San Diego Zoo - world-renowned zoo in Balboa Park (downtown San Diego)

San Diego Safari Park - an extension of the zoo located in Escondido (north of San Diego). Don't miss the Kangaroo walkabout and seeing the only platypus in a zoo outside of Australia

Cabrillo National Monument - a national monument that has a great view of San Diego, Coronado, and the ocean. Cabrillo also has great tide pools (check for low tide times).

La Jolla - also listed under beaches, but one of our favorite places to walk around and see wildlife along the coast

USS Midway Museum - a historical aircraft carrier museum located in downtown San Diego

Balboa Park - a great park to walk around. Also includes several museums and a Japanese friendship garden (admission required for some of these options, but the park is free).

Julian - if you'd like to drive into the mountains, Julian is a neat mountain town, known for its pies. Be sure to check the weather/road conditions, as this is at a higher elevation.

Anza Borrego State Park - an expansive desert park with lots of hiking and beautiful views.

Orange County and Los Angeles are only a 1.5-2 hour drive away from San Diego, and there is plenty to do there, as well!

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