The 22 best things to do in San Diego right now

What is it? A 1,200-acre urban park in the middle of the city.

Why go? San Diego is not short of beautiful parks, but Balboa Park is the undisputed king of them all. You’re going to want to factor in at least half a day for this, as the park is home to 18 fantastic museums, some international houses, organ pavilion concerts, and the unmissable Old Globe Theatre. You could get lost for hours strolling through gardens and admiring architecture, but if you want to do it properly, book a walking tour of the park. 

Time Out tip: In addition to museums, be sure to visit these free points of interest: Botanical Building and Lily Pond, Bea Evenson Fountain, Inez Grant Parker Memorial Rose Garden, the Moreton Bay Fig Tree, Spreckels Organ Pavilion, House of Hospitality, and the House of Pacific Relations International Cottages (open on weekends). At mealtime, head to Artifact at Mingei for eclectic international cuisine, the Prado for a Spanish-leaning menu, or the open-air Panama 66 for beers and apps. 

Address: 1549 El Prado, San Diego, CA 92101

Opening hours: Visitors center daily 9:30am–4:30pm

Pricing: Park admission is free, but most museums charge $20-30 per adult. Timken Museum of Art and the Botanical Building are always free. 

What is it? A world-renowned, 100-acre zoo with more than 12,000 animals including some rare and endangered species.

Why go? As the first zoo to introduce cageless, open-air exhibits, San Diego Zoo pioneered these natural animal habitats, which are really something to behold. It’s one of the only places outside China where you can spot giant pandas, and the zoo offers everything from strolls at sunrise to overnight camping. And if you can’t get enough, the San Diego Zoo Safari Park is located about 30 minutes north of the San Diego Zoo in Escondido and has an exciting new elephant enclosure. 

Time Out tip: It’s all about the giant pandas right now (they returned to China and are now back in San Diego after nearly five years), but the elephants, koalas, polar bears, lions, tigers giraffes, hippos, and grizzly bears are also a big draw. Nighttime Zoo during the summer offers extended operating hours, and Jungle Bells in December brings festive decor and holiday lights to the zoo. Little ones will be thrilled to play at Denny Sanford Wildlife Explorers Basecamp, an interactive play area for kids of all ages.

Address: 2920 Zoo Dr, San Diego, CA 92101

Opening hours: Varies by season; Nov–Feb 9am–5pm; Mar–May, Sept–Oct 9am–6pm; June–Aug 9am–9pm

Pricing: Single day tickets are $73-78 for adults and $63-68 for children ages 3-11.

What is it? A shell-shaped, open-air music venue overlooking San Diego Bay. 

Why go? There’s something about listening to live music while perched on the waterfront. This San Diego skyline icon has been compared to the Sydney Opera House because of its unique architecture, top-notch acoustics, and oceanfront locale. One of the best parts of seeing a show here is enjoying the San Diego Symphony accompany big-name artists, resulting in a beautiful harmony. The 2026 summer season will bring the likes of Paul Simon, the Beach Boys, Kool & The Gang, Wynonna Judd and Melissa Etheridge, St. Vincent, Sara McLachlan and Gipsy Kings to the Rady Shell stage. 

Time Out tip: There’s no need to eat dinner before catching a show: The Rady Shell has lots of great food and drink offerings from local restaurants available. There’s even an option to have a meal curated by Top Chef contestant Richard Blais. Although you’ll be hard-pressed to find a bad seat in the house, the best experience comes with booking seats in a section that offers table service for food and drinks so you don’t have to put effort into purchasing meals, wine, beer or soda. 

Address: 222 Marina Park Way, San Diego, CA 92101

Opening hours: Ticket Office Mon–Fri 10am–6pm; Sat, Sun closed except concert days when opening is noon

Pricing: Varies by artist, but the cheapest tickets start at about $60.

What is it? A vintage, beachside amusement park in Mission Beach.

Why go? Celebrating 100 years in operation, Belmont Park is not just for kiddos. Mini-golf, laser tag, a climbing wall, arcade and zipline make for a fun night at this approachable park that sits right along the busy boardwalk in the heart of Mission Beach. There are also concessions like funnel cakes, ice cream, fudge, churros, and even Dole Whips to help fuel your time between thrilling rides. Purchase a ticket bundle if you plan to go on multiple rides, or a Ride & Play Pass for unlimited rides and attractions. 

