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During your stay in San Diego, a visit to Balboa Park is a must. This 1,200 acre park was built in 1868 and has continued to be a favorite destination of locals and visitors alike for years. At the park you can find all day fun. There are museums, gardens, and many attractions to choose from. With all the options, you will find yourself coming back again and again. To narrow down some options, here is your guide to Balboa Park.

The Spanish Village Art Center is a hidden jewel for anyone who is an art lover. The area is made in the style of an old Spanish Village complete with a cobblestone path and red tile roofs. Enjoy the brightly colored cobblestone floor that really makes this area unique. Once here, look through the work of over 200 craftspeople and artisans as they showcase their work. Stop by the various galleries and see what new craft pieces are on display today. The studios are located between the Natural History Museum and the Zoo.

If you are looking to see the natural beauty of San Diego, look no further than the Botanical Gardens. At the Botanical Gardens, there are so many different types of nature to enjoy. Not only can you see plants that are native to San Diego, you can also see plants from around the world. For example, stop by the Australian Garden to see plant species from down under or visit the Japanese Friendship Garden for some quiet contemplation. Other gardens include the California Native Plant Garden, the Rose Garden, the 1935 cactus garden and many more!

If you are looking to stay active, stop by the Balboa Park Activity Center! This multi-purpose gym has many activities to offer. Some of these include table tennis, badminton, volleyball and others. On Monday and Thursday, there are also community yoga classes offered for FREE. Visit www.balboapark.org for more information.

If you will be heading in from out of town, consider booking your stay at one of the hotels close to Balboa Park in San Diego.

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Mission Bay is a lovely area in San Diego that is filled with ample opportunities to have fun in the sun. Whether you want to splash in the water or stay on dry land, at Mission bay, there is something for everyone. This summer, here are some fun activities to do during your visit to Mission Bay.

If you want to get into the cool waters of Mission Bay, then consider going kayaking or paddleboarding. Aqua Adventures offers kayaks and paddleboards that you can rent out for the day. If you have never gone kayaking or paddleboarding or maybe you want a little instruction if you’re rusty, Aqua Adventures also offers classes throughout the week! Classes range in time from 1-3 hours. Classes are also available for children! If you are particularly interested in kayaking, they also offer kayaking tours throughout the week. Visit www.aqua-adventures.com to learn more.

If you find that you’d rather explore Mission Bay on a bike, there are many great biking paths for you to choose from. The Mission Bay Bike Path is perhaps one of the most scenic and smoothest paths in the area. The path is 12 miles but the road is smooth, paved, and with the exception of a few short section, it is also vehicle free. All of these things make the path a great option if you simply want to explore and see the beauty that Mission Bay has to offer.

Did you know that San Diego has dog park beaches? While other beaches might allow dogs, they often have to be restrained and stay on leashes. However, at Dog Beach and on Fiesta Island, dogs are allowed to run around leash-free! Fiesta Island, which is located in Mission Bay Park, allows dogs anywhere that is outside the fenced off areas. If you want to enjoy the beach with your beloved pet, take them to either of these locations in San Diego.

If you will be heading in from out of town, book your stay at one of the budget-friendly hotels in Mission Bay San Diego that are conveniently located near many activities.

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The Gaslamp District is one of the most popular districts in San Diego. Filled with opportunities for eating and shopping at unique boutiques, there is something for everyone. Here is a brief guide of things to do during your stop to the Gaslamp District.

If you have a bit of a sweet tooth and are looking for a way to stay cool on a hot summer day, look no further than Chocolat Cremerie. Stop by this local favorite destination for delicious chocolates, tasty crepes and don’t forget to try the gelato, which they are famous for. Some of their gelato flavors include mango, honey and poppy seed, basil lemon, various chocolate flavors and more! There are also small breakfast and lunch menus as well. Another favorite destination is Bandar Restaurant. This Persian restaurant is one of the most popular in the area, so if you love Persian food this is the place to go. Here, you can expect lamb chicken, filet mignon, garlic fish and fresh ingredients such as pomegranate, nuts, herbs, saffron and lime. For more information visit www.chocolatsandiego.com & www.bandarrestaurant.com

If you feel like walking around and exploring, partake in the Walking Tour of the gaslamp quarter. The walk will take your through historic sites such as Horton Plaza, which was created in 1871 and was the hub of the city for decades. You’ll also stop by Hotel Lester, a building that was created in 1906 which housed a saloon and pool hall reminiscent of days in the Wild West. Other stops along the way include the San Diego Convention Center, the Chinese Historical Museum, the Metropolitan Hotel and the Pacific Gaslamp Theatre.

