San Diego Day trips

Known for its perfect weather and irresistible sunsets, San Diego draws visitors to its idyllic coastline and offers a plethora of exciting things to do. For the best views in San Diego, cruise the harbor, hike Sunset Cliffs, or climb Cowles Mountain. Fall in love with the San Diego skyline while picnicking in Kate Sessions Park or indulging in the city's finest cuisine on a restaurant rooftop terrace. 

Discover what might become your favorite scenic spots in San Diego in this guide to one of Southern California's most popular cities.

There is no shortage of fun and cool museums in San Diego. The leafy Balboa Park is a mecca for fun family-friendly days out, boasting 18 world-class museums that span art and history. You can delve into nautical heritage at the USS Midway Museum and the hands-on Maritime Museum, home to historic vessels you can hop aboard and explore. Get to know the best museums in San Diego and craft the perfect itinerary of things to do in the city with these top 15 picks.

San Diego’s best museums at a glance

Best museum for history: Maritime Museum

Best museum for art: San Diego Museum of Modern Art

Best museum for science: Natural History Museum

Best alternative museum: Whaley House Museum

San Diego has something for everyone, with must-see places from the attractions of Balboa Park to the bustling nightlife of the Gaslamp Quarter. You can start the day in one of the city’s museums, spend an afternoon exploring sea caves or lying on the beach, and end it with a romantic night at its most iconic hotel. 

History lovers can discover wartime tales at the USS Midway Museum or uncover colonial secrets at the Old Town Historic Park. Beer lovers won’t want to miss SD’s blossoming craft beer scene, the San Diego Zoo will delight nature lovers, and art lovers will be spoiled for choice too.
Ready to explore America’s Finest City? Here are 20 places that deserve a place on your itinerary.

San Diego is a treat for families, satisfying kids of all ages and unlocking childlike wonder in adults, too. The city’s many beaches, museums, and family-friendly parks mean you’re never far from an adventure. From walking tours to exploration games where you can discover San Diego’s hidden gems, the downtown streets are offer a ton of fun things to do.

The city is home to the San Diego Zoo, often names as the best of its kind in the world, and sports fans can live out their baseball dreams with a tour of Petco Park. Sesame Street fans can meet their television heroes on a visit to Sesame Place. And the clear, warm waters of La Jolla and picnic spots on Mission Beach are perfect for beach days. So, get off to the right start planning the perfect family vacation in San Diego with these 10 activities that kids will love.