Planning a trip to California’s coolest city? Add these San Diego landmarks to your itinerary.
Boasting warm weather all year round, golden beaches, and a stunning selection of attractions, is it really any wonder that San Diego is one of my favourite Californian cities?
I don’t think so.
Sure, LA might be ridiculously cool and San Fran’s foodie scene is unbeatable, but I would go as far as to say that San Diego is more down-to-earth and charming than its other Californian counterparts.
And with so many natural, historic, and iconic landmarks on offer, you won’t have time to catch your breath.
Read on to discover San Diego’s top landmarks.
Famous Landmarks in San Diego
San Diego Zoo
Kicking things off is one of the most famous San Diego landmarks, the San Diego Zoo. I, like many, consider this one of the best zoos in the world. And when you see how busy it gets, you’ll understand why.
I’m not usually a zoo-advocate, but when a zoo houses a whopping 4,000 animals from over 650 species, it’s definitely worth a visit in my book. Better yet, the San Diego Zoo was one of the first to embrace the concept of open-air, cageless exhibits that recreate natural animal habitats.
It’s safe to say that any animal lover will fall head-over-heels for this place.
USS Midway Museum
As one of San Diego’s most iconic places, I had big expectations from the USS Midway Museum. And, if you couldn’t guess by the fact it has made it into this guide, it more than lived up to expectations.
Here’s your chance to explore a historic naval aircraft carrier. You can learn about the aircraft’s extensive history, including its involvement in the Cold War in the 1940s.
There are plenty of exhibits and art galleries to explore, and you’ll come out with plenty of new facts to impress your friends. And, if you’re feeling brave, you can even book yourself a ride on the flight simulator, where you can battle it out in the skies.
Tip: This fantastic skip-the-line ticket allows you to enjoy over 60 exhibits, including the carrier’s engine room, galley, jail, sleeping quarters, and more.
San Diego Museum of Art
As a lover of art (admittedly though, I much prefer street art), a visit to an art gallery will always make it onto my trip. And the San Diego Museum of Art was my favourite offering in the city, mainly because of how strongly it showcases Spanish art.
See the masterpieces of iconic Spanish artists such as Ribera, El Greco, Goya, and Sanchez Cotán. If that’s less your style, the museum also boasts broad collections of Asian, Latin American, and European art.
You can visit the museum’s official site to see all the details, such as times and entrance tickets.
Balboa Park
Balboa Park sprawls across 1,200-acres and is a historic urban cultural park that is free to visit. So if you were scouting for something free to do in San Diego, look no further.
The park features lovely open spaces for relaxing strolls and a flurry of whimsical gardens and artsy museums.
If you’re a botanical enthusiast, I encourage you to wander through the Japanese Garden, a unique garden design full of surprises. There are statues, koi ponds, architectural features, and an impressive bonsai collection adding to that Japanese aesthetic. And that’s just one of the gardens here!
Bring a fully-charged camera, you’ve been warned.
La Jolla Cove
La Jolla Cove makes it into this guide for its sheer natural beauty.
It’s small, with a rocky beach shaped by the rugged cliffs of La Jolla. Each time I visit the city it’s one of my first pit stops due to its mesmerising sunsets and charming seaside restaurants.
It’s also a popular spot for swimming, snorkelling, and diving, making it a tiny haven for water babies visiting San Diego. It offers a serene escape for sun loungers and a chance to spot majestic sea lions.
Seaport Village
If you’re looking for an iconic San Diego landmark, check out Seaport Village. It’s a waterfront shopping and dining complex in downtown San Diego – which means you get the pleasure of enjoying harbour views while on a shopping spree or indulging in delicious eateries.
This vibrant harbour-side landmark features over 50 shops and an array of cafes, restaurants, and even art galleries. And, if you’re not looking to splurge, you can relish a relaxing stroll on the promenade while enjoying the splendid scenery.
Seaport Village is open every day of the year and even boasts free live music over the weekends.
The Gaslamp Quarter
Find yourself in the heart and soul of downtown San Diego. The Gaslamp Quarter is a vibrant neighbourhood, a hub of clubs, bars, lounges, and restaurants drawing in young crowds by the dozen. See why it’s my favourite place in the city?
