San Diego, CA

The San Diego Zoo is world famous for not only housing over 4,000 individual animals, it has won some much-deserved kudos for consistently presenting this wildlife in meticulously recreated habitats that magnificently give the 800 species their character and identity. Additionally, the plant collection in the zoo comprises over 6,500 species, and it has been recognized as one of the finest in the entire world. Located in beautiful Balboa Park, this 100-acre zoo was founded by Dr. Harry Wegeforth in 1916 and his legacy of preserving and nurturing all of these various animals and plants continues nearly one hundred years later.

Address: 2920 Zoo Drive, San Diego, CA 92101 - MAP
Phone: (619) 231-1515
Web: www.sandiegozoo.org

The Seaworld Adventure Park in San Diego offers visitors the chance to not only have fun and see some of nature's most famous aquatic creatures, but there's also great fun to be had on the rides that are found on the premises, as well. See interactive dolphin exhibits and presentations, enjoy more interactive fun with Backyard Adventures, and of course, you won't want to miss the appearance of Seaworld's top attraction, Shamu! There are several concession areas as well as scenic lookout points in which you can relax and take a brief rest from all of the fun.

Address: 500 Seaworld Drive, San Diego, CA 92109 - MAP
Phone: (619) 523-9577
Web: www.seaworldparks.com

The United States military's presence in San Diego is a vital, essential part of its fabric of life. To get a glimpse into the sacrifices and service that these very special men and women have made for our country, visit the San Diego Air and Space Museum. The museum is packed with dramatic pieces and exhibits that detail our country's military history. This military attraction is located on the USS Midway, America's longest serving aircraft carrier, originally commissioned in 1945. When the Midway was decommissioned in 1992, it came to rest in San Diego and now continues to serve the memory of those that came before, as well as playing a vital role in the preservation and retelling of our nation's wartime history.

Address: 2001 Pan American Plaza, San Diego, CA 92101 - MAP
Phone: (619) 702-7700
Web: www.sandiegoairandspace.org

The Junipero Serra Museum was named for the founder of the California Missions and is located in Presidio Park. The facility is dedicated to preserving the state's heritage, and offers a historical perspective of San Diego that is not normally featured in museums or other arenas. It features artifacts that date back to California's Spanish occupation as well as items used by the Native Americans of the area that were found in the nearby archeological dig that is currently still underway. Overall, the museum paints a vivid picture of what life was like for the early settlers and the natives that shared what is now known as the state of California.

Address: 2727 Presidio Drive, San Diego, CA 92103 - MAP
Phone: (619) 232-6203
Web: www.sandiegohistory.org

When the California sun sets for the day, that doesn't mean the end of the fun! Make plans to check out Gaslamp Quarter, a 16-block section of downtown that is a national historic district filled with an inviting selection of attractions, specialty shops, art galleries and restaurants. You'll also find the area features some of the city's most amazing Victorian architecture. The William Heath Davis House features artifacts and curios that tell the story of Gaslamp Quarter's colorful and storied past.

Address: 614 Fifth Avenue, San Diego, CA 92101 - MAP
Phone: (619) 533-7145
Web: www.gaslamp.org

The Cabrillo National Monument majestically stands in San Diego Bay. It was named after the Portuguese explorer Juan Rodriguez Cabrillo who landed on this site in 1542. The monument is part of a complex that includes a museum that tells the tale of Cabrillo's explorations as well as those of other early explorers. The site also features the Point Loma Lighthouse that towers 433 feet above the ocean and is not only the best location to view the bay, it also offers a breathtaking view of the San Diego skyline. It's the perfect attraction to learn about the city's history.

Address: 1800 Cabrillo Memorial Drive, San Diego, CA 92106 - MAP
Phone: (619) 557-5450
Web: www.nps.gov

Coronado's charm is largely due to it's location and all that it offers in a relatively small area of space. You can drive to it from the San Diego-Coronado Bridge, but if you have the time and want to take in the gorgeous scenery, take the ferry from Broadway Pier instead. When you get there, kick off your shoes and enjoy a luxurious walk on the sandy-white beaches. You can also choose from a great selection of attractions, restaurants, shops and other unusual little boutiques. Most of the activity can be found on Ocean Drive and Orange Avenue.

Address: 1100 Orange Avenue, Coronado, CA 92118 - MAP
Phone: (619) 437-8788
Web: www.coronadovisitorcenter.com

While the San Diego Zoo resides within the confines of Balboa Park, the park itself is worthy of a visit in its own right, as it offers an impressive set of attractions. As well as featuring the zoo, Balboa Park is also home to Mingei International Museum, the Natural History Museum and Aerospace Museum as well. The park is expansive, with its lush grass and scenery perfect for laying out on a blanket or just sitting on a bench and people watching as the afternoon unfolds. If you need to take a breather, there's no better place than Balboa Park!

Address: 1439 El Prado-Balboa Park, San Diego, CA 92101 - MAP
Phone: (619) 235-1121
Web: www.balboapark.org