67 Things To Do in San Diego When You Visit in 2024

From stunning beaches and breathtaking hikes to exciting nightlife and cultural attractions, America’s Finest City, aka San Diego, is a top travel destination. 

With nearly perfect weather year-round, 70 miles of spectacular California coastline and world-class attractions like the San Diego Zoo, the city is an urban waterfront paradise. 

Whether you’re planning a family vacation, a romantic getaway or an exciting trip with your best friends, come explore this fine city and discover all the amazing things to do in San Diego in 2024!

Fun Things To Do in San Diego

No matter what your idea of fun is, San Diego can deliver. From outdoor activities on the water to exciting concerts downtown, you’ll find plenty of fun things to do in San Diego.

1. Cruise the San Diego Harbor

A harbor cruise in San Diego is a great way to experience the city’s stunning waterfront views. You can take in the sights of the city skyline, the Coronado Bridge and the USS Midway Museum while relaxing comfortably on a charter. 

You can also spot sea lions, dolphins and other marine life as you cruise around the harbor. The cruise usually lasts around two hours and includes a narrated tour of the harbor’s history and attractions.

2. Visit Gaslamp Quarter

The Gaslamp Quarter is a vibrant and exciting area to explore in downtown San Diego. It’s filled with a variety of restaurants, bars, shops and entertainment venues, which makes it a great stop for a fun night out on the town. You can even take a delicious Gaslamp food tour and find the best spots to eat downtown. 

The area is also home to a variety of events like San Diego Comic-Con and the San Diego International Film Festival. Visiting the Gaslamp is a great way to experience the culture and energy of San Diego.

3. Kayak in the Bay

Kayaking in the San Diego Bay is a great way to get out on the water and enjoy the beauty of the city. This is a unique experience because most of the places you’ll be able to see can only be reached by kayak or paddleboard.

The bay is full of wildlife, and is a great place to take in the stunning views of the city skyline while soaking up the warm California sunshine.

4. Explore Seaport Village

Seaport Village is a waterfront shopping, dining and entertainment complex located in downtown San Diego. It features over 50 unique shops, restaurants and attractions, including a carousel, lighthouse and a train ride. 

The village also offers a variety of activities, such as live music, art shows, festivals and nearby farmers markets on the weekends. It’s a popular destination for locals and tourists alike.

5. Jet Ski in Mission Bay

If you’re looking for an exhilarating experience, go jet skiing in Mission Bay. The bay has calm waters, perfect for exploring its many islands, coves and inlets.

The bay is also home to a variety of marine life, so you may even spot some dolphins or sea lions while you’re out on the water.

6. Go Whale Watching

Whale watching in San Diego is an amazing experience that’s available all year round. The waters off the coast of San Diego are home to a variety of whales, including gray whales, humpback whales and blue whales. 

During the winter months, gray whales migrate south along the coast, providing an incredible opportunity to observe them in their natural habitat. During the summer months, humpback and blue whales can be seen in the waters off San Diego. 

Book a whale watching cruise tour to get up close and personal with these majestic creatures.

7. Bike Around Coronado Island

If you’re looking for a fun day activity, go biking around Coronado Island. The island is connected to the mainland by the Coronado Bridge, and the views of the city skyline and San Diego Bay are stunning from Centennial Park. 

The island is relatively flat, and there are plenty of bike paths and trails to explore, making it an ideal place for biking. The island is also home to some of the best beaches in the area, as well as a variety of restaurants, shops and attractions, like the iconic Hotel del Coronado.

8. Stroll the Torrey Pines Beach Trail Loop

If you love a brisk walk with some of the best views in San Diego, check out Torrey Pines Beach Trail Loop. The trail is a scenic 3.2-mile loop that offers stunning views of the Pacific Ocean, Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve and the surrounding cliffs. 

The trail is popular for hiking, running and biking, and is a great way to explore the natural beauty of the area.

