Top 10 Events Not To Miss In San Diego

This past weekend was a great one. I spent some quality time with my wife and son, and we enjoyed the Miramar Air Show that had our windows rattling and all the car alarms going off in the neighborhood. Although we didn’t make it out to the Air show, the planes were so close I felt we could almost reach out and touch them. Now I am back to work, and I wish I had taken the family out to see the Air Show up close. This gave me the inspiration for today’s Top 10 list. Here are the Top 10 events not to miss in San Diego.

1. The World Famous San Diego Zoo. We have one of the best Zoos in the world. If you go, spend all day. Take the bus tour, enjoy the shows, walk around. Just don’t stand too close to the monkeys, they sometimes fling stuff at you.

2. Sea World. Anheuser Busch runs it now, and they have added several rides and features which make this a definite place to go for the whole family, no matter what ages your kids are. During summertime, the fireworks show and evening shows are awesome. In the early months of the year, buy a passport which gets you in free all year for the one day admission price.

3. Go to Petco Park and watch the Padres. They had a tough season, but as we lifetime San Diego fans say, “There is always next year!”  The ballpark is state of the art, and tickets are affordable. Ride in on the Trolley, and the experience is unbelievable. Go public transit!

4. Go to the Stadium and watch the Chargers. As time is running out on the stadium, this could be the last time you can see the Chargers until a new stadium is built or the team is relocated. Could they become the Chula Vista Chargers?  Anything but the L.A. Chargers. I couldn’t stand that.

5. Take the ferry from the Embarcadero to Coronado. It is only a short ride, but a fun one. Walk around the many shops, restaurants, and enjoy the waterfront walkway for either a fun family day, or a nice romantic stroll. Going all out on date night? I recommend Pehoe’s for dinner. The food and waterfront view is incredible.

6. Volunteer or participate in one of the many outdoor events. San Diego is host to the Susan G. Komen 3-day walk for breast cancer research, the San Diego Rock-N-Roll marathon, Street Scene, and many local community events like our very own Mira Mesa Street Fair. These events are not only entertaining, but many of them raise much needed funds to support their non-profit organizations that help our communities.

7. Lego Land. I have a 5 year old, and this boy loves legos! They have some of the coolest lego displays, fun rides for kids of all ages, and entertaining shows. As with most of the major attractions in San Diego, discount coupons are usually available and season passes are recommended if you just want to go for short visits and avoid the crowds.

8. San Diego Wild Animal Park. Although it is affiliated with the San Diego Zoo, the two experiences are totally different. You can get up close and personal with the wildlife at the Wild Animal Park, with guided tours and interactive shows. The lorikeets exhibit is one thing you must do. You purchase nector that these birds will drink right out of your hand. They fly right to you, and I have had 6 different birds on me at one time. Bring your camera for spectacular pictures.

9. Balboa Park. There is so much to do at Balboa Park. The Space Museum, Natural History Museum, ride the Carousel and much more. As a public service, most Park organizations offer free admission on a rotating basis throughout the month.

10. Miramar Air Show. While most of the Mira Mesa Residents can see most of the Air Show from their back yards or roof tops, there is nothing like seeing these planes up close. Admission is free, but they also have premium packages available with superior viewing and accommodations. If you missed it this year, make plans to see them next year. You won’t be disappointed.

We are very lucky to live in America’s Finest City. There are so many things to do right in our own backyard. Now it is up to you, just get out there and do it!