The top cities between Oakland and San Diego are Los Angeles, Anaheim, Santa Monica, Carlsbad, Santa Cruz, San Jose, Temecula, Laguna Beach, Long Beach, and Santa Clarita. Los Angeles is the most popular city on the route. It's 6 hours from Oakland and 2 hours from San Diego.
San Jose is a sizeable urban center located in Silicon Valley, a major technological hub within the Bay Area of California. The city's downtown district features various notable architectural landmarks that range from the Italianate-style Oddfellows building constructed in 1883 to Spanish Colonial Revival structures. Additionally, the downtown area boasts an attraction known as the Tech Museum of Innovation which is dedicated to exploring and advancing science and technology.
4% as popular as Los Angeles
18 minutes off the main route, 9% of way to San Diego
Situated on the coast of central California, Santa Cruz boasts a lengthy pier that extends into Monterey Bay and features various eateries and shops. The city is home to the historic Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk, which offers visitors a chance to experience vintage rides like the 1911 Looff Carousel and Giant Dipper roller coaster. Pacific Avenue in downtown is lined with cafes, galleries, and stores selling vintage clothing.
4% as popular as Los Angeles
40 minutes off the main route, 14% of way to San Diego
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Santa Clarita is a city located in the northern part of California, situated near Los Angeles. The area is famous for its amusement parks, such as Six Flags Magic Mountain, known for thrilling roller coasters and the adjacent Six Flags Hurricane Harbor, which features high water slides and a wave pool during summer months. The Vasquez Rocks Natural Area Park offers visitors an opportunity to witness prehistoric stone formations that have been featured in many movies. Additionally, the William S.
2% as popular as Los Angeles
4 minutes off the main route, 66% of way to San Diego
Santa Monica is a coastal metropolis on the western side of downtown Los Angeles. The city's famous Santa Monica Beach is situated adjacent to Palisades Park, offering stunning views of the Pacific Ocean. The iconic Santa Monica Pier features a historic Looff Hippodrome Carousel, Pacific Park amusement park, and an aquarium. Muscle Beach, established in the 1930s as an outdoor gymnasium, sits close to the pier.
15% as popular as Los Angeles
9 minutes off the main route, 71% of way to San Diego
Los Angeles is a vast city located in Southern California and renowned for its film and television industry. It features various studios such as Universal, Warner Brothers, and Paramount Pictures providing behind-the-scenes tours for visitors. Hollywood Boulevard showcases celebrity hand- and footprints at the TCL Chinese Theatre while the Walk of Fame honors thousands of luminaries, with vendors selling maps to stars' homes nearby.
Most popular city on this route
2 minutes off the main route, 74% of way to San Diego
I'll never travel to San Diego without this trip planner again
Long Beach, a coastal city in Southern California, offers a variety of attractions and experiences. Visitors can explore the historic RMS Queen Mary ocean liner, the Aquarium of the Pacific with its touch tanks and shark lagoon, and the Museum of Latin American Art. The city also boasts Rancho Los Cerritos, a 19th-century adobe home and museum surrounded by expansive gardens.
5% as popular as Los Angeles
10 minutes off the main route, 76% of way to San Diego
Anaheim is a metropolis located in Southern California, near Los Angeles. It boasts the renowned Disneyland Resort, an enormous amusement park filled with Disney-inspired attractions, eateries, lodgings and stores. In addition to this tourist hotspot, Anaheim is also home to professional sports teams such as the Anaheim Ducks ice hockey club which plays at the Honda Center indoor arena and Angel Stadium where the Los Angeles Angels baseball team plays its home games.
24% as popular as Los Angeles
3 minutes off the main route, 79% of way to San Diego
Laguna Beach is a small town located on the coast of Orange County, California. The area is known for its numerous art galleries, beaches and coves. Main Beach boasts tide pools and a boardwalk leading to Heisler Park's paths and gardens. Surfing enthusiasts can enjoy popular Aliso Beach Park while Crystal Cove State Park offers designated underwater park areas. Visitors can also explore Laguna Coast Wilderness Park's coastal canyon trails.