9. PaddleBoard in Mission Bay

Paddleboarding in Mission Bay is a great way to enjoy the water and beautiful scenery. The calm waters of the bay provide a great opportunity to paddleboard, and the area is full of wildlife and interesting sights, making it a fun way to spend your day.

10. Tour Downtown in GoCars

A GoCar tour in downtown San Diego is a great way to see the city and discover its history and culture. You’ll take the tour in your own little car that comes with a built-in GPS that will direct you, tell stories and interesting facts and provide you with fun recommendations.

It’s like having a local show you around, and the greatest part is that you can take the sightseeing tour at your own pace. You can take detours, pause for photos, get a coffee or have lunch whenever you want.

11. Ride Hydrobikes

Riding hydrobikes in San Diego is an exciting and unique experience. The bikes are powered by a combination of electric and pedal power, allowing you to explore the city’s waterways with ease. 

The bikes are easy to maneuver and provide a great way to explore the city’s canals, bays and beaches. The views of the city skyline and the ocean are breathtaking, and the experience of riding a hydrobike is one you won’t soon forget.

12. Go Paragliding

Paragliding in San Diego is an amazing experience for any adventure seeker. The views of the city and the ocean are incredible, and the feeling of soaring through the air is exhilarating. The weather in San Diego is usually sunny and mild, making it an ideal place to go paragliding. 

There are launch sites located throughout San Diego, providing a great view of the city and the ocean. The take-off is easy and the flight is smooth, allowing you to enjoy the scenery and the feeling of freedom. After landing, you can enjoy the beautiful beaches and other attractions San Diego has to offer.

13. Rent Eco Boats

Whether you’re visiting San Diego for the first time or you’re a born-and-raised local, eco boat rentals are one of the best things to do in San Diego. It’s a great way to explore San Diego’s coastline, bays, coves and islands, and see some diverse wildlife. 

Eco boats are powered by electric motors, making them quieter and more environmentally friendly than traditional boats. Renting an eco boat is the perfect way to enjoy a peaceful day on the water.

14. Visit Hotel del Coronado

Visiting Hotel del Coronado in San Diego is an unforgettable experience. Located on the beach of Coronado Island, the hotel offers stunning views of the Pacific Ocean and Coronado Bay. The hotel is a historic landmark, with its iconic red roof and Victorian-style architecture. 

While guests can enjoy all of its luxurious amenities, visitors are welcome to enjoy the multiple restaurants, boutiques and gelato shops throughout the hotel. With its beautiful setting and rich history, Hotel del Coronado is a must-visit destination in San Diego.

15. Attend a Concert at the House of Blues

If you’re ready for a fun night out, attend a concert at the House of Blues in downtown San Diego. The venue is a great size, has an electric atmosphere and offers plenty of room to move around and dance. 

The crowd is usually a mix of locals and tourists, and the energy is always high. It’s a great place to see a concert and have a great time.

16. Ride the Ferry to Coronado

If you’re looking for a fun way to travel from downtown San Diego to Coronado Island, take a ferry boat ride through the bay. It only costs $5 to board and cruises you for 15 minutes, showcasing the amazing views of San Diego’s skyline along the way.

Once you make it to Coronado Ferry Landing, you’ll deboard in a charming village full of restaurants and shops, as well as places to rent bikes, paddleboards, kayaks and more. 

17. Take Private Surf Lessons

Fully indulge in the Southern California experience by taking private surf lessons. You will be the central focus of a customized surf session, personalized for your goals.

The experience will leave you with lasting memories and make surfing your new favorite activity.

18. Go on a Jet Boat Ride

While taking a leisurely boat trip on San Diego Bay is enjoyable, taking a thrilling ride on a dual-engine jet boat is a memorable experience. Take a jet boat ride and zip around the bay while taking in the scenery, the roaring wind and views of Coronado Island. If that isn’t thrilling enough, 360-degree spins really add to the excitement.

19. Check Out Sunny Jim Cave

Sunny Jim Cave is a historic sea cave located in San Diego, and it’s the only sea cave in the United States that is accessible by land. Visitors can access the cave by descending a steep staircase of 145 steps. 

