Things to Do in San Diego, California

Located along the Navy Pier in downtown San Diego, the USS Midway Museum features the longest-serving U.S. Navy aircraft carrier of the 20th century. Explore over 60 exhibits, and open spaces on the Flight and Hangar Decks displaying over 30 restored aircraft and helicopters. USS Midway tickets include a self-guided audio tour available in six languages. Details

Explore the world-famous San Diego Zoo in Balboa Park. Spanning over 100 acres, it’s home to over 12,000 rare and endangered animals representing 680 species. Discover lush habitats, immersive exhibits, and thrilling attractions like the Skyfari Aerial Tram. Perfect for families and wildlife enthusiasts of all ages. Purchase your San Diego Zoo tickets today! Details

Experience LEGOLAND California Resort, where imagination and family fun come to life! With over 60 rides and attractions, including the famous Miniland USA and SEA LIFE Aquarium, this fun-filled theme park is perfect for families with young children. Whether you're a fan of LEGO or just looking for a day of fun, LEGOLAND California is the place to be! Details

Reserve your SeaWorld San Diego tickets and get ready to explore an aquatic paradise in Southern California! Experience thrilling marine shows like Orca Encounter and Dolphin Adventures, exhilarating rides like Arctic Rescue, Manta and Emperor, and a variety of seasonal events. Each San Diego SeaWorld visit promises a splash of adventure for the whole family! Details

Enjoy a day sightseeing aboard the Hop-On Hop-Off San Diego Trolley. Stay on the Old Town Trolley for the 1 hour and 40-minute loop tour or hop off at any of the 11 stops along the route at your leisure. Then, hop back on when you’re ready to continue the tour. This fully narrated tour includes stops at popular attractions like Balboa Park and San Diego Zoo. Details

Situated in Balboa Park in San Diego, California, this museum offers a unique learning experience for guests of all ages. Explore the natural history of southern California - from past to present - at the San Diego Natural History Museum (The Nat). From rattlesnakes and flesh-eating beetles to gems and fossils to a Foucault pendulum that proves the earth is spinning, there's something for everyone at The Nat. Visitors will be impressed by the unique, interactive exhibitions that span across four floors and stadium-style, giant-screen theater with films that focus on the natural world. Details

San Diego Zoo Safari Park offers an immersive wildlife experience spanning over 1,800 acres in the San Pasqual Valley area. Home to over 3,600 wild and endangered animals from around the world, Safari Park features sprawling African savannas, world-class botanical gardens, and more. Ride the Africa Tram to see the animals up close and in natural habitats. Details

On this exciting San Diego SEAL Tour, travel on both land and sea aboard an amphibious vehicle. Travel through scenic Seaport Village and along San Diego Bay before splashing into the cool waters of the Pacific for a cruise on the open-air boat on wheels. Guided by your seasoned captain, this family-friendly tour is fully narrated, fun and informative. Details

Experience the thrill of captaining your own speed boat on the San Diego Speed Boat Adventure Tour! Follow an expert guide through San Diego Bay, passing landmarks like the USS Midway and Coronado Bridge. This 2-hour, fully narrated tour offers excitement, panoramic views, and family-friendly fun. No experience needed—just bring your sense of adventure! Details

Experience America’s Finest City to the fullest with the Go City San Diego All-Inclusive Pass. Choose a 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, or 7-day pass to over 45 top attractions, including SeaWorld San Diego, LEGOLAND California, USS Midway Museum, and more. Visit as many attractions as you want within your chosen number of days and enjoy up to 50% off retail rates. Details

Hop aboard the San Diego harbor cruise to admire the stunning city skyline and local landmarks from the water. This 90-minute tour includes close-up views of Seaport Village, Shelter Island, Point Loma, and more. Gain insights into the city's history and wildlife from knowledgeable onboard staff while enjoying food and drinks from the onboard cash bar. Details

Be on the lookout for gray whales, humpbacks and other sea creatures as you cruise off the coast on this three-and-a-half-hour San Diego whale watching cruise. Flagship Cruises & Events guarantees you’ll see whales or your next ride is free. Enjoy stunning 360-degree views from the 2-story yacht as your onboard guide provides the scoop on these gentle giants. Details

One of the finest collections of historic ships across the globe, Maritime Museum of San Diego offers exceptional exhibits, daily public tours, cultural events, educational programs and more for the whole family to enjoy. The museum is located on the North Embarcadero in downtown San Diego and is also home to the world’s oldest active ship—Star of India. Details

