San Diego Attractions

"You could spend a week and still not see everything" in this "remarkable" Downtown "oasis" that some say is "comparable to the Smithsonian in DC", with at least 15 "wonderful" museums (including ones devoted to aerospace and automobiles as well as the nation's largest multi-sport institution, the Hall of Champions) as well as the "world-famous" San Diego Zoo; what's more, "gorgeous palm trees", hiking and biking trails, "free concerts" at the "outdoor organ" and street musicians turn this urban "gem" into "one of the great city parks."

"Absolutely magnificent" rave reviewers who've taken in the "panoramic views" of San Diego harbor and the ocean from this "always windy" Point Loma park where, in 1542, Juan Rodriguez Cabrillo came ashore with the first European expedition to land on the West Coast; a "modern, informative visitor center" and "knowledgeable rangers" are on hand to help you learn about the area's history, but you can also take a self-guided tour.

"From its mariachi bands, haunted houses and candle-making demos" to its "kitschy shopping" venues, this "lively" urban state park re-creates life during the Mexican and early American periods (1821–1872); so "tour the schoolhouse" and other original adobe buildings, then stop for a "hot handmade tortilla" at one of the restaurants; despite its merits, some dismiss it as "commercial and touristy", adding there's "better traditional food found elsewhere."

"Always fun and pleasant to play", this "nicely kept, old-style course" is "friendly for golf with your spouse" thanks to a "short", "easy" layout topped with "a beautiful finishing hole" (perhaps "one of the best par 5s in the state"); nestled in "lovely" San Diego, the "fabulous resort" has "undergone an impressive face-lift", so be sure to "grab a bite at the 19th hole" – although "sipping a cool one on the patio while totaling your score is even better."

Demonstrating that "science can be fun", this "first-rate discovery center" in Balboa Park appeals to "inquisitive minds" of every age with "interactive" exhibits, planetarium shows and an IMAX theater screening "fantastic" movies; it may "not be as extensive" as similar facilities in other cities, but all in all, it's an "excellent" "learning adventure."

A "must-see for aviation enthusiasts", this Balboa Park museum boasts "great vintage" planes, an "excellent aircraft carrier exhibit" and more, with displays that mix technical information and "fun" (check out one of the cool motion simulators); plus, there are "dedicated" staff and volunteers to guide you, including former flyboys with "a wealth of historical knowledge"; P.S. you "can see almost everything in one visit" and still have time for other attractions.

Balboa Park is home to one of the "world's most amazing zoos", where the "natural settings" reflect "a profound concern for the welfare" of the "huge variety" of inhabitants while affording visitors "close views of elusive cats, playful otters" and much much more; it gets "really hot" in summer and there's lots of walking "up and down hills", so "pack water", consider the "informative" bus tour and be sure to refuel at Albert's next to the Gorilla Tropics.

"Plan to get wet" courtesy of the "always-popular Shamu", who's "still flipping" at this "outstanding" aquarium that's owned by the Anheuser-Busch "beer barons" and set on "lovely grounds" in Mission Valley; enjoy "exciting rides", "interactive" feeding areas and "delightful exhibits" of "beautiful marine animals" before dining next to the celebrity orca's tank; N.B. admission is pricey, so plan ahead and purchase an all-inclusive CityPass.