Great weather, beautiful beaches and plenty of attractions and activities are big draws for any trip to California. But when it comes to San Diego vacations, you mustn’t miss these six sights that are unique to “the birthplace of California.”
California’s second largest city (and the eighth largest in the U.S.), San Diego is home to more than 1.3 million people. Millions more visit each year, drawn by temperate weather, plentiful beaches, world-class dining and plenty of things to see and do. A quick online search will yield plenty of cheap flights to San Diego International airport. From there, your adventure in this spectacular bay city can begin.
For a real flavor of what makes San Diego unique, historic and exciting, don’t miss these attractions:
Balboa Park
If you think Manhattan’s Central Park is the top urban park in the nation, consider this – Balboa Park, nestled in the heart of San Diego, is home to no less than 15 museums, scenic public gardens, multiple performing arts venues, and the world-famous San Diego Zoo. With 1,200 acres, it is the largest urban park in the nation and the grounds are open 24 hours a day. Whether you’re looking for a snapshot of San Diego’s history, a taste of its culture, or just a fun, free spot to spend an afternoon with the family, Balboa Park has something to offer for everyone. Log on to www.balboapark.org to learn more.
San Diego Zoo
A highlight of Balboa Park is the San Diego Zoo, widely recognized as one of the best zoos in the world. Founded in 1916, the 100-acre zoo houses more than 4,000 rare and endangered animals. The zoo emphasizes conservation and education, and offers visitors the chance to see such rarities as the giant panda. Learn more at www.sandiegozoo.org.
Legoland
Located just 30 minutes north of San Diego, this unique park offers more than 60 rides, shows and attractions all themed on the popular children’s building blocks. A water park has recently been added. Children and adults alike will delight at the intricate displays and dioramas all constructed from Legos. Log on to www.legoland.com to learn more.
Gaslamp Quarter
Grand Victorian-era homes house restaurants, shops, theaters, art galleries, pubs and nightclubs in the 16-block national historic district known as the Gaslamp Quarter. History buffs and architecture aficionados will enjoy the well-preserved Victorian architecture throughout the district. For everyone else, the shops, restaurants and nightlife are a top draw. You can find more details at www.gaslamp.org.
Seaport Village
Contemporary fun meets nature’s beauty in Seaport Village, where four miles of tree-lined paths, more than 50 specialty merchants and 17 restaurants meander along the San Diego Bay. Shopping, dining and savoring panoramic views of the bay are the top activities at Seaport Village. Live music and entertainment regularly takes place along the pathways and streets of the village. Log on to www.seaportvillage.com to learn more.
U.S.S. Midway
Opened in 2004, the U.S.S. Midway Museum is the most-visited floating ship museum in the world. For 47 years, the U.S.S. Midway aircraft carrier served the nation, and in its nearly half-century history housed more than 225,000 service men and women. The Midway was the longest-serving U.S. Navy carrier of the 20th century, and the largest ship in the world from 1945 to 1955. After serving as the flagship in Desert Storm, the ship was decommissioned. Now the Midway Museum offers visitors 60 exhibits, a collection of restored aircraft, and the chance to relive the ship’s storied history with self-guided audio tours narrated by Midway sailors. Learn more at www.midway.org.
No matter where you are in the U.S., a visit to San Diego is a must. With easy-to-find-online cheap flights, you can experience the history, culture and singular sights of the birthplace of California.
Courtesy of ARAcontent
