Guide
10 San Diego attractions everyone should see once
The greatest-hits list — the parks, museums and coastline that define a first trip to San Diego, and that locals still never tire of.
01
Balboa Park
The 1,200-acre cultural core: 17 museums, Spanish-Revival architecture and gardens you could lose a whole day in.
Order: Start at the Botanical Building and Lily Pond.
02
San Diego Zoo
One of the world's great zoos, tucked inside Balboa Park, with naturalistic habitats spread across 100 acres.
03
Cabrillo National Monument
The tip of Point Loma — sweeping harbor views, a historic lighthouse, and tide pools at the bottom of the hill.
Order: Time it for low tide to catch the tide pools.
04
La Jolla Cove
Sea lions, snorkelers and clifftop views over a protected marine reserve.
05
USS Midway Museum
Walk the flight deck of a real aircraft carrier on the downtown Embarcadero.
06
Old Town San Diego State Historic Park
California's birthplace, with preserved 1800s buildings and some of the city's oldest Mexican restaurants.
07
Sunset Cliffs Natural Park
Exactly what it sounds like: dramatic Point Loma bluffs made for golden hour.
Order: Arrive an hour before sunset for parking.
08
Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve
Rare Torrey pines and sandstone canyons on clifftop trails above the Pacific.
09
Hotel del Coronado
The 1888 red-roofed Victorian landmark — visit the beach and grounds even without a room.
10
Seaport Village
An easy bayfront stroll of shops and snacks between the Convention Center and the Embarcadero.