Visiting San Diego - What to See and Do

(San Diego, California - CA, USA)

San Diego is located in southern California, 100 miles from Los Angeles and very close to the border with Mexico. Because of its close proximity to Mexico, the city has a distinctly South American feel to it. California is known for its laid-back atmosphere and San Diego is no exception, especially with its excellent climate and superb beaches.

San Diego is the last stopping point for land travelers to Mexico. The city's many attractions keep tourists entertained and interested for the duration of their stay and the 1.3 million residents of San Diego are fortunate to live in such a pleasant environment.

Ten things you must do in San Diego

• Visit the popular San Diego Zoo, home to many endangered and exotic species. Founded in 1916, the zoo is known for taking good care of its more than 4,000 animals that reside in modern and roomy enclosures.
• Spend some time soaking up the San Diego sun at Mission Beach. This is the place to be seen at when visiting San Diego and activities here include strolling along the vibrant boardwalk from Mission Beach to Pacific Beach as well as abundant water sports.
• Be entertained and educated by the impressive rides, shows and exhibits at SeaWorld San Diego. The well-choreographed shows include killer whales, dolphins, sea lions, seals and otters.
• Brush up on some of San Diego's historical facts about the city's fascinating past at the Museum of San Diego History. Displays, collections and exhibits of art and artifacts give an accurate depiction of the city's history.
• View the impressive array of artworks on show at the San Diego Museum of Art. The superb entrance to the building and the wonderful Spanish Baroque and Indian paintings on show should not be missed.
• Relax right in the center of San Diego at Balboa Park, the biggest inner-city cultural park in the US. Apart from the landscaped gardens and walking paths, the park contains 13 major museums and an IMAX Theater.
• Visit the impressive late 18th-century cathedral of The Basilica San Diego de Alcala. The superb architectural design is worth taking the time to study and the cathedral is still functional, with regular services still held here.
• Cool off at one of Knott's Soak City's many pools. This water amusement park has been created in the style of a 1960s surfing paradise and attractions include a manmade river, massive wave pool and 22 water slides.
• Take a short drive north of San Diego and visit the popular children's attraction of Legoland California. An additional 2-hour drive farther north will take you to Anaheim, home of Disneyland Resort. The Disneyland Resort contains two theme parks, Disneyland and Disney's California Adventure.
• Give yourself a taste of Mexico on a day trip to Tijuana, 16 miles south of San Diego. This resurgent town is a joy to explore, with its numerous good restaurants and out-of-the-ordinary shopping.