Offered by Flagship Cruises & Events, San Diego Harbor Tours feature some of the best sightseeing in the San Diego Bay area on each one- and two-hour cruises. Covering more than 13 miles, the cruises guide guests through and around Seaport Village, Point Loma, Cabrillo National Monument, and other points of interest. All cruises include live narration, souvenir photos and more. Details

A 2.5-hour adventure for adults visiting the San Diego area, Tequila, Tacos and Tombstones Food Tour offers a combinaton of food, drink and history of Old Town San Diego. Guests can sample customary cocktails, taste authentic Mexican cuisine at four local restaurants, listen to mariachi music and hear a few ghost stories while visiting some of the oldest graveyards in San Diego. Details

An innovative and interactive walking history tour of San Diego, the Brothels, Bites and Booze Food Tour offers two and a half hours of exploring the Gaslamp Quarter—the heart of America’s finest city. Guests can experience top-rated dining, shopping, nightlife and more, while learning about the area’s history and hearing stories about the Stingaree District. Details

Perfect for any occasion, this San Diego dinner cruise offers an unforgettable dining experience aboard a luxury yacht. Enjoy gracious hospitality, stunning views of the shimmering waves and San Diego skyline, along with a chef-prepared three-course meal, and live DJ music. Reserve your spot for a memorable dinner cruise in San Diego. Details

Disneyland Resort is a California staple featuring two theme parks, three hotels, and the Downtown Disney Area. Children and adults alike can experience the magic of classic Disney fairytale character meet-and-greets, enchanting rides, spectacular parades, nightly fireworks, themed dining and more at Disneyland, or Pixar favorites at Disney California Adventure. Details

Enjoy a San Diego day tour with a full day GoCar rental. Explore the city at your own pace in a GPS-guided mini car that talks to you. Visit the best attractions, such as Balboa Park, San Diego Zoo, Gaslamp Quarter, Old Town, and more. Experience the freedom and fun of driving a GoCar. Details

Set out on an exciting Dana Point fishing trip on the sparkling Southern California waters off the Orange County coast. Dana Wharf Sportfishing caters to anglers of all skill levels on half-day and nine-hour trips. The skilled and friendly crew will provide expert guidance and tips throughout the excursions so that you are sure to have an enjoyable adventure. Details

Perfect for families with young children, Sesame Place San Diego features over 18 rides and attractions, including Elmo’s Rockin’ Rockets, seasonal water slides, and one of Southern California’s largest wave pools, along with live Sesame Street® shows and seasonal events. Enjoy fun with beloved characters, plus dining and shopping options throughout the park. Details

Experience a wide variety of majestic underwater wildlife and beautiful scenic views at this Dana Point dolphin and whale-watching tour. Dana Wharf offers an exciting 2-hour tour featuring up-close views of gray whales in winter and spring, blue whales in summer and fall, playful bottlenose dolphins year-round, sea lions, nautical birds, and possibly a shark! Details

Enjoy bottomless mimosas, private table seating, and a decadent all-you-can-eat brunch buffet aboard Flagship Cruises & Events' luxury yacht. Glide past San Diego and Coronado's scenic waterfronts while listening to live music during this two-hour San Diego brunch cruise. Perfect for celebrations or an ultimate relaxing family escape. Details

Unlock your ultimate San Diego adventure with the San Diego Explorer Pass! Choose a 2, 3, 4, 5, or 7-choice Go City Pass and dive into over 40 top activities and attractions, including the San Diego Zoo, a 45-minute jet ski rental, a 2-day hop-on hop-off trolley tour, and more. Discover the city as you go and create unforgettable memories at your own pace! Details

Cruise the open ocean alongside whales, dolphins, sea lions, and more! This professionally-narrated San Diego whale watching cruise offers spectacular views of the city skyline, local landmarks, and diverse marine wildlife. Enjoy comfortable indoor and outdoor seating as you experience the magic of migrating whales aboard this thrilling oceanic adventure. Details

Explore Downtown San Diego and the scenic Coronado Island on a thrilling GPS-guided GoCar tour. Zip around in eco-friendly style, soaking in panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean, iconic landmarks, and hidden gems. With expert navigation and entertaining commentary, this Coronado Island tour is the ultimate way to explore the city’s charm and history! Details

The thrill of indoor skydiving awaits at iFLY San Diego, located just off I-8 in Mission Valley. This gravity-defying experience is perfect for beginners and seasoned pros alike. Learn the basics of indoor flight in a small-group training session plus one-on-one guidance, gear and freefall flight time in a vertical wind tunnel—no parachute or airplane needed. Details

