Top 10 San Diego Experiences

Updated: September 28, 2009

From the most notable landmarks and attractions to must-visit restaurants and bars, we picked the Top 10 experiences in San Diego, all of which prove that our fine city is so much more than a sandy beach town.

The Top 10 San Diego Experiences

  1. 1 4 Star Rating: Recommended Del Mar Thoroughbred Club
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    2260 Jimmy Durante Blvd, Del Mar, CA 92014 (map)

    Where the turf meets the surf "down at old Del Mar," the track is must-stop destination in North County. Whether for the famous thoroughbread races, the San Diego County Fair, or light displays during the holidays, the track draws crowds all year long.

  2. 2 5 Star Rating: Highly Recommended Petco Park
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    100 Park Blvd, San Diego, CA 92101 (map)

    Cheer on the Pads during a Friday night baseball game Downtown, or just wander through the historic grounds and the "park at the park" during the offseason. Dogs are welcome all year long!

  3. 3 Black's Beach
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    Torrey Pines Scenic Drive, San Diego, CA 92037 (map)

    Whether you're into sunning yourself in the nude (it's one of the last known, unofficial nude beach spots in the county) or just looking for the perfect wave for an early morning surf session, Black's Beach is a must-do for any local.

  4. 4 4.5 Star Rating: Recommended Cabrillo National Monument
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    1800 Cabrillo Memorial Dr, San Diego, CA 92106 (map)

    From the tip-top vantage point at this monument in Point Loma, you can see why it was named for one of the greatest Western explorers in history. You can see all the way out to the Coronado islands, down to Mexico and way up north past the La Jolla coves and hills of Torrey Pines. And it's more than one of the city's greatest vistas. There's also a histroic lighthouse to tour, tide pools depending on the season, and great whale watching.

  5. 5 5 Star Rating: Highly Recommended San Diego Zoo
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    2920 Zoo Dr, San Diego, CA 92101 (map)

    Go to the Zoo. Need we say more? It's famous all over the world for a reason. Be sure to check out the new Elephant Odyssey exhibit which opened in 2009 and the new little baby panda.

  6. 6 3.5 Star Rating: Average Bertrand At Mister A's
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    2550 Fifth Ave 12th Fl, San Diego, CA 92103 (map)

    This is one of those special-occasion spot that embodies fine dining with a classic steak and seafood menu, impeccable service and unrivaled views of the city.

  7. 7 Hike Bike Kayak
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    2246 Avenida de la Playa, La Jolla, CA 92037 (map)

    Hike, bike or kayak along the coastal inlets from PB to La Jolla. Watch for tidepools during low tide, too.

  8. 8 3.5 Star Rating: Average Old Town Mexican Cafe
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    2489 San Diego Ave, San Diego, CA 92110 (map)

    Old Town San Diego has a lot more than just historical landmarks and pieces of the city's Mexican roots: There's really great Mexican food, too. And Old Town Mex, as the locals call it, is the placeto eat it. Watch the staff make tortillas from scratch the old fashioned way up in the front, grab a cold Negro Modelo from the bar inside, or nab a family-size table out on the patio to grub on carne asada, guacamole and spicy chips and salsa.

  9. 9 4 Star Rating: Recommended Hotel del Coronado
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    1500 Orange Ave, Coronado, CA 92118 (map)

    Whether you're a fan of Marilyn Monroe in Some Like It Hot (filmed at The Del) or you're just a fan of sun-drenched beaches and classic architecture, a visit to The Del is a must for any local or tourist. Wander the underground pathways lined with photos of all the presidents and dignitaries who have stayed here, window shop the boutiques and candy shops, stop for an ice cream (or a cocktail) on the deck overlooking the pool, or linger in the lobby bar and listen to the piano player. It's a little slice of San Diego history that everyone mus experience.

  10. 10 4.5 Star Rating: Recommended World Famous
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    711 Pacific Beach Dr, San Diego, CA 92109 (map)

    The lines are long at this local, beachfront favorite, but boardwalk people-watching makes waiting for a table very entertaining.