you’ll almost always find groups of seals and sea lions sunbathing on the rocks and sand. Walk along Coast Boulevard for the best views overlooking the rugged coastal bluffs. 

What is it? A coastal horseracing track that also hosts special events throughout racing season. 

Why go? Opened in 1937 by singer Bing Crosby, Del Mar Racetrack was once a playground to the stars who rode the train down from Hollywood for a day of fun on the turf. Today it still makes for a fun afternoon outing with friends to place exacta and trifecta bets on the horses. General admission tickets are just $8 and minimum bets can be made for only $2. So it doesn't cost much to put a little skin in the game by picking your favorite pony to win each race. The summer racing season runs from July through September, and the fall season is typically held through the month of November. There are often upwards of 10 races per day.

Don’t miss: Special concerts, food festivals, and beer and wine events are often held after a day of races, many offering free tickets with paid racetrack admission. Uncorked Wine Festival and Beer & Cider Fest are two favorites.

What is it? A baseball stadium located smack-dab in the middle of downtown San Diego.

Why go? Home to the San Diego Padres MLB team, Petco Park baseball stadium is a great family-friendly destination to watch America's favorite pastime. Sure, hot dogs and beer are par for the course here, but some of San Diego's top restaurants also have food stalls within the stadium for a high-end culinary experience. And there's no shortage of craft beer options, so it's also a great chance to try different local brews. Depending on the game, tickets can be found for as low as $30, and from certain seats you can even spot the ocean or catch a sunset.

Don’t miss: After Padres homeruns and following certain home games throughout the season, spectators can enjoy a fireworks show from the stadium. Behind-the-scenes tours are offered daily at Petco Park for any diehard baseball fans or history buffs who want to explore the stadium in depth (lasting about 90 minutes). Some of the best seats in the house are found in the newly renovated Western Metal Supply Co. Building within the ballpark. 

What is it? A bustling downtown neighborhood known for its lively nightlife. 

Why go? As the alluringly charismatic and historic heart of downtown San Diego, the 16-and-a-half-block Gaslamp Quarter blends Victorian charm with a 21st-century entertainment, shopping, and nightlife scene. Impressively, the Gaslamp Quarter celebrated its 150th anniversary in 2017. As the former site of San Diego's red light district in the 19th century, the area has been revitalized over the last few decades and is now home to more than 100 retail stores. Nightclubs, lounges, bars, and restaurants are abundant here, with crowds often spilling out of the nearby Convention Center for trade shows and events like San Diego Comic-Con to check out the local scene. 

Don’t miss: For an awesome night on the town, check out a show at one of the Gaslamp's performing arts theatres including Balboa, Lyceum, and Spreckles; grab dinner at Cafe Sevilla, Huntress, or Lou & Mickey's steakhouse; and toast over drinks at Prohibition Lounge, Techo Beso, or The Nolen. Cap the evening off with a good laugh at American Comedy Co. or Mad House Comedy Club. 

What is it? A destination hotel on the sand that welcomes a ton of day and overnight visitors alike. 

Why go? You have likely seen this hotel before, whether you’re a local or not. The Hotel del Coronado was featured in the Marilyn Monroe movie Some Like It Hot—and that’s not all it’s known for. This is a buzzing, tourist-filled, iconic landmark in Coronado serving up Hollywood history and great food (yes, there’s an over-the-top Sunday brunch) in a seriously glamorous oceanfront setting.

Don’t miss: Come during the holidays when "The Del" is decked out in festive decor and has its Skating by the Sea beachfront ice rink constructed, or book a Beach Roast bonfire to make s'mores treats while overlooking the Pacific. They also host movies on the beach, offer guided property tours, and hold cycling classes on the beach. You can't go wrong with a meal at one of their signature restaurants: Veranda (opening April 11, 2025), Nobu Del Coronado (opening May 2025), Serẽa, and the Sun Deck. Watching the sunset from pretty much anywhere at the resort promises to be a core memory. 

What is it? A decommissioned naval aircraft carrier turned into a public museum. 

Why go? The monumental USS Midway was the longest-serving aircraft carrier in U.S. Navy history when it was decommissioned in 1992. Now the feted ship—the size of a floating city—is a maritime museum open to the public, berthed along San Diego Bay in downtown. Climb aboard for a fascinating insight into what naval life is really like, courtesy of a self-guided audio tour narrated by some (refreshingly honest) former Midway sailors. Plus, if you've got young ones who love being onboard, you can find activities for little skippers.

Don’t miss: Head to the flight deck to climb inside (and pose in front of) more than 20 fully restored aircraft including bombers, fighters, and helicopters. Visit the newly renovated ship's island/bridge structure that served as the command center for captain and crew. The floating museum even offers overnight adventures for kids and families who want to experience what it's like to sleep onboard. One of their most popular annual events is their spectacular 4th of July fireworks viewing party to celebrate 'Merica. 

