San Diego: Things To Do

Balboa Park This 1,200-acre park is also the cultural center of San Diego, with The Old Globe Theatre, scenic tours, and fifteen museums; Tuesdays feature rotating free admission at museums. 1549 El Prado; 619-239-0512; www.balboapark.org
family | culture | art | editor pick

Belmont Park Family-friendly beachside amusement park centered around the 1925-built Giant Dipper Roller Coaster. Mission Bay; 3146 Mission Blvd.; 858-228-9283; www.belmontpark.com
family | amusement park

Old Town San Diego Considered the “birthplace” of California, with shops, restaurants, live performances, astounding architecture, a haunted house, and more. Old Town; Look for Old Town Ave. exit on I-5; 619-291-4903; www.oldtownsandiego.org
culinary | historic

San Diego Harbor Excursions One of the most beautiful (and inexpensive) ways to see the city is by water; SD Harbor Excursions has been offering tours since 1915. 1050 North Harbor Dr.; 619-234-4111; www.sdhe.com
cruise | tour | whale watching | great value

Sea World New rides, more restaurants, and spruced up shows make this classic attraction better than ever. Few know about the Dolphin Interactive Program, where, for an extra fee ($150, plus park admission), guests can suit up and join these amazing mammals in the tank. Mission Bay; www.seaworld.com
family | amusement park | smart splurge

The Beaches Coronado Island is a quiet military town with wealthy tourist beaches and resorts; Ocean Beach caters to surfers and Dead Heads; Pacific Beach is a great (albeit crowded) family beach; Mission Beach features barbecue and grassy areas; Black’s Beach combines good surfing, a gay area, and a clothing optional section.
beach | family | editor pick

The San Diego Zoo Home to over 4,000 rare and endangered animals and more than 700,000 exotic plants, the 100-acre zoo features guided tours, shows, special events for the kiddies, and more. Balboa Park; 2920 Zoo Dr.; 619-234-3153; www.sandiegozoo.org
family | wildlife | zoo | editor pick