Must See Sights and Landmarks in Cowles Mountain Area

"The San Diego Padres' home is one of the few stadiums in America with a water view. And the non-baseball-related appeal doesn't stop there. Local craft brew options are stellar, with more than 40 varieties of poured at stalls and restaurants around the stadium, which include the Stone Brewing Company beer garden on the upper deck, and more than 50 dining options."

"Dare I say that Petco Park is one of the coolest ballparks in the MLB. Part of the reason is that it’s built around the historic Western Metal Supply Co. building, hosts some of the best sight lines in baseball, and boasts panoramic water and skyline views from some seats. Go of course to take in a Major League Baseball game, but that’s not the only treat."

"Petco Park is a baseball park located in the downtown area of San Diego, California, United States, that is the second home to the San Diego Padres of Major League Baseball. Petco Park is situated 1½ km northeast of Coronado Ferry Landing Shopping Center. Photo: Mds08011, CC BY 4.0."

"Old Town State Park is known as the birthplace of California. In 1821, when Mexico gained independence from Spain, a small group of Mexican settlers began building homes at the foot of the hillside below the first mission and Presidio. Because wood was scarce at the time, sun-dried adobe bricks were used."

"There are several historic buildings to be found, including five adobes, a hotel dating back to 1870, and a reconstructed courthouse and stable. Educational events are frequent occurrences, from theatrical performances to blacksmith demonstrations to tours."

"The six square blocks on the site of San Diego's original pueblo are the heart of Old Town. Most of the 20 historic buildings preserved…"

"Visit the rumored 'most haunted house in America' located in Old Town San Diego and take a tour of the beautiful home. Explore the two-story Greek Revival-style mansion and see rooms that once served as a general store, San Diego's first commercial theater, a courthouse, and more. A tour of the Whaley House is a tour of San Diego's history."

"Whether you enjoy spotting ghosts and apparitions or have an interest in historic places, the Whaley House is a definite tourist pleaser. The lovely brick two-story structure was built in 1857 by the original owner Thomas Whaley. Its historical significance lies in the many different roles the home played for the community."

"The Whaley House is a museum and California Historical Landmark, situated in the Old Town, San Diego, California. It is administered by the Save Our Heritage Organization (SOHO). The Whaley House was the home of Thomas Whaley and his family."

"Seen as the entrance point for control of the west by Europeans, Presidio Park remains a place of history amidst the city of San Diego. Interpreting the entire site for guests is the Junipero Serra Museum which houses many artifacts dealing with Spanish and Mexican heritage, colonization, the beginnings of customs within California and showcasing the lives of those who began it all. The presidio, first built to protect colonists from attack, later took on roles as military headquarters and a central outdoor space to remember history."

"You will find grassy greenfields, attractive architecture plus columns. There is also a wooded hilltop overlooking the San Diego Bay from that perfect angle where you can catch the sun setting about everything. What a gorgeous place to have your landscape photography!"

"A historical fort established on May 14, 1769, the Presidio was the first permanent European settlement on the Pacific Coast."

"Handcrafted, small-batch beers are the name of the game at Kilowatt. The master brewers at this eclectic neighborhood beer palace continually tweak their recipes for optimal color, flavor, bouquet, and balance. This commitment to experimentation means the beer list is always brimming with fantastic flavors and uncommon variety."

"Swell Coffee Co is an artisan coffee roasting company that recently opened a location in Del Mar’s Flower Hill Promenade. Featuring direct trade coffees from around the world, Swell brings its drinks from the farm to the roaster to the cup. The beans are roasted locally and fans get cups made only for them via a V60 pour-over coffee maker, French press or Chemex, all designed to extract the perfect flavor of the beans."

"A photo posted by Swell Coffee Co. (@swellcoffeeco_) on Nov 28, 2016 at 8:36am PST. Swell has two locations in San Diego, one in Mission Beach and one in Del Mar. I have only been to the one in Del Mar, but the coffee is fantastic, the environment is just about perfect for working (both indoors and out), and the WiFi is a solid ‘B’."

"A wee, squat building that isn’t going to dazzle with sweeping skyline views, Amplified more than makes up for its height by being just steps off the beach. It bears along some sweet ocean breezes that complement the homemade beers nicely. Have a kebab and a Treble Tripel, and we’ll await your thanks."

"Chicano Park is not your typical tourist destination but it is home to some rich Latino history in San Diego. The park is located underneath the Coronado Bay Bridge and it has some of the most beautiful murals and art that are painted on the pillars and sides of the freeway. The murals are constantly being changed by local artist and they tell some amazing stories."

"Chicano park is a small park with incredible murals from renowned Latin-American artists. It’s a national historic landmark that few know about in San Diego and worth visiting. You can read more about the stories behind the murals here."

"Chicano Park has a rich history, but the main draw for photographers and IGers are its beautiful murals. Each has a story of its own."

"Located just 12 miles from downtown San Diego, Mission Trails Regional Park is an excellent spot to escape the city for hiking and mountain biking. The 8,000-acre area is mostly rugged hills and canyons, with 55+ trails of varying lengths and difficulty. Rent a boat or kayak and head out on Lake Murray or explore the visitors center to learn about the plant and animal life that can be found in the park."

"A hike in Mission Trails Regional Park is one of the best things to do in California. The whole preserve spans more than 7,000 acres, and depending on where you enter, you can see everything from bare, rocky cliffs to green fields bursting with life. Outdoor enthusiasts will love the wide range of activities offered at the park."

"Mission Trails Regional Park is a 7200-acre open space preserve comprised mostly of rugged canyons and hills with some developed areas mixed in. Go to walk, run, or bike the trails. Spot birds, native plants, and other wildlife."