Balboa Park is a 1,200-acre urban cultural park with beautiful gardens, numerous museums, theaters, and the world-famous San Diego Zoo. Spend the day exploring the park's attractions and exhibits, and enjoying the open spaces and beautiful Spanish Colonial Revival architecture.
Explore San Diego's rich maritime history with visits to the USS Midway Museum, a retired naval aircraft carrier turned museum, and the Maritime Museum of San Diego, which houses a collection of historic sailing vessels and exhibits about the city's seafaring legacy.
Seaport Village is a waterfront shopping and dining complex with scenic views of San Diego Bay. Spend the morning here before heading out to the San Diego Zoo Safari Park, where you can see exotic animals and take a safari-style tram tour of the park's African Plains exhibit.
Coronado Beach is a beautiful beach with golden sand and picturesque views of the Hotel del Coronado. After soaking up the sun, head to Old Town San Diego State Historic Park, where you can explore the birthplace of California and experience the city's rich Hispanic heritage through its preserved historic buildings, museums, and shops.
San Diego is easily navigable by car or public transit. Consider renting a car for easier access to all areas of the city, but be aware of parking fees in some areas. Public transit options include the San Diego Trolley, which runs to major attractions and neighborhoods, and buses, which serve the whole city. Estimated travel costs vary by method and destination.
If you have more time, consider adding a trip to La Jolla for its beaches and tide pools, or the San Diego Zoo for more animal sightings. If you have less time, skip either Balboa Park or Old Town to save a day or half-day.
The San Diego International Airport (SAN) is located about 3 miles northwest of downtown San Diego, making it easily accessible via taxi, Uber/Lyft, rental car or public transportation. The airport offers flights to major cities in the US and internationally.