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Alcazar Garden

Alcazar is a small but lovely hidden garden in Balboa Park across the road from the Museum of Man. It got its name from Alcazar Castle in Seville, Spain, as some of the designs mimic Spanish style, such as colored tiles, elegant fountains, and pergolas. Gardeners plant the flower beds with more than 7,000 seasonal flowers and keep them perfectly groomed. Hand-painted tiles decorate fountains and the edges of flower beds. It is a nice place to take a relaxing walk and admire local flora and fauna. More »

Antique Gas & Steam Engine Museum

Showcasing the early technologies, mechanical ideas, and handiwork of early steam power from 1849-1949. The exhibits focus on the workings of an early California farm and highlight farm equipment that spans decades. Starting at horse-drawn equipment, the collection travels up through the years to modern crop machines. The museum is housed on 55-acres of farm land so the equipment is constantly being used to be sure it is in working order. In addition to the machinery, the museum also houses exhibits such as a blacksmith shop, farm house, sawmill, small-scale train, and a gristmill. One of the best times to visit this living history museum is during one of it's show and event days, when most of the machines are powered up and running, the forges are lit, and the blacksmith shop is in full swing. More »

Anza-Borrego Desert State Park

Anza-Borrego is the largest state park in California as it encompasses over 600,000 square miles. It gets its name from both the Spanish explorer Juan Bautista de Anza and one of the Spanish words for bighorn sheep, borrego. Visitors get a chance to explore the uniquely beautiful wonders of the California desert here, from arid wildflowers to bighorn sheep to rugged mountains. There are over 500 miles of dirt roads, hundreds more miles of hiking trails, and 12 separate wilderness areas in the park, so there are ample things to see and do here. The mountain ranges that border the park are the Santa Rosas, the Bucksnorts, the Jacumbas, the Vallecito, the Pinyon, and the Borrego. There are over 10 campgrounds on-site, so be sure to bring a tent and sleeping bag if you want to spend more than a day in this enormous desert. More »

Athenaeum Music & Arts Library

The founding of the Athenaeum goes back to 1894 with the La Jolla Reading Club. In 1899, the library become fully incorporated and became the region's first membership library. Athenaeum Music & Arts Library is a La Jolla library devoted exclusively to music and arts. Somewhat of a rarity. the Athenaeum Library is one of only 16 non-profit membership libraries in the entire country. This makes the library a key regional resource for the subject matter at hand. The collection is unsurpassed in its resources for art and music including a significant collection of artists' books. Adding to the enrichment of the culture of art and music, the Athenaeum also presents a year round schedule of exhibitions, concerts, lectures, and classes that sample a broad spectrum of disciplines such as jazz and chamber music. The Spanish Renaissance-style architecture of the library was envisioned by famous San Diego architect William Templeton Johnson, and was opened in 1921. The architecture itself speaks to the heritage of San Diego and its Spanish Colonial history. More »

Balboa Park

This beautiful park originated in 1868 and was known as "city park" for it's first 40 years. During the early 1900s, the park began to be developed and much of the landscaping and planting was done to create a space that closely resembles what the area looks like today. The park was re-named Balboa in 1910 after the explorer Vasco Nunez de Balboa, who was one of the first European explorers to get a glimpse of the Pacific Ocean. Balboa Park has been the site of two major worlds fair exhibitions and has undergone various transformations since its inception. One of the park's most famous attractions is the San Diego Zoo, but many other great sites also call the 1200-acre area home, such as the San Diego Museum of Art, the Spreckels Organ Pavilion, the Veterans Museum and Memorial Center, and the San Diego Natural History Museum. More »

Balboa Park Miniature Train

This cute little train runs on a three-minute loop tour of Balboa Park near the San Diego Zoo. Although the trip is only 1/2 mile long, it's a fun experience for both kids and adults as the train offers both a scenic tour and unique ride on a rare vehicle. The train itself is a model of a G16 train; it's an antique today, as there are less than 50 of them in existence. The railroad is operated by the San Diego Zoo Department of Transportation, so the train leaves and returns at its depot located just east of the Zoo. More »

Balboa Park Municipal Golf Course

This course not only offers a great game of golf, but also amazing views of the San Diego skyline, the Pacific Ocean, Point Loma, and the San Diego Harbor. It is fairly challenging for a shorter course, as it requires precision shots and generally safe play. The course is very convenient for visitors to the city, and locals as well, as it is located in Balboa Park, near downtown. In addition to clean fairways and greens, the golf course also offers a driving range, putting green, golf shop, and Tobey's 19th Hole--a good and affordable restaurant on the course that's a favorite breakfast stop for locals. More »

Barona Valley Ranch Resort & Casino

This casino is the place to go for award-winning casino games, a variety of dining options, a luxurious day spa, and a scenic golf course. The casino encompasses 310,000 square feet and features over 70 table games, a 15-table poker room, and a wide variety of slot machines. The day spa at the casino hotel offers all types of spa services, from facials to massages to body wraps--the perfect accompaniment to a day of gaming or golf. Barona Resort also provides visitors with a wide variety of restaurants to choose from when hunger strikes; options include the Barona Oaks Steakhouse, the Sage Cafe, the HoWan Noodle Shop, and a food court. Many of the meal and snack options can also be served gameside, right at your gaming table. More »

Bates Nut Farm Valley Center

Bates Nut Farm was founded in 1921 by Gilbert and Beatrice Bates. Though it started out producing and selling walnuts, the Nut Farm now sells a wide variety of nuts from all over the world, including almonds, walnuts, pistachios, pecans, cashews, peanuts, pignolias, sunflower seeds, and more. There is also a fudge shop and candy counter, which has a selection of regular as well as sugar free candy. Bates Nut Farm is also the host of several special events throughout the year, such as arts and crafts fairs. Tours are occasionally offered that include a hayride around the farm to feed the goats, chickens, and sheep. Browse the website before visiting for a calendar of events, tour times, products, and directions. More »

Bazaar del Mundo

This market will delight all of the senses with its bright colors, tantalizing scents, and beautiful melodies coming from the meandering mariachis and bands performing on the stage. The Bazaar is modeled after a Spanish colonial marketplace with a large, bustling central courtyard and shops surrounding it on all four sides. In addition to shops, there are also various restaurants here that serve up some of the best Mexican food around; check out Casa de Pico for their famous giant margaritas or Guadalajara Mexican Restaurant for tasty seafood dishes. Bazaar del Mundo's shops sell some of the most vibrant, colorful objects you'll ever see, from hand-painted ceramic dishes to artisan jewelry. The shops make it very easy to find the perfect gift or accent piece to brighten up any home. More »

Bella Vista Winery

This popular winery was started in 1968 by the Cilurzo family, and in 2004, was bought by the Cziraki family, who have a long history of winemaking--Imre Cziraki has been in the wine business since he was seven years old and helped his grandfather make wine in Hungary! After purchasing Bella Vista Winery, he began to renovate the facility, which included creating a larger tasting room and updating the cask room to make it usable for parties and other gatherings. Since taking over, Imre has been adding his distinct Hungarian touches to the winery, such as adding Hungarian wine to his repertoire, and using imported Hungarian sausage as snack at the bar. Currently, Bella Vista Winery produces about 15,000 cases of wine each year and is always experimenting with new grapes and new blends. More »

Belmont Park

At the dawn of the twentieth century in America, the amusement park and boardwalk was a popular venue for families to go enjoy the thrills of roller coasters and boardwalk food. At Mission Beach, the Belmont Park amusement park can trace back to the mid-1920s when the Giant Dipper roller coaster was opened on the Fourth of July, 1925 as one of the key attractions to the 33 acre site. By the late 70s, the park had eventually fallen into disrepair, and were closed for over a decade until city planners restored the park and brought it back to the public. Since then, it has been bought by a new owner who has spent millions to add attractions and improve the facilities. Today, this historic beach front amusement park is a popular landmark for families because of its kid friendly attractions. Boasting nearly a dozen rides, including the Giant Dipper Coaster, the historic Plunge pool, Beach Blaster, and Flowrider®, as well as a huge array of shops and oceanfront restaurants, Belmont park is sure to have something for the entire family. More »

Bernardo Winery

The Bernardo Winery has been aging for 119 years and carries the distinguished title of of the oldest wineries in California. The winery has been in the Rizzo family since the Prohibition era, when Vincent Rizzo bought the facility and continued its operations in those tough years by producing sacramental wine and grape juice. In addition to wine, the winery produced olive oil from the various olive trees on the property and was one of the major suppliers to tuna canneries in San Diego. In 1962, Vincent's son, Ross took over the winery operations and has made the space what is today. On the winery's grounds, there is a coffee shop, cafe, other shops, and a tasting room. More »

Birch Aquarium at Scripps

This aquarium is a fun place for kids as well as adults. Kids can learn about the history of Scripps Research Pier on a guided tour along the pier under the full moon. This is the only place where you can observe the nocturnal habits of marine life from close quarters. Unfortunately, it is only a seasonal offer. Family day activities come free with admission fee and feature a new theme every month. Birch Aquarium also showcases its vast coral reef and organizes underwater tours where you can see the live corals as well as exotic fish. For those with guts of steel, you can have a look at the local leopard sharks. You can find other varieties of sharks too, such as swell, nurse, horn, and angel. More »

Black's Beach

Black's is a stunning beach just south of La Jolla. Check out the hangliders as you're hiking down the sometimes challenging trail to get there. There's plenty of wildlife here: terns, pelicans, seagulls, and even dolphins and the occasional whale in the winter. The beach is long and flat. You can see La Jolla's skyline if you look north. Be aware that this is a nude beach, so you may get some scenery you didn't bargain for. More »

Blue Sky Ecological Reserve

Blue Sky is managed by the California Department of Fish and Game and is one of 119 ecological reserves in the state. The preserve's goal is to conserve delicate wildlife habitats in the area such as streambeds and chaparral landscapes. This reserve is unique in that it allows the public to access its land (most reserves in California are closed to the public). Hikers can enjoy the reserve's miles of hiking trails and can take advantage of the on-site naturalist who can answer questions and provide area information. There are even free educational wildlife/plant hikes offered on various Saturdays and Sundays throughout the year. Blue Sky is a popular recreation area for local residents, visitors, and is also enjoyed by many school groups; it hosts about 40,000 visitors per year. More »

Boardwalk (The)

This exciting amusement park offers visitors hours of fun with a wide variety of indoor games and attractions. From video games to pinball to bowling, The Boardwalk has entertainment options for everyone in the group. In addition to the latest arcade games, you can also find some real classics here, such as Pac Man, Time Pilot, and even a carousel ride. There are also party rooms available, so if you're looking for a good kids' birthday party or other celebration venue, The Boardwalk is a good place to check out. In addition to entertaining the kids for the evening, The Boardwalk is a great place for adults to have fun too; they offer a full bar, bowling alley, billiards room, and air hockey tables. More »

Bonita Golf Club

This Bonita, California golf club has been offering golfers a great game for over 50 years. The club changed locations in 1981 and moved just east of its old space to its current location in the valley. The 'new' course was designed by golf architect William F. Bell and is a 6,200-yard, par 71 course. The links here are scenic and follow a path alongside the beautiful Sweetwater River, making for a nice, relaxing game. The course is meandering and fairly wide, but there are enough water hazards and fairway bunkers to require some concentration. After the game, head to the Outta Boundz Grill at the end of the course to refuel with food such as sandwiches and hot dogs. More »

Boomers!

For great family entertainment, head to Boomers! for games and activities for all ages. Head to the bumper boats for warm-weather fun; they're all equipped with water cannons to maximize the soak factor. Too cold for water games? Try the gameroom for arcade games and other virtual excitement. Or check out the batting cages to hone your skills with pitching machines that can throw up to 70 miles per hour. Boomers! also has go karts, miniature golf, lazer tag, and a Kid's County Fair--a miniature theme park with rides such as a ferris wheel and tea cups. There's also a snack bar on-site for much-needed pit stops between the excitement. More »

Border Field State Park

This park houses much of the Tijuana Estuary, a marshy birder's paradise. The estuary, which is located near the border of Mexico, is an important wild habitat for migratory birds as well as native wading birds. Border Field State Park is especially vital habitat for threatened and endangered birds such as the Western Snowy Plover, the California Least Tern, and the Light-footed Clapper Rail, because it provides a refuge for these endangered birds. In effort to help protect this habitat, the gate to the park is closed throughout the week to vehicle traffic, and collecting shells, rocks, sticks, or animals is explicitly forbidden to keep the current environment intact. If you're not looking for birds, you can disappear into the chaparral for a hike or horse ride. There's also a beach in the park, but don't count on swimming there, as the water is considered to be dangerous from inshore holes and rip currents. More »

Borrego Springs

Borrego Springs, or "The Desert," has been a favorite day trip destination for San Diegans for generations. After a stunning drive through boulder-riddled mountains, the world of Borrego Valley unfolds in front of you like a surprise gift. There's plenty to do here, from hiking to wildflower photography to off-road driving. You can also stay the night and watch the sky: some of the best stargazing in the country is located here. Be sure to bring plenty of water and sun protection. More »

Botanical Building and Lily Pond

This beautiful building was constructed in 1915-16 for the World's Fair Exposition. There are over 2,100 permanent plants housed here; collections include orchids, ferns, palms, and other stunning tropical plants. Seasonal plant exhibitions also rotate through the building, so there's always a good variety of things to see. While you're at the Botanical Building, be sure to check out Lily Pond, which is considered one of the most picturesque areas of the city. Two ponds make up this gorgeous spot, "La Laguna" and "La Lagunita", and they're surrounded by lilies and lotus flowers. The Botanical Building and Lily Pond are great places to visit for quiet seclusion and a peaceful stroll. More »

Brengle Terrace Park

This family-friendly park offers a great variety of things to do. There are playgrounds, lighted ball fields, volleyball and basketball courts, a bocce ball lawn, recreation center, gymnasium, horseshoe pits, and much more. Arguably, the highlight of the park is the Moonlight Amphitheatre, an outdoor venue that seats about 776 in the amphitheater and has an additional 1400 seats available in the surrounding lawn. The amphitheater was constructed in 1975 and has held many concerts and performances since. Performance highlights have included The Music Man, My Fair Lady, and Disney's Beauty and the Beast. Another popular event at the park is the Scottish Highland Games, which takes place in the summers and is an entertaining event; guests get to experience traditional Scottish pastimes such as the caber toss, bagpiping, and drumming. More »

Britt Scripps Inn

In the heart of San Diego is the immaculate Queen Anne-style Victorian Inn, the Britt Scripps Inn. This three story boutique inn is ideally located to many of San Diego's popular sites including Balboa Park, Little Italy, and the San Diego Zoo. This gem of a Victorian House has been fully restored and converted into an upscale inn, with the privacy and quiet found in its nine private rooms and bathrooms. The inn combines both the modern amenities and antique decor, which will make your stay at Scripps one of a kind. Inside, rooms have been decorated with period furniture from the nineteenth century, and each room is equipped with a flat screen LCD television and high speed internet. The building has been restored to provide the closest possible example of nineteenth century luxury and heritage. Architecture buffs are sure to be impressed. More »

Cabrillo Bridge

This beautiful old bridge connects Balboa Park with the city of Hillcrest. It was constructed in 1915 for the Panama-California Exposition in celebration of the Panama Canal. The bridge is a popular route for rollerbladers, cyclists, joggers, and park walkers.