2% as popular as Los Angeles
9 minutes off the main route, 82% of way to San Diego
Temecula, a charming city in southwestern Riverside County, California, is steeped in history and boasts a population of over 110,000. Established in 1989, it offers a blend of old-world charm and modern amenities. One of its notable attractions is the 1909 Temecula restaurant, located in a historic tin-roofed warehouse that was once a trading post and livery.
4% as popular as Los Angeles
12 minutes off the main route, 88% of way to San Diego
Carlsbad, a city situated near San Diego in California, boasts of several attractions such as Tamarack Surf Beach and South Carlsbad State Beach, both of which are backed by the Carlsbad Sea Wall. The Legoland California theme park is another popular destination that offers rides, a water park and the SEA LIFE Aquarium.
6% as popular as Los Angeles
2 minutes off the main route, 91% of way to San Diego
Best stops along Oakland to San Diego drive
The top stops along the way from Oakland to San Diego (with short detours) are Disneyland Park, Disney California Adventure Park, and LEGOLAND California. Other popular stops include California Science Center, San Diego Zoo Safari Park, and Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve.
Griffith Park is a large urban green space located in Los Angeles, CA. It features miles of hiking and equestrian trails as well as views of the cityscape from many vantage points. It is adjacent to some of LA's hippest neighborhoods and has an extensive cultural facilities including the Autry National Center, The Greek Theatre and the Los Angeles Zoo.
So excited this is back open to the public for all the inside activities and shows! It's free, fun, educational and beautiful on the inside. The architecture and interior alone is a work of art that continues to carve its pathway in the importance of history! Be sure the catch the demonstration of the Tesla Coil, and a must see is the Planetarium show. Sunsets on the top of the West terrace, and moon rises via the Zeiss telescope on the East deck! 💞
brittney mcdaniel — Google review
This is a must do if you get the opportunity
We had no idea what to expect but what we got was
1. A great view of the Hollywood sign
2. Decent food in the Cafe
3. Gorgeous views of the city and mountains
4. A free museum area about space. This is easily a half day experience
And more...
It way exceeded our expectations and we will likely return on our next trip
Sorabh Mishra — Google review
Griffith Park, situated in Los Angeles, California, is a vast urban park celebrated for its natural splendor and captivating vistas of the city. Encompassing over 4,000 acres, it offers a wide array of outdoor activities, such as hiking and biking, and presents opportunities to observe wildlife in their natural habitat.
The park’s renowned Griffith Observatory features informative exhibits and telescopes for stargazing. Furthermore, the panoramic views from the park’s elevated points, including the iconic Hollywood Sign, are truly breathtaking. Despite visiting on a weekday, the park was still bustling with crowds, and we experienced a lengthy wait to enter the planetarium for an amazing show. Nonetheless, we thoroughly enjoyed watching it and had a great time. All in all, Griffith Park is an essential destination that seamlessly combines nature, culture, and recreational pursuits.
Krishna — Google review
It's amazing. The park has a little for everyone. The hiking is excellent if that's your thing. The observatory is breathtaking. You can walk pretty much the whole area of the observatory. Great picture moments. You can walk to the Hollywood sign from there. Really a must see if your in L.A.
Diego Perez — Google review
We spent our last night in LA at this gorgeous, iconic place. What a view! It was crowded but was fine. You can see views from everywhere. Definitely go inside and see the museum. Traffic was heavy getting in and out, so plan for that. We opted to walk down via the trail. Great choice, just know that it is STEEP and dusty, so be careful. Shoes with good tread would be recommended.
Hillary Dovel — Google review
I came with my family and it was a great experience. The view is so beautiful, there is a museum inside, a theater, a dinner and a small shop. The many downside to this is that it's all the way to the peak as well it is so packed. There are so many people.
The bus is free if you don't want to walk or take a car since the higher you go parking is more expensive.
Brandy Soriano — Google review
It's a lovely view of Los Angeles with great trails around it. It gets very crowded, especially on weekends or holidays and parking can be very tight.
Inside the Tesla coil is fun and has a demonstration at 20 minutes after the hours. When we were there they had a very fun exhibit on the sun and the product table of elements--the docent there was one of the best I've seen, he was funny and interesting and knowledgeable and had a way of engaging the crowd.