As far as a night out goes, consider going bar hopping to all the various types of bars that you’ll find throughout the city. From a rooftop lounge to classic, historic digs, there is something for everyone. For a truly unique experience, head over to Prohibition, one of the best bars in the area. As the name implies, the bar takes after the 20s era when prohibition was occurring throughout the country. This speakeasy style bar is located behind an unassuming door of the Law Offices of Edward Joseph O’Hare, Esquire. Once through the doors, you’re led to a secret bar! Just a heads up, there is a strict dress code that is enforced. Visit the website for more information. Visit www.prohibitionsd.com for more information.

If you will be in the area from out of town, make sure you book your stay at one of the budget-friendly hotels close to Gaslamp District to make the most of the night!

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This summer, if you are looking for a fun and family friendly activity that can be enjoyed by all, look no further than a trip to SeaWorld San Diego! At SeaWorld, choose from all day entertainment such as exciting rides to fun and informative shows. This summer, be sure to head out to SeaWorld with friends and family!

Whether you have little ones or older kids, there are attractions for all ages at SeaWorld. There are a number of rides that you can choose from such as Abby’s Sea Star Spin, Riptide Rescue, or Journey to Atlantis, a water ride that features a 60 foot plunge at the end! At SeaWorld, there is more to do than just going on rides. There are also a number of shows featuring sea animals as well as other animals such as dogs, cats, and birds! If you want to learn more about mammals that call the ocean home, check out shows such as Sea Lions LIVE, Dolphin Days, Killer Whales: Up Close, and Sea Lions Tonite. During the summer, be sure to catch Shamu’s Celebration: Light Up the Night; a nightly show that is filled with special, glowing effects. If you love animals and really want to learn more about them, consider going on one of the behind the scenes tours where you can get up close and personal with the animals. Choose from the Beluga Interaction Program, the Penguins Up-Close Tour, or the Animal Spotlight Tour, which includes time with a number of animals such as dolphins and turtles.

During most days in July, the park is open from 9am – 9pm. On weekends, as well as later in the summer, the park is open from 9am – 10pm. Visit the official website at www.seaworldparks.com/en/seaworld-sandiego to find out more information on park hours and showtime schedules.

If you will be coming in from out of town this summer, consider staying in one of the hotels near SeaWorld in San Diego.

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It is nearly once again time for San Diego Comic-Con International. The premier event that started it all will be returning to San Diego from July 21st through the 24th with a preview night taking place on July 20th. If you want to immerse yourself in the wonderful world of comics, engage with a new community, and see some of your favorite actors on panels, then Comic-Con is just for you! Tickets for this event are now on sale.

At the Exhibit Hall, check out all the exhibitors that will be present at this year’s Comic-Con. From A & G Comics to Marvel Entertainment, LLC there will be hundreds of exhibitors showcasing their latest works. Over in Artist’s Alley you can meet some of the artists that have brought your favorite comics to life! There is so much more to Comic-Con than just the exhibit hall. For example, there will also be an entire film festival that will take place! This is none other than the Comic-Con International Independent Film Festival. This year, there will be submissions from the US, Canada, Greece, France, New Zealand, Portugal and Israel. After you check out some films, maybe stop by the Comic-Con’s Art Show. This event will showcase original pieces by both professionals and amateurs alike. The art pieces include drawings, paintings, sculpture, jewelry and more. Fan favorite events that will return include opportunities for autographs, panels and the masquerade.

Preview night will take place on Wednesday, July 20th and will run from 6-9pm. Thursday through Saturday, the exhibit hall is open from 9:30am-7pm with events continuing through the night. On Sunday, July 24th, the hall is open from 9:30am-5pm. The San Diego Comic-Con International will take place at the San Diego Convention Center. Visit www.comic-con.org for more information.

If you will be attending this year’s Comic-Con, consider choosing one of the hotels near the San Diego Convention Center to ensure a quick commute

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This past weekend was the grand opening of the annual San Diego County Fair! This beloved event brings together the whole community for some great, quality fun. This year, the theme of the county fair is Mad About the Fair. Come down to the fair from now until July 4th to see all that is being offered!

With the theme of Mad About the Fair, you can expect fantastical decorations and whimsy in the style of Alice in Wonderland. There will also be cosplay, wacky machinery, and steampunk influences. Aside from this, enjoy all the other things that visitors have come to expect from the fair throughout the years. For example, stop by the Fun Zone where you can enjoy over 40 exciting thrill rides as well as fun carnival rides where you can test your skills and earn prizes! For the younger ones, stop by the Kids Zone where they can enjoy kid friendly rides that are perfect for young children. Another fun appeal to the County Fair is all the great food. Afterall, where else can you enjoy fried oreos or a fried Snickers bar? Aside from all the typical fair food, there are also indoor restaurants and areas offering table service if you are inclined to do that instead. For those who are 21 and over, stop by one of the several beer gardens that are located throughout the fair. Here, you can enjoy beer, wine and more.

On Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays, the gates will be open from 11am-10pm and the Fun Zone will close at 11pm. On Fridays, the gates are open from 11am-11pm with the Fun Zone open till midnight. On Saturdays, the gates will be open from 10am-11pm and the Fun Zone will stay open till midnight. On Sundays, the gates are open from 10am-10pm and the Fun Zone is open until 11pm. The fair will be closed on Tuesday, June 7th and June 14th. For more information, visit www.sdfair.com

If you will be attending the San Diego County Fair, be sure to stay at one of the hotels near the Del Mar Fairgrounds in San Diego to ensure a quick commute.

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While there are many areas of San Diego to explore, the Gaslamp Quarter is one of the most popular destination around – and for good reason. The area is filled with trendy bars and eateries as well as unique boutiques offering a one of a kind shopping experience. If you are looking to spend some time locally or are staying at one of the budget-friendly hotels near Gaslamp Quarter, here are 3 must try restaurants in the area.

No matter the time of day, Searsucker is here to offer delicious eats. Every Saturday and Sunday, Searsucker offers a delicious brunch. On Sundays, there is even live music that is performed! Every week there is a new artist. If you want to stop by later in the day, come by Monday-Friday for happy hour. Happy hour is from 4:30pm-7pm with wines and beers being some of the options. If you’re a night owl, no problem. Try out the late night menu offered on Fridays and Saturdays. This menu is offered from 11pm-1am. For more information visit www.searsucker.com

If you are craving Mexican food, La Puerta is just the place for you. The restaurant is all about tacos, tunes, and tequila. Here, you’ll find a great environment, hospitality, and some of the best Mexican food you’ve ever head. La Puerta is also known for their fantastic cocktails and extensive selection of tequilas. Come down for Taco Tuesday which takes place from 3-7pm and again from 10pm-closing. Visit www.lapuertasd.com for more information.

Sometimes the only thing you need is a juicy burger. At the Burger Lounge, home of the original grass-fed burger, you’ll find a burger that stands apart. In fact, their motto is “we do a common thing uncommonly well”. Not only can you try their traditional beef burger, you can even try other offerings such as the turkey burger, lamb burger, and even a quinoa veggie burger. For menu options visit www.burgerlounge.com

Gaslamp offers a variety of delicious restaurants, but be sure to try these restaurants out!

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A family trip to San Diego is a trip filled with potentially fun and exciting activities. While there are so many options to choose from, here are just a few of the family-friendly things to do in San Diego during summer vacation.

The San Diego Zoo is somewhere that you have to visit while in San Diego. Consistently named as one of the best Zoos in the country, it was also named the Best Zoo in the World according to Tripadvisor’s Travelers Choice Awards in 2015. Here, you will find a number of different species and habitats that house species such as giant tortoises, gorillas, tigers, flamingos, polar bears, leopards and so much more. Visit their website to find out more about pricing, hours, and special activities that are offered. For more information visit www.zoo.sandiegozoo.org

Balboa Park is known as the Cultural Heart of San Diego. This huge park is nearly 1,200 acres and within the grounds you’ll find so many things to do. For example, there are 17 museums here, it is the location of the San Diego Zoo, and there are also eight major gardens within the grounds. The gardens are especially beautiful and should not be forgotten about. Another great thing about the park is that is open 24 hours a day and admittance into the park is FREE. Visit www.balboapark.org for more information.

If you’re looking for an all day activity that is sure to keep the whole family entertained, consider heading over to Legoland. Can you imagine an entire park made from legos? Because that’s what you’ll find at this fun amusement park. Travel throughout the different areas of the park such as Land of Adventure, Castle Hill, Pirate Shores, Fun Town and Explorer Island just to name a few. In each land there are a number of different activities and rides to be enjoyed. The hours of the amusement park vary depending on the season and holidays. Visit their website, www.legoland.com/california for more information.

Another fun, all day event is to spend the day at SeaWorld. Here at SeaWorld, not only can you enjoy fun rides, you can also see entertaining shows and have unique animal interactions as well! Some of their shows include learning more about Killer Whales, Dolphins, Sea Lions and more. There is even a fireworks show on select nights throughout the summer. For more information visit www.seaworldparks.com/en/seaworld-sandiego

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