San Diego County 3-Day Explorer: Unforgettable Moments Await

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by Aurora

March 29, 2024 · 2 min read

San Diego county 3 Days Itinerary

Embark on a thrilling 3-day journey through San Diego County, where the blend of history, nature, and entertainment awaits. Your adventure begins at the USS Midway Museum, a maritime treasure that offers a glimpse into America's naval power with a 3-hour immersive experience. Just a stone's throw away, spend the rest of your first day at Seaport Village, indulging in the charm of waterfront shopping and dining. Day two is dedicated to the wonders of wildlife at the world-renowned San Diego Zoo, a place where you can spend a full day marveling at exotic animals in meticulously crafted habitats. Nearby, the cultural heart of the city, Balboa Park, invites you for a 2-hour stroll through lush gardens and an array of museums. On your final day, step back in time with a visit to Old Town, San Diego's historic hub, before diving into the aquatic thrills of SeaWorld San Diego. This itinerary promises a perfect blend of education, relaxation, and excitement, tailored for an unforgettable San Diego experience.

Top 6 Hotels in San Diego county
TOP 1
Residence Inn San Diego North/San Marcos
Residence Inn San Diego North/San Marcos
hotelStar
3/5
103 reviews
View Hotel Info
TOP 2
SpringHill Suites San Diego Escondido/Downtown
SpringHill Suites San Diego Escondido/Downtown
hotelStar
3/5
103 reviews
View Hotel Info
TOP 3
Courtyard San Diego El Cajon
Courtyard San Diego El Cajon
hotelStar
4/5
99 reviews
View Hotel Info
Best Western Plus Marina Gateway Hotel
Best Western Plus Marina Gateway Hotel
hotelStar
3/5
103 reviews
View Hotel Info
The Cassara Carlsbad, Tapestry Collection by Hilton
The Cassara Carlsbad, Tapestry Collection by Hilton
hotelStar
3/5
107 reviews
View Hotel Info
Sheraton La Jolla
Sheraton La Jolla
hotelStar
3/5
67 reviews
View Hotel Info

Day 1: Nautical Adventures and Seaside Splendors

1

USS Midway Museum

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Embark on your San Diego journey with a visit to the USS Midway Museum, a maritime sanctuary of military prowess. Nestled at 910 N Harbor Drive, this military museum is a tribute to naval history, inviting you to explore the decks of a legendary aircraft carrier. Allocate around 3 hours to immerse yourself in the stories of sailors and aviators who served on the Midway. It's an awe-inspiring start to your San Diego adventure, offering a blend of education and honor to those who served.

Attraction Info

  • 910 N Harbor Drive, San Diego, CA 92101
  • Suggested tour duration: 3-4 hour
  • Open from 10:00am-5:00pm;Closed during Thanksgiving,Christmas

Recommended Nearby Restaurants

Topsail at Portside Pier
Topsail at Portside Pier
/5 · 0 reviews
0.7 km from attraction
Brigantine at Portside Pier
Brigantine at Portside Pier
/5 · 0 reviews
0.7 km from attraction
Ironside Fish & Oyster
Ironside Fish & Oyster
4.5/5 · 20 reviews
1.2 km from attraction
The Grant Grill
The Grant Grill
4/5 · 5 reviews
1.3 km from attraction
The Fish Market - San Diego
The Fish Market - San Diego
4.6/5 · 12 reviews
0.2 km from attraction
Seneca Trattoria
Seneca Trattoria
/5 · 0 reviews
0.4 km from attraction
11 min,0.86 km
2

Seaport Village

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Continue your day with a leisurely stroll to Seaport Village, just a stone's throw from the USS Midway Museum. This charming waterfront park and marketplace is a vibrant tapestry of shopping, dining, and entertainment. With its picturesque marina setting, Seaport Village is the perfect place to unwind and indulge in the coastal ambiance of San Diego. Spend the day here, soaking up the sun, exploring unique boutiques, and perhaps catching a live performance. It's an idyllic way to cap off your first day in this sun-kissed city.