Don’t miss: The thrilling centerpiece of this historic amusement park is called the Giant Dipper—and it’s a historic landmark in its own right. The construction of this incredible wooden roller coaster dates back to 1925, the so-called “golden age” of wooden coasters, but it can still be ridden today thanks to a $2 million restoration. For just $8 per person, you can ride its famous dips and turns (at 48 mph!) while you take in beautiful views of neighboring Mission Bay and the Pacific Ocean—if you keep your eyes open, that is.

Address: 3146 Mission Blvd, San Diego, CA 92109

Opening hours: Check calendar for current park hours.

Pricing: Pay-as-you-go options are available with individual ticket bundles starting at $16, while passes for unlimited rides and attractions start at $54.95. Park admission is free. 

What is it? An upscale seaside town for dining, shopping, and gazing out over the Pacific.

Why go? Dubbed the “jewel of Southern California,” La Jolla is a curiously quaint Mediterranean-style village just a few minutes’ drive from downtown—but feels like you’ve accidentally taken the exit for Greece or Italy. There’s plenty to keep you entertained here, including some of the city’s finest restaurants like George's at the Cove and Nine-Ten in the Grande Colonial Hotel. Don’t miss the nearby Legends Gallery, which boasts a nice collection of artwork by late La Jolla resident Dr. Seuss. 

Time Out tip: Crowds gather around the Instagram-friendly Children’s Pool Beach in La Jolla Cove where you’ll almost always find groups of seals and sea lions sunbathing on the rocks and sand. Walk along Coast Boulevard for the best views overlooking the rugged coastal bluffs. 

Address: Map to the intersection of Girard Avenue and Prospect Street to explore La Jolla Cove on foot. 

What is it? A coastal horseracing track that also hosts special events throughout racing season. 

Why go? Opened in 1937 by singer Bing Crosby, Del Mar Racetrack was once a playground to the stars who rode the train down from Hollywood for a day of fun on the turf. Today it still makes for a fun afternoon outing with friends to place exacta and trifecta bets on the horses. Minimum bets start at just $2, so doesn’t cost much to put a little skin in the game by picking your favorite pony to win each race. The summer racing season runs from July through September, and the fall season is typically held through the month of November. There are often upwards of 10 races per day.

Time Out tip: Special concerts, food festivals, and beer and wine events are frequently held after a day of races, many offering free tickets with paid racetrack admission. Uncorked Wine Festival and Del Mar Beer Fest are two favorites.

Address: 2260 Jimmy Durante Blvd, Del Mar, CA 92014

Opening hours: Gates typically open about 11:30am or noon, two hours before the first post.

Pricing: General admission tickets are $8.

What is it? A baseball stadium located smack-dab in the middle of downtown San Diego.

Why go? Home to the San Diego Padres, Petco Park is a great family-friendly destination to watch America’s favorite pastime. Sure, hot dogs and beer are par for the course here, but some of San Diego’s top restaurants also have food stalls within the MLB stadium for a high-end culinary experience. And there’s no shortage of craft beer options, so it’s also a great chance to try different local brews. From certain seats you can even spot the ocean or catch a sunset.

Time Out tip: After Padres home runs and following certain home games throughout the season, spectators can enjoy a firework show from the stadium. Behind-the-scenes tours are offered daily at Petco Park for any diehard baseball fans or history buffs who want to explore the stadium in depth (lasting about 90 minutes). Some of the best seats in the house are found in the renovated Western Metal Supply Co. building within the ballpark. 

Address: 100 Park Blvd, San Diego, CA 92101

Opening hours: Gates open 90 minutes before first pitch.

Pricing: Prices vary by game, but tickets can be found for as low as $20-30.

What is it? A destination hotel on the sand that welcomes a ton of day and overnight visitors alike. 