Inside the cave, visitors can explore the unique rock formations and view the ocean from the cave’s opening. You can even rent snorkel gear or pick up souvenirs from The Cave Store.

20. Visit Cabrillo National Monument

Cabrillo National Monument in San Diego is a beautiful place to visit. It is located on the tip of Point Loma and offers stunning views of the San Diego Bay and the Pacific Ocean.

Visitors can explore the tide pools, take a guided tour of the historic lighthouse and learn about the history of the area. There are also plenty of hiking trails and picnic areas to enjoy.

21. Have a Harbor Speed Boat Adventure

If you’ve got a need for speed, experience the thrill of driving your own speed boat on a guided and narrated speed boat adventure tour around San Diego’s harbor. Throughout the entire tour, you will steer and captain your own speed boat while being guided by a knowledgeable and experienced guide on a different boat.

Each boat has a two-way communication system installed, allowing you to hear your tour guide at all times. This speed boat tour is a fun way to experience the stunning San Diego harbor while learning about its history.

22. Take a Private Sailing Charter in the Bay

If you want to enjoy the beautiful waters of San Diego in a different way, board a beautiful sailing yacht with your very own captain. With this private sailing charter experience, you’ll be able to create your own itinerary.  

While the experience comes with complimentary bottled water and snacks, you are welcome to bring your own snacks and beverages, including booze, so you can sip and sail to your delight. 

23. Take a Fishing Trip

Whether you’re an experienced fisher or a beginner, board a private San Diego fishing charter for the fishing experience of a lifetime. 

San Diego is a year-round fishing mecca for a variety of fish, including bluefin and yellowfin tuna, yellowtail, white seabass, mahi-mahi, calico bass, rockfish, marlin and more.

24. Snorkel at La Jolla Cove

La Jolla Cove in San Diego is a fantastic place to snorkel, and you can either rent equipment or bring your own. The clear waters of the cove provide excellent visibility, and the abundance of marine life makes it a great spot for snorkeling. 

The area is home to a variety of fish, sea lions and other marine life, and it’s ideal for both experienced and novice snorkelers. The cove is also surrounded by stunning cliffs and caves for exploring.

Free Things To Do in San Diego

If you’re looking for activities to accommodate a tight travel budget, there are countless free things to do in San Diego. The city is an outdoor paradise, so you won’t have any trouble finding activities that won’t hurt your wallet. 

25. Go to the Beach

As you can imagine, San Diego is home to plenty of beaches you’ll want to visit. San Diego’s most popular beach is Mission Beach, complete with a boardwalk and oceanfront amusement park.

The party shoreline of Pacific Beach and the hipster feel of Ocean Beach are just a couple of the many beaches to choose from; there are also family-friendly beaches like Moonlight State Beach and picturesque beaches like Windansea. 

26. Watch the Sunset at Sunset Cliffs

There is no better way to round off a day of adventure in San Diego than with a visit to Sunset Cliffs to see the sunset. Sunset Cliffs is a stunning natural area located along the Pacific Ocean, featuring rugged cliffs, rocky shorelines and stunning views of the ocean.

The cliffs are a popular spot for hiking, fishing and watching the sunset. The area is also home to a variety of wildlife, including sea lions, dolphins and seabirds.

27. See the Sea Lions at La Jolla Cove

Another free and amazing thing to do is stop by La Jolla Cove to see the sea lions. The sea lions are playful, curious and super cute. Just be sure to give them their space, as they are wild animals that can be aggressive if they feel threatened. 

The view of the ocean and the cliffs at La Jolla Cove is also breathtaking. It’s a great place to relax and take in the beauty of nature.

28. Tour the Botanical Building

Visiting the Botanical Building in Balboa Park is a truly unique experience. The building is a stunning example of Spanish Renaissance architecture, and the lush gardens inside are filled with exotic plants and flowers. 

The building is also home to a variety of birds, butterflies and other wildlife. It’s a nice, relaxing activity that nature lovers will enjoy.