Attraction Info

  • 849 W Harbor Dr, San Diego, CA 92101, United States
  • Suggested tour duration: 0.5-1 day
  • Open from 10:00am-9:00pm
4.4/554 Reviews
4.4/5Excellent54 Reviews
Downtown San Diego
San Diego
|0.27km from Seaport Village
4.1/5110 Reviews
4.1/5Very Good110 Reviews
Downtown San Diego
San Diego
|0.32km from Seaport Village
4.3/5125 Reviews
4.3/5Excellent125 Reviews
Downtown San Diego
San Diego
|0.44km from Seaport Village
4.3/5106 Reviews
4.3/5Excellent106 Reviews
Downtown San Diego
San Diego
|0.82km from Seaport Village

Day 2: Wildlife Wonders and Park Promenades

1

San Diego Zoo

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Kick off your second day in San Diego with a wild adventure at the world-famous San Diego Zoo. Nestled within the lush landscapes of Balboa Park, this zoo is a city landmark and a haven for animal lovers. With a full day to explore, you'll encounter a myriad of exotic creatures from every corner of the globe. The zoo's innovative habitats and conservation efforts make it more than just an animal park; it's a vibrant museum of living species, each with its own story. From the roar of the lions to the playful antics of the primates, every moment at the San Diego Zoo promises a new discovery.

Attraction Info

  • 2920 Zoo Dr, San Diego, CA 92101, United States
  • Suggested tour duration: 0.5-1 day
  • Open from 9:00am-5:00pm

Recommended Nearby Restaurants

Ironside Fish & Oyster
Ironside Fish & Oyster
4.5/5 · 20 reviews
2.2 km from attraction
The Grant Grill
The Grant Grill
4/5 · 5 reviews
2.4 km from attraction
Topsail at Portside Pier
Topsail at Portside Pier
/5 · 0 reviews
2.8 km from attraction
Brigantine at Portside Pier
Brigantine at Portside Pier
/5 · 0 reviews
2.8 km from attraction
CUCINA urbana
CUCINA urbana
4.3/5 · 3 reviews
1.0 km from attraction
Mister A's
Mister A's
4.8/5 · 16 reviews
1.0 km from attraction
17 min,1.17 km
2

Balboa Park

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After immersing yourself in the animal kingdom, take a leisurely stroll to the cultural heart of the city, Balboa Park. Just a stone's throw away from the zoo, this verdant oasis offers a serene retreat with its enchanting gardens, majestic architecture, and a plethora of museums. Spend a couple of hours wandering through the park's picturesque promenades, soaking in the artistic atmosphere and the historical significance of this urban paradise. Balboa Park is not just a green space; it's a celebration of San Diego's vibrant culture and history, all wrapped up in one tranquil setting.

Attraction Info

  • San Diego, CA, United States
  • Suggested tour duration: 2-4 hour
  • Open 24 hours
0/50 Reviews
Balboa Park
San Diego
|1.42km from Balboa Park
0/50 Reviews
Balboa Park
San Diego
|1.42km from Balboa Park
4/50 Reviews
4/5Very Good0 Reviews
Balboa Park
San Diego
|1.42km from Balboa Park
4.3/5101 Reviews
4.3/5Excellent101 Reviews
Balboa Park
San Diego
|1.51km from Balboa Park

Day 3: Historical Charms and Marine Wonders

1

Old Town

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Begin your final day stepping back in time at Old Town, San Diego's historic heart. As the first sequence in today's adventure, spend an hour wandering through the preserved streets of this ancient town. Here, the past comes alive amidst the authentic Mexican architecture and the echoes of early Californian life. It's a place where every corner tells a story, from the old-fashioned shops to the traditional eateries, making it a perfect spot to savor the cultural heritage before heading to the next exciting destination.

