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Best Things to Do in San Diego, the USA for First-Timers
San Diego is a beautiful city located on the Pacific coast of California and widely known for its mild and warm weather all-year-round, beautiful beaches, parks, among other things. This city is a popular tourist destination. For example, in 2017, about 35 million people have visited San Diego. A staggering number, don’t you think? If you’re thinking about visiting San Diego (and you should definitely do so), here are the best things to do in this amazing city.
Visit San Diego Zoo
Chances are you have already heard a lot about San Diego Zoo, one of the best zoos in America. Found in Balboa Park, this zoo is home to over 3500 animals and more than 650 species and subspecies. What many people don’t know about San Diego Zoo is that it’s one of only a few zoos in the world that successfully breed giant panda. This zoo also has an aerial tram called Skyfari, which gives visitors an impressive view of the whole park. It’s also worth mentioning San Diego Zoo is a pioneer in the concept of cageless exhibits that recreate natural habitats for animals.
Visit Old Town San Diego
When in San Diego you should, definitely, go and visit Old Town San Diego, which spans across 230 acres of land. It is the oldest settled area in San Diego, hence the name, and it also happens to be the first site of the European settlement in California. This part of the city has a unique “old world” vibe, which perfectly complements the modern-day San Diego. Old Town combines Mexican and Spanish influences that make it vibrant and abundant in historical sites, handmade craft shops, restaurants with amazing food.
Discover La Jolla
La Jolla is San Diego’s Jewel by the Sea and a beautiful site to rest, relax, and enjoy while gazing at the marvelous scenery before your eyes. La Jolla is surrounded on three sides by the Sea and is backed by the steep slopes of Mt. Soledad. The most brilliant thing about La Jolla is the mixed geology that includes rocky shorelines and sandy beaches. There are tons of activities you can do in La Jolla and also spend some time on the beach, resorts, golf courses, among other things. You can also visit Torrey Pines Natural Reserve, go kayaking, and play tennis. La Jolla is a beautiful yet peaceful place that perfectly embodies Californian laid-back vibe.
Have a fun night out in Gaslamp Quarter
Gaslamp Quarter is a vibrant downtown neighborhood known for its nightlife scene. If you love to let loose and have some fun, then you should definitely have a night out in Gaslamp Quarter, where you will find tons of bars, cocktail lounges, and clubs. This neighborhood is also home to art shops and galleries, restaurants, theaters, and more. A great way to immerse yourself in the culture is to spend your night out where other locals do. You’ll have fun and still see beautiful things at the same time.
Whale watching in San Diego Bay
San Diego Bay is a natural deepwater port and harbor near the US – Mexico border. What every first-time traveler to this city should do is to head to San Diego Bay and observe gorgeous whales. Whale watching is once in a lifetime opportunity for most people, and you should definitely use it. You can see gray whales from December to March and blue whales in September.
Go on a SEAL tour
No, we’re not talking about Seal the singer, but the 90-minute fully-narrated tour that departs from Seaport Village or Embarcadero. During the tour, you can view some of the most famous sites in San Diego, such as Maritime Museum, Seaport Village, Lindbergh Field, Shelter Island, and other attractions. The tour will also show you seals, sea lions, California brown pelicans, and other wildlife.
Other things to do in San Diego
- Go on a harbor cruise
- Visit Coronado, a quaint seaside village
- Visit Legoland
- Spend time in Sea World
- Tour the USS Midway
- Visit Balboa Park
Info for travelers
A word of advice for international travelers to San Diego, is to make sure they complete their ESTA application if they come from countries in the Visa Waiver Program. Without proper application, you won’t be able to come to the US and visit San Diego. You can complete the application and check ESTA status online. It takes a few minutes to apply, and you only need to provide basic info such as payment details, employment information, passport info, and other things.
Conclusion
San Diego is a beautiful, vibrant, and peaceful city that is bound to impress you. International travelers may need to ensure they have their proper visa first. San Diego offers gorgeous sites, exciting places for a night out, peaceful cruises, educational tours, and picturesque neighborhoods and spots that will make you want to visit it again and again.