29. Visit the Hidden Swing in La Jolla

The hidden swing in La Jolla is a hidden gem in San Diego you’ll want to experience. The swing is tucked away in a secluded spot, surrounded by lush greenery and beautiful views of the ocean. 

The swing is made of wood and is suspended from a tree, making it the perfect place to take pictures. The experience of swinging in the fresh air and taking in the stunning views of the ocean is truly unforgettable.

H3: 30. Go Museum Hopping in Balboa Park

While Balboa Park includes a variety of gardens, trails and other outdoor activities to enjoy for free, museum hopping in Balboa Park is a great way to explore the many cultural and historical attractions in the area — and certain ones are free on select Tuesdays. 

Visitors can explore the San Diego Air and Space Museum, San Diego Natural History Museum, San Diego Museum of Art, San Diego Automotive Museum and the San Diego Model Railroad Museum, among many others.

Check out the Balboa website to find out more about which museums are free on Tuesdays.

31. Go to Kate Sessions Park

Kate Sessions Park in San Diego is a beautiful park located in the heart of the city that offers stunning views of the city skyline and the ocean. The park has walking trails, picnic areas, playgrounds and a basketball court.

The park is a great place to spend a day with family and friends, or to just take a break from the hustle and bustle of the city.

32. Explore Mission Trails Regional Park

With 7,220 acres, Mission Trails Regional Park is the sixth-largest urban park in the country and the largest in San Diego County. The park features a variety of recreational activities, including hiking, biking, camping, fishing and rock climbing — perfect for any outdoor enthusiast.

The park is home to the Old Mission Dam, which was built in the early 1900s and is the oldest dam in San Diego County. The park also features a variety of cultural and historical sites, including Mission Basilica San Diego de Alcalá, the first mission in California.

33. Hike Annie’s Canyon Trail

If you’re looking for a hike that’ll have you break a sweat, check out Annie’s Canyon Trail. The trail is a 1.5-mile loop with a variety of terrain, including steep hills, sandy paths and rocky terrain. 

The trail offers stunning views of the northern San Diego coastline and the surrounding hills. The trail is also home to a variety of wildflowers and cacti, making it a great spot for nature lovers.

34. Have a Bonfire on Fiesta Island

Having a bonfire on Fiesta Island is a great way to spend an evening in San Diego. The island is located in Mission Bay and offers stunning views of the city skyline. 

The beach has areas where you can build a bonfire in concrete pits or you can bring your own fire pit and set it up on the shore. The sound of gentle waves lapping the shore enhances the peaceful ambiance as you enjoy a fire under the stars.

35. Browse the Spanish Village Art Center

The Spanish Village Art Center in Balboa Park is a vibrant and colorful place to explore. It features a variety of art galleries, shops and restaurants, all of which are housed in a unique Spanish-style village. 

Visitors can explore the galleries and shops and talk to local artists. The center also hosts a variety of events, such as art classes, live music and festivals.

36. Take a Day Trip to Julian

If you want to experience a unique side of Southern California, you can take a day trip to the quaint mountain town of Julian, about an hour-and-a-half-drive from San Diego. 

Once you arrive in Julian, you can explore the charming town, visit the local wineries and cideries, go apple picking and take in the stunning views of the surrounding countryside. While you’re there, you have to stop and enjoy a slice of Julian’s famous apple pie, too! 

Things To Do in San Diego With Kids

If you’re visiting San Diego with the kids in tow, you’re in for an amazing time for building lasting memories. There are so many things to do in San Diego with kids that’ll make for an unforgettable family vacation. 

37. Explore the San Diego Zoo

One of the best things to do in San Diego is visiting the world-famous San Diego Zoo in Balboa Park. While you’re there, you can explore the many different habitats and see a variety of animals from around the world. You can also learn about conservation efforts and the importance of protecting wildlife.

There are plenty of activities to keep you entertained, such as animal shows, rides and educational programs. Plus, the zoo is a great place to take pictures and make memories with your family.

