| In comparison to sprawling L.A., San Diego has the feel of a compact city and it is tempting to stay downtown. A lot of people do, however, think of San Diego in terms of the whole county, which leaves a lot more to explore. The regional terrain is extraordinary in itself and varies from the Pacific coastline in the west to the Sonoran desert in the east. Those who travel to the northeast will also come across its snow-capped mountains, while travelers who go south will find themselves at the Mexican border in just 15 minutes. Balboa Park Known as the heart of San Diego, Balboa Park is not only the largest urban park in the city, but also in the country. Originally designed with a plan for just 100 trees in 1892, the 1200-acre park now hosts 15 museums, dozens of gardens and the world-famous San Diego Zoo. Address: 1549 El Prado (The Balboa Park Visitors Center)
Phone: +1 (619) 239-0512
Internet: www.balboapark.org Cabrillo National Monument This historical site commemorates Juan Rodriguez Cabrillo, who led the first European expedition to what is now California. Cabrillo is believed to have anchored his flagship, the San Salvador, on Point Loma's east shore in 1542. The site offers breathtaking views of the bay and the statue of Cabrillo is one of the most visited national monuments in the U.S. Address: The end of Catalina Boulevard, Point Loma
Phone: +1 (619) 557-5450
Internet: www.nps.gov/cabr/ The New Children's Museum San Diego The New Children's Museum (NCM) opened in 2008 and is a place where kids can - and are encouraged - to go wild. Highlights include creative paint studios for children of all ages, a rain house powered by child-operated bicycles, and a graffiti-tagged climbing wall. The 50,000-square-foot structure is also San Diego's largest green building project. Address: 200 West Island Avenue, Downtown San Diego
Phone: +1 (619) 233 8792
Internet: www.thinkplaycreate.org Coronado The island-like peninsula of Coronado has been a popular resort destination since the late 19th century. In those days (as today), the main attraction was the Hotel Del Coronado, known as "The Del". The hotel has counted numerous presidents and celebrities, including Marilyn Monroe and Frank Sinatra, among its guests. Address: 1100 Orange Ave, Coronado (Coronado Vistor Center)
Phone: +1 (619) 437-8788 (Toll free: 866-599-7242)
Internet: www.coronadovisitorcenter.com La Jolla Cove La Jolla Cove - or "the Cove" as locals call it - lies next to one of the most photographed beaches in Southern California. As water visibility at the north end of the cove can reach 20-30 feet in the summer, it is also a popular location for scuba divers and snorkelers. Address: 1100 Coast Boulevard, La Jolla Address: 1100 Coast Boulevard, La Jolla
Internet: www.sandiego.gov/lifeguards/beaches/cove.shtml Old Town As the site of the first permanent European settlement on the west coast, Old Town San Diego has been called "the birthplace" of California. In 1968, the area was declared a state historic park. Nearby is Heritage Park where several of San Diego's most notable Victorian homes have been relocated and authentically restored. Address: 4002 Wallace St. San Diego (Old Town Information Center)
Phone: +1 (619) 220-5422
Internet: www.parks.ca.gov/?page_ID=663 PETCO Park Although PETCO Park is home to San Diego Padres, you don't have to be a baseball fan to enjoy this venue. The architecturally stunning ballpark, which was built in 2004, is equally known for its stunning views of San Diego. Address: 100 Park Boulevard, San Diego
Phone: +1 (619)795-5000
Internet: www.petcoparkevents.com SeaWorld San Diego Every year, millions of families come to SeaWorld San Diego. The famous marine adventure park offers world-class shows and many spectacular animal encounters. One of its most popular activity programs involve touching, feeding and training a dolphin (from $45 per person). Address: 500 Sea World Dr., San Diego
Phone: +1 (619) 226-3901 (Toll free: 1-800-257-4268)
Internet: www.seaworld.com The Gaslamp Quarter After three decades of redevelopment and restoration, the historic Gaslamp Quarter is once again in its prime. Top attractions include the largest collection of commercial Victorian-style buildings in the U.S. The area has also attracted hundreds of trendy shop and restaurant owners, making it the most visited neighborhood in downtown San Diego. Address: 614 5th Ave Ste. E, San Diego (Gaslamp Quarter Association)
Phone: +1 (619) 233-5227
Internet: www.gaslamp.org Torrey Pines Golf Course San Diego is known for its world-class assortment of golf courses and many consider Torrey Pines Golf Course to be the best. The golf club features two championship 18-hole courses and hosted the 2008 U.S. Open. |
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