Be sure to take in the stunning views: the big buildings of downtown to the south, the zoo to the north, and the vertigo-inducing freeway below. Don't forget to look up as well--you can sometimes see the underbellies of big jets as they make their final approach to the airport. More »

Cabrillo National Monument & Point Loma Lighthouse

This scenic point comprises two San Diego must-sees--the Cabrillo National Monument and the Old Point Loma Lighthouse. The monument is a tribute to explorer Juan Rodriguez Cabrillo, the first European explorer to navigate the west coast of North America. He and his crew set sail from Mexico in 1542, arrived at what historians now believe was San Diego Bay, and anchored near Point Loma, where the statue of Cabrillo now stands. Near the Cabrillo Monument is the Old Point Loma Lighthouse; it was lit for the first time in 1855 and was in service for the next 36 years until it was decided that it's location (at only 422 feet above sea level) was not ideal. Many times, the fog and low clouds made it difficult for the light beam to shine out to sea and ships couldn't see the cliff warning, so the lighthouse location was moved. Today, the old lighthouse building stands as a memorial to San Diego's past; it's been refurbished to its original condition as it was in the 1880s and there are plenty of educational displays, brochures, and interpreters on-site to explain the house's history. More »

Cactus Loop Trail

This one-mile trail, located in California's Anza Borrego State Park, may be short, but it offers beautiful views of the San Felipe Wash and the mountain ranges that surround the park. There are interpretive signs that dot the beginning 1/3 of the trail and tell of the local flora and fauna of the area. In addition to great views, of course there are many kinds of cactus along this trail (as the name suggests). Many of the cacti bloom around May, making that time of year one of the best times to visit the state park. More »

California Center for the Arts

This artistic venue puts on performances of all kinds throughout the year. The center is located on a 12-acre campus that includes a theater, concert hall, visual arts museum, conference center, and dance and art studios. The Center opened in 1994 with the goal of being a source of entertainment, art education, and community events for the entire Escondido community. There are various groups that have performed at the Center, including dance, music, and performing arts groups. Popular names that have graced the stages at the Center include singer Vince Gill, the San Diego Symphony, and Amy Grant. More »

California Surf Museum

This small but intriguing museum presents the history of hanging ten through exhibits, displays, and pictures. You'll find everything here from vintage longboards to exhibits on some of the most famous surfers across the globe. There are also amazing photos taken by photography legends such as Doc Ball and Tom Keck. Some of the exhibits here are permanent, some rotate, so call ahead before you visit to see what's showing. If you're at all interested in surfing, this museum is a great place to visit as it isn't just the exhibits that are informative; the staff is also very helpful also and knows a lot about surfing history and the industry in general. More »

California Tower

You can see this beautiful old tower from miles away. Rising 200 feet into the air, this Spanish Colonial Revival structure is one of the predominate features of Panama Plaza and Balboa Park. It is a striking example of the amount of Spanish influenced architecture that was taking place at the beginning of the twentieth century. It was built for the Panama-California Exposition of 1915, and still looks just as it did nearly 100 years ago. The California Tower lends its visage to the Museum of Man, which studies the archaeological history of man from the Americas, particularly the Mesoamerican civilizations. You might hear the many bells in the interior of the tower chiming every so often, adding to the ambiance of the park. More »

California Wolf Center

The California Wolf Center is dedicated to the conservation of and education about North American gray wolves. Throughout the year, they put on various educational programs and events targeted toward school groups and individuals who want to learn about wolves. The programs allow visitors to see wolves up close and learn about their habitats, history, biology, and ecology. In addition to providing valuable educational programs for the public, the Center also does various studies about captive gray wolf behavior, and participates in species survival programs (through breeding), and spearheads wildlife recovery efforts. More »

Callaway Vineyard & Winery

Nestled in Southern California's Temecula Valley, Callaway Vineyard and Winery beckons wine lovers from all over the world to taste its award-winning whites, reds, and champagnes. Founded in 1969 by Ely Callaway (of golf fame), the winery was one of the first to settle in the Temecula area, soon to be followed by at least a dozen more operations who saw the grape-growing potential of the land. If you visit Callaway Winery, be sure to take the tour to learn about the winery's history, their wine-making practices, and other wine-related questions you've always wanted answered. Then, head to the beautiful tasting room that offers sweeping views of the surrounding vineyards, and, of course, delicious-tasting wine. More »

Calvary Pioneer Memorial Park

Pioneer Park has an interesting history--not because of who's buried there, but because of what happened to the grave site in the mid-70s. The Park was originally an old (early 20th century) Catholic cemetery. In 1970, the city turned the entire graveyard into a public park. They did so by removing the gravestones--but not the graves themselves. The removed gravestones were buried at San Diego's Mount Hope Cemetery. The city did place a small memorial in one corner of the park as a symbolic representation of the park's past. Recently, it was decided that Pioneer Park should be renamed Pioneer Memorial Park out of respect for the hundreds of records and historic monuments that were destroyed in the process of converting the area into a park. More »

Camp Joseph H. Pendleton

This imposing US Marine Corps military base encompasses over 125,000 acres and is the Marines' main amphibious training base. It was originally used as the location of various Franciscan missions, following the area's first exploration in 1769 by Spanish Captain Gaspar de Portola. Over the next few decades the land was re-purposed for use as a private ranch, which traded hands multiple times until the 1940s, when the Marine Corps purchased the land. They created the largest Marine training base in the country and called it Camp Pendleton, named in honor of a World War I hero, Marine Major General Joseph H. Pendleton. During its initial service, the camp served thousands of Marines who passed through for training before heading off to wars such as World War II, the Korean War, and the Vietnam War. In the 1980s, Camp Pendleton supported the Marines' change of duties from purely amphibious to "expeditionary", which meant that the organization would now include armor, supply, infantry, and air power in its capabilities. Today, Camp Pendleton serves the military as an invaluable training operation and base, and, on any given day, there are about 100,000 military staff at the camp. More »

Cardiff-by-the-Sea

Named after the British town of Cardiff of Wales after a suggestion by Cardiff native and J. Frank Cullen's wife, this quaint little seaside town is a surf culture gem. Originally a small farming community, the city began to grow in 1911, largely with the help of Cullen, and today even though it technically is part of Encinitas, still maintains an old charm that makes Cardiff-by-the-Sea unique. Rimmed by San Elijo Lagoon, George's Beach, and Cardiff State Beach to the west, the town itself is tucked behind railroad tracks. Check out the cafes and restaurants for delicious coastal cuisine. There are also a couple of surf shops where you can rent equipment. More »

Carlsbad

Carlsbad gets its namesake from an unlikely source. In the 1880s, a man named John Frazier dug a well in the modern town, discovering water which had a similar chemical structure to a famous European spa in Karlovy Vary, also known as Karlsbad. In part to its oceanside location and popular real estate, Carlsbad is one of the most expensive quarters of San Diego. This North County town not only boasts long, flat, sandy beaches but also a series of high-end spas, independent shops, and tasty cafes. It also has a fun nightlife for the post-college crowd. Enjoy an invigorating walk along the extensive beach paths and then settle in for breakfast at a beach side cafe before browsing bookstores and specialty shops downtown. More »

Carlsbad Mineral Water Spa

The soothing waters of the Carlsbad Spa have been enjoyed by locals for over 120 years. It was 1889 when former sea captain John Frazier decided to dig a well on his farmland in the (now) Carlsbad area of California. He hit an aquifer at about 415 feet below ground and discovered it was mineral water that had very similar properties to the famous Karlsbad health resort in the Czech Republic. Frazier and others from the town created the Carlsbad Land and Mineral Water Company and constructed homes, a spa, and a hotel (that became very popular) near the water wells. During the Great Depression, the wells and hotel took a hard hit and fell into disrepair. Then, in 1992, Ludvik Grigoras (a Karlsbad native) decided to restore the wells and elegant spa hotel and to bottle the famous Carlsbad Mineral Water once again. More »

Carlsbad State Beaches

One of the favorite activities of locals of the San Diego area is visiting the Carlsbad beaches. There are two main beaches on Carlsbad's coastline--Carlsbad State Beach (also called Tamarack State Beach) and South Carlsbad State Beach. Tamarack Beach tends to be more crowded as it comprises a four-mile stretch of sand and is close to downtown Carlsbad. There is also a popular walking/running trail here that offers a great way to get some exercise and take in the views. South Carlsbad State Beach is a bit more quiet and secluded and has campsites that overlook the beach. Popular activities at both beaches include sunbathing, surfing, wading, boogie boarding, and picnicking. More »

Carousel at Balboa Park

This antique carousel was constructed in 1910 and still boasts its original hand-carved animals. The surrounding murals and military band music that plays during each ride are also original. The entertaining ride was constructed by the Herschell Spillman Company of New York and is one of only a handful of carousels in operation that still utilize the 'brass ring game'. The carousel operates daily during the summer and on weekends the rest of the year. More »

Casa de Carrillo

Casa de Carillo is part of the former Ruiz Adobe, an early 19th-century Spanish property that was the first home built outside of the San Diego Presidio. After the property was built, its owner planted a massive garden that included pear, pomegranate, and olive trees. Though most of the Ruiz property is now gone, Casa de Carrillo stands as an original piece of what once was.
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Casa de Estudillo

This early Mexican-American adobe building was constructed in the late 1820s under the direction of Captain Jose Maria Estudillo, commander of the presidio (military base) at San Diego. After the Captain died in 1830, the home was passed along to his son and his wife, who lived in it until 1887, when it was finally abandoned. In 1910, Casa de Estudillo was renovated; then in 1968, it was obtained by the State of California and restored to its original condition, as it would be when Estudillo lived in it. Today, it serves as a museum for early Mexican-American furnishings and artifacts. More »

Casa Del Rey Moro Museum

Meaning "House of the Moorish King", Casa Del Rey Moro houses a collection of African American, African Spanish, and African historical artifacts. The museum was established to tell the "real" historical story of the African Diaspora and is purposed as a resource and education center, providing visitors information on over 6,000 years of history. There are six areas of interest at the museum, including a research center, a traveling exhibit program, a gift shop, and a internet retrieval system that searches African Heritage centers all over the world. The Museum is a great place to visit to learn about facets of African history you may have not learned about from history books. More »

Cedros Design District

Tucked away in Solana Beach, Cedros Design District offers shoppers a place to find unique treasures. There are various art galleries, boutiques, studios, and small shops that vend one-of-a-kind treasures from ceramics to furniture to wearable art pieces. You won't find department stores here, or shelves of mass-produced items; everything here is hand-picked by the boutique owners themselves, and it's all displayed very beautifully in each shop. The district stretches for about two blocks, with shops lining both sides of the street and small cafes sprinkled in between. In addition to shopping, stop in for various events held in the district, such as Third Thursdays where the businesses are open later than usual for mingling and wandering, or the Farmers' Market, held on Sunday afternoons. More »

Centro Cultural de la Raza

Showcasing art from Chicano, Mexican, Latino, and Indigenous artists, the Centro is a colorful and educational place to learn about the culture of the Latin population of San Diego. It began as a community center in the 1970s; a place where the American and Mexican, Latino, and Chicano cultures could meet, mingle, and converse. The circular building houses studios, galleries, workshops, a theater, and lots of room for paintings and other artwork. Some of the items showcased at the Center include murals, theater performances, dance, film, and concerts. There are also various classes and workshops offered here, from Ballet classes for kids to salsa dancing workshops to Afro-Cuban drumming classes. More »

Chula Vista Golf Course

Designed by Billy Casper, a local golf legend, this course will both challenge and entertain all levels of golfers. From the back tees, the 18-hole course stretches for 6,759 yards and incorporates the nearby Sweetwater River and three lakes in its design. Even the driving range features real grass, making warm-up drives more realistic and practical. Chula Vista also recently renovated its clubhouse to include a full-service restaurant that is a popular place for meetings, weddings, and corporate golf tournaments. They make it easy to book a tee time, too, with online booking capabilities on their website. More »

Chula Vista Nature Center

The Chula Vista Nature Center is an invaluable resource for the San Diego bay community. Its goal is to provide education about and preservation of the plants and animals that live in the coastal estuaries. The Center has many educational displays and interactive exhibits, but its main attraction are the living animal exhibits that showcase the animals of the area. Visit the Bald Eagle Exhibit to see our national symbol up close; the eagle in the exhibit can't be released into the wild because of an injury so he finds his home here at the Center where he's well taken care of. There's also a Green Sea Turtle Lagoon exhibit where visitors can look through underwater viewing windows to see the green beauties swimming in their natural habitat. The Shark and Ray Experience is also not to be missed; looking through more underwater viewing windows, it's entertaining to see a wide variety of sharks and rays meandering around in the water. More »

Cleveland National Forest

The southernmost National Forest in California, Cleveland comprises 460,000 acres of mostly varied chaparral and riparian landscape. A warm climate prevails in the forest, much like dry Mediterranean weather. It is a safe haven for many animals and plants that would otherwise be threatened with development; more than 20 threatened and endangered plant and animal species call Cleveland home. Many locals and visitors like to visit the forest for recreational activities; favorites include fishing, hiking, camping, off-road driving, mountain biking, and hunting. There are over 70 hiking trails in the forest, including parts of the Pacific Crest Trail--a long-distance trail that winds its way up the western United States from the Mexico/US border all the way up into Canada. More »

Confederate Air Force Museum

Looking for World War II aircraft and aviation history? Head to Air Group One, the San Diego wing of the Confederate Air Force. Visitors to the museum can take a look at WWII artifacts and displays and see some restored aircraft, such as the North American SN5 "Sassy" and the Stinson L-5 Sentinel "Betsy". Originally, Air Group One was called the San Diego Squadron of the Confederate Air Force, but changed its name to Air Group One in 1983. It's an all-volunteer organization, and the members all work on aircraft restoration, museum projects, and host special events. More »

