San Diego is a wonderful respite from the desert heat of Las Vegas. In fact, it remains one of the top vacation spots for people from the desert, especially when things are heating up above 110.
Everyone knows about the Word-Famous San Diego Zoo, SeaWorld, and the gateway to Mexico. Tijuana. But there are so many places to visit in San Diego that will knock your socks off and don't require busting the budget.
If I was going to San Diego for the weekend, here is what I would do:
Day 1
Start the day off right with a filling breakfast at Café 21, located in the Gaslamp Quarter, between E and F Streets. Energize yourself for the day ahead with their farm-to-table cuisine and distinctive menu options. May I suggest the Lamb Kufta Omelet.
After breakfast, take in Balboa Park. Explore the many cultural landmarks, including gardens, museums, and more. The Botanical Building and San Diego Museum of Art are must-see attractions. The park also host a pretty cool model railroad museum. There is so much to do here that you should give it around 3 hours to explore.
Take in lunch in Balboa Park at Panama 66. Sit back and savor the tasty food at this alfresco eatery. I suggest a Burrata Salad or a Hummus Board. Add on an Alesmith "Non-Alcoholic" IPA.
After lunch , head over to Pt. Loma to visit the Cabrillo National Monument. Take in the breathtaking views of San Diego Bay and the Pacific Ocean as you explore the visitor center and the tide pools. This stop will take around 3 hours.
Finish up your day with a breathtaking sunset view at Sunset Cliffs in the evening. Unwind, admire the natural beauty, and capture the breathtaking coastline vistas in photographs. If you make it around sunset, take plenty of photos and enjoy the dynamic California coast.
On Day 2, you will head over to La Jolla.
Start off with breakfast at The Cottage, which serves a wonderful breakfast to kick off the day. Take pleasure in their warm ambiance and delicious breakfast selections. I suggest you try the Monterrey Scramble and make sure you pick up a cup of Mexican Mocha.
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After breakfast you will want to discover the stunning La Jolla Cove. Sea lions and seals will be your neighbors while you stroll the shore and perhaps even go kayaking or snorkeling. Honestly, you can spend a lot of time just watching the seals at the Children's Pool.
It seems like we're eating a lot, but there are quite a few great places to enjoy a meal. So for lunch, I suggest George's at the Cove. With breathtaking views of the ocean and mouthwatering California fare, this La Jolla restaurant is a must-visit. This is probably the best place to take in the impressive view of the California coast. I suggest you enjoy the Blackened Local Fish Tacos.
To end the afternoon, go window shopping in Old Town San Diego. Marvel at the restored architecture, peruse the artisan stores selling authentic Mexican goods, and perhaps even attend a mariachi concert. You will find some great items to pick up as souvenirs of your San Diego weekend.
End the day with dinner in Little Italy. Numerous Italian eateries provide a wide range of cuisines, from classic pastas to sophisticated pizzas.
There is so much to do in San Diego, that I have included a few stops you might consider if you've already seen Pt. Loma or La Jolla.
Explore the USS Midway Museum in downtown San Diego: This is a great place to spend an afternoon. With its intriguing look into naval history, interactive exhibits, and guided tours, this aircraft carrier turned museum is a must-visit. Give it two or three hours.
After you've explored the USS Midway Museum in the late afternoon, take a stroll through Seaport Village. Unique stores, street performers, and stunning views of San Diego Bay can be found at this waterfront dining and retail complex. They have all sorts of stores; I bought a pair of goofy socks at Sock Harbor.
All in all, it is hard to beat a San Diego weekend. Enjoy yourself, cool off, and come back refreshed and ready to tackle anything life tosses your way.
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