Why go? You have likely seen this hotel before, whether you’re a local or not. The Hotel del Coronado was featured in the Marilyn Monroe movie Some Like It Hot—and that’s not all it’s known for. This is a buzzing, tourist-filled, iconic landmark in Coronado serving up Hollywood history and great food (check out the new Nobu Del Coronado for high-end Japanese cuisine) in a seriously glamorous oceanfront setting.

Time Out tip: Come during the holidays when “The Del” is decked out in festive decor and has its Skating by the Sea beachfront ice rink constructed. Or visit during summer and book a Beach Roast bonfire to make s’mores treats while overlooking the Pacific. They also host movies on the beach, offer guided property tours, and hold cycling classes on the beach. You can’t go wrong with a meal at one of their signature restaurants: Veranda, Serẽa, and the Sun Deck. Watching the sunset from pretty much anywhere at the resort promises to be a core memory.

Address: 1500 Orange Ave, Coronado, CA 92118

Pricing: Room rates start at around $350.

What is it? A decommissioned naval aircraft carrier turned into a public museum. 

Why go? The monumental USS Midway was the longest-serving aircraft carrier in U.S. Navy history when it was decommissioned in 1992. Now the feted ship—the size of a floating city—is a maritime museum open to the public, berthed along San Diego Bay in downtown. Climb aboard for a fascinating insight into what naval life is really like, courtesy of a self-guided audio tour narrated by some (refreshingly honest) former Midway sailors. Plus, if you’ve got young ones who love being onboard, you can find activities for little skippers.

Time Out tip: Head to the flight deck to climb inside (and pose in front of) more than 30 fully restored aircraft including bombers, fighters, and helicopters. Be sure to visit the renovated ship’s island/bridge structure that served as the command center for captain and crew. The floating museum even offers overnight adventures for kids and families who want to experience what it's like to sleep onboard. One of their most popular annual events is their spectacular 4th of July fireworks viewing party to celebrate ‘Merica. 

Address: 910 N Harbor Dr, San Diego, CA 92101

Opening hours: Daily 10am–5pm

Pricing: Adult tickets are $39-41; children ages 4-12 cost $29-31; and veterans are $26. Discounts are offered with online purchasing. 

What is it? A historic Mexican-American neighborhood just south of downtown. 

Why go? You’re tantalizingly close to the border, but you don’t need to cross it for some seriously authentic Mexican food. Beeline for the Barrio Logan neighborhood, the epicenter of San Diego’s Hispanic community, for lunch or dinner. Get some of the city's best tacos from Salud Tacos, which also has great daily specials. For dessert, stroll to nearby Panchitas Bakery, which holds legendary status among San Diegans for its homemade Mexican pastries and steaming hot chocolate.

Time Out tip: Cruise the main business district along Logan Avenue to peep classic cars and lowriders; shop local boutiques for cool handmade crafts and wares; spend time at Chicano Park to take in powerful and beautiful murals; stop in to Por Vida coffee shop for specialty Mexican-inspired drinks; and say salud over a craft beer at the female-owned Mujeres Brew House. You’ll leave with a greater appreciation for Mexican culture. 

Address: Map to Logan Avenue to explore on foot.

What is it: San Diego is home to more than 150 independent craft breweries, with a local specialty being hoppy IPAs. 

Why go: No matter what style of beer you prefer, there’s likely a brewery, brewpub, or tasting room serving it on tap in San Diego. Nicknamed the “Capital of Craft,” San Diegans are serious about their brew and will swiftly reject big beer brands. There's even a San Diego Beer Week each November with events taking place at venues across the county. Though if you want to get a sampling of the area's beer, wine, AND food, check out the annual Del Mar Wine + Food Festival and San Diego Food + Wine Festival held in the fall. 

Time Out tip: You can easily visit well-known, long-standing breweries like Stone Brewing, Karl Strauss and Ballast Point, but be sure to sample other well-loved labels like AleSmith, Pizza Port, Coronado Brewing, Harland Brewing, Fall Brewing and Belching Beaver. Most tasting rooms will offer a tasting flight option to sample several pours before deciding on your frontrunner. Plan ahead to see if they have a kitchen or onsite food truck as many don't serve food. 

Address: Visit SDbeer.com for a list of local breweries. 