Copley Symphony Hall

The San Diego Symphony Society was organized in 1911 and gave various performances before World War I, when the concerts slowed down on account of the war. The symphony came back in full force in the 1920s and was officially titled the San Diego Symphony in 1927. Copley Symphony Hall opened in 1929 and was originally called the Fox Theatre. It was the city's largest movie theater and was used by many producers as the venue for previewing their films; Walt Disney liked the theater so much that he opened many of his films there. In 1984, the theater was donated to the San Diego Symphony and it underwent a $6 million renovation a year later. It was restored to its original grand design and had some acoustic upgrades, and now stands as one of the only theaters to be owned by its home orchestra. More »

Coronado Golf Course

It may be difficult to secure a tee time at the Coronado Golf Course, but the wait is worth it. It's one of the most beautiful courses in the area as it sits on the San Diego Bay and overlooks the water and surrounding city. The course is a par 72, 18-hole course and it stretches over 6,590 yards from the longest tees. In addition to the golf course, there are other facilities on-site, including a clubhouse, fully-stocked pro shop, driving range, putting green, and bunker practice area. Since Coronado is a very popular place to play (locals love it here), booking a tee time in advance is a good idea; you can make tee-time reservations up to 14 days ahead of the date you'll be playing. More »

Coronado Island

Although sometimes called "the island" by locals, Coronado Island isn't really an island at all--it's a peninsula that is connected to the mainland by a ten-mile strip of land called "the strand". The town of Coronado is located at the end of the peninsula and is home to about 24,000 residents. Coronado is a laid-back, beach-town-like vacation destination, and over 2 million visitors travel there each year to relax on the beach, watch the sunset over the Pacific Ocean, and enjoy a leisurely getaway. Coronado is probably most famous for its pristine beaches, which can get very crowded on nice summer weekends. There are three main beaches on the peninsula--Coronado Central Beach, Glorietta Bay Beach, and Silver Strand State Beach. They all offer miles of sandy shores and a variety of other accessories, such as fire pits, dog runs, playgrounds, tidepools, and restrooms. While visiting Coronado, be sure to stop by to see the famous Hotel del Coronado, one of the world's most well-known and glamorous resorts. More »

Coronado Library

One of the older structures in the city, the Coronado Library can be traced back to as early as 1890 when it was first founded and supported by small donors and fundraising activities. The library was first situated in a pavilion across from the hotel next to the trolley stop. Eventually a more permanent building was completed in 1909 when J.D. Spreckels hired an architect named Harrison Albright to complete the new library in the classical revival style on West Plaza Park. Since its initial completion in 1909, it has been expanded by an impressive 38,000 square feet to become a state-of-the-art city establishment. Be sure to peruse the exhibit gallery, which includes a 47-foot-long mural by Mexican artist Alfredo Ramos Martinez. More »

Coronado Tennis Association Courts

If you've brought your tennis racket along on your trip to Coronado, hit up the Coronado Tennis Association Courts for some high-speed action. There are eight courts available here, and they're all well-maintained; three of them are even lit for nighttime play. Head over there early, as the courts usually fill up quickly and reservations aren't mandated, so it's first come, first serve, usually. These courts are a great diversion from lounging on the beach, and they provide a fun outlet for exercise for the whole family. More »

Crystal Pier

Come in from Kansas in 1923, Earl Taylor began developing business real estate parcels going toward the beach front. Part of his vision included the now popular Crystal Pier, which was completed in 1927 and brought new entertainment and life to the Pacific Beach neighborhood. The pier looks somewhat out of place, as it juts out of central Pacific Beach like a finger into the Pacific. Its landmark hotel, aptly named the Crystal Pier Hotel, lets guests sleep over the ocean. At the end of the pier, you'll see fishermen casting lines. Look down either side of the pier and find local surfers shredding up the waves. In additional to history of the golden years of the twenties, Crystal Pier has taken on a new take in the modern times. With a number of bars and restaurants on the beach front, Crystal Pier is a popular evening destination to enjoy food and drinks next to the sea. More »

Cuyamaca Rancho State Park

Spanning over 25,000 acres, the Cuyamaca Rancho State Park, offers something for every nature enthusiast. Visitors from California and beyond enjoy hiking, biking, camping, and fishing in this State Park located just 40 miles east of San Diego. Paso Picacho is not only a favorite campsite for many but also the site where you will find some of the best hiking around. Be sure to check out the Stonewall Peak, where you will be awed by breathtaking views of the deserts to the east, the coast to the west, and Lake Cuyamaca below. More »

Del Mar

Nestled by the beach just south of La Jolla, Del Mar embodies laid-back SoCal culture--with an upper-class flair. You're just as likely to see Chanel-clad society belles walking designer dogs here as you are bleach-haired, barefoot California surfers. There's a sprinkling of sumptuous ocean cuisine at places like the Poseidon and Jake's. The racetrack caters to those with a penchant for speed, while stylish boutiques lure inner fashionistas. Be sure not to miss the miles of family-friendly beach that gave Del Mar its name. More »

Del Mar Fairgrounds

Managed by the 22nd District Agricultural Association, the Del Mar Fairgrounds is an active venue all year round. Together, the Fairgrounds and nearby Horsepark host over 350 events annually, including the obvious San Diego County Fair and horse shows, but also weddings, banquets, home exhibitions, and others--it's an ideal venue for such events as there are over 210,000 square-feet of available space. Arguably the most popular event held here is the San Diego County Fair, which is held every summer at the Fairgrounds. There are games, concerts, food, and (of course) plenty of fair rides to keep everyone busy. It is one of the largest fairs in the country and attracts over 1.2 million visitors each year; it's an event not to be missed if you're in the San Diego area in early summer. More »

Del Mar Golf Center

Looking for a golf lesson? Need to work on correcting that slice? Head to the Del Mar Golf Center for a chance to practice driving, putting, and chipping. The driving range offers 60 stalls, all of which are lighted, and 20 of which include grass tees. There is also are also two 18-hole mini golf courses--perfect for entertaining people of all ages. To improve your skills on the course, sign up for a lesson, either individually or in a group; you'll be able to work with a golf professional and use the latest video technology to help monitor and correct your form. Finally, if you need any supplies, there is a Golf Mart on site that has everything golf-related, from clubs to golf balls to golf GPS systems. More »

Del Mar Racetrack

Back in the 1930s, horse racing was one of America's most popular sports next to baseball. The Del Mar Racetrack opened in 1937 with all the pomp and circumstance of a high society event highlighting actor/singer Bing Crosby available to greet the crowd. A year later in 1938, a highly touted race between Seabiscuit and Ligaroti, in which Seabiscuit won the race by a nose. In the 1940s before the war and afterwards, Del Mar Racetrack attracted many celebrities, including Bing Crosby's continual appearances with the Bing Crosby Handicap. While horse racing no longer dominates in popularity compared to other sports, Del Mar Racetrack is still widely popular for its history as a San Diego establishment. Watch world-class horse racing minutes from the beach, grab a cigar, and enjoy the ambiance. More »

Del Mar Shores Terrace Beach

Solana Beach is a great beach town as it not only offers a cozy downtown feel, but also many activities to entertain everyone in the group. Head to the beach for the ultimate in summer relaxation and fun. There are volleyball courts, picnic areas, and plenty of sand for taking a sunset stroll. Although the Pacific can be a bit cold for some visitors, swimming, boogie boarding, and surfing are still popular activities here, and you'll see lots of people out enjoying the waves in the warmer summer months. More »

Desert Garden

Containing more than 1300 desert plants, this garden is a must-see if visiting Balboa Park. The plants featured here are native to deserts around the world and include varieties such as succulents and drought-resistant. The garden encompasses 2.5 acres, so there is plenty to see here. Examples of the types of flora that inhabit this garden are cactus, aloe, agave, and euphorbia. For a relaxing stroll, wind your way through the garden's multiple pathways and take in the amazing variety of unique arid plants. The garden is especially beautiful from January through March, when most of the plants bloom, but is well worth a visit any time of year. More »

Dog Beach

Located just north of Ocean Beach, this beach is the only one in San Diego where dogs do not have to be leashed. Additionally, there are dual-level drinking fountains available for both man and beast at this beach. Watch your pet: Dog Beach has strong currents on both ends, and lifeguards have had to make pet rescues in the past. More »

Doubletree Golf Resort

Located just 25 minutes north of San Diego, this golf resort is a convenient place to getaway and feel like you've landed at a luxurious golf hideaway. The course is an 18-hole, par 72 course that stretches 6,428 yards from the championship tees. It makes for a challenging game, as the fairways are hilly and tight, there are 80 bunkers placed throughout, and water features on four holes. Don't worry though, there is also a putting green and practice area to brush up on your skills before hitting the course. The resort also boasts championship tennis courts, swimming pools, a fitness center, and other amenities. It's a great place to go for relaxation, a bit of sport, and the peaceful ambiance of a mountain resort. More »

El Campo Santo

El Campo Santo was established in 1850 by a local family, the Workmans, as their private cemetery. It is one of the oldest cemeteries in the state, and originated as a half acre plot with a Gothic revival chapel in the center and a fence surrounding the exterior. Many of San Diego's old settlers were buried here, including Yankee Jim, a famous area thief in the 1800s, and others. In 1917, Water Temple, a grandson of the Workman family, purchased the cemetery after it fell into disrepair, and started restoring it and the surrounding 75 acres of land; one of his first projects was constructing a mausoleum and moving his family's remains there. Today, the cemetery is a peaceful place to wander and enjoy the charms of the surrounding area of Old Town. Oh, and don't be alarmed if you see an apparition of some sort floating around, as park employees and visitors frequently report sightings. More »

Ellen Browning Scripps Park

Named for newspaper heiress and early La Jolla resident Ellen Browning Scripps, this community park offers one of the best views along the Southern California coastline. The park overlooks La Jolla Cove where clear Pacific waters crash against the rocky shoreline. Countless tourists and locals flock to this park for daytime picnics on the perfectly manicured lawns surrounded by palm trees. The grounds are also ideal for evening strolls while watching glorious sunsets. For those seeking a glimpse of the local seal population, Children's Pool Beach is located at the south end of the park.
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Embarcadero

Conveniently located near downtown and the airport, this oceanfront walk is a mariner's diorama--houseboats, aircraft carriers, sailboats, and the classic Star of India line. It's one of San Diego's most scenic city paths. If you get tired of walking, you can always flag down one of the many bicycle-driven coaches that pedal up and down the walk. Be sure to grab an ice cream cone on the way. More »

Embarcadero Park South

This lovely park is located next to the Embarcadero Marina and known for its wide, open lawn that serves as a popular venue for outdoor concerts. Some of the performances that have taken place here include the San Diego Symphony Summer Pops series and the San Diego Blues Festival. The park is also home to basketball courts and a popular fishing pier. It's a great place to hang out or play games on the lawn on a nice day, as it tends to be cooler in temperature than other parts of the city, thanks to the refreshing coastal breezes. Many people also come to Embarcadero Park South to fly kites on the open lawn on windy days. More »

Emerald Isle Golf Course

Located in Oceanside (north of San Diego), this golf course presents a scenic challenge for any golfer. It's a par 56, 18-hole course that stretches for 4,904 yards. It is set around two natural lakes and has plenty of bunkers and water features to keep you on your toes. There is a snack bar on site (perfect for when hunger strikes on the 9th hole), a putting green for honing that perfect putt, and a pro shop that's well-stocked with all of the golfing supplies you'll need for a day on the links. In addition, a professional is available at the course to offer lessons for both individuals and groups. More »

Encinitas

Encinitas stands out among North County coastal towns with a culture that is younger, artsier, and a little more diverse. Besides great surfing that is found between San Elijo Lagoon in the south and Batiquitos Lagoon in the north, Encinitas offers various off-beat thrift stores, tattoo parlors, bookstores, and art shops. Good, cheap eats abound as well. Encinitas was first spotted in 1769 by Gaspar de Portola, who named it Encina Canada, which is Spanish for "hills of live oaks." Eventually adopting the shorter Encinitas name, the community began attracting a more diverse crowd during an 1800s Gold Rush, which would grow into the current day where diversity is celebrated. Be sure to check out the Seaside Bazaar if you're there on a weekend to get a taste of the Bohemian Beach Culture of Encinitas. More »

Encinitas Ranch Golf Course

Known as one of the best courses to play in the San Diego area, Encinitas Ranch not only offers a great course challenge, but also beautiful scenic views of the Pacific Ocean. The 18-hole, par 72 course that stretches for 6,587 yards from the championship tees is a favorite of locals and visitors to the San Diego area. It was designed by golf course architect Cary Bickler who wanted to create a great course that emphasizes the beauty of the surrounding landscape--and boy, did he succeed. Encinitas Ranch sits on 183 acres of coastal property and offers spectacular vistas, expertly manicured greens, and wide fairways lined with eucalyptus and Torrey Pine trees. The ranch also includes a double-ended driving range, practice greens, and a newly constructed 6,000-square-foot clubhouse that houses a restaurant, golf shop, and patio with ocean views. More »

Escondido History Center

In 1956, a dedicated group of Escondido citizens decided to form the Escondido Historical Society to preserve the community's precious historical artifacts, photos, and other items. The museum was finally opened 20 years later and now pays tribute to the past through projects such as the restoration of historical buildings and the collection and display of community-owned photos, documents, and other items. When touring the museum, some of the attractions you can expect to see are a Victorian home complete with 1900s period furnishings, a early 1900s wooden windmill, Escondido's original 1888 Santa Fe railroad depot, a functioning blacksmith shop, and more. History buffs will love the Escondido History Center; it's easy to spend hours here exploring all of the restored projects and historic haunts of the past. More »

Ferry Landing Marketplace

This bustling area of Coronado is home to many shops, restaurants, galleries, and other attractions suitable for the whole family. There are walkways, ponds, and trees sprinkled throughout the marketplace, making for a nice, peaceful place to take a stroll or bicycle ride. Pick up some stunning hand-blown glass art at Crystal Pacific or fine sterling silver jewelery at Silver Designer; or, if you're feeling adventurous, have a caricature drawn of yourself or your family at Caricatures by Pete Hall. It's easy to spend a few hours here exploring, as there is so much to see and do. Then, hop the ferry back to downtown San Diego when you've had your fill of Coronado Island. More »

Firehouse Museum

This museum, housed in San Diego's oldest firehouse, presents a complete look into the history of firefighting dating back to 100 years ago. Created with the efforts of many firemen, marshals, chiefs, and captains, the museum has a collection of every kind of equipment imaginable, including hats, poles, fire engines, alarms, suits, and much more. Some of the antiques housed here are impressive, from hand-pump and horse-drawn engines to wooden water pipes. There are also newer exhibits on display, including memorabilia from firefighters who were on-site during the September 11, 2001 bombings in New York City. Head to the gift shop after touring the museum to pick up some mementos such as toy fire trucks, firehouse cookbooks, or San Diego Fire Department t-shirts. More »

