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San Diego . . . filled with the charm of its
 1200-acre cultural center |
Invalidenstraße 3 San Diego, CA 10115 United States +1 619 239 0512 http://www.balboapark.org |
The world-renowned San Diego Zoo is only one part of this magnificent 1,200-acre city park that was built for the 1915-1916 Panama-California Expo. California's Hispanic roots were celebrated as the city erected breathtakingly ornate Spanish-style buildings. The California Building was modeled after a Spanish colonial church and is topped off with a polychrome tile dome. The park is home to the zoo, 14 museums, a pipe organ pavilion, botanical gardens, a Tony award winning theater, an antique carousel and a miniature-scale train. Of particular interest is Balboa Park's Christmas on the Prado that is held the first weekend of December each year. It is a popular event the first Friday and Saturday evenings of December and it is an opportunity for the whole family to enjoy pageants, plays, food and music all in the tradition of the Christmas holidays. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Nick Zadrozny  |
 Photo: Patrick Briggs |
 Photo: Dan & Sara |
 Photo: Lezlie Lee-French |
 Photo: rob Colonna |
 Photo: Kelvin Martinez |
 Photo: Ryan R. |
 Photo: Mike Maloney |
 Photo: Abraxas3d |
 Photo: Winnie Kwong |
 Photo: Greg |
 Photo: Edward Lee |
 Photo: Darren David |
 Photo: Tim |
 Photo: sharon |
 Photo: David Spear |
 Photo: Rachel Ann Simon |
 Photo: Lisa Messa |
 Photo: Ricky Li |
 Photo: Lizapalooza |
 Photo: Guangwei Yuan |
 Photo: Rodell Cruz |
 Photo: Dawn Blanchfield |
 Photo: greenasian |
 Photo: Valerie Smith |
 Photo: and then |
 Photo: Brooks Elliott |
 Photo: Braden Tucker |
 Photo: robenbellomo |
 Photo: Laura Scroggins |
 Photo: Valerie Vogel |
 Photo: Sue Ceglinski |
 Photo: Henry Benjamin |
 Photo: Lovepumpkin |
 Photo: Brian Logan |
 Photo: Marcus |
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A history with a view |
1800 Cabrillo Memorial Dr San Diego, CA 92106 United States +1 619 557 5450 http://www.nps.gov/cabr/ |
Part of the National Park Service, this monument with its breathtaking 360-degree view of the city of San Diego and far beyond was erected in honor of Captain Juan Rodriguez Cabrillo, the first European to set foot on the west coast. Also onsite is the original lighthouse, which was replaced in 1891 by the one that still steers vessels away from shore. Tidepools delight young and old, history buffs enjoy the museum, and hiking enthusiasts are challenged by the trails. Gift shop and snacks are available. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Michael Fletcher |
 Photo: purejadekid |
 Photo: R. Scott Jones |
 Photo: Ken Fabrizio |
 Photo: Ken Fabrizio |
 Photo: Jeroen Priester |
 Photo: slworking2 |
 Photo: Shari |
 Photo: Allen W. Britton |
 Photo: Jonnie Santos |
 Photo: allotrope |
 Photo: Mike Gonyou |
 Photo: NET WT |
 Photo: crack11974 |
 Photo: Jonathan Barsook |
 Photo: INOSA |
 Photo: Steven Herring |
 Photo: Tristan Ferne |
 Photo: Neil Noland |
 Photo: Paul Hancock |
 Photo: Steven Vargas |
 Photo: Douglas Garcia |
 Photo: jo bean |
 Photo: Rhonda Kaluzny |
 Photo: Zerd Noneofyourbusin |
 Photo: J. Scott Priester |
 Photo: Daniel |
 Photo: jcshale |
 Photo: Steve Kleinheider |
 Photo: Techeakboth |
 Photo: nash0727 |
 Photo: David Cheng Chang |
 Arriba, Arriba!! |
Various venues San Diego, CA United States +1 619 296 3236 http://www.fiestacincodemayo.com/ |
San Diego is steeped in Mexican tradition and influence, and at no time it is more evident that this Mexican holiday which is now celebrated in the United States. With even more revelry than usual, locals and visitors flock to Bazaar del Mundo and the surrounding shops and restaurants by the hundreds to partake of the colorful native dress and dance, the heartwarming and lively Mariachi music and the frothy refreshment of cool margaritas. This holiday is celebrated throughout San Diego and admission is free. Check website for exact dates. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Brad Herman |
 Photo: Speedy's Road Trip |
 Photo: Cesar Castro |
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History with exercise |
410 Island Avenue San Diego, CA 92101 United States +1 619 233 4692 |