Indulge in an exclusive evening cruise on a luxury catamaran. With a limited passenger capacity, savor spring and summer sunshine, cool ocean breezes, and romantic vistas. In the winter, relish the beautifully lit Dana Point Harbor. Discover the finest OC wine cruise in Southern California! Details

See the best of San Diego on this guided half-day tour. Choose between afternoon and morning tour times, then be prepared to discover all that Old Town, Balboa Park, Downtown San Diego, Coronado and La Jolla have to offer. Along the way you’ll view sea life, beaches, historic districts, regional flair, and much, much more. Details

Savor the flavors of Oceanside's vibrant South O neighborhood with a guided walking food tour. Over approximately three hours, visit four to five handpicked eateries, sampling chef-selected dishes while learning about the area's rich culinary history. This tour offers a memorable experience for food lovers craving authentic local flavors. Details

Hop aboard a guided Grand Baja Tour for an exciting adventure through the stunning landscapes, culture, and cuisine of Mexico. Departing from Santa Fe Depot in San Diego, CA, experience the natural beauty and historical significance of Tijuana, Baja, and Puerto Nuevo. Enjoy a delicious lobster lunch at one of the oceanfront restaurants while savoring the view! Details

Set out on a San Diego electric bike tour with an expert guide through sun-soaked neighborhoods and scenic coastlines. Explore Balboa Park, the Embarcadero, and Gaslamp Quarter and see historic landmarks like the USS Midway, Tuna Pier, and more. Pedal your way with ease on an electric Cannondale bike through the best of Southern California. Details

Grab your binoculars for an unforgettable Dana Point whale-watching experience! These narrated cruises in Dana Point, CA, show the ocean’s abundant marine life, from whales to dolphins and more aboard high-speed boats. See what it’s like to swim with dolphins via the underwater viewing pods, and listen to the hydrophone for whale and dolphin vocalizations! Details

From La Jolla Cove to Ocean Beach, soak in stunning views on a private San Diego driving tour with a friendly guide. Experience the city’s diverse coastal culture and iconic landmarks like Hotel Del Coronado. Enjoy personalized recommendations for local eats, a leisurely stroll at Seaport Village, and the convenience of hotel pick-up and private transportation. Details

Discover the charm of Ensenada, Mexico, on a guided tour from San Diego! Enjoy scenic coastal views, explore the historic Civic Plaza and the Malecon boardwalk, and savor authentic Mexican cuisine with an included meal. Don’t forget your valid passport for this unforgettable cross-border adventure. Details

Experience San Diego with GoCar tours! Explore Downtown, Balboa Park, and Old Town at your own pace. Visit the Maritime Museum, Horton Plaza, and Gaslamp Quarter, pausing as often as you like for photos or to relax. Visit a museum and the Rose Garden, savor authentic Mexican food in Old Town, and more. This tour captures the essence of America's Finest City! Details

This dinner cruise in San Diego is perfect for any occasion! Flagship Cruises’ Sunday Dinner on the Bay pairs a gourmet meal with incredible views of the San Diego's skyline like you have never seen before! See 25 miles of beautiful downtown San Diego, eat a delicious meal prepared fresh on board, and toast the night with a glass of complimentary champagne. Details

Embark on the essential GoCar San Diego tour and explore the city’s greatest sights in 2 hours. Tour Balboa Park, with its Spanish Renaissance-inspired architecture, museums, and more. Stroll through Hillcrest, known for great food and shops. Explore Downtown's Maritime Museum and Gaslamp Quarter. Don't miss the best of San Diego on this must-do tour! Details

Embark on a San Diego self-guided adventure that combines history, nature, and excitement with this Point Loma Tour. Experience driving a GoCar around San Diego with interactive navigation throughout your journey. You can visit the Cabrillo National Monument, the Fort Rosecrans National Cemetery, the Sunset Cliffs, and more. Details

This 1-hour GoCar San Diego Tour is a fun and exciting way to explore San Diego’s historic and scenic attractions. You'll drive a GoCar, a two-seater mini car that talks to you and guides you along the route. See Gaslamp Quarter, the USS Midway, Seaport Village, Maritime Museum, and more on this GPS-guided tour through the heart of San Diego. Details

Explore California’s history and culture with a GPS-guided GoCar Downtown and Old Town San Diego tour. Drive through the city’s most popular areas as the storytelling car entertains with stories and fun facts. Cruise through Balboa Park, Gaslamp Quarter, and Little Italy. Then, journey into the past as you explore Mission Hills, Presidio Park and Old Town. Details

Experience the ultimate San Diego Land and Sea tour combo! Hop into a GPS-guided GoCar and explore the city’s hidden gems as your mini car entertains you with fascinating stories. Continue the excitement with a guided San Diego Speed Boat Adventures tour through the Bay, witnessing iconic landmarks from a fast boat. It’s the perfect day in San Diego! Details