Florida Canyon

This chaparral-filled canyon borders North Park and Balboa Park. It's a wonderful place for a quick morning hike--or scenic shortcut to Balboa Park. You can find cyclists, runners, hawks, coyotes, and chipmunks in this aromatic canyon, as well as the occasional butterfly. More »

Flower Fields at Carlsbad Ranch

The famous Flower Fields just north of San Diego are comprised of nearly 50 acres of Giant Tecolote Ranunculus flowers. Each year the magnificent flowers are in full bloom for approximately six to eight weeks from mid-March until mid-April, but the ranch stays open through early May. Visitors are invited to stroll through paths in the fields, take pictures, have picnics, and buy their own bulbs to grow at home! More »

Fort Rosecrans Cemetery

In 1934, Fort Rosecrans Cemetery officially became a national cemetery that encompassed parts of land that was originally a military reserve. There are now about 94,000 people buried here, some of them dating back as far as 1846, when the Mexican War, the Battle of San Pasqual, and other battles for the early California Republic took place. One of the most visible memorials in the cemetery is a large 75-foot obelisk that commemorates the lives lost in the 1905 boiler room explosion of the ship USS Bennington. 62 sailors died when the explosion took place, and all of their remains were brought back to Rosecrans to be interred and remembered. Today, the cemetery is still actively used for burials (mostly cremated burials, since there isn't much room left), so be respectful when you visit. More »

Four Seasons Resort Aviara Golf Club

Well-known as one of the top courses in southern California, the Four Seasons Resort Aviara boasts a gorgeous layout (designed by golf legend Arnold Palmer) that highlights the natural coastal beauty of the area. The course is an 18-hole, par 72 work of art that encompasses 7,007 yards and utilizes natural geographical features such as water hazards, lagoons, hills, wildflowers, and trees. The views from various locations on the course are amazing, and that's what keeps some golfers coming back to play here again and again (that, and the unique experience of playing on the only Arnold Palmer-designed course in San Diego). In addition to the meticulously-maintained course, Aviara offers a just-as-gorgeous, 32,000 square-foot clubhouse that includes amenities such as a bar, fireplace lounge, steakhouse restaurant, locker rooms, and a fully-stocked pro shop. If you're looking for luxury and very attentive service, book your next tee time at the Aviara for a golf experience you won't forget. More »

Gaslamp Books and Museum

Wyatt Earp, the infamous Arizona gunslinger, spent some time in San Diego with his parents and wife, Josie Earp. The museum commemorates this with an extensive collection of memorabilia including many photos of Wyatt and his family. You can also see Wyatt's gun and badge, and learn more about the infamous gun fight that went down at the OK Corral between Wyatt and the Clanton Gang. More »

Gaslamp Quarter

One of the liveliest areas of San Diego, the Gaslamp Quarter bustles night and day with shoppers, diners, dancers, and night-clubbers. The area is eclectic and fun, as it pulses with life and there's always something going on. When it was settled in the 1800s, the Gaslamp Quarter was to be the main business district of the city. Over the years, it went through fluctuating cycles of success and disrepair (including a past identity as the 'red light district' of San Diego), but the Gaslamp has always maintained its identity as a melting pot of creativity, imagination, and community. This is a great place to visit to get a glimpse of the city's past intermingled with the present; there are historic Victorian buildings mixed in with the new, hip shops and restaurants, which makes it a unique and exciting site. More »

Grand Golf Club at the Grand Del Mar Resort

Designed by golf star Tom Fazio, this gorgeous course is located in the Los Penasquitos Canyon Preserve near the city of Del Mar. It is an 18-hole, par 72 course with a distance of 7,160 yards from the longest tees and 5,230 yards from the shortest. There are eleven par-four holes on the course, and the variety of bunkers, water hazards, and varying terrain will keep golfers of all levels challenged. There is also a 50,000 square-foot club house at the resort that comprises a golf shop, two restaurants, private lounges, locker rooms, and more; it's a great place to relax after a long round of 18. More »

Hamel's Surf Shop

Looking for fun beach toys for the afternoon? Head to Hamel's Surf Shop in Mission Beach. It's an area institution (established over 30 years ago) and draws crowds of both locals and visitors looking to rent anything from boogie and surf boards to beach cruiser bikes to roller skates. They also sell skate/surf apparel, sun supplies (i.e. sunscreen, towels, etc.), and most anything else you'll need to have a great day at the beach. Or, if you're not looking to rent any beach equipment, Hamel's is also a great place to people-watch, as it's right on the Mission Beach boardwalk and a wide variety of people cruise the strip at all hours of the day. More »

Harbor Island

Built in the 1960s from dredged soil by the U.S. military, Harbor Island is a recreational haven, and houses a multitude of hotels, restaurants, and shops. It's also a popular place for boaters, as a handful of marinas populate the island; they house thousands of both power and sail boats year-round. The island is used for recreation by locals and visitors and is home to Harbor Island Park, which offers wide open fields for sporting activities, pathways for running, walking, and cycling, and a nice place to relax. If it's ocean views you're looking for, Harbor Island offers some of the best; from the bay to the expansive blue Pacific, the views from the island are both stunning and serene. More »

Harrah's Rincon Casino

If you're looking for resort that offers an adult getaway, while also providing great amenities right in the middle of San Diego's busy downtown, then look no further than the Harrah's Rincon Casino. This gorgeous 21-story hotel has over 650 rooms and 101 suites, not to mention the 55,000 square-foot gaming floor with 1600 slot machines, and 51 tables. First and foremost, the Rincon is a hotel, earning Best Rooms, Best Suites, and Best Hotel Service from Casino Player magazine in 2005. Pamper yourself with some of the spa services or on-site shopping at Rincon. From the upper levels, the beautiful Palomar Mountain stands out as a backdrop to the San Diego skyline. More »

Helen Woodward Animal Center

The Helen Woodward Animal Center is an independently run and funded nonprofit organization that aims to make the world a better place for both people and animals. It houses a therapeutic riding program; pet training, boarding, and adoption; animal hospitals, and teaching facilities, among others. It's a great place to take the kids to learn about animals. More »

Heritage of the Americas Museum

Located on the Cuyamaca College campus, the Heritage of the Americas Museum is a unique museum dedicated to the development of the two American continents. It is sliced into 5 wings focusing on Natural History, Archaeology, Anthropology, Art, and Education, which attempt to provide a view of the rise of civilization on the American landmasses. Historic artifacts, art, fossils, tools, and pieces of the Earth from this time contain a comprehensive story. Few museums connect the dots in this way, to be sure. Perfect for the a group with some disparate interests. More »

Heritage Park

Heritage Park exists to preserve the Victorian architecture of San Diego. Many of the city's old buildings were threatened after World War II, when various development projects changed the face of San Diego, so it was decided to move them to sites where they could be restored, preserved, and remembered. Today, the structures are in the care of various people and businesses that renovate them to their original specifications. Some of the seven buildings here include: the Sherman-Gilbert House (owned by the cousin of General William Tecumseh Sherman), the Burton House (representative of the "non-decorative" trend of the turn of the century), and the Temple Beth Israel (the first synagogue in San Diego). The homes are beautiful for touring and also for renting out--they're popular venues for weddings, bar mitzvahs, and other events. More »

Heritage Park Village and Museum--Oceanside

This park is home to many of Oceanside's original structures, such as the Portola Inn, a blacksmith shop, an original city jail, the first general store, and a doctor's office. The Park Village was built in 1976 and functions to bring Oceanside's heritage and history back to the people of the city. In addition to buildings, it features a two-acre green space that's perfect for letting the kids run around after touring the historic homes. There's also a gazebo on-site that provides cool shade, and a winding pathway that is great for getting some exercise. Generally, tours of the homes are offered on Sundays, but call ahead to find out what will be available before you stop by. More »

Hillcrest

Hillcrest is a gorgeous little piece of uptown San Diego in close proximity to both downtown and Balboa Park. Originally, this area was a chaparral ecosystem where the Diegueño Native Americans lived. Today, however, you can find unique shops, tasty eateries, and independent art shoulder-to-shoulder with the most hoppin' gay scene in the city. Hillcrest is known among the locals for having locally owned shops and for being acceptant of all kinds of people. More »

Horton Plaza

Horton Plaza is a colorful multi-level mall in the heart of downtown. You can find everything from designer fashions to Panda Express here. Flagship department stores like Nordstrom and Macy's contrast with more boutique shopping, but all ages, genders, and styles are here. There's also a large United Artists movie theatre in the mall, as well, should you need to park the little guys and girls in front of a giant moving cartoon for an afternoon. The public art is exciting and colorful. It's close the the up-and-coming Gaslamp Quarter, which is full of great bars and restaurants, if you're looking for a night on the town after you've done a bit of shopping at Horton Plaza. More »

Hotel del Coronado

This exquisite hotel is world-renowned and frequently hosts a wide variety of celebrity and upscale clientele. It was constructed in 1888 with the intent of creating a beach-side resort that would be known around the world and would be a destination for the wealthy. The construction was done without any nails (they used wooden pegs instead), and the building is now one of the oldest and largest all-wooden buildings in California. Some of the famous people who have been guests at the hotel since its inception include: 10 U.S. Presidents, Thomas Edison, Babe Ruth, Charlie Chaplin, and Madonna. Hotel del Coronado even comes with its own ghost; according to legend, the ghost of Kate Morgan (a guest at the hotel in 1892 who was killed during her stay) haunts the hotel's luxurious halls and is sighted every so often. More »

House of Hospitality

Looking more like a castle than a house, this building should be the first stop on your itinerary if visiting Balboa Park. It's an ornate structure that was rebuilt in 1997 to take the place of the old building that served as the Foreign and Domestic Arts Building during the 1915 Exposition. It was also used as sleeping quarters for the U.S. military during World War I and was occupied for a short while by the Museum of Natural History. Comprising 67,392 square feet, the building is a large welcome beacon for visitors, and it provides maps, schedules, and information about the park. Inside, in addition to the Balboa Park Visitors Center, is also a restaurant, police storefront, and offices of various educational organizations. More »

House of Pacific Relations

This "house" is really a group of small cottages each representing different 32 different countries and cultures. The group is dedicated to promoting peace and cultural understanding between people; they do that by educating visitors about the history, culture, and traditions of each country. When you step into one of the cottages, you'll be treated to regional refreshments, dialect, and insight into the lives of the country's people. Outdoor lawn programs are also presented on Sundays, which include dance and song performances from each participating nation. Head next door to the United Nations Building after touring the cottages to pick up some multi-national souvenirs such as books and jewelry. More »

Imperial Beach

Just south of San Diego, Imperial Beach has been named one of the best beaches in the world. The stunning beach also draws hundreds of sandcastle builders and fans of beach art alike in July when it hosts the US Open Sandcastle Competition. There is a popular playground, Dune Park, adjacent to the beach that has plenty of picnic tables. Additionally, the town of Imperial Beach is participating in a program to make the beach more accessible to the mobility impaired and has purchased several wheelchairs, available to the public, that are specifically designed for beach use. More »

Inez Grant Parker Memorial Rose Garden

This colorful rose garden boasts over 2,500 roses from about 200 different varieties beautifully organized over three acres in Balboa Park. Flowers bloom from March through December, but the best time to visit is during peak blooming season--usually in April and May. The roses are all labeled with their variety, making it easy to discern which flower you're looking at, and educational for those who don't know much about roses. Although the garden can be very serene and quiet and attracts many readers and walkers, it is also a popular place for weddings and other private celebrations held in the park. More »

Japanese Friendship Garden

Constructed in 1915 for the Panama-California Exhibition, the Japanese Friendship Garden now serves as a tranquil attraction in the large (and sometimes bustling) Balboa Park. The Garden boasts beautiful plants, ponds, and waterfalls, and showcases the natural beauty of the area surrounding the centralized Tea Pavilion. Take a walk around the garden's winding pathways, stop and gaze into the koi pond to see the bright orange and white fish swimming lazily in the calm water, then seek out the meditation garden for some real peace and quiet. Head to the Tea Pavilion for tea and Japanese-inspired snacks if you work up an appetite doing all of that relaxing. More »

Julian

This California Historic Landmark was once the site of a post-Civil War gold rush, and today, Julian is a classic day-trip destination for native San Diegans. The whole family will be charmed by the town's old Western buildings, buffalo burgers, museums, and arid mountain setting. Julian's also famous for its apples, which scent up the town in autumn as local companies press cider and bake pies. Up at 4,200 feet, this lovely little mountain town has a different climate than most of Southern California and so if you're a little over the sunshine and beach, it's a nice escape. More »

Julian Pioneer Museum

Although small, the town of Julian boasts a lot of history. The Julian Pioneer Museum is housed in a building constructed in the late 1800s and displays a collection of old-town memorabilia such as photographs, early 1900s clothing, mining equipment, Native American artifacts, antique pianos, a renowned lace collection, and much more. It was originally built as a brewery, but was converted into a working blacksmith shop in the 1930s, then into the museum after that. After touring the museum, take a stroll around historic Julian, where you'll find quaint shops, wooden sidewalks, and beautiful apple orchards. Speaking of apples, while you're in town, be sure to pick up one of the famous apple pies--arguably the best you'll ever have. More »

Junípero Serra Museum

If you're in Southern California, chances are you've spotted Father Junípero Serra's name dotted around buildings, street signs, or just about anything and everything. That's because this popular Spanish missionary was pivotal in the settlement and founding of various missionaries and areas throughout Southern California. The Junípero Serra Museum takes a closer look at the social interactions that occurred during his stay in California between the Native Americans, Spanish, and Mexican people. Located on the original Spanish presidio built in 1769 looking over the San Diego harbor, the museum as a great collection of artifacts ranging from domestic needs such as cookware to protection such as canons. Serra was responsible for the construction of the Mission San Diego de Alcalá, which although is no longer found in its original locations, is one of the older California missions to have been built here. The museum was built in 1929 by William Templeton Johnson who incorporated the Spanish Mission-style into his design, giving it a more eighteenth century feel. Visitors can make their way to the top of the 70-foot for endless views past San Diego and off into the sea. More »

Kate Sessions Memorial Park

This expansive park sits atop Mount Soledad in between La Jolla and Pacific Beach and has one of the best views in the city of the bay and the ocean. It was named after the "mother of Balboa Park", Kate Sessions, who integrated and planted many of the trees, flowers, and shrubs that populate the park. The park spans 79 acres of prime hilltop land and offers visitors open fields, sweeping vistas, picnic tables, playgrounds, barbecue pits, and much more. The park is not usually crowded, so there is plenty of space for everyone to run around, go for a walk, have a picnic, or just enjoy the views. More »

Kit Carson Park Escondido

Kit Carson park is a scenic inland park near the city of Escondido, named for the legendary Civil War general, fur trapper, scout, and hero of the American West. There are barbecue pits, hiking/running trails, picnic benches, and a creek. Best of all, there are various playgrounds: one for younger children, one for older children, and a sculpture garden/playground. There are about 300 acres of space here, some developed, and some kept apart as part of the natural landscape. More »

