Top 10 Free Things To Do and Attractions in North San Diego Bay

"You’ll keep returning to this 1,200-acre urban park for its world-class zoo, restful cultivated areas, museums in refined Spanish Revival buildings and live shows. There’s a tapestry of gardens around the park, planted with more than 350 plant species hand-selected at the turn of the 20th century by the botanist Kate Sessions, the “Mother of Balboa Park”. An emblem for the park and San Diego is the Botanical Building, one of many splendid holdovers from the 1915-16 Panama-California Exposition."

"Families appreciate the beauty and abundance of recreational opportunities at Balboa Park. This expansive outdoor space includes 17 museums, playgrounds, a swimming pool, and over a dozen different gardens. Many visitors come here to enjoy the Pepper Grove Playground, a large kids' recreation area with slides, swings, a jungle gym, sandbox, playing fields, and picnic tables."

"One of San Diego’s gems, Balboa Park, is teeming with free things to do in San Diego. There are over 65 miles of walking trails at Balboa Park, the largest urban cultural park in America. In addition, there are gorgeous gardens, botanical gardens and spectacular Spanish Colonial Revival architecture to see."

"Just a step inside the Old Town Market and you’ll get a sense of what life was like several centuries ago when the city of San Diego was brand new. The market offers visitors a chance to see and hear tales of Old Town, the original inhabitants and how they lived, worked and survived in the early 1800’s. Visit the free museum, watch working artisans, pick up a souvenir or two at one of the shops or enjoy a meal—Old Town Market of San Diego is a charming, nostalgic landmark and attraction that is brimming with history and entertainment."

"The Harney Street Market offers a variety of artisan goods, including jewelry, paintings, photography, hand-blown glass, woodwork, clothing, and accessories. It takes place in Old Town San Diego on Harney Street every Saturday and Sunday from 10:30 a.m."

"Join us for free, historic storytelling, shows and entertainment every day of the week. Shop in our 40 unique gift stores, watch working artisans, or enjoy a bite to eat. Learn about the rich history of Old Town San Diego in our free museum."

"It's notoriously hard to get to, involving either a treacherous climb down unstable cliffs on a trail known for accidents or a two-mile hike south from Torrey Pines State Beach (which is inaccessible at high tide). While Black Beach may be difficult to reach, the remoteness is one of the reasons that people love it. That and because it's one of the only nude beaches in San Diego County (but clothing is only optional in the north section of the beach)."

"Why go: To surf or enjoy some quiet (note that some people still go nude here). Black’s Beach is a secluded section of beach beneath the bluffs of Torrey Pines, and is officially part of Torrey Pines State Beach. Black’s Beach is perhaps most notorious for its status as San Diego’s only nude beach, though that’s no longer allowed in the more southern portion managed by the City of San Diego."

"Hike to the top of Cowles Mountain for prime panoramic views of San Diego County. At 1,593-feet, the summit is the highest peak in all of San Diego, California. The three-mile hike is a rather strenuous switchback-style uphill trek, but the incredible views are worth the effort."

"First established in 1912, Bay City can count itself among the city’s oldest continuously operating beer centers. With a mix of always-on-tap beers and “brand-new today” creations, there’s always something new to try here. And if you like what you’re drinking, Bay City also offers six-packs and growlers to go."

"The family-owned Coronado Brewing Company first opened its doors to beer-loving San Diegans in 1996 and has been offering a full range of specialty brews (as well as a full food menu) ever since. Whether you drop by the flagship location on Coronado Island or the Tasting Room just a few miles from us on Mission Bay, you’re guaranteed a good time."

"Saint Archer Brewing Company will be reopening both of it’s tasting rooms, located in Miramar and Leucadia respectively, for guests to enjoy onsite, outdoor beers paired with local food partners. Leucadia has partnered with Pandora Pizza, and Miramar will be serving Artesano Tacos on Saturdays, and Pizza Joint Monday through Friday, and Sunday. Leucadia is open daily from 12PM to 7PM, while Miramar is open Monday through Thursday 2PM to 7PM, Friday and Saturday 12PM to 7PM, and Sunday 12PM to 6PM."

"Both locations of Saint Archer are opening their tasting rooms for to-go beers and delivery. The Miramar location is open daily and Leucadia is open Saturday/Sunday. Pick-up and delivery orders can be placed here (delivery available with a $40 minimum)."

"With its unassuming yellow paint and perfectly square foundation, the William Heath Davis House bears the distinct honor of being the oldest building in San Diego. Erected in 1850, this historic saltbox-style home now serves as a museum, transporting everyone who steps through its doors back in time to the Victorian era of yore. While it once was the home of one of our earliest settlers, William Heath Davis himself, it now affords its visitors a glimpse into our past."

"Built by William Heath Davis in 1850, many fascinating people, including Alonzo Horton, have called the William Heath Davis House 'home.' You'll get to tour the home, and its decorated rooms - each representing different eras in the life of the house and its various former (and rumored ghostly current) inhabitants. Getting in: William Heath Davis House tickets are included on the Go San Diego Card All-Inclusive Pass."