Things to do in La Mesa

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Aerial View of the San Diego Suburb of El Cajon, California
Aerial View of the San Diego Suburb of El Cajon, California
View from Mount Helix, in La Mesa, near San Diego, California
Aerial view of house in La Mesa City in San Diego, California, USA
La Jolla cove is an awesome spot to catch site of hundreds of local wildlife including seals, cormorants, and Pelicans. The California Brown Pelicans can be found right next to the sidewalks roosting in La Jolla. December to February the males display a beautiful reddish to Olive green gullet. I love going in the early mornings to see these beauties roosting along the cliff side. They are literally 4ft from the sidewalk. As long as you don't make sudden movements it loud noises, they will happily allow you to take their photos. 😊. While there, you will see their 'neighbors', the Cormorants, mingling amongst the tribe! The male Cormorants might be seen bringing supplies to the Mrs. to build their nest! Absolutely an awesome 👏🏻 site to behold to see so much wildlife only a few feet away!
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La Mesa must see attractions

1. San Diego Zoo

Prepare to be amazed and enchanted by the diversity of animal life on display at San Diego Zoo, which welcomes 5 million visitors a year. The 100-acre (40-hectare) site is home to around 4,000 animals from more than 650 species and subspecies. Most exhibits are open air, and designed to be as close to the natural habitats of the animals they house as possible.
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San Diego Zoo which includes zoo animals

2. SeaWorld

SeaWorld® San Diego, located in trendy Mission Beach, has been pleasing crowds ever since it opened in 1964 and is a must for anyone traveling with children. Kids and adults alike flock to the many exhibits offering opportunities to interact with marine animals. Touch, feed and give training signals to the performing bottlenose dolphins at Dolphin Point. With prearranged permission, you can even don a wetsuit and jump into the water with the majestic beluga whales.
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beautiful creatures

3. Mission Bay

Spend summer days enjoying the calm waters and gorgeous scenes of Mission Bay, a saltwater lagoon just north of downtown San Diego. This 4,200-acre (1,700-hectare) bay features pristine beaches, water sports for all ages and park attractions that bring summer to life.
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Mission Bay which includes a sandy beach

4. Mission Beach

People have been coming to Mission Beach to top up their tans since the 1920s, when the first holiday homes were built along its shores. Development increased in the 1960s and today this is a thriving, affluent oceanfront suburb. Thankfully, though, it hasn’t lost its old-fashioned charm. Stroll along the boardwalk that runs the length of the beach and enjoy the relaxed, carnival atmosphere courtesy of street performers, roller bladers and skateboarders, and the occasional artist selling jewelry or other crafts.
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Mission Beach which includes a bay or harbor, a beach and landscape views

5. Petco Park

Experience America’s favorite pastime in San Diego’s Petco Park. Enjoy stunning views of southern California as you watch a baseball game, concert or other sporting event. The park is named after San Diego-based pet supplies retailer Petco.
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Petco Park

What to do in La Mesa

Discover the most popular places to visit in La Mesa

Mount Helix Park

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Learn about the local history of Casa de Oro-Mount Helix when you spend time at Mount Helix Park. Amble around this family-friendly area's waterfront or attend a sporting event.

Mount Helix Park

Computer Museum of America

You can spend an afternoon studying the exhibits at Computer Museum of America during your trip to La Mesa. Attend a sporting event while in this walkable area or simply enjoy the top-notch restaurants.

Computer Museum of America

Discover the most popular landmarks and neighborhoods in La Mesa

Cross on Mount Helix, in La Mesa, California.

Mount Helix

While there might not be top attractions in Mount Helix, you can explore the larger area and discover places like Mount Helix Park and The Magnolia.

Mount Helix
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Windsor Hills

If you're looking for some top things to see and do in Windsor Hills and surrounding area, you can visit Cal Coast Credit Union Open Air Theater and Viejas Arena.

Windsor Hills

Popular day trips from La Mesa

Ocean Beach showing general coastal views and a coastal town

San Diego

Clustered rocks in El Cajon, California

El Cajon

Ripe lemon on tree - California

Lemon Grove

MARCH 15, 2019 - LAKE ELSINORE, CA, USA - "Super Bloom" California Poppies in Walker Canyon outside of Lake Elsinore, Riverside County, CA

Spring Valley

Frequently asked questions

Is La Mesa worth visiting?
Whether you're coming to enjoy the cultural attractions and local charm or try unique foods and explore the outdoors, there's no shortage of things to do in La Mesa.
How do I spend a day in La Mesa?
When you've checked off popular attractions like San Diego Zoo and San Diego Air and Space Museum, spend some time discovering La Mesa's shopping and food scene.
What is the top tourist attraction in La Mesa?
The top tourist attraction in La Mesa is San Diego Zoo, so be sure to include it on your agenda.
Is three days enough to stay in La Mesa?
Three days will give you enough time to check out many city highlights, including Mount Helix Park, Boomers El Cajon and Knox House Museum. The average stay in La Mesa is two days. If you have the time to extend your vacation, San Diego County isn't far away.
Is La Mesa a walkable city?
It depends on what you plan to do and see in La Mesa. Several key sights, like Mount Helix Park and Computer Museum of America, are reachable on foot. If you're up for a wander around some of La Mesa's neighborhoods, Mid-City is 5 kilometers away from downtown, while Del Cerro is 5 kilometers away from the center and also within walking distance.
What are some activities to do in La Mesa with kids?
Whether you're vacationing with hard-to-please teens or tiny adventurers, an itinerary filled with fun activities makes all the difference. Browse our ideas for what to do in La Mesa with kids.

What to do in La Mesa for adults?
Whether you're a culture enthusiast, avid foodie or outdoor explorer, there are plenty of things to do in La Mesa for adults including Hotel Circle and The Salvation Army Kroc Center.
Are there free things to do in La Mesa?
From relaxing in parks to wandering around vibrant neighborhoods, it's simple to find free things to do in La Mesa. If you need new ideas, ask for tips from a local tour guide. Mount Helix Park is a must for anyone planning to save on their sightseeing activities.