San Diego
United States
Attractions & Events in San Diego
Discover the top attractions, events, and festivals in San Diego, United States
Top Attractions
Balboa Park
A sprawling urban park featuring museums, gardens, walking paths, and the famous San Diego Zoo.
Tips: Wear comfortable shoes, plan for a full day, and check the park’s event schedule for special activities.
Birch Aquarium at Scripps
A public aquarium featuring marine life exhibits and interactive displays overlooking the Pacific Ocean.
Tips: Great for families and kids. Buy tickets online to avoid lines, and don’t miss the outdoor tide pools.
Cabrillo National Monument
A monument commemorating the landing of Juan Rodriguez Cabrillo, offering panoramic views over San Diego Bay.
Tips: Bring a camera for views and binoculars for whale watching (in season). Visit the tide pools at low tide.
Coronado Beach
A wide, family-friendly beach with soft sand and views of the iconic Hotel del Coronado.
Tips: Arrive early for parking, especially on weekends. The beach is great for sunbathing, swimming, and sandcastle building.
Gaslamp Quarter
A vibrant historic district filled with Victorian-era buildings, restaurants, bars, and nightlife.
Tips: Ideal for evening visits. Book dinner or club reservations in advance, especially on weekends.
La Jolla Cove
A picturesque coastal area known for its stunning cliffs, sea lions, snorkeling, and kayaking.
Tips: Parking can be challenging—arrive early. Bring swimwear and snorkel gear; check tide schedules for best conditions.
Little Italy
A lively neighborhood known for Italian restaurants, cafes, markets, and festivals.
Tips: Visit on Saturdays for the farmers market. Make dinner reservations at popular spots.
Old Town San Diego State Historic Park
A living history park preserving and recreating San Diego’s Mexican and early American heritage.
Tips: Visit during the day for most shops and museums. Sample authentic Mexican cuisine at local restaurants.
Petco Park
A modern downtown ballpark, home to the San Diego Padres and host to concerts and events.
Tips: Check the schedule for games or concerts. Stadium tours are available on non-game days.
San Diego Museum of Art
The region’s oldest and largest art museum, showcasing works from around the world.
Tips: Check for rotating exhibits and special events. Admission is free on certain days for San Diego residents.
San Diego Zoo
One of the world’s most famous zoos, home to over 3,500 animals and lush, naturalistic habitats.
Tips: Arrive early to avoid crowds and bring sunscreen. Consider the guided bus tour to see highlights.
Seaport Village
A waterfront shopping and dining complex with boutiques, eateries, and live entertainment.
Tips: Great for families and casual strolls. Parking is limited; consider public transit or ride-share.
Sunset Cliffs Natural Park
A dramatic coastal park known for its rugged cliffs, tide pools, and stunning sunsets.
Tips: Best visited at sunset; parking is limited. Watch your step near cliff edges and don’t miss the tide pools at low tide.
Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve
A scenic reserve with hiking trails, rare pine trees, and breathtaking ocean views.
Tips: Wear hiking shoes and bring water. Trails range from easy to moderate; sunrise and sunset are especially beautiful.
USS Midway Museum
A historic aircraft carrier turned museum with interactive exhibits and restored aircraft.
Tips: Plan for 2–4 hours, wear comfortable shoes, and check for guided tour times. Great for families and history buffs.
Events & Festivals
La Jolla Concours d'Elegance
An annual event showcasing rare and classic automobiles at the La Jolla Cove beachfront.
When: April
Tips: Purchase tickets in advance; consider attending related events throughout the weekend.
Bazaar del Mundo Latin American Festival
A vibrant mix of folk art, entertainment, and a bustling marketplace in San Diego's historic Old Town.
When: August
Tips: Bring cash for vendor purchases; explore the surrounding Old Town area for additional attractions.
San Diego Comic-Con
A multi-genre entertainment and comic convention attracting over 135,000 attendees annually, featuring panels, exhibitions, and celebrity appearances.
When: July
Tips: Tickets sell out quickly; consider attending off-site events if unable to secure a badge.
San Diego Pride Parade and Festival
A weeklong celebration of the LGBTQ community, including a parade with over 300 floats and a two-day festival in Balboa Park.
When: July
Tips: Arrive early to secure a good viewing spot for the parade; stay hydrated and wear comfortable clothing.
Del Mar Racetrack Summer Season
Renowned summer meet featuring top Thoroughbred racehorses at the famous track where 'the turf meets the surf.'
When: July-September
Tips: Check the racing schedule in advance; consider purchasing tickets online to avoid lines.
CRSSD Festival
A bi-annual electronic music festival held at Waterfront Park, featuring a diverse lineup of artists.
When: March and September
Tips: Tickets often sell out; consider using public transportation due to limited parking.
Breeders' Cup World Championships
A series of Grade I Thoroughbred races held at the Del Mar Thoroughbred Club, attracting international attention.
When: November
Tips: Dress in upscale attire; consider reserving seating in advance due to high demand.
San Diego Beer Week
A 10-day celebration promoting San Diego's thriving craft beer culture with events across the county.
When: November
Tips: Check the official schedule for special brewery events; consider using ride-sharing services for safe transportation.
San Diego Food + Wine Festival
A festival bringing together hundreds of domestic and international wineries, craft brewers, and culinary legends on the Embarcadero.
When: November
Tips: Purchase tickets early for popular events; wear comfortable shoes for walking between tasting stations.
Del Mar Racing Bing Crosby Season
A four-week season of elite Thoroughbred racing, fun events, and musical performances at the Del Mar Racetrack.
When: November-December
Tips: Check the event calendar for special promotions; arrive early to find parking.
Del Mar Wine + Food Festival
A nearly weeklong culinary experience showcasing top local restaurants, craft cocktails, beer, and tastings from leading wineries.
When: October
Tips: Purchase tickets for specific events in advance; consider arranging transportation if planning to sample alcoholic beverages.
San Diego International Film Festival
A multi-day event featuring screenings, parties, networking events, and celebrity appearances.
When: October
Tips: Purchase passes early for access to gala events; check the schedule for filmmaker Q&A sessions.
San Diego Tijuana International Jazz Festival
A three-day celebration featuring internationally acclaimed jazz artists performing in both San Diego and Tijuana.
When: October
Tips: Ensure you have proper identification for cross-border events; plan transportation between venues in advance.
Día de los Muertos
A multi-day commemoration featuring colorful traditions honoring those who have passed, with events throughout San Diego.
When: October/November
Tips: Participate in local events to experience authentic celebrations; be respectful of cultural practices.