San Diego

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Top 10 attractions in San Diego

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Port of San Diego
No. 2 of Best Things to Do in San Diego Metropolitan Area

Port of San Diego

8.7
4.7/5
249 reviews
Port of San Diego is one of the main naval ports for the US Navy's Pacific Fleet. The harbor is deep and wide, with various warships such as aircraft carriers, destroyers, and nuclear submarines moored year-round. Standing on the shore, you can feel the massive scale of the warships up close. A highly recognizable landmark in the port area is the decommissionedUSS Midwayaircraft carrier. It is moored by the harbor and has been converted into an aircraft carrier museum open to the public, with various retired carrier-based aircraft displayed on the flight deck. In the park next to the aircraft carrier stands the "Embracing Peace" sculpture—a giant statue based on the classic V-J Day photo, capturing the moment a sailor and a nurse kiss. In the same park, there is also a group of bronze statues depicting a pilot who has just stepped off a plane, a kneeling nurse, a wounded soldier on crutches, a veteran in a wheelchair, as well as sailors, marines, ordinary citizens, and children. Strolling through the port area, red tiles and green trees contrast with the blue sea and sky, and in the distance, you can see the Coronado Bridge spanning the bay. On the other side of the harbor, there is a large private yacht marina with a forest of masts, offering a unique coastal charm. The pedestrian area is dotted with vintage sailboats and street performers playing guitar, as well as a century-old carousel.San Diego · 2.9 km from downtown
SeaWorld San Diego
2026 Global 100 - Family-friendly Attractions

SeaWorld San Diego

7.9
4.6/5
764 reviews
•Enjoy a variety of one-of-a-kind animal experiences •Enjoy attractions for every thrill level •Explore the exciting world of marine animals △Marine Life Shows: SeaWorld San Diego is known for its captivating marine life shows, where visitors can witness incredible performances by dolphins, sea lions, and orcas. These shows provide both entertainment and education about marine animals and their behaviors. △Animal Exhibits: The park offers a variety of animal exhibits, allowing visitors to get up close and personal with a wide range of marine creatures. From penguins and sharks to turtles and rays, these exhibits provide an immersive experience and a chance to learn about different species. △Thrilling Rides: In addition to the marine life attractions, SeaWorld San Diego also features thrilling rides for adrenaline enthusiasts. From roller coasters to water slides, these rides offer a mix of excitement and fun for visitors of all ages.San Diego · 8.5 km from downtown
San Diego Zoo
2026 Global 100 - Family-friendly Attractions

San Diego Zoo

7.5
4.5/5
201 reviews
The San Diego Zoo is located in Balboa Park in Southern California, USA. It is a large urban zoo that combines animal exhibits, plant views, and conservation education. The zoo is home to over 10,000 animals, covering more than 600 species and subspecies, including many rare and endangered ones. The park also features hundreds of thousands of plants, with eucalyptus forests and various succulents giving it the charm of a botanical garden. Visiting the zoo feels like strolling through a plant garden. Giant pandas are the star attraction here: pandas "Yunchuan" and "Xinbao" live in the expanded "Panda Ridge" exhibit, where you can watch them munching bamboo, rolling around, or napping through the glass—often making it one of the park's most popular stops. Nearby the entrance, the "Koalafornia" exhibit features koalas mostly snoozing on eucalyptus branches or chewing leisurely, looking perpetually sleepy. The "Lost Forest" area showcases a gorilla family, while the "African Rocks" zone has groups of waddling African penguins on the sandy shore. In the polar bear exhibit, the bears often swim close to the water's surface, visible in striking detail through the glass. The park offers year-round educational animal shows, where animal ambassadors make appearances under keeper guidance. The double-decker sightseeing bus and "Skyfari" cable car provide two efficient ways to explore the park. The cable car crosses overhead, serving as both a convenient shuttle between park sections and a vantage point for canopy views of the zoo and Balboa Park. The zoo is built along the canyon terrain with many slopes and steps, so comfortable shoes are recommended. Try to visit the pandas earlier in the morning for shorter wait times. A full walk around the park with stops usually takes most of the day, so planning your route in advance can help avoid backtracking. △ Watch adorable giant pandas up close △ Watch marine creature show △ Overlooking the zoo panorama by cable carSan Diego · 2.4 km from downtown
LEGOLAND California
2026 Global 100 - Family-friendly Attractions

