Site icon Tinybeans

Sightseeing Ahead! Top Places to Take Visiting Relatives in San Diego

It’s beginning to look a lot like the holidays and out-of-town visitors! Do you have relatives clamoring at your door ready to visit America’s Finest City? We’ll make sure you are the “hosts with the most” with this ultimate guide to showing off San Diego. From the post-airport pick up to lazy days enjoying the San Diego sun, we’ve got you covered with plenty of ideas to have your guests loving the sights. But be prepared for the guest bedroom to be fully booked. Click through the slideshow to see our picks for family fun.

An Afternoon in Balboa Park

Green pastures and historic buildings might not sound very San Diegan, but a quick visit to Balboa Park will correct that thought. Minutes from downtown, San Diego's most famous park land is full of activities to surprise and delight your guests. Botanical gardens, hikes, museums and restaurants are the just the tip of things to do. Stroll down from the fountain and visit Spreckles organ, the worlds largest outdoor organ, then get a nature fix at the Japanese Friendship Gardens. If you want to impress your visitors with some of the best views in the park, check out the California Tower. After being closed for more than 80 years, this historic tower is now open to the general public. Head up eight flights of stairs and take in breath taking views of San Diego. Entry to the tower will also get you a private tour guide and entry into the Museum of Man. Paid and free parking is available throughout the park, but be aware it does get busy on the weekends.

Fun Facts to Tell Your Guests:

  • Balboa Park's famous buildings come from the1915–16 Panama California Exposition that left behind many Spanish architectural gems
  • There are over 16 awesome museums to check out
  • The park is celebrating its 100th birthday and there are lots of centennial celebrations to check out and enjoy

1549 El Prado
San Diego, Ca 92101
online: balboapark.org

photo: Robert Lang, Spreckels Organ Society

Do you have any favorite spots to show off San Diego to your visitors? Let us know in the Comments below!

— Lenya McGrath