Best 6 Things to do in San Diego 2025

Discover and have a quick browse through Best Things to Do in San Diego

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Looking for your next adventure in glorious sunshine? Visit San Diego to enjoy the best that South

ern California has to offer.

This laidback, coastal city combines the thrills of an urban center with the calm of a beach town.

Read below to learn more about what you can enjoy in San Diego when you book with Trip.com

Things to Do in San Diego: San Diego Zoo and Safari Park

No trip to San Diego would be complete without a visit to the San Diego Zoo. Founded in 1916, the zoo is renowned all over the world, particularly famous for its cageless animal exhibits, which recreate natural animal habitats.

At the zoo's 100 acre campus, you'll be able to admire animals from all seven continents. Visit the Masai giraffes at the Urban Jungle, or the koalas in San Diego's very own 'Outback.' When you get tired of walking, try out the 'Skyfari' gondola, which gives travelers an aerial view of this beautiful animal kingdom.

For some guests, watching animals from afar isn't exciting enough - with that in mind, the San Diego Zoo also hosts a Safari Park, where you can safely ride through animal exhibits just like in the wild. Sit back in the comfort of a safari cart as you watch elephants and rhinos pass you by. The park also offers behind-the-scenes tours, sleepovers, and a zip line.

On Trip.com, you can purchase a 1 or 2 day pass to the San Diego Zoo. For many travelers, one day at this fantastic place simply isn't enough.

Things to Do in San Diego: LegoLand California

The first LegoLand in the United States, LegoLand California, is located in Carlsbad, about a 30-minute drive from downtown San Diego.

LegoLand is a family-friendly amusement park which will appeal to kids and adults of all ages.

Thrill-seekers will enjoy 'The Dragon' and 'Technic Coaster.' Others will want to try laidback rides, such as the 'Skipper School' boat-ride or 'Driving School.'

If you visit LegoLand California in the heat, you can also stop by the LegoLand Water Park, which was just built in 2014. Here, you can swim in the wave pool or slip down the park's many waterslides. You can even build your own Lego boat and ride it down Eglor's Build-A-Boat creek.

Things to Do in San Diego: Gaslamp Quarter

San Diego's Gaslamp Quarter is a historic landmark. First developed in the 1860s, the neighborhood is located in the heart of San Diego, and lays claim to much of the city's nightlife and some of its best restaurants.

Foodies can sample cuisine from all over the world in the Gaslamp Quarter. Seafood is a must here. Try the caviar and oysters at Saltwater when you're in town. You can also visit Tacos el Cabron to sample some of San Diego's amazing Mexican cuisine. If you have room for dessert, swing by Cali Cream Homemade Ice Cream, too. Be sure to try their Black Raspberry flavor!

If you want to spend a night out in San Diego, you can start at Double Deuce, a livery country bar complete with a mechanical bull. If you're looking for a more upscale experience, visit the underground Ginger's for a sophisticated cocktail.

Things to Do in San Diego: Maritime Museum of San Diego

Located on the California coast, San Diego has long been known for its role in the U.S. navy and commercial trade. All travelers should certainly stop by the city's acclaimed Maritime Museum, where you can learn about how others traveled the world in the past.

The Maritime Museum of San Diego has a wide collection of historic ships, especially from the 19th century. The most well-known ship at the museum is the 1863 Star of India, which is the oldest active vessel in the world.

The museum also hosts water tours for adventurous travelers. Here, you can cruise around the San Diego Bay in replicas of the gold-rush era Californian and 16th-century San Salvador.

Things to Do in San Diego: Mission Beach

San Diego has some of the most beautiful coastline in the entire United States.

Mission Beach is a popular destination among both tourists and locals. Here you can rent surfboards to enjoy the waves or rent a bicycle and ride along the sand's edge. The beach volleyball courts always have room for more players, and keen anglers can even fish at Mission Bay Jetty Channel.

While at Mission Beach, you should also take a spin on the rides at Belmont Park. Watch the ocean from the top of the Giant Dipper roller coaster or enjoy some cotton candy on the boardwalk. Everything at this old-school amusement park will remind you of the best of Americana.

Things to Do in San Diego: San Diego Symphony

In sunny California, outdoor music is a must. While in San Diego, make the effort to check out a performance by the San Diego Symphony. The symphony has brought classical music to its home city for one hundred years, and its performances are world-famous.

In 2021, the Symphony completed construction of the 'Rady Shell,' a first-class, outdoor music venue. The Rady Shell is similar to the Hollywood Bowl in Los Angeles, except in San Diego you'll also hear classical music with an ocean view.

Make sure to check out the San Diego Symphony's schedule for outdoor performance. Just imagine yourself sipping a cocktail as you hear the waves mix with the music.

We hope you enjoy your trip to beautiful San Diego. Book cheap flights to San Diego through Trip.com so you can plan for your next adventure today.

FAQs about Things to Do in San Diego

• What is San Diego famous for?
  
  San Diego is known for its beautiful weather and beaches. It also hosts popular tourist attractions, such as LegoLand and the world-renowned San Diego Zoo.
  
  
  
• Is San Diego expensive?
  
  Like most of California, San Diego is a popular and expensive place to live. However, it is cheaper than other nearby cities, such as Los Angeles and San Francisco.
  
  
  
• What is the best month to visit San Diego?
  
  It is best to travel to San Diego in the spring and fall. During this time, prices are low, and the weather is still fantastic.
  
  
  
• Is San Diego a safe place to visit?
  
  Yes, San Diego is one of the safest cities in California.