Things to do in La Mesa

Find and book activities, attractions and tours

La Mesa
La Mesa
Photo by Michele Butts
Photo by Michele Butts
Photo by Michele Butts
Photo by Michele Butts
Photo by Toby Scriba
Photo by Toby Scriba

La Mesa Attractions

Smaller cities have a charm about them you won't find in their larger counterparts. Jot down all the exciting things to see and do in La Mesa before you head off so you can see as much as possible during your vacation. You'll soon see that bigger doesn't necessarily mean better!

Explore the sights of La Mesa with some unique tours & day trips, or check out our list of {250 fun activities in La Mesa fun activities in La Mesa}. We have no booking fees as well as free cancellation, so you can rest easy and concentrate on planning the ultimate vacation.

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La Mesa must see attractions

1. San Diego Zoo

Prepare to be amazed and enchanted by the diversity of animal life on display at San Diego Zoo, which welcomes 5 million visitors a year. The 100-acre (40-hectare) site is home to around 4,000 animals from more than 650 species and subspecies. Most exhibits are open air, and designed to be as close to the natural habitats of the animals they house as possible.
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San Diego Zoo which includes zoo animals

2. San Diego Convention Center

For an educational or fun getaway in this Southern California city, find an event at the San Diego Convention Center. Many organizations hold private conferences here; take advantage of the excellent facilities and pleasant surroundings if you’re invited to participate. Public events are frequent too. Look for bridal shows, home shows and Brick Fest Live, with intricate LEGO® creations and demonstrations. November’s Art San Diego is a huge show of art, art installations and demonstrations.
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SanDiego_SanDiegoConventionCenter_6125294_006

3. Mission Bay

Spend summer days enjoying the calm waters and gorgeous scenes of Mission Bay, a saltwater lagoon just north of downtown San Diego. This 4,200-acre (1,700-hectare) bay features pristine beaches, water sports for all ages and park attractions that bring summer to life.
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Mission Bay which includes a sandy beach

4. Balboa Park

This is one of thelargest urban parks in the United States, and one of the most diverse in theworld. You could spend a week exploring its 1,200 acres (486 hectares) ofwalking trails and gardens, museums and galleries, theaters, restaurants, and world-famous zoo. Thiswealth of year-round entertainment makes it a popular location for both localsand tourists.
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Balboa Park which includes a pond

5. SeaWorld

SeaWorld® San Diego has long been a family favorite for its entertaining marine animals. Plan a multi-day visit to today’s exciting marine park to watch the animal attractions, from otters to orcas and penguins to pinnipeds. Enjoy the many exciting rides, including the Electric Eel roller coaster, with speeds to 60 miles (100 kilometers) per hour and an inverted roll 150 feet (46 meters) in the air. Bayside Skyride offers a gentler ride with magnificent views of Mission Bay.
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beautiful creatures

6. Petco Park

Experience America’s favorite pastime in San Diego’s Petco Park. Enjoy stunning views of southern California as you watch a baseball game, concert or other sporting event. The park is named after San Diego-based pet supplies retailer Petco.
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Petco Park

What to do in La Mesa

Free Things to Do in La Mesa

There's no need to run your credit card hot in La Mesa. The following won't even cost a cent.

Computer Museum of America - Young or not so young, this gallery will rouse your imagination and capture your attention.

Mount Helix Park - Pencil in time to play and add some more fun to your vacation here.

Mount Helix Park - If you take pleasure in hanging out in the garden, this attraction will satisfy your green thumb.

Things to Do in La Mesa with Kids

There are lots of incredible experiences in La Mesa that the entire gang will get a buzz out of. Here are a few of the best family friendly experiences in the area.

 

Looking for sports, concerts, or theater events in La Mesa? Search event tickets to see what's happening today, or to plan what to do this weekend!

 

 

Discover the most popular places to visit in La Mesa

Mount Helix Park

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Learn about the local history of Casa de Oro-Mount Helix when you spend time at Mount Helix Park. Amble around this family-friendly area's waterfront or attend a sporting event.

Mount Helix Park

Computer Museum of America

You can spend an afternoon studying the exhibits at Computer Museum of America during your trip to La Mesa. Attend a sporting event while in this walkable area or simply enjoy the top-notch restaurants.

Computer Museum of America

Discover the most popular landmarks and neighborhoods in La Mesa

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Mount Helix

While there might not be top attractions in Mount Helix, you can explore the larger area and discover places like Mount Helix Park and The Magnolia.

Mount Helix
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Windsor Hills

If you're looking for some top things to see and do in Windsor Hills and surrounding area, you can visit Cal Coast Credit Union Open Air Theater and Viejas Arena.

Windsor Hills
See our Where To Stay guide

 

Looking for fun things to do nearby? Check things to do near me to find and book the best things to do, fun activities, and top attractions wherever you happen to be.

 

 

Popular day trips from La Mesa

Ocean Beach showing general coastal views and a coastal town

San Diego

El Cajon

El Cajon

Photo by Sabrina Hendrikx

Lemon Grove

Photo by Aly Anaya

Spring Valley

Frequently asked questions

Is La Mesa worth visiting?
From retail therapy to history and outdoor pursuits, there are many great things to do in La Mesa. Don't forget to experience the area's blend of cool attractions, local charm and culture.
How do I spend a day in La Mesa?
San Diego Zoo and San Diego Air and Space Museum are two excellent places to start your sightseeing adventures. Remember to explore the dining and shopping options in La Mesa while you're there too.
What is the top tourist attraction in La Mesa?
The top tourist attraction in La Mesa is San Diego Zoo, so be sure to add it to your agenda.
Is three days enough to stay in La Mesa?
Three days in La Mesa is more than enough to visit the city's main attractions. Many guests spend two days on average. Mount Helix Park, Boomers El Cajon and Computer Museum of America are top-rated sights. Want to discover more? Hang around a bit longer to check off nearby hotspots such as San Diego County.
Is La Mesa a walkable city?
It depends on what you plan to see and do in La Mesa. Several key attractions, such as Mount Helix Park and Computer Museum of America, are reachable on foot. If you're up for a stroll around some of La Mesa's best neighborhoods, Mid-City is 3 miles away from downtown, while Del Cerro is 3 miles away from the city center and also within walking distance.
What are some activities to do in La Mesa with kids?
Planning what to do in La Mesa with kids has never been so simple. Whether you're getting away with little ones or teenagers, there are plenty of family-friendly tours and activities to keep everyone entertained here.

What to do in La Mesa for adults?
Whether you're a culture enthusiast, food connoisseur or fan of nature, there's no shortage of things to do in La Mesa for adults including Hotel Circle and The Salvation Army Kroc Center.
Are there free things to do in La Mesa?
In La Mesa, Mount Helix Park is a must-see spot for anyone wanting to tour the city without reaching for their wallet. Also, stroll around the local neighborhoods and parks, and ask a local tour guide for tips. It's an easy way to learn about the best free things to do in La Mesa.

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