What is it? San Diego County’s largest farmers’ market, held twice a week, year-round. 

Why go? To get a feel for the real San Diego, do as the locals do: Grab your reusable bag and head for the Little Italy Mercato Farmers’ Market. Here, you’ll discover an array of beautiful, fresh, local produce, meat and eggs, flowers and straight-outta-the-ocean seafood. There’s also live music and made-to-order food at this market that covers six city blocks. If you can’t make this one held Saturdays and Wednesdays, other farmers’ markets take place every day of the week in San Diego, with more than 30 held across the city every weekend. For a complete schedule, visit the San Diego Farm Bureau.

Time Out tip: Make your way through the market grabbing free samples along the way. Nab citrus and avocados from Heritage Family Farms; veggies from JR Organics Farm; hummus from Baba Foods; cookies from Maya’s Cookies; and bread from Swells Sourdough Bakery. Come hungry to make a meal out of sushi from Vegan Mirai, samosas from Masala Cottage, and boba from Cocobomb.

Address: 600 W Date St, San Diego, CA 92101

Opening hours: Sat 8am–2pm; Wed 9:30am–1:30pm

What is it? A botanical garden with North America’s largest public bamboo collection.

Why go? Tucked into an Encinitas neighborhood, the San Diego Botanic Garden is a gorgeous 37-acre sanctuary with four miles of walking trails, more than 5,000 plant species, and nearly 30 different types of gardens. Just as much fun for kids as it is for adults, the botanic garden has dedicated children’s areas, plus classes, tours, and special presentations throughout the year. During summer, the garden stays open late on select nights, featuring concerts and other events. 

Time Out tip: The best time of year to visit is during their Lightscape holiday light show extravaganza that starts in November. It makes for a festive night out for adults and kids with lots of Instagrammable displays. Check the garden’s website for current exhibits; previous ones have included things like a corpse flower that only blooms every couple of years, lasting for only two days while releasing a stinky scent. If you’re visiting the garden with kids, be sure to start at Toni’s Tree House in the Hamilton Children’s Garden area, which also includes an edible garden and mountain stream.

Address: 300 Quail Gardens Dr, Encinitas, CA 92024

Opening hours: Wed–Mon 9am–5pm 

Pricing: Adult tickets are $20.

What is it? A bustling downtown neighborhood known for its lively nightlife. 

Why go? As the alluringly charismatic and historic heart of downtown San Diego, the 16-and-a-half-block Gaslamp Quarter blends Victorian charm with a 21st-century entertainment, shopping, and nightlife scene. Impressively, the Gaslamp Quarter will celebrate its 160th anniversary in 2027. As the former site of San Diego’s red light district in the 19th century, the area has been revitalized over the last few decades and is now home to more than 100 retail stores. Nightclubs, lounges, bars and restaurants are abundant here, with crowds often spilling out of the nearby Convention Center for trade shows and events like San Diego Comic-Con to check out the local scene. 

Time Out tip: For an awesome night on the town, check out a show at one of the Gaslamp’s performing arts theatres including Balboa, Lyceum, and Spreckles; grab dinner at Cafe Sevilla, Huntress, or Lumi; and toast over drinks at Prohibition Lounge, Techo Beso, or The Nolen. Cap the evening off with a good laugh at American Comedy Co. or Mad House Comedy Club.

Address: Fourth and Fifth Avenues between Broadway and Harbor Drive

What is it: Five acres’ worth of colorful giant tecolote ranunculus flower fields that bloom every spring. 

Why go: You don’t have to travel to Denmark to look out over nearly 80 million flowers in 13 vibrant colors. The Flower Fields in Carlsbad is one of the most photographed floral displays in the country, which also includes family-friendly activities like tractor wagon rides, a butterfly enclosure, sweet pea maze, children’s playground, sluice mining for gemstones, and U-pick blueberries (Mondays and Tuesdays). There’s also pop-up vendors selling lemonade, kettle corn, ice cream and other treats to enjoy in between photo ops. 