38. Visit the San Diego Zoo Safari Park

San Diego also offers a second zoo, San Diego Zoo Safari Park, located in Escondido. It’s farther away from the city, but is much larger than its sister location. There are lots of kid-friendly activities, from feeding the giraffes to riding the carousel.

You can explore the park on foot or by tram, where you can get up close and personal with the animals, from giraffes and rhinos to zebras and cheetahs. 

39. Head to SeaWorld San Diego

Visiting SeaWorld San Diego is a fun experience your kids are sure to enjoy. You can explore the park and see a variety of marine life, including dolphins, sea lions, penguins and whales. 

You can also take part in thrilling rides and shows, and enjoy delicious food and drinks. There are also plenty of educational opportunities, such as interactive exhibits and educational talks. 

40. Find Thrills at Belmont Park

Visiting Belmont Park in San Diego is a great experience for the whole family. The park is located in Mission Beach and offers a variety of activities, including a roller coaster, other fair rides, mini golf, laser tag, a ropes course and carnival and arcade games.

The park also has a variety of restaurants and shops, making it an ideal place to spend the day with the kids.

41. Visit Sesame Place

Sesame Place is one of California’s newest theme parks. The park features seven Sesame Street-themed rides, an interactive musical play area and 11 water attractions, including a 500,000-gallon wave pool — one of the largest in Southern California. 

The park also has an interactive Sesame Street Neighborhood complete with the iconic 123 Stoop, live character shows and an award-winning daily parade that’ll excite both you and your kids.

42. Tour the USS Midway Museum

The USS Midway Museum is a unique and fascinating experience the whole family can enjoy. Visitors can explore the aircraft carrier, which served in the U.S. Navy for 47 years, and learn about its history and the people who served on it. 

The museum also features interactive exhibits, flight simulators and a variety of educational programs your kids will love. Visitors can take a self-guided audio tour of the ship and its many decks. The museum is a great way to learn about the history of the U.S. Navy and the people who served on the USS Midway.

43. Do a Ghost Tour

For a fun and spooky experience, take your family on one of the many ghost tours available in San Diego. From the scary stories of Gaslamp Quarter to the haunting tales of Old Town San Diego, you’ll learn about the rich history of the city and the spooky tales that follow. 

44. Catch a Game at Petco Park

If you happen to visit San Diego during baseball season, catching a Padres game at Petco Park in the heart of downtown is an unforgettable experience. The stadium has great views of the field from all angles and the atmosphere is lively with passionate fans. 

Grab a fun treat for the kids, then sit back and enjoy the baseball game — the perfect way to spend an afternoon or evening with friends and family.

45. Go to Birch Aquarium 

If you happen to have a rainy day in San Diego, the aquarium is the perfect place to go. Birch Aquarium is part of the Scripps Institution of Oceanography at the University of California San Diego. 

The aquarium houses more than 5,000 fish and other sea creatures in 60 habitats, and features a variety of interactive exhibits your kids will love, including a touch pool, kelp forest and shark lagoon. 

46. Visit Old Town

Visiting Old Town San Diego with kids can be a fun and educational experience. You can explore the historic buildings, learn about the history of the area and enjoy the unique shops and restaurants.

There are also plenty of activities for kids, such as the Old Town San Diego State Historic Park, Old Town Trolley Tours and even candle making at Toby’s Candles. Families can also enjoy the many festivals and events that take place in Old Town San Diego throughout the year.

47. Visit the Carlsbad Flower Fields

If you’re in San Diego in early March through mid-May, the Carlsbad Flower Fields are a must-visit for you and your family. The fields are on a 50-acre hillside covered in Giant Tecolote Ranunculus. 

The flowers feature a variety of colors, including white, yellow, pink and red. Visitors can enjoy the beauty of the flowers, take pictures and purchase fresh cut flowers. The fields also feature a garden store, a snack bar and a picnic area.