Apart from the lively pubs and bars, there’s also a mix of independent and chain restaurants, coffee vendors, and ice cream stalls.
The Gaslamp Quarter also boasts a rich history, from its days in the wild west to ghostly hauntings. Check it out if you’re craving a buzzing atmosphere and plenty of entertainment.
Juan Rodriguez Cabrillo National Monument
The Cabrillo National Monument serves as an ode to remember the voyage explorations of Juan Rodriguez. These explorations took place 480 years ago, marking the first European expedition that set foot on what is now known as the West Coast of the United States.
Today it is a historical and recreational site open to the public for a small fee of $10 per person.
Upon arrival, I’d wager that you’ll instantly reach for your camera to capture the stunning sweeping views over the pacific ocean. Head here to learn more about the “Columbus of California,” and if you’re visiting in winter, you might even spot some grey whales.
Old Town San Diego State Historic Park
If this San Diego historic landmark is not on the agenda, then you’re missing out. I’m talking about the oldest and most iconic neighbourhood of San Diego, Old Town.
If this isn’t a good enough reason to visit, wait until you see the abundance of entertainment and activities in Old Town. Some of the top sights include the historic park and an open-air living-history museum which you can wander through.
Then, after all the sightseeing, you can grab a seat at Cafe Coyote to enjoy a refreshing cold one.
Belmont Park
For a touch of retro fun (and some high-speed thrills), head to San Diego’s bustling Belmont Park for an afternoon of laughs.
Previously known as the Mission Beach Amusement Center, the park opened in 1925 (on July 4th, of all days) and has been busy ever since. Expect kitsch stalls selling ice creams, donuts, and knick knacks.
Now, I would usually pass on theme parks, but this one is pretty epic. The Giant Dipper roller coaster is a local icon and a must-ride in the park.
Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve
Trust me when I say that Torrey Pines should be near the very top of your San Diego bucket list. Here you can visit unspoiled beaches and one of the wildest stretches of land along the southern coast of San Diego.
The Torrey Pines offers breathtaking scenery that draws in travellers from all over the world. You can come here for an early morning jog (or walk) as the sun rises and the migrating sea birds gather at the lagoon – there are trails you can walk for a peaceful moment along the rugged coastline.
Note that you’re only allowed to have food on the beach, and beyond that, you may only carry water. Also, groups must have a permit, and smoking and pets aren’t allowed anywhere.
Petco Park
Nestled between 7th and 10th Avenue south of J Street is where you’ll find the famous ballpark of San Diego. Home to Major League Baseball’s San Diego Padres and the venue for other events such as soccer, golf, and concerts, it’s not just an ordinary ballpark.
Catching a game here is a must for sports enthusiasts (not me, but you do do).
Take in stunning city skyline views, and choose from an array of food and state-of-the-art amenities while enjoying unforgettable events.
Mission Basilica San Diego de Alcala
Mission Basilica is a landmark of note for its importance to San Diego’s history and is a significant part of the city’s early days.
Known as the “Mother of Missions”, this building is a tiny gem filled with a fascinating history. The fact that the church burned during an uprising by the Kumeyaay people in 1775 is a case in point.
The church is also second in line as one of the first 21 Spanish missions established, in part, by Spanish friar Junípero Serra. The Mission Basilica played a considerable role in the Catholic outreach to local natives. With so much to uncover about San Diego’s past here, you can’t skip this history lesson.
Chinese Historic District
Culture seekers, if you didn’t know much about San Diego’s former bustling Chinatown, here’s your opportunity.
The Chinese Historic District is home to a fascinating historical museum where you can learn all about the heritage of the Chinese community and see its art and culture up close.
This eight-block neighbourhood, overlapping with Gaslamp Quarter, became the home of early fishermen settlers in 1860. It was a space dedicated to Chinese and Chinese-Americans who had no living access to other parts of San Diego during that time. Though today it makes for a lovely, culture-filled stroll around one of San Diego’s most interesting neighbourhoods.
Star of India
Looking for a bit of action while visiting a landmark in San Diego? Allow the Star of India, the world’s oldest active sailing ship, to stir up some waves. And you’ll be on board, of course.