Michelle Mitton — Google review
It was a truly unique and fantastic experience for me. I advise parking elsewhere and hop on one of the free buses. Trust me, the parking situation is a nightmare🙄 you could spend two hours trying to get out! But the buses are frequent and not too crowded. Once you're there, it's a good knowledge place for learning, especially for kids interested in space and the universe. You'll get a not so bad but good view of the Hollywood sign and catch a 30-minute show for just $10. People chilling on the grass outside looked pretty cool, too. The breeze up there makes the weather super comfortable, and I bet the sunset and night views are breathtaking. I was sad I couldn't go around sunset time. I’ll visit again during sunset another time.
Swats — Google review
Go easy on me...Adele performed right here. It was so nice to see my first Sun Dial, see the orbits of different planets. The observatory was closed but views are fantastic. You can see the Hollywood sign. Parking fees has to be paid $20. Everything was smooth, there were people guiding the traffic.
Another location to NOT MISS when in LA. The grass is so green. There us hiking trails as well for hiking/jogging.
UV A — Google review
OMG! 🙏🏻💜😎 Visited this beautiful place! Bring back the most important and wonderful memories of my youngest part of my life... Been years since I came!🤔😉Well it's so beautiful! If anyone would like to visit, do it... Never regrets to enjoy hiking and just relaxing! Whatever you want to enjoy, just visit and enjoy as much as you can 😉😎
Claudia Elizabeth Zu?iga (LIZBETH) — Google review
Griffith Park is open and free to the public. Tho parking can be a hassle. There is one way up and one way down. There's a metered parking lot up on top of the hill and parking along the road up the hill. There's only permit parking going down the hill. We opted to pay $4 an hour and stayed an hour. Ultimately, this is a great educational opportunity, but it is also an ideal landmark with a wonderful Vista view of the valley; including the famous Hollywood Hills sign. On clearer days, you'll get a better view of Los Angeles or the stars at night. There's free exhibits explaining space and telescope information at the observatory. I really enjoyed seeing the active pendulum clock. For an extra fee, there's shows in the planetarium. At the bottom of the hill, there's picnic areas and the Greek Theater. Every member of the family can enjoy this landmark.
John Hannan — Google review
Amazing place to visit whether it be for the park, trails, views, observatory, etc... Whatever you're in the mood for, there's something for everyone at the Griffith. There's plenty of parking throughout the park, but gets harder the closer you get to the Observatory.
The Observatory offers great 360 views of the city on two different levels. It's also very educational inside. It's a great place to visit whether it being during the day, sunset, or night.
As far as the park and trails, they're always clean and well-maintained.
Great place for the family and anyone of all ages.
LeWayne Ballard — Google review
It’s mind boggling that the Griffith Observatory is free, but equally mind boggling how it’s taken me this long to visit.
If you’re coming in a weekend, be prepared for a long wait to find parking along the paid upper lot. The lot itself is small so you will most likely need to park on the windy street leading up to the Observatory, but the parking lane is wide and easy to maneuver.
Beautiful space outdoors and indoors, with many exhibits and friendly staff. Good for a nice 1-2 hours even without purchasing a ticket for one of the planetarium shows.
Christina Ge — Google review
Saw this place more than hundred times on TV, but you don't realize how astonishing Griffith Observatory is until you are here in person.
The building of the observatory itself is such an elegant architecture situated up on the hill of Hollywood, plus the story of Mr. Griffith, this is definitely a must visit place when you are in LA downtown area.
Meanwhile, this is also the perfect location to appreciate the night view of the Great LA metropolitan area, just utterly beautiful.
Bill Lin — Google review
Amazing view of LA and the Hollywood sign. Definitely come on a clear day or night to get the best out of it. A lot of people park the car and hike up, but on a sunny hot day, it can be a difficult hike up. Would recommend finding parking on the side of the hill and walking to the observatory as close as possible. Nice place to soak in the views, read a book, or take some instaworthy pictures. Beware of large tourist groups as this is a touristy destination. The best part is, it's free.
chia berry — Google review
Managed to fit in a quick stop here whilst in LA. $10 to park but free entry into the observatory, there are ticketed events here but enough to see for free. Loved the views although there are better places to see the Hollywood sign. Wish I’d had longer to stay and explore further!
bobsloan79 — Google review
It's a must visit place for people who love science and even otherwise provides great scenic view with access to trails all around the hill. Just that you might have to walk uphill from the road side parking as this place can really get crowded.