48. Have a Pirate Adventure at Maritime Museum

A New Pirate Adventure at the Maritime Museum in San Diego is an interactive experience that takes visitors on a journey through the Golden Age of Piracy. Kids can explore a replica pirate ship, dress up in pirate costumes and learn about the history of piracy. 

Visitors can also take part in interactive activities such as sword fighting, treasure hunting and cannon firing. The museum also offers educational programs and workshops that the whole family can participate in.

49. Visit Legoland

Experience a day of imagination and fun during a trip to Legoland California. The park features over 60 rides, shows and attractions, including the world’s first Lego-themed roller coaster, the Dragon Coaster.

It also features a variety of interactive attractions, such as the Lego Factory Adventure, Lego City Playtown and Lego Technic Test Track. You also have the option to visit Sea Life Aquarium right next door for a fascinating glimpse into the aquatic world.

Things To Do in San Diego for Couples

If you’re planning a romantic getaway, there are plenty of things to do in San Diego for couples. From intimate candlelit dinners to exciting boat adventures, there’s something for every type of couple.

50. Check Out Little Italy

Little Italy is a vibrant and lively neighborhood located in downtown San Diego. It’s known for its Italian restaurants and cafes, as well as its colorful murals and street art. 

Take a Little Italy food tour to experience romantic Italian cuisine or browse through the famous Little Italy Mercato farmers market on Saturday mornings.

51. Grab Dinner and Drinks at a Rooftop 

With San Diego’s mild climate and breathtaking views, there’s plenty of rooftop bars and restaurants to check out for delicious food and drinks with your partner. 

Check out Lumi in Gaslamp Quarter for a unique downtown dining experience, or go to George’s at the Cove’s Ocean Terrace for stunning panoramic views of La Jolla Cove.

Take in the beauty of the view while you relax and enjoy each other’s company.

52. Have a Romantic Picnic

A romantic picnic is a perfect way to spend a day with your special someone in San Diego. Enjoy the beautiful weather and scenery while you relax and enjoy a picnic lunch or dinner. 

If you want to spruce things up, you can hire one of the many picnic companies in San Diego to do the setup for you, so all you have to do is show up and enjoy a luxury picnic experience. 

53. Take Professional Photos

It’s no secret that there are countless photo ops in San Diego, so take advantage of the views with a professional private photoshoot with your partner. 

You’ll be able to take home some high-quality images of you and your partner with a magnificent beach sunset or a lush park as the backdrop.

54. Stroll Through the Japanese Friendship Garden

The Japanese Friendship Garden is a beautiful and tranquil oasis located in Balboa Park. It features a traditional Japanese garden with a koi pond, tea house, Zen garden and a variety of plants and trees. The garden also features various sculptures, stone lanterns and a bonsai collection. 

Couples can enjoy a peaceful stroll through the garden, take part in a traditional tea ceremony and learn about the history and culture of Japan.

55. Get Competitive at Coin-Op

If you want a lighthearted and fun date night, check out Coin-Op in downtown San Diego or in the North Park neighborhood. Coin-Op is a popular bar and arcade that features a wide selection of classic and modern arcade games, as well as a full bar with craft beer, cocktails and wine. 

The atmosphere is lively and fun, and they offer a variety of food options, including pizza, burgers and tacos. It’s a great place to unleash your inner child and let loose with your partner. 

56. Attend an Event at the Rady Shell

Attending an event at the Rady Shell is a great date night idea you won’t forget. The outdoor amphitheater offers stunning views of the city skyline, and the venue is equipped with state-of-the-art sound and lighting systems, making it the perfect place to enjoy a live performance. 

Whether you’re attending a concert or a group yoga class, you’re sure to have a great time at the Rady Shell.

57. Have a Romantic Dinner at the Marine Room

A romantic dinner at The Marine Room in La Jolla is the perfect date night idea. The restaurant is located right on the beach, offering stunning views of the ocean and a cozy and romantic atmosphere on the inside.

The menu features a variety of fresh seafood dishes, as well as classic steak and pasta options. To top it off, the restaurant offers a selection of fine wines and craft cocktails to pair with your meal.

