SAN DIEGO - ATTRACTIONS

To us, the city itself is an attraction - just hang out by the bay and watch the sailboats go by. There's also lots of activities for outdoor enthusiasts to keep busy. Of course, there is the San Diego Zoo and Sea World, but these are so well-known that we won't bother mentioning them. But if you are looking for something less crowded, here are some suggestions.

1. Cabrillo National Monument - One of the few national monuments located within the boundaries of a large city, Cabrillo can be found by taking SR 209 out to Point Loma. The monument commemorates the first landing of Europeans in Western North America, an expedition led by Juan Rodriguez Cabrillo in 1542. Now containing two lighthouses, an overlook used to spot migrating gray whales, explanatory signs, wildlife, and a small military exhibit dedicated to the protection of San Diego in WWII, this monument is very diverse. Even better are the views of San Diego and the Bay. Admission is free with the National Parks Pass, $5/vehicle otherwise.

Statue of Cabrillo overlooking the bay

2. Old Town San Diego State Historic Park - This park commemorates the founding of the first European settlement in North America, and still contains some of San Diego's old buildings. Although most of these buildings now contain shops catering to the tourist market, some of them, particularly the old schoolhouse and Seeley Stables, have displays that provide information on life in those days. Admission is free and a trolley stop is nearby.

This schoolhouse has been preserved for over one hundred years

3. Balboa Park - One of America's largest urban parks, Balboa Park is located just northeast of downtown, and is easily accessible by either car or bus. This park is mainly known for the large number of museums that line either side of its main pedestrian thoroughfare. There are at least 13 different museums, although many of them didn't seem particularly interesting. If you will be in San Diego for a week, consider investing in the $30 weekly pass which allows one-time admittance into all the museums of the park. 

For those of you who would prefer to remain outside, the park has plenty of green space for relaxing or picnicking. 

Pond in the middle of the park

4. Mission Basilica San Diego de Alcala - The first of 21 California missions built by the Spaniards back in the late 1700s, this building retains many original features and should be interesting for most history buffs. It is located in Mission Valley, away from downtown and relatively close to Qualcomm Stadium, and admission is a reasonable $3.