Awesome Ways to Enjoy San Diego the First Time You Visit
San Diego is the kind of tourist destination that gets repeated visits from travelers who have great experiences their first time around. It’s virtually impossible to experience all San Diego has to offer on your first visit—that would require a vacation lasting a few months. The reason many tourists return to San Diego is because they fall in love with the attractions listed below, which you should make a point to experience during your first visit. The friendly team from Sunrise Inn San Diego, one of the most comfortable, affordable San Diego hotels you can find, recommend these not-to-be-missed things to do on your first trip to San Diego.
Go on the San Diego Harbor Cruises & Amphibious Tours
Getting to see the San Diego skyline right from the middle of the bay is something you should do shortly after your arrival. There are two traditional cruise companies, Flagship and Hornblower, that sail from Seaport Village. The SEAL tour is more adventurous because it starts on the streets of San Diego before the amphibious vehicle splashes into the harbor.
Check Out the Nautical Treasures
As a major West Coast city, San Diego has a rich maritime tradition that begs to be explored. The USS Midway provides an amazing experience that will let you learn about how the United States Navy operated in the previous century, and the Maritime Museum features tall sailing ships as well as numerous displays about nautical history. You can always combine a tour of this museum with a stroll down to Seaport Village and the Embarcadero for the ultimate San Diego day trip.
Spend the Day at Balboa Park
Since there’s so much to see and do at this local urban oasis, chances are you’ll be coming back several times for more culture, nature, art, and entertainment. The world-famous San Diego Zoo is the main draw at Balboa Park, but there’s also the Museum of Man, the Japanese Friendship Gardens, the Natural History Museum, and various venues where you can enjoy performances such as Shakespeare plays during various times of the year.
Stroll through Little Italy
This elegant district of downtown San Diego is located between the Maritime Museum and Balboa Park. Whether you’re a foodie or just the kind of person who appreciates a really good meal, you should add Little Italy to the list of places to visit on your first trip to America’s Finest City. Some of the Little Italy restaurants recommended by food critics in 2021 include Davanti Enoteca, Isola Pizza Bar, and the Kettner Exchange.
Explore the Gaslamp Quarter
Your first trip to San Diego simply must include visiting the historic Gaslamp Quarter, which is home to some of the best nightlife in Southern California. This is a district where you can find everything from live music clubs and hipster lounges to pulsating EDM venues and gourmet bistros.
There are so many fantastic ways to enjoy San Diego that it will take several days to do and see everything on your list, so reserve your room today at Sunrise Inn San Diego. When they’re looking for the most comfortable cheap hotels, San Diego visitors will be amazed by our unbeatable rates as well as our spacious rooms, stunning views of the harbor, and proximity to the best tourist attractions in America’s Finest City. Call one of our friendly staff members today at (619) 223-5544.