Fun in the Sun!

Balboa Park

Balboa Park was always one of Erica's happy places. She would spend time here running, walking dogs, or having a picnic with friends. It's a huge park that offers fantastic museums, delicious food, and a ton of culture. It is also one of Mike and Erica's favorite places to bring the kids and spend quality time as a family. It is highly suggested to check out this park and everything it offers.

San Diego Zoo

It's not called "The World Famous San Diego Zoo" for nothing! This is such a great place to enjoy at any age. If you have time and love animals, put this on your "must do" list.

SeaWorld San Diego

Don't listen to Blackfish! That movie did no justice for this family fun place. The animals are well loved and many are even rehabilitated and released back into the wild. Sea World isn't just fun, it's educational as well. Definitely check it out!

Old Town San Diego State Historic Park

All we can say is - MEXICAN FOOD! Old Town has some fantastic Mexican food with a plethora of history complete with a haunted house. But don't worry, you don't have to share your California Burrito with the ghosts.

The Beach!

From Oceanside to Imperial Beach - San Diego county has some of the most stunning beaches to ride a wave, partake in some stand up paddle boarding, or to simply layout and soak up the sun. You can't com all the way to San Diego and not go for at least part of the day!

Oceanside Pier

Oceanside Harbor

California Surf Museum

For those of you interested in learning about surfing, what better place to do it than at a museum dedicated to it!

La Jolla

One of Mike's favorite places when he first moved out here was La Jolla (he still loves it!). Not only is it beautiful, but it is one of the most peaceful places to relax and soak up the sun. For those whoever never been here, I would suggest taking time to see it. You won't regret it!

Hornblower Cruises & Events

I'm on a boat! Or, you should be. Hornblower has a variety of cruises around the San Diego Bay that offer sweeping views of this gorgeous city you won't want to miss. Plus, if you look on Groupon, you can find good deals on tickets.

San Diego Breweries

If you love beer, and well, since a lot of you are from WI, it's safe to assume that answer is "Hell yeah!" Then be sure to check out some of the local breweries all over San Diego County. You won't be disappointed, however, you may forget how much you loved them...(i.e. you'll be drunk)

Top Gun House

Because who didn't love Maverick and Goose. Go see this. It's a cool, quick, drive-by next to the beach.

LegoLand

It's a land full of Legos. With rides and other attractions. Who wouldn't want to go!

Mission San Luis Rey

Founded in 1798 by Padre Fermín Francisco de Lasuén, successor to Padre Junipero Serra, Mission San Luis Rey was named after St. Louis IX, King of France, who lived during the 13th century. The history of the San Luis Rey area reflects five periods of occupation: Luiseño Indian, Spanish Mission, Mexican Secularization, American Military, and Twentieth Century Restoration. It's very beautiful and if you have time, I'd say go see it.

Cabrillo National Monument

It's a historic lighthouse with breathtaking and expansive views. Also a great little hike.

USS Midway Museum

San Diego is a military town and the Midway lets you get a look into how our servicemen and women live while underway. A great piece of history and education that the kids will enjoy too!

Hotel del Coronado, Curio Collection by Hilton

It's iconic. Literally iconic.

Gaslamp Quarter

The Gaslamp Quarter is a lively downtown neighborhood, known for its nightlife. Clubs, dive bars and cocktail lounges draw a young crowd, while the Spreckels and Balboa theaters have diverse programs of music, comedy and drama. There's a mix of chain and independent restaurants in the area, with many global options. Horton Plaza Park has grassy lawns, ice cream and coffee vendors, and an interactive fountain.

Torrey Pines State Reserve

Without a doubt one of Erica's favorite places. You can hike and hang out at the beach all at the same time. It's one of her happy places.

Hiking

Best thing about San Diego is you can play outside almost everyday. One way to see the city is to do it by foot all over the hundreds of hiking spots. Check out the 10 best here!