Things to Do in Central San Diego in 2026

San Diego, California cityscape at the Gaslamp Quarter.; Shutterstock ID 446681584

Ahhh, the marvelous buildings of Balboa Park. If you're ever in San Diego, this is a must visit! It's so relaxing and has beautiful architecture.

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Still not over the beautiful architecture at this park! Definitely a spot to visit if you're in the area!

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What to do in Central San Diego

Discover the most popular places to visit in Central San Diego

San Diego Zoo

See nature up-close and personal at one of the country’s largest and most educational zoos.

Balboa Park

Culture and nature converge in this diverse park located in the heart of the city.

Hotel Circle

Hotel Circle is just one of the places to see in San Diego, so why not enjoy the other things to explore during your travels? Check out the shops and top-notch restaurants in this family-friendly area.

School Buildings Of The UCSD Campus In La Jolla

University of San Diego

Walk around the campus at University of San Diego as part of your travels around San Diego. Discover the beautiful sunsets and top-notch restaurants in this walkable area.

Snapdragon Stadium

Catch an event at Snapdragon Stadium during your trip to San Diego. Attend a sporting event or simply enjoy the top-notch restaurants while you're in the area.

Mission Basilica San Diego de Alcala

Learn about the local history of San Diego when you take a trip to Mission Basilica San Diego de Alcala. Discover the beautiful sunsets and top-notch restaurants in this walkable area.

San Diego Natural History Museum

From ancient artifacts to rare gemstones to stunning artwork, learn about the natural world, past and present, in Balboa Park’s exceptional museum.

Japanese Friendship Garden

Explore the great outdoors at Japanese Friendship Garden, a lovely green space in San Diego. Discover the area's top-notch restaurants and its fascinating museums.

San Diego Air and Space Museum

Let your imagination take flight with a simulated trip to the moon or a browse through exhibits dedicated to flying machines.

Discover the most popular landmarks and neighborhoods in Central San Diego

Closeup of the Adobe walls of the historic Mission De Alcala San Diego California

Mission Valley

4/5(4,999 area reviews)

Boasting major shopping malls like Fashion Valley Mall and Westfield Mission Valley, this area offers entertainment and historic sites such as Mission San Diego de Alcalá and Presidio Park. Easily accessible via the San Diego Trolley system's Green Line.

I didn’t go in as I felt the outside was pretty great already. Good area of town for a self-guided walking tour.

Old Town San Diego

4.5/5(877 area reviews)

The ample dining options and beautiful seaside views are top of the list for many visitors to Old Town San Diego. A stop by Old Town San Diego State Park or Whaley House Museum might round out your trip.

North Park

4/5(78 area reviews)

North Park is well-liked for its restaurants. You can also take some time to explore sights in the surrounding area like San Diego Zoo and San Diego Natural History Museum.

Hillcrest

3.5/5(53 area reviews)

Visitors to Hillcrest enjoy its restaurants, and if you want to do some exploring, Marston House is worth a stop.

Inez Grant Parker Memorial Rose Garden featuring a park and wildflowers

Bankers Hill

If you're spending some time in Bankers Hill, Mo'olelo Performing Arts Company and Inez Grant Parker Memorial Rose Garden are top sights worth seeing.