Attraction Info

  • San Diego, CA, USA
  • Suggested tour duration: 1-2 hour
  • Open from 10:00am-5:00pm

Recommended Nearby Restaurants

El Agave
El Agave
4.5/5 · 2 reviews
0.8 km from attraction
Cucina Caprese Pizzeria & Trattoria
Cucina Caprese Pizzeria & Trattoria
/5 · 0 reviews
1.6 km from attraction
Covewood - Mission Bay Resort
Covewood - Mission Bay Resort
/5 · 0 reviews
2.8 km from attraction
Casa Guadalajara
Casa Guadalajara
4.5/5 · 3 reviews
0.1 km from attraction
Lucha Libre Gourmet Taco Shop
Lucha Libre Gourmet Taco Shop
4.1/5 · 7 reviews
2.0 km from attraction
Stone Brewing World Bistro & Gardens - Liberty Station
Stone Brewing World Bistro & Gardens - Liberty Station
3/5 · 1 review
2.1 km from attraction
11 min,5.28 km
2

SeaWorld San Diego

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After immersing yourself in the historical allure of Old Town, dive into a full day of aquatic exploration at SeaWorld San Diego. This city park and museum hybrid offers an ocean of activities that promise to captivate with thrilling rides, educational exhibits, and unforgettable marine life shows. As the crown jewel of your San Diego visit, SeaWorld invites you to marvel at the wonders of the sea, from the adrenaline-pumping roller coasters to the serene encounters with sea creatures. It's a fitting grand finale to your three-day San Diego county escapade.

