San Diego Attractions

San Diego is largely recognized by SeaWorld which brings in millions of visitors annually, but in addition to killer whales, dolphins, sea lions and Cirque de la Mer, San Diego is also home of the San Diego Zoo Safari Park which houses land animals such as lions, zebras, cheetahs, gorillas, exotic birds, elephants and much much more. Spend a day taking one of the many guided safari tours around the park or challenge yourself with the Jungle Ropes Safari course. The Birch Aquarium in La Jolla is also one of the best San Diego attractions to witness some of unique wildlife in distinct ecosystems. The diversity of species San Diego has to show will leave you in awe!

Most visitors also make the magical world of Disney one of their top San Diego attractions to go to. Only an hour and a half drive away from San Diego, a day of enchanted fun and adventure waits for you at Disneyland and Disney California Adventure Park. Whether you grew up watching Disney and want to see some of your favorite childhood classic characters in person or want to give your kids the experience of walking through the land of their favorite Disney and Pixar movie, the fun is endless at Disneyland and Disney California Adventure Park.

Knott’s Berry Farm, LEGOLAND, and Universal Studios are all other theme parks that are just a drive outside of San Diego and provide enjoyment and things to do for all ages.

If you are looking for more of a historic site to visit, the Gaslamp Quarter and Balboa Park are two of the best San Diego attractions. In downtown, you will find the historic heart of San Diego at the Gaslamp Quarter which provides some of the best night life venues, restaurants, and events throughout the year such as Comic-Con. Just one mile away from the historic neighborhood downtown scene is the picturesque Balboa Park. Here, the urban cultural park has over 15 museums, beautiful gardens, historical architecture, and hosts notorious performing arts venues.

Mickey's Fun Wheel
San Diego Attractions

1. Seaport Village


Looking for things to do in San Diego? Seaport Village offers waterfront dining, shopping, events and tours, making it your one-stop for fun.



2. Universal Studios Hollywood


Find a full day of action-packed entertainment all in one place: thrilling Theme Park rides and shows, a real working movie studio, and Los Angeles’ best shops, restaurants and cinemas at CityWalk. Universal Studios Hollywood is a unique experience that’s fun for the whole family.



3. SeaWorld San Diego


A 200 acre theme park that is home to exotic animals, rides, shows, exhibits, and water fun!



4. Gaslamp Quater


As the West Coast’s premier entertainment district, guests can immerse themselves in our rich Victorian architecture and history, dine with world-renowned chefs, and dance the night away at nationally recognized nightlife venues.



5. Birch Aquarium


Explore where the wonders of the ocean come alive! The mission of Birch Aquarium is to provide ocean science education, to interpret Scripps Institution of Oceanography research, and to promote ocean conservation.



6. The Flower Fields


50 acres of extraordinary, diverse colored rows of flowers at the Carlsbad Flower Fields overlooking the Pacific Ocean.



7. Belmont Park


Beachfront amusement center with rides, indoor children's play center, and attractions, and much more!



8. USS Midway Museum


Prepare yourself for a lifetime memory aboard San Diego's top attraction. You'll explore a floating city at sea and relive nearly 50 years of world history aboard the longest-serving Navy aircraft carrier of the 20th century.



9. Disneyland


The Happiest Place on Earth! Enter a magical kingdom where you can sail with pirates, explore exotic jungles, meet fairy-tale princesses, dive under the ocean and rocket through the stars—all in the same day!



10. Balboa Park


Balboa park is a 1,200 acre urban cultural park located just minutes from downtown San Diego and houses attractions such as the San Diego Natural History Museum, San Diego Zoo, botanical gardens, theaters, historical buildings, and much more.



11. San Diego Zoo


The 100-acre (40-hectare) Zoo is home to more than 3,500 rare and endangered animals representing more than 650 species and subspecies, and a prominent botanical collection with more than 700,000 exotic plants. It is located just north of downtown San Diego in Balboa Park.



12. San Diego Zoo Safari Park


1800 acre wildlife preserve houses over 3500 animals representing 260 species and is a botanical garden.



13. Disney California Adventure Park


Disney California Adventure Park is a Southern California theme park featuring Disney and Pixar characters and stories at the Disneyland Resort in Anaheim.



14. Chicano Park


Established by Chicano activists on April 22, 1970, Chicano Park has received international recognition as a major public art site for its commanding mural paintings of the past and present struggle of Mexican and Chicano history.



15. Knott's Berry Farm


Fun is always in season at Knott's Berry Farm! With dozens of rides, shows, roller coasters, and attractions in five themed areas, there is something for everyone!



16. LEGOLAND California


Enjoy your vacation at LEGOLAND California Resort with over 50 rides, shows, the CHIMA Water Park and more attractions.


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Visit San Diego   America's Finest City

Over 70 miles of beaches, stunning mountains, beautiful golf courses, vibrant nightlife, and world renowned attractions.
Something to do for all ages, year-round, with San Diego's mild and sunny weather.