San Diego, also known as ‘America’s Finest City’ is a southern California wonder. A scenic coastal city, it features some of the west coast’s finest beaches, a melting pot of American/Mexican heritage and whole lot of family fun activity.
Take a look at our three top picks when visiting the city…
SeaWorld
Located in the heart of beautiful Mission Bay, the original SeaWorld in San Diego is the perfect mix of thrills, education and animal interaction.
The highlight of a visit is the Orca killer whale show. Focused on the natural behaviours in the wild, it’s a rare opportunity for an up close encounter with these magnificent mammals as they playfully wave, splash and dive through the tank.
The park also offers lots of other marine encounters where you get the chance to interact with sharks, turtles and penguins and understand more about the conservation of marine life.
If big thrills are up your street then you will not be disappointed with the big adventure rides on offer. With a lot of recent investment, there’s the sprawling multi-launch Electric Eel, Tidal Twister and the brand new Emperor that has very recently opened. For a slightly slower pace, Journey to Atlantis is a thrilling family coaster through tracks and water and Shipwreck River Rapids are guaranteed laughs and fun for all.
For younger children there are lots of play areas, splash pads and a wide range of tame rides to keep them entertained.
For more information and to book, visit SeaWorld
San Diego Padres
For us Brits, the best way to describe a game of baseball is like rounders on a whole new scale! Interjected with lots of clapping, cheering and general good family fun, taking in the mighty Padres is an entertaining way to spend an evening.
Located in the city centre, the Padres’ ballpark is a fab stadium that honestly doesn’t have a bad seat in the house. Amidst the buzzing hum drum of Padres fans, Petco Park is surrounded by the stunning San Diego skyline, making it a little oasis that pulls you into the captivating game. Whether or not you understand the rules, it’s hard not to get involved and a quick word with someone in the crowd will quickly help get you up to speed.
It’s an incredibly family-friendly evening from the accessibility of the stadium, to the cleanliness to the entertainment and plethora of food and drink vendors offering a little something for everyone. Forget the footie, baseball is where it’s at!
For more information and to book, visit San Diego Padres
Old Town Trolley Tours
It’s back to basics with this one as the historic trolley carriages provide an access all areas insight into the fabulous city.
A great way to introduce you to the region, the hop on, hop off carriages driven by knowledgeable (and at times humorous!) tour guides provide a 25-mile loop orientation jam packed with lots of history and laughs a plenty.
With 12 key stops, in San Diego and across the iconic bridge to neighbouring Coronado Island, all the highlights of the city are bought to life in front of your eyes and the best thing is you don’t even need to move a muscle so the kids don’t need to moan!
To find out more about San Diego, visit www.go-california.com/sandiego