Attraction Info

  • 500 Sea World Dr, San Diego, CA 92109
  • Suggested tour duration: 0.5-1 day
  • Open from 12/19-12/25,10:00am-8:00pm;Open from 12/26-12/31,9:00am-10:00pm;Open from 01/01-01/07,10:00am-7:00pm;Open from 01/13-01/14,10:00am-7:00pm;Open from 01/20-01/21,10:00am-7:00pm;Open from 01/27-01/28,10:00am-7:00pm;Open from 02/03-02/04,10:00am-7:00pm;Open from 02/10-02/11,10:00am-7:00pm;Open 10:00am-7:00pm on 02/16;Open 10:00am-7:00pm on 02/19;Open from 02/24-02/25,10:00am-7:00pm;Open from 03/02-03/03,10:00am-7:00pm;Open 10:00am-7:00pm on 03/08;Open 10:00am-7:00pm on 03/10;Open 10:00am-7:00pm on 03/15;Open 10:00am-7:00pm on 03/17;Open from 03/25-03/28,10:00am-7:00pm;Open from 04/07-04/11,10:00am-7:00pm;Open 10:00am-7:00pm on 04/14;Open 10:00am-7:00pm on 04/19;Open 10:00am-7:00pm on 04/21;Open 10:00am-7:00pm on 04/26;Open 10:00am-7:00pm on 04/28;Open 10:00am-7:00pm on 05/03;Open 10:00am-7:00pm on 05/05;Open 10:00am-7:00pm on 05/10;Open 10:00am-7:00pm on 05/12;Open 10:00am-7:00pm on 05/17;Open 10:00am-7:00pm on 05/19;Open from 08/18-08/22,10:00am-7:00pm;Open 10:00am-7:00pm on 08/25;Open from 09/07-09/08,10:00am-7:00pm;Open 10:00am-7:00pm on 09/13;Open 10:00am-7:00pm on 09/15;Open 10:00am-7:00pm on 09/20;Open 10:00am-7:00pm on 09/22;Open from 09/27-09/29,10:00am-7:00pm;Open from 10/04-10/06,10:00am-7:00pm;Open from 10/10-10/13,10:00am-7:00pm;Open from 10/17-10/20,10:00am-7:00pm;Open from 10/24-10/27,10:00am-7:00pm;Open from 11/02-11/03,10:00am-7:00pm;Open 10:00am-7:00pm on 11/11;Open from 11/16-11/17,10:00am-7:00pm;Open 10:00am-7:00pm on 12/01;Open 10:00am-7:00pm on 12/08;Open from 01/08-01/11,10:00am-5:00pm;Open from 01/16-01/18,10:00am-5:00pm;Open from 01/22-01/25,10:00am-5:00pm;Open from 01/29-02/01,10:00am-5:00pm;Open from 02/05-02/08,10:00am-5:00pm;Open from 02/13-02/15,10:00am-5:00pm;Open from 02/20-02/22,10:00am-5:00pm;Open from 02/26-02/29,10:00am-5:00pm;Open from 03/04-03/07,10:00am-5:00pm;Open from 04/16-04/18,10:00am-5:00pm;Open from 04/22-04/25,10:00am-5:00pm;Open from 04/29-05/02,10:00am-5:00pm;Open from 05/06-05/09,10:00am-5:00pm;Open from 05/13-05/16,10:00am-5:00pm;Open from 05/20-05/23,10:00am-5:00pm;Open from 08/26-08/29,10:00am-5:00pm;Open from 09/03-09/05,10:00am-5:00pm;Open from 09/09-09/12,10:00am-5:00pm;Open from 09/16-09/19,10:00am-5:00pm;Open from 09/23-09/26,10:00am-5:00pm;Open from 09/30-10/03,10:00am-5:00pm;Open from 10/07-10/09,10:00am-5:00pm;Open from 10/15-10/16,10:00am-5:00pm;Open from 10/21-10/23,10:00am-5:00pm;Open from 10/28-11/01,10:00am-5:00pm;Open from 11/04-11/07,10:00am-5:00pm;Open from 11/12-11/14,10:00am-5:00pm;Open 10:00am-6:00pm on 01/12;Open 10:00am-6:00pm on 01/15;Open 10:00am-6:00pm on 01/19;Open 10:00am-6:00pm on 01/26;Open 10:00am-6:00pm on 02/02;Open 10:00am-6:00pm on 02/09;Open 10:00am-6:00pm on 02/12;Open 10:00am-6:00pm on 02/23;Open 10:00am-6:00pm on 03/01;Open from 03/11-03/14,10:00am-6:00pm;Open from 03/18-03/21,10:00am-6:00pm;Open 10:00am-6:00pm on 04/15;Open from 05/28-05/30,10:00am-6:00pm;Open from 06/03-06/06,10:00am-6:00pm;Open from 08/12-08/15,10:00am-6:00pm;Open 10:00am-6:00pm on 09/06;Open 10:00am-6:00pm on 10/14;Open 10:00am-6:00pm on 11/08;Open 10:00am-6:00pm on 11/15;Open from 11/18-11/22,10:00am-6:00pm;Open from 12/02-12/06,10:00am-6:00pm;Open from 12/09-12/12,10:00am-6:00pm;Open from 02/17-02/18,10:00am-8:00pm;Open 10:00am-8:00pm on 03/09;Open 10:00am-8:00pm on 03/16;Open from 03/22-03/24,10:00am-8:00pm;Open from 03/29-04/06,10:00am-8:00pm;Open from 04/12-04/13,10:00am-8:00pm;Open 10:00am-8:00pm on 04/20;Open 10:00am-8:00pm on 04/27;Open 10:00am-8:00pm on 05/04;Open 10:00am-8:00pm on 05/11;Open 10:00am-8:00pm on 05/18;Open 10:00am-8:00pm on 05/24;Open 10:00am-8:00pm on 05/31;Open 10:00am-8:00pm on 06/07;Open 10:00am-8:00pm on 08/16;Open 10:00am-8:00pm on 08/23;Open 10:00am-8:00pm on 08/30;Open 10:00am-8:00pm on 09/02;Open 10:00am-8:00pm on 09/14;Open 10:00am-8:00pm on 09/21;Open from 11/09-11/10,10:00am-8:00pm;Open from 11/23-11/30,10:00am-8:00pm;Open 10:00am-8:00pm on 12/07;Open from 12/13-12/18,10:00am-8:00pm;Open from 05/25-05/27,10:00am-9:00pm;Open from 06/01-06/02,10:00am-9:00pm;Open from 06/08-06/14,10:00am-9:00pm;Open from 06/16-06/21,10:00am-9:00pm;Open from 06/23-06/27,10:00am-9:00pm;Open from 07/15-07/18,10:00am-9:00pm;Open from 07/22-07/25,10:00am-9:00pm;Open from 07/29-08/01,10:00am-9:00pm;Open from 08/05-08/08,10:00am-9:00pm;Open 10:00am-9:00pm on 08/11;Open 10:00am-9:00pm on 08/17;Open 10:00am-9:00pm on 08/24;Open 10:00am-10:00pm on 06/15;Open 10:00am-10:00pm on 06/22;Open from 06/28-07/03,10:00am-10:00pm;Open from 07/05-07/14,10:00am-10:00pm;Open from 07/19-07/21,10:00am-10:00pm;Open from 07/26-07/28,10:00am-10:00pm;Open from 08/02-08/04,10:00am-10:00pm;Open from 08/09-08/10,10:00am-10:00pm;Open from 08/31-09/01,10:00am-10:00pm;Open 10:00am-11:00pm on 07/04