LEGOLAND California

7.5
4.7/5
322 reviews
LEGOLAND California (LEGOLAND California) features over 60 rides, shows, and attractions designed for children's entertainment, perfect for families with kids aged 2 to 12! Miniland USA contains millions of LEGO® bricks and scenes from the east coast to the west coast. Lego water park with over 7 slides, beach and unique build-a-raft river plus pirate reef and LEGO® legends of CHIMA water park•Includes 10 acres of water fun! SEA LIFE aquarium is your child's interactive guide to marine life, combining hands-on learning with engaging educational talks and close encounters with creatures like sharks and rays! Coming in 2026! LEGO Galaxy™: New themed area and attractions—now open!Charge into a brand-new space-themed zone and embark on a joy-filled universe beyond imagination, featuring: ·Galacticoaster: This roller coaster perfectly blends storytelling, thrilling experiences, and cutting-edge ride technology, taking the whole family on a customizable LEGO® space adventure! · A galaxy full of joy: Also featuring two additional rides, character interaction experiences, a play area for young children, space-themed cuisine, and cool galactic gear waiting to be explored! △Exciting activity △Intuitive perception of LEGO model finished products △Observe marine animals up closeCarlsbad · 47.9 km from San Diego
Balboa Park
No. 6 of Best Things to Do in San Diego Metropolitan Area

Balboa Park

6.8
4.5/5
163 reviews
Balboa Parkis located in the heart of San Diego, California, United States. The park covers a vast area, integrating large green spaces, natural canyons, historic buildings, and numerous cultural institutions into a comprehensive public space that combines leisure, art, history, and natural views. Soaring towers, continuous arched corridors, exquisite courtyard decorations, and rich sculptural details work together to create a strong Spanish palace-style atmosphere. Strolling through it, visitors feel as if they are in a city garden that blends European classical style with the sunny atmosphere of California. The park features rich botanical views, and the Botanical Building and the Lily Pond in front of it form a classic view. The wooden-framed greenhouse is reflected on the calm surface of the lily pond, set against the surrounding flowers, plants, palm trees, and green spaces, creating a tranquil and beautiful garden atmosphere.San Diego · 2.4 km from downtown
Embracing Peace
Selected for Best Things to Do in California

Embracing Peace

6.4
4.8/5
39 reviews
Embracing Peace is a striking public artwork located in San Diego, California, United States, situated near Seaport Village on the San Diego waterfront. Visitors here can not only admire the artwork but also experience the unique atmosphere created by the interplay of the harbor, warships, and the city view. Created by American artist Seward Johnson, this large bronze sculpture stands over 7 m tall and captures the classic moment of a sailor and a nurse embracing to celebrate the end of World War II. The sailor in the sculpture leans forward while the nurse leans back. Their dynamic poses not only express the joy of that historical moment but also convey themes of peace and hope. The statue is set in an open area with the sparkling San Diego Bay in front and the massive hull of the USS Midway Museum visible behind it, creating a striking blend of history and coastal scenery.San Diego · 1.7 km from downtown
Old Town

Old Town

6.3
4.5/5
242 reviews
Old Townis located in San Diego, California, United States, and serves as an important starting point for the city's history and culture. Stepping into Old Town, you are immediately immersed in a rich historical atmosphere. The district preserves many traditional adobe buildings, which feature rustic exterior walls and natural colors that complement the surrounding palm trees, courtyards, and small plazas, showcasing the unique lifestyle of early California. The district is home to hundreds of shops, restaurants, and handicraft markets, where visitors can purchase souvenirs such as Mexican-style pottery, textiles, and handmade jewelry. The public spaces in Old Town are equally vibrant, with street musicians often playing in the plaza, and folk dances and traditional performances appearing from time to time.San Diego · 5.9 km from downtown
La Jolla Cove
No. 8 of Best Things to Do in San Diego Metropolitan Area

