Not many cities in America can claim to have grown and developed at such a pace as San Diego - and not only in terms of population. The eighth largest city in the United States; San Diego expanded by more than 25% in the 1970s, marking its transition from a sleepy and traditional Californian tourist attraction to a bustling and colourful highlight of the West Coast.
However, like many popular city destinations, it can be tricky to venture off the beaten path in San Diego, so here are a few suggestions of how experience more of what this balmy city has to offer.
Though San Diego is packed with legendary theme parks like Sea World and the San Diego Zoo, there is much more to this historical city than first meets the eye. For a start the Old Town was the first ever European settlement in California and as such is full of untouched charm, like the Royal Presidio. Built in 1769 high up overlooking San Diego Bay, the Royal Presidio is the site of the first ever mission to be completed in California.
Similarly, veteran travellers looking to get away from the crowds could do worse than heading to the Point Loma and Cabrillo National Monument. This picturesque lighthouse is not only a beautiful landmark on San Diego's already stunning coastline, but the views back over the city are worth the trip alone.
Back into the city's Old Town and head to the Gas Lamp Quarter. So called thanks to the many decorative lamps which were once all lit by hand each night, this is the city's real heritage hub. Either hop on a tour for all of the quarter's highlights or instead spend an evening taking it in on foot, as superb dining and relic-filled museums are just the tip of the iceberg here.
In fact, discovering the real San Diego is a day in itself, thanks to the city's many award-winning museums and galleries. The Maritime Museum is great for all ages, as this is where you can find the Star of India: the world's oldest active ship, as well as an insight into the city's essential maritime history.
For something a bit more hair-raising though, head to Whaley House; if you dare. Reported to be America's most haunted place and once the County Court, Whaley House is now a vast museum and a bit of a Mecca for paranormal enthusiasts from all over America.
Or alternatively, escape the city streets and spend an afternoon soaking up the atmosphere of one of San Diego's many green spaces. Mission Bay is one of the most popular, and nicest, public parks in the city, but Anza-Borrego Desert State Park or Carlsbad Flower Fields offer a more wild experience for flora or fauna spotting.
Come evening time, the choice of bars, restaurants and hotels in San Diego is almost endless too, so save some of your energy for the city's nightlife too.
However, like many popular city destinations, it can be tricky to venture off the beaten path in San Diego, so here are a few suggestions of how experience more of what this balmy city has to offer.
Though San Diego is packed with legendary theme parks like Sea World and the San Diego Zoo, there is much more to this historical city than first meets the eye. For a start the Old Town was the first ever European settlement in California and as such is full of untouched charm, like the Royal Presidio. Built in 1769 high up overlooking San Diego Bay, the Royal Presidio is the site of the first ever mission to be completed in California.
Similarly, veteran travellers looking to get away from the crowds could do worse than heading to the Point Loma and Cabrillo National Monument. This picturesque lighthouse is not only a beautiful landmark on San Diego's already stunning coastline, but the views back over the city are worth the trip alone.
Back into the city's Old Town and head to the Gas Lamp Quarter. So called thanks to the many decorative lamps which were once all lit by hand each night, this is the city's real heritage hub. Either hop on a tour for all of the quarter's highlights or instead spend an evening taking it in on foot, as superb dining and relic-filled museums are just the tip of the iceberg here.
In fact, discovering the real San Diego is a day in itself, thanks to the city's many award-winning museums and galleries. The Maritime Museum is great for all ages, as this is where you can find the Star of India: the world's oldest active ship, as well as an insight into the city's essential maritime history.
For something a bit more hair-raising though, head to Whaley House; if you dare. Reported to be America's most haunted place and once the County Court, Whaley House is now a vast museum and a bit of a Mecca for paranormal enthusiasts from all over America.
Or alternatively, escape the city streets and spend an afternoon soaking up the atmosphere of one of San Diego's many green spaces. Mission Bay is one of the most popular, and nicest, public parks in the city, but Anza-Borrego Desert State Park or Carlsbad Flower Fields offer a more wild experience for flora or fauna spotting.
Come evening time, the choice of bars, restaurants and hotels in San Diego is almost endless too, so save some of your energy for the city's nightlife too.