Knott's Soak City

Knott's Soak City is the coolest place in San Diego county. With 32 acres of water-logged fun, there is something for everyone. Experience high-speed thrills on La Jolla Falls Tower or Pacific Spin, a 132-foot-long tube slide that blasts riders down a 6-story funnel. Those not quite ready for such an adrenaline rush can relax in the lazy Sunset River or take a dip in the wave pool. With something for everyone, Knott's Soak City offers a perfect summertime day of fun for the whole family. The theme here is surf towns of the past (1950s-1960s), so grab your longboard, hop in the woodie station wagon, and hang ten! More »

Kobey's Swap Meet

This massive swap meet is the third-largest on the west coast and brings in about 30,000 people weekly to browse the wares of over 1,000 vendors. The original meet was opened in 1976 by Monte Kobey at a local drive-in theater. Three years later, the meet moved to the sports arena that it still calls home, and grew to the successful enterprise it is today. Now, Monte's daughter, Kim runs the family business, along with her siblings and husband. This shopping mecca is a bargain-hunter's haven, with vendors selling everything from craft items to antique family heirlooms to bulk food items. If you're looking for a way to spend and afternoon in San Diego, Kobey's offers a unique treasure-hunting experience that's great entertainment for those who love to shop. More »

Kwaaymii Cultural Trail

This trail not only offers a dose of good hiking and great scenery, but also a chance to learn about the native tribes of the area. There are interpretive signs posted along the way, describing local flora and fauna and the ways the tribes used them for food, medicine, and other applications. Although the trail is short (about 1/2 mile), it is very informative and is a good way for both adults and kids to learn about the local culture. More »

La Jolla Children's Pool

The Children's Pool is a tiny La Jolla beach that was originally designed as a protected swimming area. However, due to erosion, only one sea wall remains. Despite its name, it is not a particularly safe place to swim due to currents and frequent pollution. You can often see seals and sea lions basking on nearby Seal Rock. More »

La Jolla Cove

La Jolla Cove is a beautiful little beach tucked south of La Jolla Shores. It's usually sheltered from large waves, so it's ideal for swimming, snorkeling, and kayaking. There are also several caves to explore here. Stroll down to the coast from the La Jolla downtown area and admire the beautiful little cove from atop the sandstone cliffs, or venture down to the water to take a dip in the cool ocean. Snorkelers will love this cove as it is part of the San Diego La Jolla Underwater Park Ecological Reserve, making the marine life found here protected and plentiful. More »

La Jolla Shores

La Jolla Shores is a locals' favorite for diving, surfing, bonfires, and just simply hanging out on the beach. The mile-long sandy beach is large and wide, making for a very popular summer spot. Just beyond the lifeguard station is Kellogg Park, a nice grassy park, perfect for picnicking. The marine life at this beach is protected since fishing is not allowed, as it lies within the San Diego La Jolla Underwater Ecological Reserve. To the north is the Scripps Institution of Oceanography and the Scripps Pier, which is not open to the public. The waves are quite gentle here and the surfing is pretty beginner-friendly, but watch out for strong rip currents. The kids will enjoy renting snorkeling equipment and splashing around shallow areas. More »

La Jolla Village

The Village is the swanky crown jewel of La Jolla's coastal civilization. Designer boutiques, coffee shops, and four-star restaurants sit atop the sandstone cliffs overlooking the picturesque La Jolla Cove. Come here to spend a lovely day indulging in one of the many fine restaurants that offer a creative take on food. There are a great deal of art galleries to peruse as well as elite shopping boutiques ranging from antiques to apparel. It's a great place to people-watch and often, local big names are known to frequent this area. More »

La Valencia Hotel

Pretty in pink, La Valencia Hotel sits perched above the gorgeous La Jolla Cove. Recognizable by its beautiful mission-style architecture, La Valencia was built in 1926 and has created a tradition of classic California elegance, sitting just steps from the beach and embracing a charming and colorful Spanish and California decor. The hotel overlooks La Jolla Cove and has been a getaway for luxury lovers for generations. Even if you are not a guest at the hotel, stop by to enjoy a meal at one of La Valencia's three restaurants and a cocktail lounge overlooking the blue Pacific where you can take in a colorful sunset. With 115 rooms, this hotel has an intimate feeling and remains popular because of its historic charm and ocean-side setting. More »

Lake Cuyamaca

This popular fishing lake spreads over 110 acres and is stocked with 44,000 pounds of fish. It's the only San Diego lake that stocks trout year-round; they also regularly fill the lake with different varieties of bass, catfish, bluegill, crappie, sturgeon. You can fish on your own, or take one of the free fishing classes each weekend, if you're interested in brushing up on their angling skills. There's also a 3.5 mile trail that encircles the lake for a good workout after eating those freshly-caught fish. In addition, Lake Cuyamaca has campsites available, from fully-loaded RV sites with electric and water hookups to more primitive tent sites for those camping purists in the bunch. As a day--or overnight--trip from San Diego, Lake Cuyamaca offers fun for everyone in the family. More »

Lake Henshaw

Lying at the base of the Palomar Mountains, Lake Henshaw beckons visitors with its sparkling water, great fishing, and beautiful area views of the local open countryside. Although boat rentals are available at the marina, no sailing, jet-skis, tubing, or swimming are allowed on the lake; just keep your activities centered around fishing and you'll be fine here. Accommodation options include full-hookup and primitive camping or the Lake Henshaw Resort, which offers cabins equipped with housekeeping services, kitchenettes, linens, and dishes. The lake is only about a 1.5-hour drive from San Diego, making it a popular fishing-getaway destination for locals and visitors. More »

Lake Hodges

Dammed by the Lake Hodges Dam on the San Dieguito River, Lake Hodges has become one of the most popular fishing lakes in the area. The lake is chock-full of bass and dives to a depth of 115 feet at it's deepest point, making it a great place to cast a line. There's even a wheelchair-accessible fishing float, so everyone can enjoy the sport. For a change of scenery from the rowboat, head to one of the many surrounding hiking trails that traverse across varied terrain, from remote hilltops to wet, marshy areas. There are also barbecue areas scattered throughout the park, making it a great place for a day of fishing and picnicking. More »

Lake Jennings

Surrounded by parkland, Lake Jennings is a quiet place to hike, camp, fish, and bird watch. The lake was formed in 1964, when a dam was built across the nearby canyon. Afterward, the popular on-site campground was created on land near the lake; today it includes about 100 RV pull-through sites with full hookups. Every week, the lake is stocked with fish--popular varieties include bass, bluegill, catfish, and trout. Lake Jennings Fishing University is also located here, and offers fishing classes for everyone, from kids to adults. Most people fish from the shore of the lake, but boats are allowed on the lake occasionally (usually on weekends). Bird watchers will also enjoy the area, and can look forward to viewing such species as the cactus wren, red-tailed hawks, sparrows, and a variety of waterfowl. More »

Lake Miramar

Lake Miramar, a touch north of San Diego, is a popular fishing, boating, and recreational oasis easily accessible from the big city. It's quite notable for its bass fishing--some of the world's largest have been hooked at Miramar, including several 20+ pounders! Other fish stocked here include bluegill, channel catfish, sunfish, and trout. Boats are available for rental if don't have one of your own, and the multi-use hiking, biking, and running trail that snakes around the lake is also popular amongst locals. More »

Lake Morena

This reservoir is part of a huge outdoor expanse on 3,250 acres of space, headed off by the fishing and boating popular at the "rez." Trout and large-mouthed bass are fished regularly here, which is an ideal daytime activity as you camp at one of the 80+ camping sites available. The park also boasts great hiking trails that wind through varied southern Californian terrain, including the Pacific Crest Trail, which runs all the way to Canada. It's not too far from San Diego and is an excellent summertime city getaway. More »

Lake Poway

Northeast of San Diego is Lake Poway, in the city of Poway, a recreational haven popular amongst many southern Californians. The lake is popular for its boating and fishing activities available, which includes night fishing in the summer. Softball fields, an archery range, and equestrian tract on the park's grounds as well. It's a great recreational space, so consider coming to Lake Poway if you're looking for an active day on the trip. More »

LEGOLAND California

Half-hour's drive north of San Diego in Carlsbad is your little engineer's paradise--Legoland, more than 120 acres of rides and activities based around the wildly popular building block toy franchise. It incorporates traditional amusement park stuff like roller coasters with the Lego theme, which is a great departure from the cartoon and movie themed monoliths you generally find in most American parks. Adults and kids alike will love the miniature Lego models of famous buildings and landmarks around the world in one prominent section of the park. There is tons to do here, from go karts to water activities to the undulating roller coasters, don't think twice, this will be a great day of fun. More »

Leo Carrillo Ranch Historic Park

Founded by Leo Carrillo in 1937, the Ranch is a stellar example of an old California rancho, complete with terra cotta tiles, adobe, and porch swings. The preservation of Leo Carrillo Ranch Historic Park has been a city priority for years. The historic rancho was once owned and operated as a working ranch by the famous actor from the 1950s, Leo Carrillo. Located in Carlsbad within a 27-acre canyon, the beautifully landscaped property is a Historic National Landmark and consists of classic adobe buildings, a reflecting pool, and other historic structures among the gardens and groves. Take a self-guided tour of the grounds including a short film on the history of the ranch and a biography on Leo Carrillo. More »

Leo Mullen Sports Park

Leo Mullen Sports Park is a small, local Encinitas park that is notable for its location right next to a shopping plaza, so, after you've burned through a bit of the spending cash, you can laze out in the park, or take your kids to play basketball, among other things to do here. A typical public park in a San Diego suburb, so, nothing spectacular here, but it is nice to have around and possibly to visit. More »

Little Italy District

Preceded by the vast number of Italian immigrant families in the 1920s, San Diego's Little Italy District was more than just a borough of charming shops and butchers. In fact, it was in San Diego that the Italians helped boost ocean yields of fresh tuna, quickly becoming the epicenter of the world tuna industry. At the height of its success, there were an approximate 6,000 Italian families living in the district. Today there is still a large Italian enclave, making it Downtown San Diego's oldest continuous neighborhood business district. After the depression and the economic decline of the tuna industry, the Little Italy district suffered a decline in the prosperity of the district. However, not to be ousted, the Italian business owners and non-Italian business owners set out to rebuild their district and reclaim the Italian heritage in the district. Today, among the numerous Italian bakeries and Italian markets, the area is be revitalized with new construction and development. Walk to the seaside where Italian fisherman once took to the sea to catch tuna, or head to one of the parks and hopefully catch a game of bolla in progress. More »

Long-Waterman House

The Long-Waterman mansion is a Queen Anne style Victorian built in the late 1800s for John Long, president of the Coronado Fruit Package Company. After his wife drowned in 1891, Long sold the house to Robert Whitney Waterman, the 17th governor of California. The house is currently a private residence.
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Maderas Golf Club

To the backdrop of steep hills off in the distance and the rolling fairways and sloping greens, Maderas Golf Club is a picturesque golfing experience just minutes north of the city. Designed by golf architects Johnny Miller and Robert Muir Graves, Maderas is a combination of natural beauty and modern innovation. Consistently voted the top golf course in San Diego for the past six years running, Maderas combines both the challenging elements of the wind, and carefully designed hazards to make it both a visually fulfilling and challenging course to play on. Enjoy the make lakes, waterfalls, and rocky outcrops that decorate the Par 72, 18 hole course. Stop in the Italian Villa-styled clubhouse before or after a round to enjoy a taste of Southern California architecture and high class amenities. Make sure you make a reservation, because a chance to play Maderas won't last long. More »

Marie Hitchcock Puppet Theater

Go back to the year 1947, just a few years after the end of World War II, and a puppeteer named Marie Hitchcock gave the very first marionette puppet show at the newly designated Puppet Theater located in the old Palisades building. The Puppet Theater was to be a place where families could bring their children and enjoy wholesome entertainment. Marie Hitchcock performed these shows along with her sister Genevieve Engman, largely through the help of a sponsorship that allowed them to do shows throughout the summer months. For nearly twenty years the sisters performed together until Genevieve was hurt in the late 1960s. Marie continued to perform shows here until her death in 1994, and today the theater bears her name in honor of her devotion to this art. Puppeteers of all abilities perform stage shows all year round, each lasting around half an hour to forty five minutes. The shows range from marionette shows, ventriloquists, to hand puppet acts, providing a wide array of talent that both children and families alike will enjoy. More »

Marine Corps Recruit Depot Command Museum

Just a drive down from the legendary Camp Pendleton, the United States Marine Corps Base, you can learn about the history of one of the United States elite branch of the military. Located next to the San Diego International Airport, the Marine Corp Recruit Depot Command Museum takes you through exhibits depicting the rich heritage and history of the Corps since it was founded in 1846. Look at artifacts and films collected from over the hundred plus years of active and non-active duty from events such as WWII, Korea, Vietnam, and the Gulf War. The pageantry of uniforms, weapons, and other various objects is a reminder of both the sacrifice and pride that these Marines have given to their country. The Recruit Depot was chosen because as it stands, it was the first Marine installation on the West Coast, and the Spanish Colonial architecture is a reminder of that history. Since 1923, this place was where thousands of young men trained to become Marines, and is a great place to visit especially if you or a family member has served in the Marines. More »

Marston House

Listed as a National Historic Landmark, the Marston House was built in 1905 by architects William Sterling Hebbard and Irving John Gill. It was built for George Marston, an entrepreneur and department store owner who was passionate about building a greater San Diego. The house, which opened to the public in 1991, features a blend of Victorian, English Tudor, and Arts and Crafts architecture--it was built to be simple and functional, while also appearing elegant and impressive. The 8,500 square foot home is surrounded by lavish gardens and rolling hills. While touring the home, be sure to take note of the Mission Style furniture and the decorative paintings and pottery pieces created by famous artists from around the world. More »

Martin Luther King Promenade

The Martin Luther King Promenade is a colorful, palm-lined promenade near the Convention Center in downtown San Diego. The promenade is a rail-trail and follows railroad tracks along Harbor Boulevard. Dedicated to the former civil rights leader, this promenade is a great place to stroll as it is close to a variety of restaurants, great shopping, parks, outdoor exhibits, and the fun Gaslamp district. The promenade is also largely used by locals for walking, jogging, and biking. Look for stones with quotes from King as you make your way through this park promenade. More »

Mason Street School

Built in 1865, the Mason Street School was the first public school house built in the San Diego county lines. It became a historic landmark in the 1950s and still has original desks and chairs inside on display. On your tour, take a seat at one of the desks to get a feel for what it was like for the students so many years ago. While visiting, be sure to take note of the rules that students had to follow or else they received lashes. For example, boys and girls caught playing together received 4 lashes each! More »