La Jolla Cove

6.1
4.7/5
185 reviews
La Jolla Coveis located on the Pacific coast north of downtown San Diego, California, United States, and is a beautiful coastal area consisting of reefs, beaches, and cliffs. It is known for its clear waters, rich marine life, and immersive nature-viewing experience, making it one of San Diego's popular seaside attractions. Walking south along the coastal trail toward the beach, you can see seals resting leisurely on the sand, while seabirds like cormorants gather on nearby reefs, creating a vibrant coastal scene. The entire area is within a marine ecological reserve, and its crystal-clear waters make it a favorite spot for snorkeling and scuba diving enthusiasts. Once in the water, visitors can see colorful Garibaldi fish swimming among the reefs.La Jolla · 2 km from downtown
San Diego Air & Space Museum
No. 8 of Best Things to Do in San Diego

San Diego Air & Space Museum

5.3
4.6/5
46 reviews
San Diego Air & Space Museum is a significant museum dedicated to the history of aviation and space exploration. Upon entering, visitors can not only learn about the history of aerospace technology but also feel the deep, long-standing connection between San Diego and the aviation industry. The rotunda at the museum entrance serves as an important starting point for your visit, offering an expansive space with a sense of history. The hall features the actual command module from the Apollo 9 mission and precious moon rock samples, allowing visitors to immediately experience the grand journey of human space exploration upon entering. The museum's exhibitions are organized chronologically, with interconnected themed galleries that present the evolution from early flight to modern aerospace technology. In addition, the museum houses an aviation library and archives, which contain a vast collection of aviation books, historical photographs, and valuable video materials, providing rich resources for aviation history research.San Diego · 1.2 km from downtown
Sunset Cliffs Natural Park

Sunset Cliffs Natural Park

5
3.9/5
18 reviews
Sunset Cliffs Natural Parkis a coastal natural park known for its spectacular sea-eroded landforms. Extending along the Pacific coast, it features long cliff lines, rugged rock walls, and expansive ocean views, making it an important spot for local residents and visitors to enjoy natural scenery and watch the sunset. Through years of wind and wave action, the coastal cliffs have gradually formed natural arches, sea caves, and recessed rock layers of various sizes. Standing on the cliff-top trail and looking down, you can see deep blue seawater constantly crashing against the rock walls, with splashing waves and echoing sounds, showcasing the unique and magnificent grandeur of the Pacific coast. In addition to the coastal scenery, the park also focuses on nature conservation. The hillside area inside the cliff line is designated as a native vegetation protection zone, with trails winding through local plants, maintaining a relatively natural ecological environment. In spring, wildflowers often bloom on the hillsides, adding soft colors to the otherwise rugged coast.San Diego · 9.2 km from downtown

Experiences you can't miss in San Diego

Featured Cultural experiences in San Diego

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USS Midway, Old Town San Diego City Tour from Los Angeles
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5.0/5
· 1 review
Duration: 7.8 hrs
English
Free cancellation
From€179.10
USS Midway Museum: Skip The Line Ticket
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49 booked
Free cancellation
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From€36.58
Port of San Diego + USS Midway Museum + San Diego Bay Walk + Old Town
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From€113.39

Featured Day tours in San Diego

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1-day Tour to SeaWorld San Diego + Old Town Including Theme Park Admission Ticket
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5.0/5
· 1 review
Duration: 8.3 hrs
English
Free cancellation
From€245.46
1-day tour to SeaWorld San Diego + Old Town + Sunset Cliffs Natural Park
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From€113.39
San Diego Zoo Safari Park 1-Day Pass: Any Day Ticket
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4.1/5
· 116 reviews
Duration: 2–8 hrs
English
Free cancellation
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From€69.66
1-day tour to SeaWorld San Diego, Balboa Park and Sunset Cliffs Natural Park
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From€113.39
San Diego Zoo and Safari Park 2-Visit Pass Ticket
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4.2/5
· 72 reviews
Duration: 4–8 hrs
English
Free cancellation
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From€128.54