Time Out tip: One not-to-miss attraction is the massive  American flag made of red, white, and blue petunias along the hillside. Plan your visit around special events including live music, yoga classes, afternoon tea, and painting workshops on the weekends. Be sure to buy admission tickets online ahead of time since they cannot be purchased onsite. 

Address: 5704 Paseo Del Norte, Carlsbad, CA 92008

Opening hours: Season typically runs from March–May 9am–6pm daily; check their website for specific dates.

Pricing: Adult tickets are $27; children ages 3-10 are $17.

What is it? A U.S. national monument that includes the Old Point Loma Lighthouse and incredible bay views.

Why go? Sitting proudly amongst the astonishing cliffs of Point Loma, Cabrillo National Monument commemorates the historic moment when Portuguese explorer Juan Rodriguez Cabrillo sailed into San Diego Bay under the Spanish flag in 1542. The monument boasts spectacular 360-degree views of San Diego Bay, downtown, and the surrounding region. On a clear day, you can even see the hills of Tijuana, Mexico. Once you’ve taken in the incredible vista, check out the quaint exhibit hall next to the monument, which is dedicated to Cabrillo’s life.

Time Out tip: The tide pool area is full of marine life to explore up close, and the half-mile Oceanside Trail is a great way to see panoramic views of the Pacific. The historic lighthouse now operates as a museum that’s open to the public. Take in wildflowers, native birds, and military history while visiting this local landmark.

Address: 1800 Cabrillo Memorial Dr, San Diego, CA 92106

Opening hours: Daily 9am–5pm

Pricing: Vehicles are $20 each (including passengers), but if entering without a vehicle it's $10.

What is it? A fine art museum in Balboa Park with large-scale sculptures in the surrounding plaza.

Why go? The region’s oldest, largest, and most-visited art museum, San Diego Museum of Art has a nationally renowned permanent collection that includes Spanish and Italian old masters, as well as 19th-century American paintings and sculptures. They also throw some of the best after-hours parties in the city, including Culture & Cocktails events with live performances, food, and drinks. Be sure to stop by the outdoor sculpture garden.

Time Out tip: Every spring, the museum hosts an Art Alive exhibit with more than 80 floral arrangements inspired by pieces of artwork. Local artists and floral designers vie for a spot to participate in the show, making up the museum’s most colorful and aromatic exhibit of the year. To coincide with the exhibit, they host a splashy gala called Bloom Bash that kicks the floral theme into high gear with themed cocktails and attire, food from more than 35 local restaurants, entertainment and live music to dance the night away. It’s arguably the city’s best party of the year.

Address: 1450 El Prado, San Diego, CA 92102

Opening hours: Mon, Tue, Thu–Sat 10am–5pm; Sun noon–5pm

Pricing: Adults are $25; youth 17 and under are free.

What is it? Established by Franciscan missionaries, this is the first of the 21 California missions, marking the origin of Christianity in the American West.

Why go? The original and grandest of the California missions is Mission Basilica San Diego de Alcalá, founded by the Spanish in 1769. The Basilica—nestled in stunning Mission Valley near the San Diego River—is a beautiful and serene place to pay a visit. Today the mission continues to serve as a church with an active parish, welcoming people of all faiths. History buffs can make reservations for a tour, attend daily mass in the original chapel, visit the mission’s museum, and stroll the oldest known cemetery in California.

Time Out tip: Inside the gift shop, pick up a guide to the church’s historic paintings and statues dating back to the 15th century. Take a peek at the 46-foot tall bell wall with five bronze bells, and stop by the Casa de los Padres for a glimpse into what living quarters looked like when the missionaries were there. The peaceful and picturesque meditation garden is a must-visit when making a trip to California’s first church.

Address: 10818 San Diego Mission Rd, San Diego, CA 92108

Opening hours: Visitor center Mon–Fri 9am-4pm

Pricing: Adult tickets are $8.

What is it? A surf school and surf shop offering lessons, camps, clinics, and rentals.

Why go? With an impressively long coastline, San Diego is a surfer’s dream. Turn up the volume and drive down to watch the action—but don’t attempt any waves yourself unless you’re an experienced surfer. If you’re a novice but want to try the sport, visit Surf Diva in La Jolla, the world’s first all-woman surf school, for a private or semi-private lesson. They also offer stand-up paddle board lessons and even corporate teambuilding activities. La Jolla Shores is one of the most popular local spots for new surfers because of its long sandbar and optimal surf conditions. 

