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Balboa Park This 1,200-acre park is also the cultural center of San Diego, with The Old Globe Theatre, scenic tours, and fifteen museums; Tuesdays feature rotating free admission at museums. 1549 El Prado; 619-239-0512; www.balboapark.org
Belmont Park Family-friendly beachside amusement park centered around the 1925-built Giant Dipper Roller Coaster. Mission Bay; 3146 Mission Blvd.; 858-228-9283; www.belmontpark.com
Old Town San Diego Considered the “birthplace” of California, with shops, restaurants, live performances, astounding architecture, a haunted house, and more. Old Town; Look for Old Town Ave. exit on I-5; 619-291-4903; www.oldtownsandiego.org
San Diego Harbor Excursions One of the most beautiful (and inexpensive) ways to see the city is by water; SD Harbor Excursions has been offering tours since 1915. 1050 North Harbor Dr.; 619-234-4111; www.sdhe.com
Sea World New rides, more restaurants, and spruced up shows make this classic attraction better than ever. Few know about the Dolphin Interactive Program, where, for an extra fee ($150, plus park admission), guests can suit up and join these amazing mammals in the tank. Mission Bay; www.seaworld.com
The Beaches Coronado Island is a quiet military town with wealthy tourist beaches and resorts; Ocean Beach caters to surfers and Dead Heads; Pacific Beach is a great (albeit crowded) family beach; Mission Beach features barbecue and grassy areas; Black’s Beach combines good surfing, a gay area, and a clothing optional section.
The San Diego Zoo Home to over 4,000 rare and endangered animals and more than 700,000 exotic plants, the 100-acre zoo features guided tours, shows, special events for the kiddies, and more. Balboa Park; 2920 Zoo Dr.; 619-234-3153; www.sandiegozoo.org