San Diego

Blessed by a sunny climate that never varies ten degrees from moderate and a splendid setting along the Pacific Ocean, San Diegans can well boast they live the California Dream. Although non-stop outdoor recreation, a vibrant downtown, and world-class attractions keep the city’s spirit young, its heart lies in its Spanish beginnings as the birthplace of California.

Top 10 Must-See Sights

1. Gaslamp Quarter
Old-fashioned wrought-iron gas lamps lead the way to the hottest scene in town. Rocking nightspots and a dazzling selection of restaurants give life to San Diego’s original Victorian downtown.

2. Embarcadero
With its nautical museums, vintage ships, and superb views across a harbor busy with sailboats, ferries, and battleships, the Embarcadero links the city to its ocean heritage.

3. Balboa Park
San Diegans take pride in having one of the finest urban parks in the world. Its famous zoo, fascinating museums, and exquisite gardens offer endless activities.

4. Old Town State Historic Park
The original location and social center of San Diego until 1872, adobe houses, old wood-frame buildings, and artifacts belonging to its pioneer families have been faithfully restored.

5. Coronado
This idyllic community is recognizable throughout the world by the fabulous Hotel del Coronado. Coronado’s white sandy beaches, sidewalk cafés, and oceanfront mansions have enticed visitors for over a century.

6. Point Loma
In 1542, Juan Cabrillo arrived at Ballast Point, claiming California for Spain. Once a whaling, fishing, and leather processing center, stunning homes and marinas now grace Point Loma’s water-front.

7. Mission San Diego de Alcalá
Father Junípero Serra established this mission in 1769. The first of 21, the mission aimed to Christianize the Native Americans and affirm Spain’s presence in California.

8. SeaWorld
At one of the premiere attractions of Southern California, leaping killer whales, cavorting dolphins, and promenading sea lion divas entertain over four million visitors a year.

9. La Jolla
Multi-million-dollar seaside villas, boutiques, and elegant restaurants line the streets of this exclusive community, which is also noted for its prestigious biotech and oceanographic research institute.

10. Tijuana
Only 20 minutes south of San Diego but a whole world away, this famous border town offers great shopping and top-rated restaurants. And yes, striped burros and black velvet Elvis paintings still exist.

Discover more to see and do in San Diego at www.traveldk.com/san-diego.

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