Featured Food & drink in San Diego

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San Diego: City Cruises Buffet Breakfast and Brunch Cruise
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5.0/5
· 1 review
Duration: 2 hrs
Free cancellation
5% off
Limited-time sale
From€94.01€98.96
San Diego: Gaslamp Quarter Food & Drink Walking Tour
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4.9/5
· 45 reviews
Duration: 2.5 hrs
Free cancellation
Book now for tomorrow
93.3% of travelers recommend
5% off
Limited-time sale
From€76.03€80.04
Gaslamp Quarter Food & Drink Tour: Brothels, Bites & Booze
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4.8/5
· 212 reviews
Duration: 150 mins
Free cancellation
Book now for tomorrow
33 consecutive positive reviews
From€102.70
San Diego: Little Italy Food & Drink Walking Tour
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4.0/5
· 1 review
Duration: 2.5 hrs
Free cancellation
5% off
Limited-time sale
From€76.03€80.04
From San Diego: Tijuana Guided Day Trip with Lunch
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4.6/5
· 27 reviews
Duration: 5 hrs
Free cancellation
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5% off
Limited-time sale
From€62.15€65.43
San Diego: Old Town Tales, Tacos, and Tequila Walking Tour
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5.0/5
· 2 reviews
Duration: 2.5 hrs
Free cancellation
5% off
Limited-time sale
From€72.37€76.18
San Diego: Gaslamp District Food Tour with 6 Local Dishes
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5.0/5
· 2 reviews
Duration: 3 hrs
Free cancellation
5% off
Limited-time sale
From€81.78€86.09
San Diego Sweet Treats Food Tour: Donuts, Pastries, & More
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Duration: 2 hrs
Free cancellation
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5% off
Limited-time sale
From€67.26€70.8

Featured Outdoor experiences in San Diego

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1-day tour to SeaWorld San Diego, Old Town, La Jolla Cove and La Jolla Shores Park
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From€113.39
Stand up Paddle Board Lesson on The San Diego Bay
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4.8/5
· 25 reviews
Duration: 90 mins
English
Free cancellation
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From€22.33
La Jolla Coast & Cove Self-Guided Audio Walking Tour
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Duration: 2 hrs
Free cancellation
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5% off
Limited-time sale
From€8.50€8.95
La Jolla: 1.5-Hour Surfing Lesson
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4.8/5
· 13 reviews
Duration: 1.5 hrs
Free cancellation
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5% off
Limited-time sale
From€126.69€133.36
San Diego: The Most Extensive City & Beach Tour
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Duration: 330 mins
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From€89.30

Free things to do in San Diego

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San Diego Cruises

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Private Tours in San Diego

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What travellers say about San Diego

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YoYo_1I8Q7O5OMarch 1, 2026
5.0
San Diego is a gentle city bathed in sunshine. The Spanish-style buildings in Balboa Park gleam warmly in the sunlight, and beside the massive silhouette of the HOUSTON aircraft carrier, the Kiss of Victory sculpture captures an eternal sense of joy. Colorful houses huddle together in the Old Town, and the aroma of burritos wafts from street corners. The most pleasant experience is lying on Coronado Beach at dusk, watching the Pacific waves gently lapping in—unhurried and peaceful, just like the perfect California sunshine.

Port of San Diego

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notmaxpAugust 29, 2026
5.0
Business Hours:Address:Tips:Reasons to Recommend:Reasons to Recommend: SeaWorld San Diego county

SeaWorld San Diego

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M27***85May 30, 2025
5.0
Very good zoo. The pandas are quite fat and worth seeing. The other animals are also very lively. The parking lot is free. There are also many things to eat and drink inside. Different shops have different characteristics. You must leave enough time, otherwise you will not be able to finish the tour.

