5 Fantastic Don’t-Miss Spots for San Diego Tourists
In addition to being the oldest city in California, San Diego is also one of the most tourist-friendly places in the entire country. Known for its mild climate and abundance of sunshine, natural beauty, and charm, it’s a city worth visiting any time of the year. If you have plans to spend some time in San Diego soon, keep reading to discover five tourist-friendly spots you won’t want to miss, brought to you by the people who know the city best, the friendly team at Sunrise Inn San Diego, one of the top budget-friendly hotels in San Diego.
1. Balboa Park
A great place to get started when you’re ready to explore San Diego is Balboa Park. Conveniently located close to both the downtown area and the city’s major airport, it’s a 1,400-acre site with an assortment of attractions and tourist-friendly spots that include:
• Numerous on-site museums
• Botanical gardens
• An on-site miniature train and carousel
• California Tower
2. San Diego Zoo
Even though it’s located in Balboa Park, the world-famous San Diego Zoo is worthy of a separate mention because of the many things to do in this particular tourist-friendly spot. You’re welcome to walk around and check out the 12,000-plus animals, or you can hop on the Kangaroo Express Bus to get around this 100-acre space.
3. Gaslamp Quarter
Nestled next to Petco Park and the city’s convention center, the historic Gaslamp Quarter is the tourist-friendly destination to check out if you prefer convenient access to entertainment, dining possibilities, and trendy shops. This 16-block area is extremely walkable, although you can always take a bike taxi or come here on the trolley.
As for what to do in the Gaslamp Quarter, you can marvel at the Victorian buildings, sample an assortment of fresh, flavorful cuisine, or browse through art galleries during the day. When the sun goes down, this is the place to be for live music, hip nightclubs, and bars serving up original craft beers and tasty snack foods.
4. Seaport Village
This waterfront dining and shopping complex is extremely tourist friendly and a great place to stroll and check out the view. Encompassing 90,000 square feet, this area is home to a multitude of shops, dining destinations, and galleries. The many benches here offer a great place to relax, even on the weekend, when it’s a bit busier. You can also pick up goodies and have a picnic here on one of the picnic tables. Also, check out the historic carousel if you’re coming to San Diego with kids.
5. San Diego Beaches
If relaxation is what you have in mind while you’re in San Diego, you can’t go wrong with any of the beaches in the area. There’s a little something for everyone. If you prefer access to a bustling boardwalk and oceanside cafés, make your way to Mission Beach. If you’re looking for a prime swimming and surfing spot, try the northern part of nearby Del Mar City Beach. Other tourist-friendly beaches in the area include:
• Ocean Beach
• Pacific Beach
• Coronado Beach, which is known for being especially family friendly
Get a head start on planning your San Diego vacation by reserving your room today at Sunrise Inn San Diego. If they’re looking for comfortable but cheap hotels, San Diego visitors will be pleasantly surprised by our affordable rates as well as our spacious rooms, exquisite harbor views, and location close to the most popular tourist attractions in America’s Finest City. Call one of our friendly staff members today at (619) 223-5544.