Each Saturday you have the chance to take an inexpensive guided tour through the historic Gaslamp Quarter. This 16-block area has it all. Beautiful Victorian houses line some of the streets, and you can choose from more than 60 restaurants for a later lunch or dinner. Of course, at any hour of the day or night, the Gaslamp Quarter is available for self tours, an opportunity to see the melding of old and new San Diego downtown. But, this guided tour is recommended to fully appreciate the history of this downtown San Diego district. Fees: $8 adults, $6 seniors and students. Cash Only. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Kevin Liu |
 Photo: Kelly Amabile |
 Photo: ercy coronel |
 Photo: A L Vincenty |
 Photo: Kevin Liu |
 Photo: Andy K. |
 Photo: Pattye G. |
 Photo: Young Skywalker |
 Photo: Robin Brown |
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Holiday lights on the bay |
San Diego Bay (Offshore from Shelter Island to 32nd Street) San Diego, CA 92106 United States +1 619 685 7818 http://www.sdparadeoflights.org |
This annual event, held on two consecutive Sundays during December, features a gala aboard the Star of India and the Parade of Lights in the evening. The beautifully decorated boats against the incredible backdrop of downtown San Diego is a sight that will inspire both young and old. The parade begins at Shelter Island and passes Harbor Island, the Embarcadero, Seaport Village, Coronado Island, Marriott Hotel and Ferry Landing Marketplace. It ends at the Navy aircraft carrier turning basin. Bundle up and come experience the holiday spirit, San Diego style. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Regina Marie |
 Photo: Scott Kingery |
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Anthropology Museum, Architectural Marvel |
1350 El Prado (Balboa Park) San Diego, CA 92101 United States +1 619 239 2001 http://www.museumofman.org/ |
San Diego's only anthropological museum is home to 70,000 artifacts, folk art and archaeological finds from all over the world. With mummies and ancient carved monuments, the treasures inside this museum are abundant, but the building itself is also a San Diego treasure and city symbol. The California Building with its tile-capped tower was designed in 1915 by Bertram G. Goodhue and reflects a whimsical "California Mission" style of architecture. Exhibits inside explore the culture and lives of ancient civilizations of the Inuits, the Mapuche, and the Mayans, among others. Admission: $6 for adults, $5 for seniors, $3 for children between the ages of 6-17, free for kids below 6 years of age. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Alex Holtet |
 Photo: Jeroen Priester |
 Photo: Spencer Hooks |
 Photo: Kevin Tostado |
 Photo: Mary Harrsch |
 Photo: cal868 |
 Photo: Jessica L |
 Photo: Kara Shallenberg |
 Photo: Mary Harrsch |
 Photo: Emily Gunyou |
 Photo: Sally Clark |
 Photo: Carson |
 Photo: Lisa Jacobs |
 Photo: Chris Palmer |
 Photo: Thomas Levinson |
 Photo: Bonnie Crowder |
 Photo: Kate Broerman |
 Photo: Esteban |
 World-famous for a reason |
2920 Zoo Dr San Diego, CA 92101 United States +1 619 231 1515 http://www.sandiegozoo.org |
This world-famous establishment is clearly no ordinary zoo. Walk or ride a double-decker bus throughout this expansive park, home to over 4,000 rare and exotic animals exhibited in beautiful garden habitats. More than a park, this zoo is a major research facility although it is cleverly disguised with entertaining shows and inspiring exhibits like Polar Bear Plunge and Hippo Beach. General Admission: USD21 adults; USD14 children ages three-11; deluxe packages are also available. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Tyler Austen |
 Photo: Tyler Austen |
 Photo: Karl H Mueller |
 Photo: Michael Cohn |
 Photo: Taylor House |
 Photo: frances gunther |
 Photo: Thomas Sejr Madsen |
 Photo: Karl H Mueller |
 Photo: Chris Roberts |
 Photo: Dan Coulter |
 Photo: Cheryl Howlett |
 Photo: Xin G. Zhu |
 Photo: Allen Passalaqua |
 Photo: Bill Dolton |
 Photo: Brad Ackerman |
 Photo: Laura |
 Photo: Victor Solanoy |
 Photo: nic beese |
 Photo: Anthony Tang |
 Photo: Jenifer Davisson |
 Photo: Anissa Housley |
 Photo: Mumford Moose |
 Photo: bolyburg |
 Photo: Dayna Sowd |
 Photo: Justin Duray |
 Photo: John Thomson |
 Photo: Rita Petita |
 Photo: Sherry Lowe |
 Photo: Traci Castleberry |
 Photo: Bev Wernli |
 Photo: Ann Baldwin |
 Photo: Kelly Corcoran |
 Photo: The Loyd Family |
 Photo: Photo Larry |
 Photo: Simplesculler |
 Photo: daniellelouisesatche |
 Photo: Almei Photography |
 Photo: Tony Werner |
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Sandy Sculptures |
Imperial Beach Pier (From Palm Avenue west to the ocean) San Diego, CA 91911 United States +1 619 424 6663 http://www.usopensandcastle.com |