58. Take a Romantic Sunset Cruise

Take in the breathtaking views of San Diego’s sunset on a romantic sunset cruise. Enjoy wine and cheese as you cruise on a private charter through Mission Bay. It’ll be an unforgettable experience that you and your partner can cherish for years to come. 

59. Rent Glow Boats

A glow boat experience is one of the best date night ideas in San Diego. You’ll board an electric eco boat that glows with neon lights so you can pedal your way through the San Diego Bayay at night. 

You can enjoy the beautiful views of the nighttime city skyline and the Coronado Bridge while you cruise around the bay. The boat also includes a cooler and music, so you’ll have everything you need for a romantic evening.

60. Visit Temecula Wine Country

About an hour north of downtown San Diego, visiting Temecula wine country is a unique Southern California experience. The rolling hills, lush vineyards and stunning views make it a perfect destination for a romantic getaway or a fun day trip. 

The 40+ wineries offer a variety of tastings, tours and events, so there is something for everyone. The area also has plenty of restaurants, shops and activities to explore. 

61. Take a Premier Dinner Cruise

Take a relaxing premier dinner cruise, where you can take in the San Diego skyline in style. Enjoy the mouth-watering buffet, promenade under the stars and admire the glittering city lights as you cruise along San Diego Bay in a luxurious yacht.

Unique Things To Do in San Diego

If you are looking for unique things to do in San Diego, you won’t be disappointed. There are so many interesting and exciting activities to do that will make for an unforgettable experience.

62. Have a Flight Experience

For the ultimate San Diego adrenaline rush, check out Sky Combat Ace. The experience was developed by a former fighter pilot who wanted to give anyone who craves the excitement of flying fighter jets the opportunity to experience it firsthand.

You can fly like a fighter pilot and learn basic fighter maneuvering skills. You’ll twist and turn through the air above the California desert for the experience of a lifetime.

63. See a Movie at the Rooftop Cinema Club

For a unique movie experience, attend the Rooftop Cinema Club in downtown San Diego, where you can watch a movie under the stars while enjoying the beautiful cityscape. 

You’ll find comfortable chairs and a big screen featuring a classic movie everyone will love. You’ll be offered headphones for the movie, so you won’t have to worry about unwanted city noises interrupting your film experience. Overall, it’s a great way to spend an evening with friends, family or a partner.

64. Find Unique Speakeasies

Speakeasies are fun places to visit for travelers and locals alike, and San Diego is home to plenty of unique ones. Some are hidden in plain sight, while others are tucked away so well that even regulars have a hard time finding them again. 

If you love specialty cocktails and unique atmospheres, make a point to locate some of San Diego’s best hidden bars. We won’t spoil any hidden entrances, as that would take away the fun, but we’ll give you a few hints on where to start, including False Idol (Little Italy), Raised by Wolves (La Jolla) and The Grass Skirt (Pacific Beach). 

65. Visit Verbatim Books

If you’re a book lover, you’ll love Verbatim Books, which is a used bookstore specializing in rare and out-of-print books. They offer a wide selection of books from all genres, including fiction, nonfiction, children’s books and more. 

They also carry a selection of vintage magazines, comics and other collectibles. You’ll love exploring all the unique collections.

66. Take a SEAL Tour

With so much to do on land and water in San Diego, the SEAL Tour takes advantage of both, with a bus that turns into a boat. You’ll wind your way through the beautiful San Diego streets before splashing down for a cruise through the waters of the San Diego Bay. 

Experience San Diego’s ecological beauty and learn the depth of the city’s military history while taking a voyage through the waters that are home to California seals and sea lions.

67. Go Hot Tub Cruisin’

Hot tub cruising in San Diego is an exciting and unique way to cruise the bay. You’ll board a pontoon boat that has a fully functioning hot tub on board, so you’ll be able to enjoy the sights of the bay while relaxing in the warm water.

Hot tub cruising in San Diego is a great way to spend a day or evening with friends and family.

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