McCoy House

As part of the Old Town San Diego State Historic Park, the 1869 McCoy House is now used as an interpretive center for the Old Town San Diego State Historic Park organization. The historic house sits near the entrance to the Old Town park and visitors can stop here first to learn about the history of the park and of San Diego. The exhibits in the house are set up like a maze and lets visitor take a walk through history, spanning from 1821 to 1872. The McCoy house was built in 1869 by James McCoy, San Diego sheriff/state senator, and was later reconstructed in 2000. More »

Menghini Winery

This small but very quaint winery is located in the foothills of the Volcan Mountains and produces over 4,000 cases of premium wine each year. You can stop by anytime for wine tasting, but be sure to check out the website ahead of time to see what events are taking place. In June the winery hosts the Annual Association Barrel Testing and in July they host Blues Fest. If you are looking to do more than taste, visit in September, when Grape Stomp and Art Fest are taking place--but be sure not to wear white! More »

Mingei International Museum

The Mingei International Museum is devoted to showing folk art from all over the world. They have hosted over 140 exhibitions that include textiles from Asia, pottery from Africa, clothing from Denmark, and much more. Mingei means "Art of the People," and that's exactly what you get here--usable, wearable, global art. Be sure to check the website for details on lectures and workshops, which are often led by the artists who have their work on display. More »

Miramar Naval Air Station

The Miramar Naval Air Station provides aviation support services for the Navy. The Marines also have several aviation squadrons stationed here. Interestingly, this 24,000-acre base also contains several delicate native ecosystems. Although Miramar is closed to the public, the naval station does open its doors to the public twice a month for tours on the first and third Thursdays of every month, except in October when the Miramar Air Show takes place. For those interested in the military or to get a closer look at the daily lives of Marines and Sailors, will appreciate the tour, which includes a tour of an air station windshield tour, tours of many of the aircrafts, as well as entrance to the Flying Leatherneck Aviation Museum. More »

Mission Basilica San Diego de Alcala

Founded in 1769, the Mission Basilica San Diego de Alcala is the oldest church in California and was the first Spanish mission, out of 21, established in the state. It was started by Spanish explorer and devout Catholic, Father Serra. Although this mission was located on extremely arid land, and water was a scarce, the mission owned thousands of cattle and other farm animals, which helped it stay open. More »

Mission Bay

San Diego's Mission Bay is a massive bay with 27 miles of shoreline and numerous sandy beaches. The bay is hugely popular with San Diegoans and tourists for its abundance of water sports such as sailing, waterskiing, boating, jetskiing, and more. The many beaches provide great places for picnics and beach activities. Sea World is located on the southern end of the bay and there are many parks, beaches, and attractions throughout this large park. Head to the bay and rent some jet skis and chase new friends around the glassy water. Be sure to bring lots of sunscreen and a jacket for an evening of socializing by bonfire. More »

Mission Bay Golf Course

With the distinction of being one of the only night-lighted golf courses in the country, Mission Bay is popular with both visitors and locals. An 18-hole course featuring four par-4 holes and 14 par-3 holes, it challenges every level of golfer, from beginner to intermediate to advanced. It was designed by the former president of the American Society of Golf Architects, Ted Robinson, and is a favorite course for local and visiting celebrities; well-known figures such as Tiger Woods and Phil Mickelson have been spotted here. Since the city of San Diego requires lights to be turned off by 10pm, 18-hole games aren't available after 6:30pm. More »

Mission Beach

Mission Beach is one of the most popular beaches in San Diego, so expect large crowds in the summer and lots of opportunity for people watching. The two mile stretch of sand starts at the Mission Bay channel, and ends at Pacific Beach. If lounging in the sun doesn't interest you, you're in luck, as the beach is lined with several retail shops and restaurants. More than anything, Mission Beach is a great place to hang with the locals, go biking on the boardwalk, or take your loved one for a long walk on the beach while watching the sun go down. More »

Mission Beach Boardwalk

The Mission Beach Boardwalk is a haven for cyclists, joggers, rollerbladers, skaters, and anyone else who prefers to get a workout on wheels. Running parallel along the popular Mission Beach, the boardwalk has many amenities along the way with shops and restaurants available for beachgoers. The boardwalk runs along the water, so the views are outstanding, but it can certainly get crowded on weekends. More »

Mission San Antonio De Pala

Founded in 1816 by Padre Antonio Peyrias as a sub-mission (or asistencia) to the sprawling Mission San Luis Rey de Francia, the location of Mission San Antonia De Pala was chosen because it served as a natural gathering place for the native population. Mission San Antonio De Pala had a simple construction, but is unique among the Franciscan missions for its totally freestanding bell tower (or campanile), which was modeled after a tower in Juarez, Mexico. San Antonio De Pala is also unique as the only mission still ministering to a Native American population. Behind the bell tower is the original cemetery for the sub-mission, containing the remains of early settlers, but also those of hundreds of native converts. Still active in ministry, the Mission's affairs have been under the control of the Barnabites since 1996. More »

Mission San Luis Rey

As last and largest of the 21 California missions established by the Spaniards so long ago, Mission San Luis Rey is often referred to as "King of the Missions." Founded in 1798, the mission compound itself covered almost six acres, and an aqueduct system was used to supply water for the buildings, the pools, and the gardens. San Luis Rey boasted many thousands of acres, and at the hight of its glory, held as many as 16,000 head of cattle, 25,500 sheep, and produced 395,000 bushels of grain, and 2,500 barrels of wine in a year. During the Mexican-American War, the United States took control of the Mission, and used it as an outpost for the army. In 1895, Father Joseph O'Keefe began to rebuild the historic property, completing restoration of the the cuadrángulo and church in 1905. Today, Mission San Luis Rey is listed as a National Historic Landmark, but is still a working mission, and still being restored. Situated on 56 acres, a mere fraction of the size it was at one time, the Mission features a visitor's center, museum, expansive gardens, and a cemetery. More »

Mission Trails Regional Park

Mission Trails Regional Park has almost 6,000 acres of developed and natural land that can be used for hiking, camping, mountain biking, and more. Mission Trails is home to Cowles Mountain, which at 1,592 feet, is the tallest point in San Diego. At the new visitors center, further your outdoors experience by learning more about the plants, wildlife, and history of the area; or, sign up for an educational hike led by park rangers. Mission Trails Regional Park is considered the largest urban park in the United States and is where the locals head to get out and enjoy the wild. More »

Moonlight Beach

Just west of downtown Encinitas, this flat and sandy stretch of coastline has everything you need for a great day at the beach. Families, locals, and visitors all enjoy the rays on Moonlight Beach--despite it name, the beach is at its best when the sun is high. Swimming and surfing are both popular pastimes here, although areas for surfing are restricted during summer. The beach also has picnic facilities, and is near enough to town it's easy to grab supplies. If you do want to take advantage of namesake moon views from the sand on a pretty night, several fire rings are available. The beach is well-patrolled by lifeguards, and features a playground, making it a good spot for families. Three beach volleyball courts are also on the grounds. More »

Morley Field Sports Complex

If you are a sports fanatic, then the Morley Field Sports Complex is a must see while visiting San Diego. They have badminton and tennis courts, multiple baseball diamonds, a public pool, a velodrome for cyclists (a track with banked walls), an archery range and much more. In fact, there are so many things to do here, you never know if you will come wanting to play frisbee golf and leave with a new passion for cycling! More »

Mormon Battalion Visitor Center

The Mormon Battalion Trek in 1846 consisted of over 500 men (and some of their families) who marched over 2,000 miles to help the U.S. government secure the state of California from being taken over by Mexico. It was a known fact that many of the men felt it wasn't their duty to help the government, as Mormons had not been protected by the government when they were persecuted and exiled from their own homes. At the Mormon Battalion Visitor Center, you will be able to learn about their hardships and experiences walking from Iowa to California--the longest military march in history. There are interactive exhibits, living history reenactors, and several films that take you back in time to walk a mile in their shoes and learn more about Mormon history. More »

Mount Soledad

Mount Soledad, meaning solitude, was named by early California settlers. The drive up boosts stunning views, and it only gets better from there. At the top, you'll be standing more than 800-feet above the city; giving you gorgeous 360-degree views of San Diego.
Just east of the summit is a Korean War Memorial. Its centerpiece, erected in 1952, is a 43-foot-tall cross, known as the Easter Cross--named for the Easter sunrise services held here each year. More »

Murray Reservoir

Murray Reservoir, sandwiched between San Diego and adjacent suburbs in the Mission Trails Regional Park is a popular urban getaway for fishing, hiking, and barbecuing. Every winter, the city stocks the reservoir with trout so that come summer heat there are ample fish in the water to be fished. You'll need a state fishing license and daily permit to do so, however, so keep that in mind before you head down with the rod and bait. More »

Museum of Contemporary Art San Diego

In 1941 the Museum of Contemporary Art was simply a gathering place for the community to create art and express their artistic views. At this time, the arts center was located in Ellen Browning Scripps's house, a philanthropist who lived here in the early 1900s. In the 1970s, the museum changed its focus to the contemporary arts and started collecting and showing works of art from the 1950s to the present. Today, the museum is located in a new and larger space, and their collection of contemporary art has grown to over 4,000 pieces of art that include paintings, sculpture, photography, instillations, and more. At the Museum of Contemporary Art San Diego, you can expect to see world-renowned artists showcasing their work, so bring the family and enjoy. More »

Museum of History and Art/Coronado Historical Association

At the Museum of History, you can walk through three different galleries and learn about the history of this small, but very important coastal city in southern California. The first gallery introduces you to the history of Coronado, which was nicknamed the "The Crown City"--as Coronado is Spanish for the "Crowned One". In this gallery, you will also learn how the U.S. Navy has helped build and shape this city throughout the years. The second gallery features rotating exhibitions from artists who are both locally known and world-renowned. The third gallery focuses on the history of the Hotel del Coronado and Tent City, which is one of the most historically recognizable buildings in the city. The hotel was built in 1887 and is one of the sole remaining architectural masterpieces from the American architectural genre. More »

Museum of Making Music

Since 2000, this one-of-a-kind museum has focused on the production of musical instruments from the 1890s to today. As you explore the exhibitions, which are broken down by different musical eras, you will learn about technological discoveries, the inspiration behind making, or improving upon the instruments, how music has shaped cultures around the world, and much more. Many of the exhibits are interactive and the hope of the museum staff is that you leave feeling inspired, engaged, and curious about how you can be apart of your generation's musical culture. To get the most out of this unique museum, try to plan your trip when there is a concert, film showing, or hands-on workshop taking place. More »

Museum of Photographic Arts

When the Museum of Photographic Arts opened in 1983, it was one of the only museums in the world whose sole purpose was to showcase photographic arts from the world's most talented artists. Today MoPa, as it's commonly referred to, has undergone a renovation--doubling its size and gallery space--and has added over 20,000 photographs to its permanent collection. You can see photographs from the beginning of the 19th century, when photography was first invented, and you can also see some of the best portraits, contemporary photographs, and award winning photojournalism exhibitions in the world. More »

Museum of San Diego History

One of the many museums located in Balboa Park, the Museum of San Diego History is perfect for those who wish to learn more about the rich and diverse history of this region. The museum features both permanent and changing exhibits, as well as national and international traveling shows. Public lectures, workshops, and educational programs are offered occasionally. Check the website for details. More »

Oaks North Golf Course

Ted Robinson designed the three executive greens at Oaks North Golf Course for all levels of golfers to enjoy. If you are a novice golfer, or an experienced, PGA tournament champion, you will enjoy playing on one (or on all) of the three diverse courses that are lined with indigenous Oak Trees and decorative water pathways. The managers at Oaks North Golf Course, which was named one of America's Top Short Golf Courses by Golf Range magazine, encourages the whole family to come out and take a swing at the ball. All courses are nine holes, but the South course has 1,859 yards to play, the North course has 1,749 yards, and the East course has 1,665 yards, so if you're looking for challenge, you can find it here. More »

Ocean Beach

Ocean Beach is a one-mile stretch of sandy waterfront fun located in the community of Ocean Beach, just to the north of San Diego. This beach is good for swimming, surfing, and playing volleyball. Additionally, there is a pier available to the public for walking and fishing. Pet owners should make sure to check out Dog Beach, located at the north end of Ocean Beach. More »

Oceanside Beach

Located near The Strand, Oceanside Beach is a great place to relax on a beach towel while reading that great summer romance novel you've been waiting to start, and it's a great place to watch the sun go down next to the one you love. This area is home to several surfers, boogie boarders, and fisherman, so feel free to join in, or watch on the sidelines. Oceanside Beach offers public restrooms, lifeguards on duty, and a snack bar, so if you forget to pack a PB&J, check out what kind of grub is available here. More »

Oceanside Harbor District

If you enjoy boating or sportfishing, sailing around Oceanside Harbor District should be added to your to-do list while visiting San Diego. The harbor offers several amenities that make it easy for you and your family to enjoy your vacation at sea, including fuel docks, laundry facilities, ice machines, and bait shops. If after an exciting day at sea you decide cooking dinner sounds a bit exhausting, dine in one of the many different restaurants located around Oceanside Harbor. You can find everything from seafood, to burgers, to gourmet salads--after dinner, satisfy your sweet tooth at one of the homemade ice cream shops in the area. More »

Oceanside Municipal Pier

Oceanside Municipal Pier is the longest pier in southern California and was built the late 19th century. The pier extends 1,971 feet into the Pacific Ocean and if you are up for the walk--or a ride on the tram--to the end of the pier, consider grabbing dinner at the original Ruby's Diner. The Oceanside Pier is also great for fishing, as you don't have to have a license and there is a bait and tackle shop located on the pier. More »

Oceanside Museum of Art

Locals in San Diego have come to treasure the Oceanside Museum of Art because it shows provocative work that continues to push boundaries in the art world. The museum features artists from all over the world and in multiple genres, ranging from paintings, to sculptures, to art quilts, to glass blowing, and more. You're sure to come across something that inspires you or makes you question what you're seeing and what it means. While visiting, don't forget to take time to look at the amazing views of the Pacific Ocean and of the Oceanside Pier, which is another jewel to the locals. More »

Old California Restaurant Row

When Jim and Vera Eubank retired from the glamorous Newport Beach lifestyle, they moved to the rural and undeveloped San Marcos oasis. Eventually Jim, who was a wealthy real estate developer, and his wife, started selling fruit and vegetables from a small stand on the side of the road. Their small stand quickly grew into a full scale, 20-acre parcel of land that had a variety of restaurants to dine in. It was a real estate success, as San Marcos is the town most have to travel through to get to the coast. Today, you can dine in over 18 restaurants that offer everything from Thai food to Chicken Pot Pie. There are simply too many restaurants for one stop, so choose wisely. More »

