2929 Zoo Drive Balboa Park, San Diego, CA 92101

The San Diego Zoo pioneered cageless exhibits and offers travelers a fun and informative experience. Featuring over 4000 animals, the park gives you a peek into the wildlife of several ecosystems, from deserts to rainforests. Ride the tour bus, which crosses three quarters of the zoo’s area, and learn more about the animals from the guide as you view them in their natural habitats. You can also hop on the Skyfari gondola lift to see the entire park from above. Tickets to the San Diego Zoo that also cover the San Diego Zoo Safari Park in Escondido are available for a discount. – Tripadvisor

910 N Harbor Drive, San Diego, CA 92101-5811

Located in downtown San Diego, the USS Midway (Museum) was America’s longest-serving aircraft carrier of the 20th century. Today, the interactive museum is an unforgettable adventure for the entire family as guests walk in the footsteps of the 225,000 young men who served on Midway. Visitors explore a floating city at sea, the amazing flight deck and its 29 restored aircraft, flight simulators, and are inspired in the Battle of Midway Theater, included with admission. Admission also includes a self-guided audio tour narrated by Midway sailors in English, Mandarin, Spanish, Japanese, French and German. Visiting Midway is a once-in-a-lifetime experience in San Diego, known around the world as "Navy Town, USA."

1100 Coast Blvd, La Jolla, San Diego, CA 92037-3600

At this beach surronded by sandstone cliffs on the San Diego coast, the water is calm enough for travelers to enjoy diving and snorkeling. Walk along the rocky shore to spot large colonies of sea lions lounging in their natural habitat and looking after their pups, and have a picnic while soaking up the views of the ocean from the cliffs at sunset. If you visit at low tide, you’ll get to swim in the crystal clear tidal pools as well. You can also visit Sunny Jim's Sea Cave which is accessible via a tunnel. Visit early in the morning to find a parking space more easily. – Tripadvisor

1549 El Prado, San Diego, CA 92101-1660

This 1,200-acre nature park comprises 17 museums, gardens, musical theaters, a sports complex, and the world-famous San Diego Zoo. The park’s Spanish-Moorish architecture and 19 distinct gardens (some require admission fees) attract both tourists and locals. Don’t miss the San Diego Air and Space Museum, the Spanish Village Art Center for unique handicrafts, and the Spreckels Organ Pavilion, where free concerts are hosted in the evenings. Travelers recommend putting aside the whole day to explore the park. To make the most of your time, hop on the Balboa Park trams (they’re free!) to get around. – Tripadvisor

State Route 75 South Embarcadero, San Diego, CA 92101

A beautiful bridge connecting San Diego to Coronado.

4002 Wallace St, San Diego, CA 92110

Historic site in downtown San Diego that recreates life in the Mexican and early American periods of 1821 to 1872.

1800 Cabrillo Memorial Dr Lands End Road, San Diego, CA 92106-3601

Stately monument honoring Cabrillo, discoverer of San Diego Bay, is located in Point Loma that overlooks the city and the Bay.

849 W Harbor Dr Downtown, San Diego, CA 92101-7744

Seaport Village is a vibrant harborside spot with stellar views of the San Diego skyline. There’s plenty to do here—stroll along the promenade, check out the art galleries, enjoy a meal at an upscale restaurant or do some shopping (local wines and souvenirs are good buys). Younger children will love the historic hand-carved carousel. Weekdays are the best time to visit when it’s less crowded and the vibe is more laid-back. The village is a stop on many hop-on, hop-off trolley tours of San Diego; include a visit to the USS Midway Museum and Maritime Museum along the way. – Tripadvisor

100 Park Blvd, San Diego, CA 92101-7405

Named the #1 Ballpark in America by USA Today in 2016! Petco Park is spectacular in every way, combining the best sight lines in baseball with breathtaking views of San Diego. Architecturally magnificent, it celebrates the sea, the sky, the natural beauty, cultural diversity and unique spirit of our region. We’ve made a concerted effort to not only make this the best ballpark in America, but also one of the best entertainment destinations. Located in downtown San Diego, its surrounded by a plethora of bars and restaurants and is within walking distance of the Convention Center, Seaport Village and Waterfront Park.

12600 N Torrey Pines Rd, San Diego, CA 92037

Although this park is located within San Diego's city limits, it remains one of the wildest landscapes along the Southern California coast, with miles of unspoiled beaches, chaparral, elegant Torrey Pine trees and a lagoon vital to many species of migrating birds.

8300 Camino del Oro, La Jolla, San Diego, CA 92037

Mile-long beach features gentle waves during the summer months, making this spot a prime spot for novice scuba divers.

6905 La Jolla Scenic Drive South, La Jolla, San Diego, CA 92037

1253 Sunset Cliffs Blvd Rum Runner Point, San Diego, CA 92107-4015

As the name suggests, this park’s rugged coastline features magnificent ocean views at sunset. Don’t miss the chance to explore the tide pools—be careful as some parts of the climb down can be uneven and steep. Sunset Cliffs Natural Park is also a great spot to see gray whales passing by on their migration. There are drinking fountains throughout the park, but there aren’t any food establishments nearby—pack lunch as it’s a perfect spot for picnics. Expect crowds approaching sunset, and parking can be tricky late afternoon. You can take a bus there from Old Town instead of driving. – Tripadvisor

1668 Columbia St, San Diego, CA 92101

Check out Little Italy in San Diego for a taste of Italian cuisine and culture. The district boasts some of the most authentic Italian restaurants in town—take a food tour of the area to find the best spots and learn more about Little Italy's history. Be sure to check out the weekly Little Italy Mercato Farmers’ Market, the largest in the city. The nearby Waterfront Park and San Diego Maritime Museum are worth a visit, too. Visit in the evening to enjoy an al fresco dinner and see Little Italy come alive with twinkling lights. – Tripadvisor

3200 Ocean Front Walk Surfrider Square, San Diego, CA 92109

Enjoy a slice of Californian life at this iconic long sandy beach in San Diego. This laidback beach town has almost two miles of beachfront boardwalk, lined with shops, bars, and restaurants. Here, you can cycle or rollerblade down the boardwalk, relax on the beach, go for a swim and surf, and even have fun at an amusement park. The old-school Belmont Park is free to enter and has both retro and modern amusement rides, food stalls, and entertainment all year round. There are also year-round whale-watching tours from Mission Bay, that'll take you to the best wildlife viewing spots. – Tripadvisor