Things to do in Central San Diego

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Balboa Park featuring aircraft and interior views
Balboa Park featuring interior views and a city
Balboa Park featuring military items and interior views
Balboa Park showing landscape views, rides and a garden
San Diego Museum of Art featuring art and interior views

Central San Diego Attractions

Find out what makes Central San Diego tick with some of the very best tours & day trips. Browse through our top {294 fun activities in Central San Diego fun activities in Central San Diego}, and book with confidence knowing that we offer free cancellation and no added fees.


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Most popular activities in Central San Diego

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History & culture

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Cruises & boat tours

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Wildlife & nature

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What to do in Central San Diego

Free Things to Do in Central San Diego

A vacation in Central San Diego doesn't have to break the bank. You won't have to spend a penny if you check out:

Mormon Battalion Historic Site - Chat to the friendly staff and learn more about the fascinating collections exhibited at this museum.

Mission Basilica San Diego de Alcala - Stop at this historic attraction and experience a slice of the cultural heritage of the region.

San Diego Mormon Temple - Take a moment for some meditation or prayer at this revered sacred site.

Old Cactus Garden - Whether you know your apple trees from azaleas, it's easy to find beauty in this attractive display.

Things to Do in Central San Diego with Kids

There's fun for the entire family wherever you go in Central San Diego. Here are some family friendly experiences you can enjoy together that will make your break unforgettable:


Discover the most popular places to visit in Central San Diego

Discover the most popular landmarks and neighborhoods in Central San Diego

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Mission Valley

4/5(4,999 area reviews)

Boasting major shopping malls like Fashion Valley Mall and Westfield Mission Valley, this area offers entertainment and historic sites such as Mission San Diego de Alcalá and Presidio Park. Easily accessible via the San Diego Trolley system's Green Line.

Mission Valley
Old Town San Diego State Park showing signage

Old Town San Diego

4.5/5(877 area reviews)

The ample dining options and beautiful seaside views are top of the list for many visitors to Old Town San Diego. A stop by Old Town San Diego State Park or Whaley House Museum might round out your trip.

Old Town San Diego
Loads of Loafs

Hillcrest

3.5/5(53 area reviews)

Visitors to Hillcrest enjoy its restaurants, and if you want to do some exploring, Marston House is worth a stop.

Hillcrest
Try the tamale eggs Benedict!

North Park

4/5(78 area reviews)

North Park is well-liked for its restaurants. You can also take some time to explore sights in the surrounding area like San Diego Zoo and San Diego Natural History Museum.

North Park
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Clairemont

4/5(512 area reviews)

Restaurants, beaches, and shopping are some highlights of Clairemont. You might stop by Mission Bay or Fashion Valley Mall while you're in the area.

Clairemont
Where it all started!

Founded in 1996 by Jack White in San Diego, California. Ballast Point Brewing Co. started in the back of Home Brew Mart, a homebrew supply store White founded in 1992. As of 2015, it was the second largest brewer in San Diego County and the 17th largest brewery in the country based on sales volume. 

Ballast Point is also the first microdistillery in San Diego since Prohibition. They currently produce 14 spirits: Old Grove Gin, Old Grove Barrel Rested Gin, Three Sheets White Rum, Three Sheets Barrel-Aged Rum, Three Sheets Spiced Rum, Opha Herbal Liqueur, Fugu Vodka, four flavored Fugu Vodkas

Miramar

4/5(168 area reviews)

Restaurants, beaches, and shopping highlight some of the notable features of Miramar. Make a stop by Marine Corps Air Station Miramar while you're exploring.

Miramar

 

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Popular day trips from Central San Diego

Frequently asked questions

What to do in Central San Diego on a sunny day?
Take advantage of the clear weather (and give your legs a stretch as well) with these popular outdoor activities:


What to do in Central San Diego on a rainy day?
With fantastic indoor activities like a Spa-Quality On Demand Massage - San Diego to keep you occupied, there's no need to let the damp weather stop you from having fun.
What is Central San Diego famous for?
With lots of well-known attractions like these, your most daunting decision will be where to go first:

  • San Diego Zoo
  • Balboa Park
  • San Diego State University
  • University of San Diego

What should I not miss in Central San Diego?
Fabulous sights are easy to come by here, however, Old Town San Diego State Park and SDCCU Stadium are a couple you simply have to see.
Are there cheap things to do in Central San Diego?
What can you do in Central San Diego for free?
You could put your wallet in the hotel safe for the day, because these excellent attractions won't cost you a penny:

  • Hotel Circle
  • Fashion Valley Mall
  • Westfield UTC
  • Mission Valley Mall