Mitch & Michael
Things To Do
San Diego Zoo
The San Diego Zoo is one of the most famous and innovative zoos in the world, covering 100 acres and housing over 12,000 animals representing more than 650 species and subspecies. Renowned for its commitment to animal conservation and naturalistic exhibits, the zoo offers an immersive experience where visitors can observe animals in environments that mimic their natural habitats. Highlights include the Polar Bear Plunge, Elephant Odyssey, and the world-class Panda Trek. As a global leader in wildlife conservation, the San Diego Zoo also spearheads research programs, contributing to the preservation of endangered species worldwide. Its lush landscaping and engaging exhibits make it a must-visit destination for animal lovers and families.
Balboa Park
Balboa Park is a sprawling 1,200-acre cultural and recreational oasis that serves as one of the most iconic urban parks in the United States. Renowned for its stunning Spanish Colonial Revival architecture, lush gardens, and vibrant cultural institutions, the park is a hub for art, science, and nature enthusiasts alike. It houses a diverse range of attractions, including world-class museums, theaters, and the famous San Diego Zoo. Explore miles of walking trails, picturesque gardens like the Botanical Building and Lily Pond, and cultural landmarks such as the California Tower and Spreckels Organ Pavilion. Attractions in Balboa Park: San Diego Zoo Museum of Us San Diego Natural History Museum (The Nat) Fleet Science Center San Diego Museum of Art Japanese Friendship Garden Botanical Building and Lily Pond Timken Museum of Art Casa del Prado Theater Spreckels Organ Pavilion Old Globe Theatre Spanish Village Art Center Air and Space Museum Desert Garden Marston House Museum and Gardens
Coronado Beach
Just across the bay from San Diego, Coronado Beach is popular thanks to its long shoreline, clean sands, peaceful atmosphere, and idyllic location. In fact, not only is it one of the best beaches in San Diego, it's also considered one of the best California beaches. While you won't have access to a bustling boardwalk (like that at Mission Beach), you will have plenty of picturesque scenery to admire. And the Hotel del Coronado – a National Historic Landmark – is perched just beyond the sand.
La Jolla Cove
Luxuriate in SoCal splendor in the upscale seaside village of La Jolla Cove, a quick 20-minute drive from downtown San Diego. Wind through Prospect Street to browse shops like the iconic Warwick’s, the nation's oldest family-run bookstore, or dine with an ocean view at high-end restaurants like seafood-centric George’s at the Cove. Walk along seaside Coast Boulevard for photo ops of the cliffs, stopping at the Children’s Pool to watch sunbathing seals camped on the rocks. Head to Peter Lik fine art gallery for awe-inspiring landscape photography. And, if you need to, recharge your battery at Ellen Browning Scripps Park, a grassy area ideal for picnics and watching the sunset. Fun fact: It's the most-photographed place in San Diego.
Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve
This oceanfront reserve features 1,750 acres of unspoiled land, including the Torrey pine, America's rarest pine tree. There are approximately 3,000 Torrey pines in the reserve alone, and aside from San Diego, the only other place in the country the pines grow are on Santa Rosa Island off the coast of Santa Barbara. Hiking trails offer a chance to get up close and personal with the attraction's famously beautiful sandstone ravines and badlands, as well as breathtaking views of the coastline. Popular trails include the short Guy Fleming Trail (0.7 miles round trip), which features two ocean overlooks, and the longer Razor Point Trail (1.4 miles round trip), which tours more of the sandstone geological features of the reserve. There is also the nearly mile-long Beach Trail that leads to Torrey Pines State Beach. Of all San Diego's beaches, a long walk along Torrey Pines State Beach is a must simply for its views of the towering sandstone cliffs that border it.
Liberty Station
Liberty Station, located in the Point Loma neighborhood of San Diego, is a vibrant waterfront destination that blends history, culture, and modern amenities. Once a naval training center, the area has been transformed into a lively hub featuring a mix of restaurants, shops, galleries, and community spaces while preserving its rich military heritage. Visitors can explore the Liberty Public Market, a bustling food hall offering diverse cuisines and artisan goods, or stroll through the Arts District to enjoy local art studios. The beautifully landscaped grounds include open green spaces, waterfront trails, and historic buildings with Spanish Colonial Revival architecture.
Museum of Contemporary Art San Diego
This local institution devoted to showcasing modern art is perched right across from the Pacific Ocean in La Jolla, and recently reopened its doors after an extensive renovation. This is the flagship location for the Museum of Contemporary Art San Diego (there is a second location downtown), and the building was originally designed by architect Irving Gill as a home for philanthropist Ellen Browning Scripps. Today, MCASD has more than 4,000 pieces from renowned and emerging artists in its collection. Be sure to check out what’s on display in the special exhibition gallery, as well as the paintings by Andy Warhol.
Baja Wine & Dine Tour
Have an extra day? Take a day trip down to Ensenada, Mexico and experience the Baja California wine region. Baja Wine & Dine will pick you up from/ return you to your hotel and take you on a guided all day wine tour, visiting ~3-4 wineries throughout the day. Salud!