San Diego Zoo

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띵미니June 4, 2026
5.0
visited when our children were young, and now that they’ve grown—to ages 12 and 14—we went back again, and they really enjoyed it. Since it was a weekday, it was a bit disappointing that a few places were closed; however, we still had a great time riding the attractions and having fun. Above all, the value for money was absolutely excellent.

LEGOLAND California

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西溪老翁January 21, 2021
5.0
Balboa Park in San Diego is a lush oasis in the north of downtown San Diego, covering an area of ​​1,200 acres. The center is only a few minutes' walk away. Imagine green lawns, fountains, Spanish architecture and lush gardens. Here you can relax and enjoy the beautiful scenery. Balboa Park is located in the north of downtown San Diego. As an internationally renowned gathering place for technology, culture and art, it will excite you who love artistic creation. At present, the park brings together 17 museums including human history, natural history, photography, art, automobiles, and aviation, as well as six open-air or indoor performance venues, and eight gardens of different styles, showing us the historical development of mankind from multiple perspectives. During Museum Month, visitors can experience the art and technology of various museums in a new way. Strolling through the park's historic Spanish Renaissance buildings and lush gardens, visitors can visit the Fleet Science Center, San Diego Natural History Museum, Museum of Photographic Arts, Japanese Friendship Garden, San Diego Air & Space Museum, Mingei Museum, and many other museums.

Balboa Park

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健康美丽的芳芳February 9, 2020
5.0
The Kiss of Victory is definitely worth a visit to check in and take photos as a souvenir. You should know that this is a classic scene of victory in World War II. This photo is even included in textbooks. It is definitely worth a good look.

Embracing Peace

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老少皆宜()October 2, 2022
5.0
The southern U.S. city of San Diego is a border city close to Mexico and an important military port. The Mexican town on the border here is a scenic tourist destination with Mexican style. If you have the chance, you should come and see it.

Old Town

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诗意情节January 29, 2018
5.0
I went to Lajolla Cove. The waves were so big. I rolled up a thousand piles of snow and smashed a pool of broken jade. The first time I saw the baby sea lion, the sea lion seal used to be silly and indistinguishable. The sea lion was sunbathing on the beach. It was lovely.

La Jolla Cove

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小思文February 19, 2020
4.0
San Diego, California is also a very beautiful city. The Air and Space Museum displays many tall, proportional models. Many aerospace machines can be seen, and you can also learn about some of the contents of the United States' aviation development here.

San Diego Air & Space Museum

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念念远方February 14, 2020
5.0
Here you can watch the sunset, the water connecting the sky and the water, the sun bathing in the water, the blue sky, the clear water, the red sun, the pink clouds, and the seabirds flying around. For more than an hour, you can immerse yourself in the unparalleled visual feast.

Sunset Cliffs Natural Park

Popular cities near San Diego

Frequently asked questions

What are the must-do things in San Diego?

Don't miss these attractions in San Diego: Port of San Diego, SeaWorld San Diego, and San Diego Zoo. If you like Cultural experiences, try USS Midway, Old Town San Diego City Tour from Los Angeles. If you enjoy Day tours, try USS Midway, Old Town San Diego City Tour from Los Angeles.

You can give San Diego: City Cruises Buffet Breakfast and Brunch Cruise and San Diego: Gaslamp Quarter Food & Drink Walking Tour a try. Before you go, please check their opening hours and menus online. Reservations are recommended, especially during peak hours.

When choosing a tour, start with how much time you have and the kind of experience you're looking for. Trending options right now include USS Midway, Old Town San Diego City Tour from Los Angeles, 1-day Tour to SeaWorld San Diego + Old Town Including Theme Park Admission Ticket, and 1-day tour in San Diego | Old town charm + aircraft carrier + cruise | Includes military harbor cruise ticket and aircraft carrier ticket. Check the real-time availability and itinerary before you book.

As of October 16, 2026, the reference price for day tours and activities in San Diego is around EUR 69.66 – EUR 245.46. Rates vary by duration, group size, transport, tickets, meals, and any special admission requirements. Before you book, please confirm the billing currency and whether the price is quoted per person or per group.

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