Must-see attractions in San Diego

  • Mission San Luis Rey de Francia

    San Diego

    About 4.5 miles inland from central Oceanside, this was the largest California mission and the most successful in recruiting Native American converts. At…

  • Our Lady of the Rosary Catholic Church

    San Diego

    The rich ceiling murals here were painted by an Italian who was flown over to do the work. The church, built in 1925, is still a hub for Little Italy…

  • Temecula Valley Museum

    San Diego

    Just off Old Town Front St, this one-room museum tells the history of the region through artifacts from the Native American Luiseño people through to the…

  • Lux Art Institute

    San Diego

    A few miles east of central Encinitas, this institute lets spectators be present at the creation of art. A changing lineup of artists in residence take…

  • Spruce Street Footbridge

    San Diego

    As you head northward toward Hillcrest consider a detour across the 375ft Spruce St Footbridge. Note that the 1912 suspension bridge, built over a deep…

  • Timken House

    San Diego

    Built in 1887, this grand property was the last home of inventor Henry Timken, one of the first people to add roller bearings to railroad cars. It is a…

  • Palomar Mountain State Park

    San Diego

    To stretch your legs after visiting the ridgetop Palomar Observatory, nearby Palomar Mountain State Park has forested hikes along panoramic-view trails…

  • Long-Waterman House

    San Diego

    The opulent former home of California Governor Robert Whitney Waterman was built in 1889. It has an ornate porch and a tower. It's a private residence, so…

  • Seagrove Park

    San Diego

    At the end of 15th St, this park abuts the beach and overlooks the ocean. This little stretch of well-groomed lawn is a community hub and perfect for a…

  • Museum of Making Music

    San Diego

    Historical exhibits and listening stations of 450 instruments from the 1890s to the present, from manufacturing to the distribution of popular music.

  • Quince Street Bridge

    San Diego

    A 60ft tall wooden-trestle pedestrian bridge built in the early 20th century. It runs across a steep valley.

  • Amici Park

    San Diego

    A small park with tables, benches, and bocce-playing areas.

  • Penguins at Sea World

    SeaWorld San Diego

    San Diego

    Opened in San Diego in 1964, SeaWorld became one of California’s most popular theme parks. Visitors shuttle between aquatic-themed rides, animal…

  • CA, San Diego, Hillcrest sign at University Ave - stock photo

Hillcrest Gateway

    Hillcrest Gateway

    San Diego

    The Hillcrest sign was first hung in 1940; a newer version was erected in 1984.

  • La Jolla Recreation Center

    La Jolla

    Commissioned by Ellen Browning Scripps and designed by famous San Diego architect Irving Gill, this notable building dates to 1915. The center has…

  • Starlight Bowl

    San Diego

    Save Starlight (www.savestarlight.org) is an initiative working to restore, revive and revitalize Starlight Bowl. The movement hopes to put on concerts,…

  • Bishop’s School

    La Jolla

    Although not open to the public, campus buildings (visible from the street) date back to 1898 and are a good example of early architecture in the area. If…

  • Casa de Carillo

    San Diego

    Just north of Old Town, this house dates from about 1820 and is said to be the oldest house in San Diego. It is now the pro shop for the public 18-hole…

  • Kahn Building

    San Diego

    Historic building with kitsch ornate plaster work of fruits at its top. It was recently transformed into 'The Hive,' housing a collection of different…

  • St James Episcopal Church

    La Jolla

    Classic architecture, a nice place to stop for a photo on a historic walking tour of La Jolla.