Indulge in the best eats and drinks in North Oceanside, California on this San Diego food tour! From savory to sweet, enjoy delicious tastings at each stop with barely a mile of walking. Along the way, your local guide will give insight into more eateries you should try during your visit. You will leave with a full belly and lifetime memories! Details

Sample what Little Italy’s fare can offer in this ‘Pizza, Pasta and Piazzas’ San Diego food tour. Fill your day with delicious food and great company as your local expert tour guide takes you to beloved restaurants and shares interesting tidbits about the Italian Quarter of San Diego. Book your tickets now because a fantastic adventure awaits! Details

Discover America's Finest City with a San Diego Bike Rental. Pedal through Balboa Park, circle Bea Evenson Fountain and relax at the breathtaking Japanese Friendship Garden. Try numerous scenic routes from the historic Gaslamp Quarter to the Embarcadero and more. Explore the city on a hybrid or electric bike, stop for pictures anytime, and find hidden gems. Details

Experience a premier champagne brunch cruise on San Diego Bay, offering grand views of the city's landmarks and skyline. See the Coronado Bay Bridge, Star of India, and Naval Air Station North from the comfort of your table. Enjoy luxurious free-flowing champagne, mimosas, and sparkling cider alongside a delicious buffet brunch with family or friends. Details

From the Gaslamp Quarter to Balboa Park and the Coronado Bridge, this San Diego City Lights Night Tour will take you on a picturesque trip you won’t forget! Take in romantic panoramic views of the city aglow as you cruise past notable landmarks, elegant architecture and the glimmering skyline. A 20-minute stop for photos at the Coronado Ferry Landing is included. Details

Explore the Best of San Diego on this full-day San Diego tour in a private vehicle! The city is known for its long stretches of beaches, amazing weather, popular family attractions, and array culinary options. See the sights and hear the local stories behind the historical and cultural progress that has shaped the city into what it is today. Details

Experience San Diego’s vibrant character on a private half-day driving tour. Discover La Jolla Cove, historic Old Town, and scenic Balboa Park with personalized insights from your guide. Enjoy stunning views from Soledad Mountain, explore Seaport Village, and conclude your adventure in the lively Gaslamp Quarter. Book your unforgettable San Diego tour today! Details

Get the party started with a San Diego sunset cruise and happy hour! Tear up the dance floor as the DJ spins the latest hits, throwbacks, and more as you sip cocktails and view the city skyline. See what San Diego sights and landmarks you can spot along the way! Don’t forget to bring your phone or camera to capture your party cruise memories for years to come. Details

Prepare for a specially crafted guided San Diego Food Tour through vibrant downtown. This walking tour dives into Gaslamp’s culinary scene, blending influences from Mexico to the Far East. Savor local favorites like the famous fish taco and enjoy a delicious secret dish as you discover the city’s rich history and flavors. Details

Delight in La Jolla's charm on an exciting San Diego food tour. Immerse in art, enjoy drinks and relish the best food in La Jolla as you explore the picturesque coastal beauty with an expert guide. Learn its rich history while walking the trail to La Jolla Cove and Village by Coastal Boulevard. Unveil the essence of La Jolla with every step, sip, savor and sea! Details

Discover Carlsbad's culinary gems on a filling food and wine-tasting tour through its scenic seaside village. Savor locally crafted dishes, wines, and desserts made from treasured recipes. Explore Italian, Mexican, and sweet specialties at top spots like Witch Creek Winery and Gelato Love, while learning about Carlsbad's rich history, culture, and architecture. Details

Explore one of America’s finest cities on the Best of San Diego Walking Tour! Hit the highlights of the city’s history and culture with your own personal guide. Visit historic US Grant Hotel, Gaslamp Quarter, Petco Park, and more. At the end, hop aboard the USS Midway for a self-guided tour (tickets included). Details

Step into the vibrant heart of Tijuana with the Up & Down City Tour! This 5-hour adventure whisks travelers from San Diego to Mexico's bustling border city, offering a taste of its rich culture and history. Highlights include visits to the iconic Cultural Center, historic landmarks, and the lively Avenida Revolución. Details

Experience the best of San Diego’s Little Italy on this SoDiego walking tour. Sample a variety of wines and food offerings (Italian pasta and a charcuterie spread) as you visit three different establishments, all while local wine enthusiasts give you the inside scoop on wine production and the history of Little Italy. Book a tour today to discover all that Little Italy has to offer. Details