What is it? A historic Mexican-American neighborhood just south of downtown. 

Why go? You’re tantalizingly close to the border, but you don’t need to cross it for some seriously authentic Mexican food. Beeline for the Barrio Logan neighborhood, the epicenter of San Diego’s Hispanic community, for lunch or dinner. The city’s freshest handmade tortillas can be sourced at Las Cuatro Milpas, an unassuming, authentic eatery with lines often extending around the block at lunchtime. For dessert, stroll to nearby Panchitas Bakery, which holds legendary status among San Diegans for its homemade Mexican pastries and steaming hot chocolate.

Don’t miss: Cruise the main business district along Logan Avenue to peep classic cars and low riders, shop local boutiques for cool handmade crafts and wares, spend time at Chicano Park to take in powerful and beautiful murals, stop in to Por Vida coffee shop for specialty Mexican-inspired drinks, and say "salud" over a craft beer at the pro-female Mujeres Brew House. You'll leave with a greater appreciation for Mexican culture. 

To get a feel for the real San Diego, do as the locals do: Grab your reusable bag and head for the Little Italy Mercato Farmers’ Market, where you'll discover an array of beautiful, fresh, local produce and straight-outta-the-ocean seafood. There's also live music and made-to-order food. If you can't make this one held Saturdays and Wednesdays, farmers’ markets take place every day of the week, with more than 30 held across the city every weekend. For a complete schedule, visit the San Diego Farm Bureau.

Tucked into an Encinitas neighborhood, the San Diego Botanic Garden is a gorgeous 37-acre sanctuary with four miles of walking trails, more than 5,000 plant species, and nearly 30 different types of gardens. Just as much fun for kids as it is for adults, the botanic garden has dedicated children's areas, plus classes, tours, and special events like a holiday lights display starting in November. 

Sitting proudly amongst the astonishing cliffs of Point Loma, Cabrillo National Monument commemorates the historic moment when Portuguese explorer Juan Rodriguez Cabrillo sailed into San Diego Bay under the Spanish flag in 1542. The monument boasts spectacular 360-degree views of San Diego Bay, downtown and the surrounding region. On a clear day, you can even see the hills of Tijuana, Mexico. Once you've taken in the incredible vista, check out the quaint exhibit hall next to the monument, which is dedicated to the Cabrillo's life.

The region’s oldest, largest and most-visited art museum, San Diego Museum of Art has a nationally renowned permanent collection that includes Spanish and Italian old masters, as well as 19th-century American paintings and sculptures. They also throw some of the best after-hours parties in the city, including Culture & Cocktails and Bloom Bash. Don't miss the outdoor sculpture garden!

The first and grandest of the California missions is Mission Basilica San Diego de Alcala, founded by the Spanish in 1769. The Basilica—nestled down in stunning Mission Valley near the San Diego River—is a beautiful and serene place to visit. History buffs can make reservations for a tour, attend mass in the original chapel, visit the mission’s museum and stroll the oldest known cemetery in California.

With an impressive 70 miles of coastline, San Diego is a surfer’s dream. Turn up the volume and drive down to watch the action—but don’t attempt any waves yourself unless you’re an experienced surfer. If you’re a novice but want to try the sport, visit Surf Diva in La Jolla, the world’s first all-woman surf school, for a private lesson.

Music fans have flocked to San Diego’s live venues for years to discover local bands like Jason Mraz, Iron Butterfly and Blink 182 before they broke onto the mainstream scene. The Belly Up Tavern in Solana Beach is renowned for breaking the latest hip-hop, jazz and reggae acts. There's also an on-site bistro, Tavern, where you can refuel on a huge range of delicious bites, from short rib truffle fries and herb-crusted salmon to butternut squash tacos and key lime pie.

Enjoy a bird’s-eye view of San Diego’s exceptional Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve by swooping serenely overhead in a paraglider. Torrey Pines Gliderport is home to one of the most successful paragliding schools in North America, and flight experiences start from $175. You’ll be strapped to a qualified pilot so there’s nothing to worry about except enjoying the sweeping ocean views of the 2,000-acre reserve, its numerous hiking trails and sandstone cliffs beneath you.

The Whaley House in San Diego’s Old Town is one of only two officially designated haunted houses in California (yes, official!). Built in 1857, on the town’s former gallows’ site, the house was once home to the wealthy but troubled Whaley family—and rumor has it that various members of the clan never left. Other ghosts said to haunt the house include a grand larcenist who fought ferociously to keep himself alive at the gallows.

Whale-watching trips from the city are both plentiful and fruitful, with blue whales at the center of attention between June and September and their gray cousins taking over from December through April. San Diego Whale Watch offers year-round excursions for $59 per person. Don't worry—if you don’t see a whale or dolphin during your tour, your next trip is free!