Old Globe Theatre

The Old Globe Theatre was built in 1935 for the California Pacific International Exposition, which was held to promote tourism in San Diego. Since opening, the theater has been nominated for nearly 20 Tony Awards, and has won several of the them, for productions like Dirty Rotten Scoundrels and The Full Monty. The 518-seat theater was destroyed by arson in 1978, but was quickly rebuilt and improved upon, including adding an outdoor theater on the property. The Globe annually produces fifteen shows that include every genre--musicals, comedy, drama, and the world-famous Shakespeare Festival. A night out at the Globe is guaranteed to impress and entertain you, as several of the shows are so popular, they leave this main stage and head straight to Broadway. More »

Old Poway Park

This park was founded in 1980 and was the dream child of John S. Porter, a retired Colonial from the Army. Porter wanted to create a space that would educate and engage the community and visitors, as the area is rich with history and artifacts. Today, the park has several historic buildings that have been restored and relocated here. You can tour the Heritage Museum, where you and your children can learn about the heritage of the people who lived here hundreds of years ago. You can also take a tour of an historic Steam Locomotive from 1907-- it runs every first and third weekend of the month. Don't forget to stop by the peach orchard, where fresh peaches (when they are in season) provide a satisfying sweetness to your adventure in Poway. More »

Old Town

In Old Town, you can discover what is often called the "birthplace of California." Over 9,000 years ago, this area was home to the Kumeyaay Native Americans, but they retreated into the hills when the first Spanish Conquistador, Juan Rodríguez Cabrillo "discovered" the area. Today, Old Town is full of historical buildings, museums, living history exhibits, boutique shops, and art galleries. It's a great place to start your historical journey of California and there are also several restaurants to dine in along the way. More »

Old Town Temecula

Old Town Temecula is a romantic frontier-style destination, complete with quaint restaurants, antique shops, and activities for the entire family. What makes Temecula a real gem is its proliferation of high-quality wineries located around the outskirts of town. If you can, try to plan your trip to this town in the spring and summer, as Old Town Temecula has an old fashioned car show, several summer concerts on the weekends, and Western Days--where you can participate in the Chili Cook Off and the High Noon Shoot Out, among other things. More »

Otay Lake

Otay Lake is a fisherman's paradise, as it's known for having large quantities of largemouth bass, a variety of catfish, plenty of bluegill, and more. With 25 miles of shoreline to explore, you and your family will have plenty of room, while not feeling worried about getting lost at sea, if it's your first time here. The lake is used by Olympic athletes who are training in rowing sports, so keep your eyes out for future gold medalist. Otay Lake has barbecue pits and picnic tables, so don't forget to pack the brats and buns. More »

Our Lady of the Rosary Catholic Church

Built largely for the large Italian immigrant community that had settle in San Diego by the end of the nineteenth century, Our Lady of the Rosary Catholic Church is a reflection of the detail and extraordinary art of the Venetian powerhouse of the middle ages in Europe. Father Rabagliati began the long process of gathering funds that would go to the construction of a new church in 1923. By the end of the following year, although still incomplete, he was able to hold Holy Mass inside the unfinished church for the Christmas celebration. Soon after the church was finally completed, a Venetian painter named Fausto Tasca who was living in Los Angeles at the time was commissioned to complete the interior frescoes and walls. A major concentration of the work is focused on the Mysteries of the Rosary as well as other biblical stories such as the story of the Crucifixion. Keeping aligned with the use of Italian artisans, sculptures and statues commissioned by Carlos Romanelli adorn the church. More »

Pacific Beach

Boasted as a quaint little semi-rural seaside residence, Pacific Beach was a popular area located right next to the ocean on the western side of San Diego. Since the late 1800s, Pacific Beach was touted as a residential seaside haven. The little area that started as just a patch of uninhabited dirt, today boasts 40,000 residents and 1,200 businesses in this popular spot. Pacific Beach experienced some difficulties getting off the ground in the 1890s, but by the Roaring Twenties, Pacific Beach was taking off. A lemon grove established here once claimed itself the largest lemon grower in the entire United States. One of Pacific Beach's most prominent features is the awe-stretching Crystal Pier built in 1927, which stretches out into the depths of the bay away from the city. Barring setbacks during the Great Depression and a bad storm in 1983, the pier is still a popular point on the beach to take a walk under the moonlight, or for an afternoon catch on the fishing deck. Today Pacific Beach is probably most known for its fantastic night life and the numerous restaurants, bars, and night clubs that line this patch of land near the sea. More »

Pala Mesa Resort Golf Course

You don't have to be a member to appreciate the beauty or challenge of Pala Mesa Resort Golf Course in San Diego. Considered to be one of Golf Digest's "Best 200" public golf courses in the United States, and earning a four and a half star ranking, Pala Mesa is a beautifully manicured course with a serene backdrop of mountains on nearly every hole. Spread out over 6,000 square yards, the course is a difficult championship 18-hole, Par 72 course crowned with an array of large hardwood trees such as oak, sycamore, and elm. With the abundance of trees, the fall colors at Pala Mesa are staggering, and makes a great bet for one of the most scenic golf courses in all of San Diego. When the light gets dim as the sun starts to disappear, make sure to make your reservations for dinner at the ever popular AquaTerra for seafood fare and wine, and finish with an overnight stay at one of the rooms located in Fallbrook hills. More »

Palm Canyon

The palm tree is the epitome of the Southern California coast. Golden sunsets casting silhouettes of the tropical tree against the backdrop of the ocean. Palm Canyon takes this iconic image, and bumps it up several notches. Located in the ever popular Balboa Park, Palm Canyon is a collection of more than 450 topical palms covering 58 species of palms. Although there are only 2 acres in which the palms are found, it creates a tropical within a lush canyon. Some of the palms found here, such as the Mexican fan palms, date all the way back to 1912. Since then, the palms have been growing at a steady pacing, and in 2001, the California Conservation Corps, helped restore and old historic trail leading to the Old Cactus Garden, providing a sense of history and beauty found within the landscape. More »

Palomar Mountain State Park

In north San Diego County, Palomar Mountain State Park is a welcome escape from the Southern California surroundings up in the mountains and valleys overlooking the Pacific Ocean and wild scenery. Due to its elevation, which is an average range around 5,000 feet, means that it is much cooler than lower elevations. In this effect, it feels much more like the Sierra Nevada mountain range to the eastern side of the state. With over 1,862 acres of virtually quiet land, there are wonderful opportunities to go camping, hiking, and enjoy the abundance of wildlife found within the park. The park contains a vast array of animals from mule deer, western grey squirrel, and the occasional gray fox, coyote, or bobcat. A fully stocked Doane Pond is a popular fishing destination with trout as its most popular inhabitant. Perhaps one of the leading attributes of Palomar Mountain State Park is that it is largely 'unbusy,' and provides a quiet camping getaway with some of the spoils of home including showers and running water. More »

Palomar Observatory

Located over a mile high at 5,600 feet, the Palomar Observatory on Palomar Mountain was constructed in 1936 in north San Diego County in attempt to get away from the building light pollution of Los Angeles. Including five high-powered telescopes used for a variety of reasons, the observatory is owned and operated by the California Institute of Technology, and is an important facility in the discovery and research of the cosmos. The observatory is staffed entirely by individuals from Caltech from post-doctoral fellows, to students and various researchers. The history of the observatory in Southern California history dates back to as early as 1908 when the 60-inch telescope was completed on Mount Wilson, giving people the chance to look deeper into the night sky then they ever had before. Followed by the construction of the domed observation post on Palomar Mountain, the 18-inch Schmidt Telescope was installed, which was important in the survey and research of supernovae. By far one of the most superior telescopes is the 200-inch Hale telescope, which has been vital in discovering some of the most fascinating images and discoveries of the universe during its 45 years that it was recognized as the world's largest telescope. Today it is still an important tool in data collection. More »

Pechanga Resort & Casino

Of one of the bands of Luiseños Indians, the Pechanga people have been living in the Temecula Valley for nearly 200 years since they were moved on the reservation. One of the great draws to the Pechanga Indian Reservation is the Pechanga Resort & Casino, which features the luxurious elegance and comfort that you would expect with a major Vegas casino. Since opening in 2002, the Pechanga Resort & Casino has annually earned the prestigious AAA Four Diamond rating award. Combining a unique blend of Native American art and culture with the contemporary features such as the Frank Lloyd Wright-esque architecture and the massive oak tree and water elements of the entrance. In addition to the 500 plus luxury rooms, guests have full range of the amenities including spa, and of course the casino floor. The casino is a combined 188,000 square feet, which extends the AAA Four Diamond services for all its guests. There are over 2,000 state-of-the-art gaming machines from slot to video machines. An additional 160 gaming tables provide games of blackjack, three card poker, Pai Gow, Mini Baccarat, and Pechanga Craps. Cocktail service, as well as other dining options are available so that you'll never need to leave while you enjoy the services of Pechanga around the clock. More »

PETCO Park

When the Padres moved from their old home at Qualcomm Stadium in 2004. they moved to the intimate PETCO Park bordered by the San Diego Harbor to the south and opening up to skyline views of downtown. The park is much more closer to the action than spectators received from Qualcomm Stadium and was designed to encapsulate the culture and history of San Diego. Outside, the natural stone and stucco facade is reminiscent of early Southern California construction, and inside old buildings and exteriors have been incorporated with the overall feel and design of the park including the prominent "Western Metal Supply Co." located on an old warehouse front down the left field line. Just over the right-center field wall, you can spot palm trees speckled in the distance. PETCO is a truly aesthetic ballpark that takes advantage of the surrounding scenery, and with the addition of state-of-the-art facilities and vendors, adds to the complete package of coming out for a game. More »

Plaza del Pasado

In Spanish, Plaza del Pasado means, "Plaza of the Past." In essence that's exactly what it is. This four-acre plaza is seated right in the center of Old Town, the original Mexican pueblo founded in 1821 before it was settled and expanded by the Europeans. Walking around the Plaza del Pasado, you'll find people dressed in period clothing as you explore the number of shops and restaurants that line the plaza. Find your way over to an old frontier saloon, or wipe your shoes at an old historic dining room. In the air, the sound of mariachi bands and live music can be found as the plaza is full of activity around the clock. The plaza was chosen to reflect the time period between the founding of the pueblo in 1821 up to 1872, and in addition to the living history of replicated stores and shops, you can also participate in one of the educational programs to connect back with San Diego's historical roots. More »

Point Loma Nazarene College

Dedicated to its Christian liberal art education, Point Loma Nazarene College is a small private college located on the scenic Point Loma peninsula near the main city of San Diego. This private Christian college is one of eight U.S. liberal arts colleges and universities affiliated with the Church of the Nazarene, a denomination that focuses primarily on its evangelical and missionary purposes. One of the unique features of the campus is the Greek-style amphitheater which was the first of its kind in North America, constructed in 1901. The amphitheater was added to in 1909 when the raised stoa platform was completed in the center of the stage area. Boasting a diverse student population from around the globe, and addition to the spectacular views of the ocean, the college is a unique community located near San Diego. More »

Presidio Hills Golf Course

In what's touted as one of the oldest golf courses in San Diego dating back to 1932, Presidio Hills Golf Course is a great 3-par golf course situated on one of the oldest residential areas in the city. In fact the course uses the historic La Casa De Carrillo, what's often considered to be the first residential structure in the city, as one of its club house buildings. The 18-hole course may not be the most challenging destination for the links, but its a great way to work on your short game or just have fun with friends in a little skins game. All of the holes range between 45-100 yards, which require little more than a pitching wedge or 9 iron and a putter. More »

Presidio Park

When the Spanish arrived on the American continent, along with the missionary objective of the area, they established a number of presidios (or forts) to help protect from hostile people and to solidify their colonization of the land. El Presidio Reál de San Diego was the first presidio and European settlement established on the Pacific Coast in 1769, which also contained the Mission San Diego de Alcalá, which later would be moved several miles away from the presidio. The fort was held under the direction of the Spanish until Mexican Independence in 1821, when they finally relinquished the rights to the new Mexican government. In fact for about four years the presidio served as the Mexican Governor's residence. When the presidio and missionary were secularized by the Mexicans, the fort and all its buildings were destroyed in 1835. The land would later be acquired by department store owner, George Marston, and eventually turned into a private park in 1925, and later donated to the city in 1929. Today there are not any historical buildings located at Presidio Park, although it is perfect for exploring the 49 acres of rolling grass hills and trees via the network of trails and roads. More »

Quail Botanical Gardens

Originally the private garden of Charles and Ruth Larabee that contained 30 acres of exotic plants collected from around the world, the Quail Botanical Gardens is a free public garden where people can see some truly unique plants. Rumored to contain the largest collection of bamboo collection found in the United States, the garden is an unparalleled collection of exotic plants from palms, cycads, hibiscus, cork, and other subtropical trees and plants. In part to San Diego's unique temperate weather, the plants flourish in the 365-day growing period and are benefited by consistent warm weather temperatures. The Larabees were interested in the education and enrichment of younger generations, and a true testament of this endeavor was the donation of the estate and gardens in 1957 to the County of San Diego, where they remain available today for future generations to appreciate. More »

Qualcomm Stadium

On August 20, 1967 The recently moved NFL franchise Chargers from Los Angeles played their first game at the newly built San Diego Stadium vs. the Detroit Lions. They may have lost that game by a score of 38-17, but dozens of memorable moments have been since been witnessed by thousands of San Diego fans. The truth is that there probably wouldn't have been anything had local sportswriter Jack Murphy not convinced the owner of the then L.A. Chargers to move to a new 50,000 seat stadium in San Diego. The stadium (since renamed to Jack Murphy Stadium and finally Qualcomm Stadium) has been home to the Chargers ever since. In addition to the pro football Chargers, Qualcomm has also been home to the San Diego State University Aztec football team and the annual Holiday Bowl, as well as the Major League Baseball team, the San Diego Padres who moved in a year after the Chargers in 1968. Today the Padres play at their own PETCO Park, and Qualcomm has expanded to hold nearly 71,000 fans. In 1969, Willie Mays hit his 600th career home run here, and in 1998 John Elway 'helicoptered' his way to his first Super Bowl Championship, in what was at one time considered to be the best Super Bowl ever played. Qualcomm has also been a venue for other notable non-sporting events including an array of different concerts in the 90s including U2, the Rolling Stones, Pink Floyd, and the Eagles. More »