Recommended Nearby Restaurants

Covewood - Mission Bay Resort
Covewood - Mission Bay Resort
/5 · 0 reviews
2.3 km from attraction
El Agave
El Agave
4.5/5 · 2 reviews
3.6 km from attraction
Casa Guadalajara
Casa Guadalajara
4.5/5 · 3 reviews
2.8 km from attraction
Stone Brewing World Bistro & Gardens - Liberty Station
Stone Brewing World Bistro & Gardens - Liberty Station
3/5 · 1 review
3.0 km from attraction
Tender Greens
Tender Greens
4.3/5 · 3 reviews
3.3 km from attraction
World Famous
World Famous
3.9/5 · 18 reviews
4.0 km from attraction
4.2/5112 Reviews
4.2/5Very Good112 Reviews
Misson Bay / Loma Heights
San Diego
|1.07km from SeaWorld San Diego
4.2/5106 Reviews
4.2/5Very Good106 Reviews
Misson Bay / Loma Heights
San Diego
|1.09km from SeaWorld San Diego
2.4/5105 Reviews
2.4/5105 Reviews
Misson Bay / Loma Heights
San Diego
|1.13km from SeaWorld San Diego
4.1/5103 Reviews
4.1/5Very Good103 Reviews
Misson Bay / Loma Heights
San Diego
|1.29km from SeaWorld San Diego

Top Things to Do in San Diego county-2024

TOP 1
USS Midway Museum
USS Midway Museum
4.8/5 · 1,432 review
taCommentInfo-imageBased on 25,678 review
Highlights:
  • As a landmark attraction at Navy Pier in San Diego,
  • USS Midway Museum consists of the first Midway class aircraft carrier of the US Navy.
  • Pay a visit to the carrier's living quarters and get to know the living conditions of navy officers aboard the ship.


The Midway is located on downtown San Diego’s Embarcadero, minutes away from the San Diego International Airport, Port of San Diego Cruise Terminal, San Diego Convention Center, downtown Gaslamp District, Balboa Park, San Diego Zoo and SeaWorld – in the heart of “America’s Finest City.”


In front of the museum stands a colossal sculpture called "Victory Kiss", a much photographed spot and a must see for tourists.


You may ascend to the island superstructure located at the flight deck of the carrier, take a look inside the pilothouse and control room, or participate in an engrossing guided tour given by ship veterans.