Amidst all the action, you can hear about the ship’s smooth sailing past as a circumnavigator that went around the earth a whopping 21 times.
For general admission, you can explore the museum any day between 10 am to 5 pm at $20 per adult. It has a convenient location in front of Seaport Village, where you can find more restored historic ships.
Chicano Park Murals
As I’ve already mentioned, I’m a street art lover, so it’s no wonder that this next spot comes highly recommended by me.
Chicano Park boasts a reputation as home to the most extensive collection of outdoor murals in the U.S., making it a must-see when you’re in the city. These murals allow you to peek into San Diego’s rich Chicano culture with a captivating backstory.
Much of its storytelling depicts the struggle to create the park, the reclaiming of this area by displaced Barrion Logan residents (mostly Hispanic), historical events, and mythology. Take in the vibrant colours, alluring patterns, and meanings behind the art to appreciate one of the many cultures of San Diego.
Oh, and you’ll want to snap some epic pics.
Whaley House Museum
You’ll find this site in Old Town, but I had to give the Whaley House Museum its own spot.
That’s because the best landmark list wouldn’t be complete without an insanely haunted house. Not just any old dingy, eerie place, but the most haunted house in the US. If that sounds like your thing, you must tour this museum.
It’s also one of the oldest homes in San Diego, courtesy of Thomas Whaley, who started its construction in 1856. During this period, Whaley had one thing in mind: to build the “handsomest, most comfortable, and convenient place” in Southern California. Today it’s one of the most iconic landmarks in San Diego (go figure).
Barona Cultural Center and Museum
Did you know that the Kumeyaay tribes were the very first people and original inhabitants of San Diego? If your answer is no, I expect you to head to the Barona Cultural Center and Museum immediately when you reach San Diego.
Just kidding, but even if you know, it’s always worth checking out a museum of this importance.
You’ll find this museum in East County, where you’ll learn much about the Kumeyaay people. And you can support the preservation efforts of the Kumeyaay culture and way of life.
Coronado Bridge
Coronado Bridge is probably one of the first landmarks you’ll see when landing in San Diego. That’s because it’s easily recognizable due to its concrete/steel pillars rising out of the azure ocean with gorgeous skies in the background.
What’s even better is admiring this beauty during dawn from a boat or yacht as the lights start reflecting on the water. You can even head to Ferry Landing to glimpse unbeatable views over the bridge and city skyline.
However, simply driving over the bridge is an excellent option as well.
Self Realization Fellowship Hermitage & Meditation Gardens
If this landmark sounds like a mouthful, you’d have some relief finding out that you can practise your breathing here. In Encinitas, you’ll find the white and gold temple spires of the Self Realization Fellowship peeking right at you. It’s hard to miss and even harder to deny a visit.
Here you can explore the iconic temple and join others in the tranquil meditation gardens for an unforgettable spiritual endeavour.
Presidio Park
In need of some pub quiz knowledge? Add this fascinating San Diego landmark to your itinerary.
After learning about the first people of San Diego at the Boronia Cultural Center, you can now make your way to the first Spanish settlement in California.
Presidio Park is the first European fort and settlement in the Western U.S. that the Spanish would use as a base for their conquest of California. This park sits on a hill overlooking Old Town. The surroundings are serene, featuring 40 acres of lush open space, memorials, and picnic areas.
Windansea Beach Hut
Take in the gorgeous scenery underneath a rustic hut on the cliffs of Windansea beach. But this is not just any old little hut – it’s one of the oldest surf shacks in San Diego, making it a prominent beach landmark.
Come here on a sunny day to soak up some sun if you need to catch a tan. It’s the ideal spot to unwind and embrace the surfing culture while visiting a beloved landmark in San Diego.
Practical Tips for Visiting San Diego Landmarks
- Visiting San Diego outside of June – August can mean you save plenty of cash. Which means more money in your pocket to spend on these impressive landmarks.
- Remember to pack in a light jacket for the summer months. San Diego’s coastal location and mild temperatures mean you’ll experience chilly mornings and evenings.
- Remember to check if you need to book an attraction in advance. Don’t leave it up to chance or you might be disappointed.
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