Rancho Buena Vista Adobe

Dating back over 160 years ago Governor Pio Pico gave a land grant of 1,184 acres to Felipe Subria, a Luiseno Indian who converted to Christianity. What would follow after that was a confusing twist of plot changes and landowners, but needless to say, the one story adobe house signifies an old piece of San Diego culture back when it was still the Alta California, and the Spanish missionaries were prevalent. The house remains essentially as it was when it was first built, including the barren dirt floors that the Dons fashionably covered with Persian rugs. One of the notable residents of the house during the booming film industry of the 1920s was the successful MGM producer, Harry Pollard, and his wife Marguerita Fischer Pollard, a popular silent screen actress at the time. The two of them spent upwards of $150,000 to transform the house into "the most beautiful home in San Diego County" by adding a number of orchards and gardens to the property. The Pollards eventually moved out, and through a series of subsequent owners, the home accumulated different tastes in furnishings and decorations until eventually in 1989 the home was acquired by the City of Vista, who made the home open to the community. A number of artifacts gathered from over the 150 years of existence have been gathered, providing a detailed account of the home and its history. More »

Rancho Guajome Adobe

In 1851, prominent San Diego pioneer Cave Johnson Couts and his wife Ysidora Bandini Couts received a land grant of approximately 2,200 acres, of which around 560 acres are preserved today. The large adobe home built here was a center of the social elite, and would be the host to a variety of political and social parties and gatherings. The house was built primarily through the wealth gained through the successful boom of the cattle business in the mid nineteenth century. The 22 room house was probably completed sometime between 1852-1853, and now is preserved by the city of San Diego, who have made it available for public interest about early San Diego life. One interesting aspect of the Rancho Guajome Adobe home is that after studying the architectural styles and building materials of the structure, many of the materials actually come from mission-era built buildings and missions of the early nineteenth century. Couts actually received permission from the Catholic church to use some of the tile and wooden materials in building his home, which can still be seen today.
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Reuben H. Fleet Science Center

In the late 60s and early 70s, city planners started collectively gathered ideas for a new planetarium and science center in the middle of San Diego's popular Balboa Park. A totally new and innovative idea of taking the new IMAX film format and transferring it onto a dome shaped projection screen tilted at 25 degrees. The audience would then sit in multi-tiered rows that give the impression of being wrapped in the scenery. The OMNIMAX, as it also is known by, was created in 1973 and was the first of its kind to be created. While the OMNIMAX is one of the most popular features at the Reuben H. Fleet Science Center, that's not all there is to see and do. The science museum features 100 interactive science exhibits over five galleries that examine science in everyday life to virtual worlds. "The Virtual Zone" is a very popular exhibit where you can ride on a thrilling virtual reality ride or even take a closer look at the how the vibrations from guitar strings create sound. At the Reuben H. Fleet Science Center you'll get a wide offering of hands-on science like no other place around. More »

Riverwalk Golf Club

From the former grounds of the luxurious private Stardust Golf Club, the Riverwalk Golf Club has emerged as one of the fantastic golfing opportunities of San Diego. Reopened in 1998 as the Riverwalk Golf Club, the new course featured the same undulating greens, although it featured a swanky new golf club and additional upgrades to the course. The par 72 course is 6,627 yards and plays with beautiful water hazards and waterfalls on 13 of the 27 holes. The course was designed by famed golf architect Ted Robinson and his son Ted Robinson Jr. It is one of the last legacies that celebrate his life. Conveniently situated in the Mission Valley, the course is also close to other popular San Diego attractions including Balboa Park and the San Diego Zoo. More »

Robb Field

If recreation is your name, then Robb Field is where you should be. With a huge arsenal of different recreation opportunities, Robb Field is great whether you plan to take advantage of the multitude of different fields and courts, or if you plan on spending the day lounging in the comfort of the Rec Center's pool. There is a fitness club, lighted basketball courts, tennis courts, soccer fields, and even a permanent rugby pitch with rugby goals. Rolling on four wheels? Head over to the 40,000 square foot sea of concrete at the city's first skate park featuring an array of bowls, handrails, ledges, blocks, a pump bump, and an octagon volcano. Or break out the picnic cloth and head out for an afternoon of people watching and family games while you enjoy the weather and excitement of Robb Field. More »

Robinson-Rose House and Visitors Center

James Robinson, a successful law practitioner originally from Texas, moved to San Diego in the Spring of 1850. While Robinson was in the army during the early nineteenth century, he served in th Texas War of Independence, where he became fluent in Spanish. His skills in Spanish deemed to be extremely helpful in land dispute cases with the Spanish in Texas and California, and his reputation. Donning his success, Robinson built this two-story building in 1853 to accommodate both his living quarters as well as a space which he leased out to various businesses including the old San Diego Herald, the first newspaper for San Diego. When Robinson died in 1857, Robinson's widow sold the house to Louis Rose, who used the house as a residence until a fire in 1874 destroyed the roof and ultimately led to the demise of the building. Today the structure has been restored and serves as the headquarters and visitor center for the Old Town State Historical Society. Today you can get information about Old Town as well as see a model of what the city looked like in 1872. More »

Sail Bay

As part of the much larger Mission Bay Park, Sail Bay is a smaller cove where nautical enthusiasts can come to put their sails to the wind. Mission Bay Park is a unique spot on the San Diego coastline that takes up an approximate 4,200 acres of combined land and sea. While you'll find incredible vistas and boating opportunities lined around Mission Bay, including Mariners Cove and Sea World Adventure Park, Sail Bay is one of the best places to go sailing. Whether you're moving a tiny schooner to a larger cabin sailboat, Sail Bay is perfect. You also don't have to worry about large quakes from motorboats and jetskis, as motorized vehicles are prohibited. More »

Salk Institute for Biological Studies

Leading up to 1952, Polio was still one of the leading causes of problems in infants and young children, but in 1952 Jonas Salk is credited with founding a vaccine to Polio that went on to protect millions of lives from the deadly disease. Seven years later, Salk would go on to take his practice of fighting some of the world's most unknown and debilitating diseases through his newly found institution, the Salk Institute for Biological Studies. It's here that a staff of 850 scientist and 57 faculty members, that researchers in biological fields as well as others are working together to find cures for some of the most allusive problems such as AIDS, cancer, and Alzheimer’s disease. In addition to these terrible diseases, they also are working understand cardiovascular disorders, and problems effecting brain and birth defects. With the insurmountable help from the March of Dimes who provided with the seed money as well as continued support, Salk worked with architect Louis Kahn to see his vision come to life. Salk hoped that the institute would become a "crucible for creativity," as people worked together to discover the finner and intricate details of our shared humanity. The result was outstanding, seeing five scientists from the Institute win Nobel prizes, and three Nobel Laureate recipients who are current resident faculty members. The building itself is unique incorporation of modern design with a set of mirrored buildings separated by an open courtyard with a single stream flowing directly out into the horizon. More »

San Diego Air & Space Museum

This unique circular museum on the south part of Balboa Park can really thank the California Pacific International Exposition of 1935-36 for its existence today. Originally built as the hall for the Transportation Exhibition by the Ford Motor Company, who was a major investor for the exposition, the building was used to show and display the new line of 1935 Ford cars as well as various other vehicles. The building has a 45,500 square foot exhibit area, and even had a test road behind the building where potential buyers could test drive the new cars. After the exposition, the Ford Company donated the building to the city of San Diego, where it got its first taste of aviation as the Vocational School for Aircraft Industry during World War II. In the late 70s the Air & Space Museum was looking to relocate to a new facility, a fire broke out in 1978 that ended up destroying much of the collection. Through the massive support by local citizens by personal donations, the museum was able to move to the old Ford building and the new San Diego Air & Space Museum was opened in 1980. In addition to a world class collection of planes from various periods in flight, the building today remains as one of the only lasting examples of the "Streamlined Moderne" architectural style. The museum has a truly unique collection of planes and aircraft that are sure to bring wonder and awe to people of all ages. More »

San Diego Archaeological Center

Archeology in principle is a study of many different aspects of human life from geography, biology, forensics, sociology, etc. At the San Diego Archaeological Center, they help provide a place where people can come and learn about this unique process of gathering information from the archaeological record. From nearby sites such as the Otay Mesa and Del Mar, as well as various locations around San Diego, millions of artifacts have been collected that provide otherwise unknown information about the Native American populations predating the Spanish and European arrival from around 10,000 years ago up until our present day. The museum not only is a great place to learn about human history of San Diego, but also is an important place for professional archaeologists to continue their research with access to the artifacts within the collection. The continued research and study of artifacts is a vital aspect of the center and the archaeological field, as it helps provide answers to some of the questions of the past. More »

San Diego Automotive Museum

Inside the small warehouse at the San Diego Automotive Museum in Balboa Park, you'll find over 80 one of a kind cars, motorcycles, and specialty cars, recording the American obsession with the automobile. From Henry Ford's Model T at the turn of the century into the 1950s, ushered in a new era of fast cars and leisurely rides. Luxury and the American Dream collided, and the result was a whole era of fascinating cars, some of which can be found here at the San Diego Automotive Museum. There are a number of unique cars unlike any other in the world including the incredibly rare 1948 Tucker Torpedo from which only 47 are still in existence today. Then there's the stout little Italian 1969 Fiat 500 rubbing shoulders with 1950s era wingtip Cadillacs and 'Hot Rods.' Finally a stop at the Automotive Museum isn't complete without a look at Louie Mattar's 'Fabulous $75,000 Car,' the same car that broke the non-stop distance record of 6,320 miles from September 20-27, 1952. The car, complete with sink, stove, hookah pipe, and soda fountain, made a "non-stop goodwill tour" from Anchorage Alaska to Mexico City, and is one of the main attractions of the museum. More »

San Diego Chinese Historical Museum

The Chinese immigrants to California retained much of their rich cultural heritage, of which some is presented through the series of exhibits and artifacts found at the San Diego Chinese Historical Museum. Founded in 1996, the museum, under the direction of presidents Sally Wong, Tom Hom, and Dr. Alexander Chuang, strived to provide a place that both preserved and shared the Chinese American life in early San Diego. The large collection of Chinese American artifacts extends into all walks of life including calligraphy, ceramic art, as well as various items collected from old Chinatown. Five years prior, the city of San Diego donated land from the old Chinatown in which the current building was finally built. Over 39 exhibits have rotated through the museum spanning a diverse array of time periods and topics from snuff bottles to the Moon Festival. Come check out where old Chinatown used to be, and find your inner calm at the a tranquil garden and koi pond, before heading off to a nearby Chinese restaurant to complete your cultural experience. More »

San Diego Convention Center

Just because you're required to attend a convention in San Diego doesn't mean you can't enjoy it...after all you are in the crowning jewel of the Golden State. Situated between the downtown part of the city and the Pacific Ocean, the San Diego Convention Center has spectacular views of the ocean from its sleek and modern oceanside building. The building originally opened in November 1989, but following an expansion project in 2001, is now a world-class facilities with top-class amenities. Canadian architect Arthur Erickson designed the modern structure employing his minimalistic and modern style using basic materials to create this unique building. Attracting hundreds of events, conventions, and trade shows on a regular basis throughout the year, there really is no better place than sunny San Diego to make your next business stop in the city. More »

San Diego County Sheriff's Museum

The San Diego County Sheriff's Museum is more than just an old prison located in Old Town. In fact the history about the department is a fascinating piece of cultural history dating back to the mid-nineteenth century. In 1850, a Hungarian immigrant by the name Agoston Haraszthy became the first sheriff for San Diego Country. He helped build the first prison in Old Town where the museum is located today and served for just a year at this post before being elected California State Assemblyman from San Diego. It was here that began pursuing his main interest in wine making, and ended up disappearing in a river in Nicaragua on one of his cultivating explorations for finding new vines for the California wine industry, and was presumed to have been eaten by an alligator. Another one of San Diego's interesting sheriffs was a Cherokee-born Edward “Ned” Wilkinson Bushyhead, who after surviving the Trail of Tears, took the rumors of gold and headed west with his printing press where he started the San Diego Tribune, one of San Diego's prominent daily papers. He later became one of San Diego's beloved law enforcement officers and eventually became the Chief of Police. Along with tributes to former sheriffs and officers, the museum also exhibits displays on other various parts of the department like the 1974 Dodge Coronet patrol car that is one of the last muscle car deputy patrol cars to be used. With the museum, they hope to both preserve the heritage of the Sheriff Department, and educate about historical San Diego. More »

San Diego Hall of Champions

In 1946, Bob Breitbard, a native son of San Diego began his Breitbard Athletic Foundation as a way of commemorating and honoring those who have played sports in San Diego in either the high school, college, or professional level. There are only two professional sports teams in San Diego: the Chargers and the Padres, but there are a significant number of athletes who have called San Diego home at one point or another in their lives. What started as essentially a hall to store sport memorabilia, has grown to encompass all aspects of recognizing athletes through various exhibits and awards. One of the first objects collected by the foundation was several bats used by Ted Williams in 1941 when he achieved a batting average of .406, the last one to hit over .400 since Rogers Hornsby did it twice in the 1920s. Williams was a friend of Breitbard, and even attended school with him at nearby Hoover High School in San Diego. Also included was a racket used by Maureen Connolly to win one of her three Wimbledon crowns, and Archie Moore's used gloves and robes from a championship boxing match. Since then the foundation has evolved into the new San Diego Hall of Champions, and Breitbard Hall of Fame in 1953, which includes the likes of Ted Williams and the previously mentioned athletes, along with Marcus Allen, Dan Fouts, Bill Walton, and even skateboarder Tony Hawk. Today the hall is found at its permanent location in Balboa Park in the old Federal Building, which was built in 1915 to be used in the Panama-California Exhibition. The San Diego Hall of Champions is a great place to 'feel the glory' in recognizing the efforts of athletes who have represented the city of San Diego so well throughout their careers. More »

San Diego Maritime Museum

Take to the sea at the San Diego Maritime Museum where you'll find a handful of fascinating ships that date back to a hundred years ago right up until today. Headquartered on the 1898 steam ferryboat, The Berkley, the museum presents a hands on look the various uses of maritime ships through exhibits and tours of the museum's fleet of ships. The Berkley is one of the "irreplaceable" ships in the collection, who served the San Francisco Bay for many years, including the evacuation of hundreds of civilians after the terrible
1906 earthquake. Also in the collection is The Star of India, the world's oldest active ship from 1863. Although it originally made port in the Isle of Man in the United Kingdom, this ship made its livelihood as part of the canning excursions to the Bering Sea ferrying fishermen and supplies up north and returning at the end of the season. The are some unique chances to get on one of the ships for a short trip on the water for a real maritime experience. Perhaps you just want to imagine what it would be like while you step on the deck of the HMS Surprise, a replica of an eighteenth century British Royal Navy frigate that was subsequently used in the epic film, Master and Commander: The Far Side of the World. The San Diego Maritime Museum also allows you to take a stealth look underwater at the 300 foot Soviet B-39 Attack Submarine that was used in the Soviet Navy during the Cold War. The museum is a great way to fully appreciate the history and legacy of the maritime tradition that San Diego holds. More »