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TOP 2
Port of San Diego
Port of San Diego
4.7/5 · 217 review
taCommentInfo-imageBased on 20 review
Highlights:
The Port of San Diego is located at the southern end of the city of San Diego, where the water is deep and the port is wide. It is the largest military port of the US Navy's Pacific Fleet and a world-famous military port. This is where aircraft carriers and nuclear submarines are frequented and parked. Here you can overlook the large and new 100,000-ton nuclear-powered aircraft carriers in the United States - the "Nimitz" and "Reagan" nuclear-powered aircraft carriers. There is also the decommissioned "Midway" aircraft carrier also moored here, which has now been opened as an aircraft carrier museum for people to visit. Coming to the military port, all kinds of warships and jagged masts and forts come into view. On the harbor side, you can enjoy red tiles and green trees, blue sea and blue sky, modern high-rise buildings and white sails in the sea. There is a group of statues on the shore that actually records when the war ended, and everyone has real feelings. In this group of statues, there are fighter pilots who just got off the plane, female field nurses kneeling on the ground, soldiers with crutches and broken legs, and wounded in wheelchairs. There are sailors, marines, ordinary adults and children. There were smiles on their faces, and there was no trace of post-war fatigue. Their eyes seemed to show hope. The "Kiss of Victory" sculpture. You can go up to take pictures, but because the statue is too tall, people who approach often only reach the bottom of the skirt. Behind the "Kiss of Victory" statue is the USS Midway Museum, which you can visit if you are interested. The deck of the aircraft carrier is very wide, and many types of aircraft are parked. And there is a hotel on the shore of the military port, which stands by the sea. The officers and soldiers who go ashore usually go to eat and drink together, which is also a must-see scenery. If time is limited, you can stroll around Midway Island, there are some characteristic shops nearby. If you have more time, you can come to another part of the harbor, here is a large private yacht marina, you can take a leisurely sightseeing here. If you don't want to move around too much, you can also find a cafe around the port to sit, blowing the sea breeze, and spend the afternoon relaxing like this. Stroll through the harbor, decorated with quaint sailboats, wanderers playing guitar and singing, seagulls soaring in the wind, and the Colorado Bridge across the sea in the distance. The Port of San Diego at dusk is particularly beautiful. You can also sit on the carousel in the square while watching the sunset.
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TOP 3
SeaWorld San Diego
SeaWorld San Diego
4.7/5 · 614 review
taCommentInfo-imageBased on 10,342 review
Highlights:

Enjoy a variety of one-of-a-kind animal experiences

Enjoy attractions for every thrill level

Explore the exciting world of marine animals


Marine Life Shows: SeaWorld San Diego is known for its captivating marine life shows, where visitors can witness incredible performances by dolphins, sea lions, and orcas. These shows provide both entertainment and education about marine animals and their behaviors.


Animal Exhibits: The park offers a variety of animal exhibits, allowing visitors to get up close and personal with a wide range of marine creatures. From penguins and sharks to turtles and rays, these exhibits provide an immersive experience and a chance to learn about different species.


Thrilling Rides: In addition to the marine life attractions, SeaWorld San Diego also features thrilling rides for adrenaline enthusiasts. From roller coasters to water slides, these rides offer a mix of excitement and fun for visitors of all ages.

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TOP 4
LEGOLAND California
LEGOLAND California
4.7/5 · 259 review
taCommentInfo-imageBased on 9,514 review
Highlights:

LEGOLAND® California is filled with more than 60 kid-powered, kid-tastic rides, shows and attractions all built for fun and geared for families with children between the ages of 2 and 12!

LEGOLAND Water Park features more than seven slides, sandy beaches and the unique Build-A-Raft River plus Pirate Reef and LEGO® Legends of CHIMA Water Park comprising 10 acres of water fun!

SEA LIFE® aquarium is your child's first interactive guide to the life of the sea, combining active hands-on learning with fascinating educational talks and up close encounters with sea creatures including sharks and rays!


Exciting activities


An intuitive feeling of the finished LEGO model


See marine animals up close


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TOP 5
San Diego Zoo
San Diego Zoo
4.6/5 · 153 review
taCommentInfo-imageBased on 29,533 review
Highlights:

The San Diego Zoo is one of the largest zoos globally, housing a wide variety of animals, including cheetahs, musk oxen, and red pandas, among others. The most popular animal at the zoo is the giant panda from China. Visitors can enjoy a scenic tour of the park on a double-decker bus, explore Monkey Forest Avenue to spot over 30 rare animals from Africa and Asia, and wander through the aquarium to witness captivating performances featuring marine life. Additionally, visitors may even have the chance to interact with these fascinating creatures.

△ Visit the cute giant pandas up close

△ Enjoy the marine life show

△ Take the cable car for a panoramic view of the zoo

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* All user reviews in this article have been translated by machine.

* The information above is subject to change at any time. For the latest information, please check the websites of hotels and attractions.

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San Diego county 3 Days Itinerary