A living legend for more than 130 years, The Del celebrates its rich history as the proud host to celebrities, royalty, U.S. Presidents, and beach-loving guests for generations. Built in 1888 by Elisha Babcock, Jr., and Hampton L. Story and designated a National Historic Landmark in 1977, this historic beach resort is a San Diego icon.

Indeed, area around hotel del Coronado, great for walking, biking, gathering and dinning.

Seaport Village is a vibrant harborside spot with stellar views of the San Diego skyline. There’s plenty to do here—stroll along the promenade, check out the art galleries, enjoy a meal at an upscale restaurant or do some shopping (local wines and souvenirs are good buys). Younger children will love the historic hand-carved carousel. Weekdays are the best time to visit when it’s less crowded and the vibe is more laid-back. The village is a stop on many hop-on, hop-off trolley tours of San Diego; include a visit to the USS Midway Museum and Maritime Museum along the way.

Recommended for families with kids.

The Gaslamp Quarter is a lively downtown neighborhood, known for its nightlife. Clubs, dive bars and cocktail lounges draw a young crowd, while the Spreckels and Balboa theaters have diverse programs of music, comedy and drama. There's a mix of chain and independent restaurants in the area, with many global options. Horton Plaza Park has grassy lawns, ice cream and coffee vendors, and an interactive fountai