Time Out tip: Surf Diva’s women’s clinics are the best way to grasp the art of surfing or level up your game. The one or two-day weekend clinics are for all skill levels and offered year-round. Level 1 clinics help you find your feet and learn the fundamentals of surfing including safety, paddling techniques, pop-up practice, and wave etiquette. Level 2 delves deeper into wave selection, turning techniques, stance, and balance.

Address: 2160 Avenida De La Playa, La Jolla, CA 92037

Opening hours: Daily 8:30am–5pm

Pricing: A 1.5-hour private lesson is $160 for one student.

What is it? A live music venue showcasing new and up-and-coming artists.

Why go? Music fans have flocked to San Diego’s live venues for years to discover local bands like Jason Mraz, Stone Temple Pilots, and Blink-182 before they broke onto the mainstream scene. The Belly Up Tavern in Solana Beach is renowned for breaking the latest hip-hop, jazz, and reggae acts. Located in the Cedros Design District not far from Fletcher Cove Beach Park, the Belly Up is walking distance from the train station if you plan to drink during a show. There’s also an on-site bistro, Tavern, where you can refuel on a huge range of delicious bites, from short rib truffle fries and herb-crusted salmon to butternut squash tacos and key lime pie.

Time Out tip: Keep an eye on their show calendar for underplay performances from big-name artists like the Red Hot Chili Peppers, Willie Nelson, Ben Harper, and The Killers. This intimate venue allows artists to create a special connection with fans while performing, which is much harder to pull off in larger venues like stadiums.

Address: 143 S Cedros Ave, Solana Beach, CA 92075

Opening hours: Box office Sat–Thu at 4pm and Fri at noon until concert end.

Pricing: Varies by show, with tickets starting around $20.

What is it? A private paragliding and hang gliding site plus flight school.

Why go? Enjoy a bird’s-eye view of San Diego’s exceptional Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve by swooping serenely overhead in a paraglider. Torrey Pines Gliderport is home to one of the most successful paragliding schools in North America. You’ll be strapped to a qualified pilot so there’s nothing to worry about except enjoying the sweeping ocean views of the 2,000-acre reserve, its numerous hiking trails, and sandstone cliffs beneath you. Afterward, sandwiches and salads await you at Cliffhanger Cafe and Bar. 

Time Out tip: Optimal flight conditions are usually when winds are blowing from the southwest to the northwest, at least 8mph. If you’re not ready to take the leap or want to see what you’re getting yourself into first, there are plenty of spectators watching from the cliffs above. A flight reservation is not needed to simply hang out or grab lunch there while enjoying gorgeous views above the ocean bluffs. From April to September, you can enjoy live music at the gliderport every Saturday.

Address: 2800 Torrey Pines Scenic Dr, La Jolla, CA 92037

Opening hours: Daily 9am–5pm

Pricing: Flight experiences start at $200.

What is it? Year-round whale watching tours that take off from Mission Bay.

Why go? Whale-watching trips from the city are both plentiful and fruitful, with blue whales at the center of attention between June and September and their gray cousins taking over from December through April. Humpback whales, dolphins, and sea lions are also known to make an appearance. San Diego Whale Watch offers excursions for $56 per person. Daytime and sunset tours are available, plus private charters. A marine naturalist is onboard for every tour to share fun ocean facts and information about local wildlife. Tours last about around two-and-a-half hours. 

Time Out tip: More than 20,000 gray whales migrate past San Diego annually, and a boat tour is the best way to see them up close. While indoor and outdoor seating is available onboard, posting up outdoors will give you the best view and photo vantage point. Morning tours tend to have smoother conditions for those worried about seasickness. Don’t worry: If you don’t see a whale or dolphin during your tour, your next trip is free!

Address: 1617 Quivira Rd, San Diego, CA 92109

Opening hours: Mon–Thu 9am–5pm; Fri–Sun 8am–5pm

Pricing: Excursions start at $56 per person.