Mentioned by Condé Nast Traveler
17 Best Things to Do in San Diego
"Right in downtown San Diego, the state-of-the-art Petco Park is lauded as one of Major League Baseball’s best stadiums. In the stands you’ll get incredible vistas of the Sand Diego skyline and San Diego Bay at one of 81 regular season games (more if the Padres have a successful season). Petco Park opened in 2004, before which the San Diego Padres had to share the Jack Murphy Stadium with NFL’s Chargers."
"First, it’s close to Petco Park, and second, it’s rooftop bar, Altitudes, is a great spot for a sunset cocktail!. There are several Marriotts in the Gaslamp quarter, so make sure to double-check the name when you make your reservation!"
"At the Old Town San Diego State Historic Park, you can travel back in time and soak up some of the rich culture from San Diego's early days. The park recreates the feel of the Mexican and early American periods, from 1821 to 1872, when this settlement grew from a small Mexican pueblo. Visit a working blacksmith shop, shop for authentic Mexican crafts, browse the art studios, enjoy live Mariachi music, and dine on a sunny patio at one of the atmospheric restaurants."
"In 1968, the State of California Department of Parks and Recreation established Old Town State Historic Park to preserve the rich heritage that characterized San Diego during the 1821 to 1872 period. Within Old Town don’t miss Casa de Estudillo, which is one of the few original buildings (many are reproductions), Whaley House and Museum, which is believed to be haunted and Junípero Serra Museum, literally the place where California began."
"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…"
"So head to Old Town, a festive spot filled with amazing Mexican restaurants, to toast your beach day with margaritas and burritos. Day five – A Bonus Day"
"Day 2: Old Town, The Midway & Coronado [Skip to Page] Day 3: La Jolla, the beaches, Cabrillo Point & Point Loma [Skip to Page]"
"Study humankind at the San Diego Museum of Man, marvel at aeronautic engineering in the San Diego Air and Space Museum, then catch your breath in the Botanical Building. Head up to North Park for happy hour at Polite Provisions; its beautiful cocktail lounge may hook you up with some small plates if you’re hungry. Save the appetite, though—North Park’s Restaurant Row is nearby."
"The Botanical Building houses more than 2,000 tropical plants. Capturing the wood structure with the lily pond in front is one of the most photographed sections of Balboa Park."
"Located in Balboa Park, the Japanese Friendship Garden is a relaxing spot to spend an afternoon in San Diego. The garden was built to represent the friendship between San Diego and its sister city in Japan, Yokohama, and provides a unique and chilled out experience for visitors. Besides its zen atmosphere and impressive garden and architecture designs, the Japanese Friendship Garden hosts regular events throughout the year, such as yoga classes, meditation sessions, and the San Diego Sake Day."
"There is an extra fee to enter the Japanese Friendship Garden, which is an expression of friendship between San Diego and its sister city, Yokohama. There’s an upper and lower strolling path where you can see koi pond, landscaped gardens and a Zen garden viewing deck. It’s a very tranquil space."
"Feel the beauty of the waterfalls and greenery as you stroll the pathways of the Japanese Friendship Garden. Skip right past the entrance fee the third Tuesday of every month. As well, explore the Japanese rock garden and take in the current indoor display."
"San Diego Itinerary Day three: Balboa Park and Point Loma Day three begins in Balboa Park, San Diego’s cultural epicenter and home to over 15 museums. Stroll around and take in the beautiful grounds, gardens, and Spanish architecture, and explore one of the museums if you’re inclined. My favorites are the Natural History Museum and the Museum of Man."
"For the best sushi in La Mesa, diners head to Banbu Sushi Bar and Grill. This restaurant has beautiful outdoor dining options with firepits, so head here on a nice night, no matter..."
"What is it: This cheery Ocean Beach spot perks up mornings with friendly service and killer breakfast grub. Why go: The inclusive menu has something for everyone, from the healthy to the hungover. A full bar sends out bacon Bloody Marys and draft kombuchas, while kitchen serves breakfast hot dogs and vibrant veggie bowls."
"The flagship location of a booming breakfast brand which has multiplied across the county and beyond is still humming in North Park where brunch-loving San Diegans flock for its plates of creative comfort food and daytime cocktails."
"A flight is three pancakes, where you can mix and match flavors. We recommend the Oreo pancake with cookie crumbles and cream. Likewise, try the cinnamon roll pancake or pineapple upside down pancakes (family favorites)."
"A post shared by Nina Jacobson (@cr1snina) on Aug 20, 2013 at 9:50am PDT. Firehouse American Eatery & Lounge is a local legend in San Diego, having excellent natural lighting accompanied by great architecture for the best beach views. Even the entrance will enthrall the visitors with its Japanese shou sugi ban wood."
"The menu at Firehouse, a short walk from the hotel, puts quirky twists on American classics. Feel like a bacon-fat mac and cheese?. How about mini Chicago dogs?"
"This place is fancy, young, trendy with the plates nearly as beautiful as the people. Lionfish Modern Coastal Cuisine is located in the Gaslamp area inside an ultra cool upscale hotel. Lionfish does everything from sashimi to small plates to share to full on instagram worthy entrees."