North American City Spotlight: San Diego, California

AuthorityTicket.com's City Spotlight

Top 10 Things to Do in San Diego

Next stop on our City Spotlight Tour; San Diego, California. Where the sun is bright, the museums are plentiful and the nightlife is unforgettable. While you can indulge yourself in literally hundreds of various activities here, we’ve found 10 “must do” options. Whether you live here or are planning a vacation to San Diego, there is something for everyone. Granted this was a difficult feat because there is so much to do, but in the end you will enjoy everything we’ve compiled.

Legoland California

Who goes to San Diego and misses the chance to visit Legoland? Even if you’re not a kid anymore you can still enjoy the adventure that this destination has to offer. The most notable difference between this Amusement Park and many others around the country is you choose what happens during the ride. So even if you ride the same one twice the end result is different every time. Plus don’t miss the opportunity to scale their signature ride; The Dragon Coaster.

Baseball and Football Games

For years San Diego has had some of the best sports fans around the country. Their MLB team the San Diego Padres dawns one of the best pitchers ever to grace the mound in Greg Maddux and the NFL team the San Diego Chargers have shown fans they are going to be competitive for many years to come. Even if they’re not your favorite teams to watch, the experience is nothing but fun. And if you ahve a chance to see the Padres and Dodgers, jump at the chance to see the Red Sox’s Manny Ramirez now that he’s a Dodger.

Coronado Ferry Trip

If you want to get away for an afternoon of sightseeing, shopping and dining, then don’t miss the Coronado Ferry Trip. Only a fifteen minute excursion from San Diego, the Coronado Ferry will give you scenery like nothing you’ve experienced before. You’ll see the U.S. Navy Fleet, the San Diego Skyline, and various other marks along the way that are perfectly positioned on your way to Coronado Island and the Landing Marketplace. There are two things you’ll want to have before you go: A camera and an empty stomach.

San Diego Repertory Theatre at the Lyceum in Horton Plaza

There are about 25 different performing arts establishments to take in, but the REP is one of the best. The auditorium has an exotic, romantic and innovative style. When the show ends you will be left with a provocative feeling that will run through you the rest of the evening. Best of all the Horton Plaza is located within walking distance to other nightlife destinations in the surrounding area. And you can buy your San Diego Broadway tickets online here. Don’t miss your chance to see a memorable play in San Diego.

La Jolla Playhouse

If you want a more compelling show with a social or political platform then this is a terrific place to go. This theatre is well known for its surprising storylines and wonderful energy. It’s a new, fresh look at the performing arts and offers a diversity never seen before. Audiences are incorporated into some of the acts, making you a part of the entertainment. There isn’t another place like this around, so be sure to set a night aside for this adventurous venue.

Coronado Beach

You can’t have a Top 10 Things To Do In San Diego list without adding Coronado Beach. Ranked by the Travel Channel as one of the top beaches across the nation, Coronado Beach offers more then 70 miles of sandy beaches, Pacific Ocean views, and a million other activities. You could literally spend the entire week there. While we aren’t suggesting you stick to the beach, we do suggest you at least make it a day trip for everyone. Tide pool explorations, surfing, sailing, body boarding and whale watching are just some of the adventures to take part in while you’re there.

Old Town Trolley Tour

Why look like a tourist with a big ol’ map in your hand the entire time when you can take the Old Town Trolley Tour and see everything. It’s an inside look to what you can expect from San Diego as a vacation destination. In fact, many of the establishments and activities we have mentioned here will be discussed along your tour. However, you may see something else you want to do while on this little introductory trip so keep an eye out.

The Plethora of Restaurants

You’ll be feasting your eyes and bellies on several locations to entrench those palettes of yours. Phil’s B.B.Q., Sushi Ota, Buon Appetito, Hodad’s, Extraordinary Desserts, Hash House A Go Go, Prado, Ruth’s Chris Steakhouse, Bleu Boheme, Bread and CIE, The Oceanaire Seafood Room, Rei Do Gado, Island Prime, and more. The list goes on and on.

Behind The Scenes Hollywood Tour

America’s Finest City wouldn’t be complete without a Behind The Scenes Hollywood Tour. For years you’ve probably imagined the glamorous life of a movie star, but now you can experience it. You’ll see historic landmarks, restored movie palaces and more.

Balboa Park

Now, our number one destination in all of San Diego, California is Balboa Park. While you may be wondering why, the answer is quite simple. Balboa Park is home to over twenty museums, Spanish and Latin American architecture, and the famous San Diego Zoo. In all, there are over 1,200 acres of beautiful gardens, magnificent buildings and historic places that will leave you mesmerized by all it has available to see.

You can literally walk aboard the USS Midway which if you don’t know is the longest serving aircraft carrier in U.S. Navy history. However, there is plenty to see including a 1903 reproduction Flyer of the Wright Brothers, as well as history of every nature possible. Even if you’re not getting educated in San Diego’s past, the shops and restaurants within the area will keep you busy for hours. In all, it’s definitely worth a day. There is so much to do in San Diego, CA, it amazing.

Concerts in San Diego

Broadway in San Diego

Here are a few more acts coming up in San Diego at the beginning of 2009: