See the Scenery of San Diego

I highly recommend Balboa Park because I love wandering through the different areas of the urban park. The Japanese Friendship Garden and Museum were absolutely stunning during an early spring trip I took last year, but if you're seeking a free alternative you can visit the Inez Grant Parker Memorial Rose Garden. The shops in the Spanish Village Art Center are some of my personal favorites across the city. The Botanical Building is set to reopen after extensive restoration in 2024.

Visit Mission Beach and enjoy the boardwalk atmosphere at Belmont Park. There's a small roller coaster, carnival games and tasty snacks to enjoy as you meander through. Follow up your time in Belmont Park by enjoying the beautiful sandy beach just feet away.

Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve is a beautiful location to hike and see the coastline all in one. There's opportunities to adventure on your own or utilize a Docent Led Tour from the Visitor's Center. Keep in mind there is a minimal parking fee when visiting the Reserve.

You'll want to visit Bates Nut Farm in Valley Center if you're looking to get out of the city limits. It's a short 40 minute drive from downtown San Diego and features giant pumpkins leading up to Halloween. It's open year round and features the Farm Zoo for your littles to enjoy in addition to a great farm store for everyone.

Interested in hearing a little more about Naval Base San Diego and Naval Air Station Coronado without having access? Take a quick tour of San Diego Bay by boat - the guides will share history of the military activity in addition to other fantastic sites of the bay. You may even get up close and personal with a military ship if they're headed out of the bay.

The island of Coronado is a great place to visit for the day or to stay overnight near the beach. Orange Avenue is home to cute shops and restaurants to help you bring home reminders of your new favorite locale.

Coronado

McP's Irish Pub is a veteran owned restaurant on Orange Avenue on Coronado. They have a great outdoor patio and you may be able to find free street parking. You can also enjoy live entertainment on occasion.

If you're already on Coronado - I think you'll like MooTime Creamery for a sweet snack! I was a big fan of the Miah O'My Sundae!

Downtown

Lou & Mickey's in the Gaslamp District and in Petco Park's backyard is a great place to grab a steak or seafood meal of choice and enjoy the outdoor patio. Their wine and spirits list is extensive - we enjoyed everything our group of four tried.

The Fish Market has some of the best coastal views and fantastic seasonal specialties you're sure to love.

Old Town

Looking for Mexican food in Old Town - I have two suggestions from my trips to San Diego. Casa Guadalajara or Old Town Tequila Factory Restaurant & Cantina are both great options. I recommend picking one for each trip you take to San Diego, you can't go wrong with either.

Additional Suggestions

Mission Beach features quite a few tasty options - but if you're looking to get some drinks and appetizers, I recommend Cannonball which features rooftop dining and fantastic sushi options.

Stella Jean's Ice Cream features small-batch flavors you're unlikely to find anywhere else. They have multiple locations across Southern California and you'll definitely satisfy your sweet tooth with this. I ordered the S'mores flavor during my recent trip.