Perhaps the most amazing sandcastle competition in the world is held each year in San Diego and is known as the U.S Open Sandcastle Competetion. Fantastic artistic creations rise from piles of sand. Within a few short hours, mythological animals, sea creatures and seascapes appear as if by magic. Teams from across the country converge on this beach to create their masterpieces in sand. Family activities are planned for Saturday, including a parade and a kiddie sand castle competition. Come Sunday morning, avid builders are hard at work preparing for the judging later in the day. The event is free and fun for folks of all ages. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Andrew Sorensen |
 Photo: Jason Ward |
 Photo: Jeff Hester |
 Photo: Andrew Sorensen |
 Photo: rmf30 |
 Photo: Mike Weber |
 Photo: Mercedes Binder |
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Black & White Has Never Been So Colorful |
500 SeaWorld Dr San Diego, CA 92109 United States +1 800 257 4268 http://www.seaworld.com |
Venture beyond the ocean's door at SeaWorld® San Diego. Get close enough to touch a dolphin's fin, stare down a shark and connect with all the sea's creatures. Experience Believe — the visually stunning Shamuâ show. And, encounter polar bears at Wild Arcticâ and brave the daring drop on the Journey To Atlantisâ water coaster. The energy and wonder of the sea surround you in the sights and sounds of SeaWorld. Just dive in. Single-Day Admission: $57.00 for ages 10+ $47.00 for ages 3-9. Specials and discounts are available; prices are subject to change. There are also a variety of multi-day ticket products along with several passport opportunities. Call or check website for further details and to book tickets. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Matt Thommes |
 Photo: Dennis Lin |
 Photo: Jan Yarnot |
 Photo: Dave Amundsen |
 Photo: Robert Miller |
 Photo: Poan Kang |
 Photo: Phu 'Son' Nguyen |
 Photo: Eric Skiff |
 Photo: Peggy wii |
 Photo: Jesse King |
 Photo: Jesse King |
 Photo: Ryan ODonnell |
 Photo: Natalka |
 Photo: Ben Cutshall |
 Photo: Dave Verwer |
 Photo: Marcus Bradbury |
 Photo: Jan Yarnot |
 Photo: Marcus Bradbury |
 Photo: Phu 'Son' Nguyen |
 Photo: MadeIn1953 |
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Artists at work |
1770 Village Place, Balboa Park San Diego, CA 92101 United States +1 619 233 9050 http://www.spanishvillageart.com/ |
Art is a process and a product at this popular tourist attraction. Built for the 1935 Exposition, this cluster of Spanish-style cottages in San Diego's historic Balboa Park houses the on-going works of local artists and artisans of all descriptions. Watch sculptures, painters, craftsmen, jewelers and photographers create their art on a rotating basis. All artwork is for sale upon completion. Best of all, admission to the facility is free. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Antonio Cota |
 Photo: Heather Bates |
 Photo: Heather Bates |
 Photo: Alane Gray, Artist |
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4,445 pipes |
2211 Pan American Road San Diego, CA 92101 United States +1 619 702 8138 |
During your visit to Balboa Park, do not miss this gigantic, world-class musical instrument. Believed to be the largest outdoor pipe organ in the world, this impressive structure was built in 1915 by sugar magnates John D. and Adolph B. Spreckels. Year round, as many as 2,000 people can sit and hear the Sunday afternoon concerts. At other times, local musical talent is displayed. All concerts are free of charge. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: ercy coronel |
 Photo: Brian Teutsch |
 Photo: Azucar Shoots |
 Photo: Aaron |
 Photo: Dave Barger |
 Photo: Eleni Gogas |
 Photo: Alpha |
 Photo: Sharath Bulusu |
 Photo: Robert Harrington |
 Photo: erik borowitz |
 Photo: Rob Rummel-Hudson |
 Photo: Larry Gilbert |
 Photo: djv69sd |
 Photo: David Sutoyo |
 Photo: Lingual X |
 Photo: Adriene Hughes |
 Photo: Tina Sibley |
 The Danger Zone |
910 N. Harbor Drive San Diego, CA 92101 United States +1 619 544 9600 http://www.midway.org/ |
Looking for a museum with plenty of interactivity, entertainment and education? The Aircraft Carrier Museum features exhibits, audio guide with admission, flight simulators, and tours of the carrier. The museum is located aboard the historic USS Midway aircraft carrier, right along the Navy Pier in downtown San Diego. See website for visitor info and event calendar. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Allan Ferguson |
 Photo: Mike DelGaudio |
 Photo: Mark Hiser |
 Photo: Allan Ferguson |
 Photo: MikeyTheMonkey |
 Photo: superdad pics |
 Photo: Jeff Kubina |
 Photo: Jeff Kubina |
 Photo: Susan Poague |
 Photo: Michele Mizejewski |