The planetarium is a must watch. The narrators there are simply amazing.
Vishal Pandey (DDSF) — Google review
After so many years of wanting to visit, finally got to do it. This was one of the coolest places to see in Los Angeles. The exhibition of great. The sad part is that the telescope was closed. But the views from the area were great. If you like hiking park on the side. So many trails to come up.
Raul Cruz — Google review
Beautiful!!! Want to spend quality time with friends or family?
With over 4,300 acres of gorgeous natural green space, Griffith Park is one of Los Angeles’ best attractions. It is the largest public park in the US, and boasts a huge variety of exciting activities, sights, and attractions, with every single member of the family catered for, from youngest to oldest.
Bordered by the LA River to the north and east and the Hollywood Hills to the west. To the south is the epic landscape of Beachwood Canyon and the park is one of the most picturesque spots that the City of Angels has to offer. The view is one of its best features, with a stunning panorama offering a bird’s-eye vista of pretty much the entire city.
It’s a wonderful place to get out of the hustle and bustle of LA life, take a breath, and get back to nature!
Ashwini Suryavanshi — Google review
Absolutely breathtaking views. This adventure we parked at the old zoo exhibit, had a picnic in the grass under a tree, then explored the upper terrain and even ventured off the beaten path to get even more of a scenic overlook. These photos were shot from the east side of the park, looking eastward towards Glendale, and Eagle Rock. By far a fun quick nature getaway in the urban area of LA. Thanks, parks and recreation!
Corey Johnson — Google review
Really interesting place to visit. There is great views of Hollywood sign and down town. Best time to come is the sunset. Be prepared for parking far away and walking up to the observatory,parking space is very limited.
Svetlana Larson — Google review
Nestled in the heart of Los Angeles, stands as a testament to urban green spaces. It's not just a park; it's an escape. The iconic Griffith Observatory offers both educational experiences and breathtaking views of the L.A. skyline. Trails, like the one leading to the Hollywood Sign, cater to hikers of all levels, revealing panoramic vistas at their peaks. The Los Angeles Zoo, train rides, and horseback adventures ensure there's something for everyone. The park's historical merit, combined with its recreational opportunities, makes it a must-visit for both locals and tourists. A green haven in a bustling city!
Zied Kallel — Google review
Best view of Los Angeles. Open air place with view to the Hollywood sign.
You can park on the upper part or on the middle of the way saving yourself some money.
The walking is about 10 min.
Great place for any age kids and seniors.
Tomas Cunzolo Jr. — Google review
Beautiful place! Free and paid parking are both available. If you like walking, park at the free parking. Otherwise, pay $10. Before you go, check the weather. You want to see the Hollywood sign and explore the outside of the Observatory.
Nellie Caedo — Google review
This is an awesome, well organized attraction in Carlifornia. The view from the top of the Mountain overlooking LA is an experience by itself and is a beautiful experience. The layout of the Observatory is really interesting and very educational. Anyone taking the tour will learn so much. I would recommend this experience to everyone.
The staff members are very, very friendly and welcoming.
Wesley Curwin Boynes — Google review
Amazing views! Make sure to avoid holidays or prime time weekends, as it can get very very crowded!
Hint: instead of waiting incredible amounts of time in car in line to get to the top / observatory, you can easily park at the base of the hill and then walk the 16-20 minutes up towards the observatory. There is a lot more parking at the basement.
Vlad Burca — Google review
This park is a great place to see LA’s surrounding nature and you can get a good view of the Hollywood sign and the skyline too. The facilities and park are well maintained and it feels amazing to take a drive around the park and enjoy the mountains!
Kiet TT — Google review
Wonderful place to enjoy the hills, mountains and natural beauty. People can hike here. There are enough room for picnic too! You’ll see the squirrels running around. And you’ll enjoy the sounds of birds chirping!!!
Md Atiqur Rahman — Google review
Beautiful view of LA and the Hollywood sign.
Lots of information about the stars and telescopes inside the museum. You can walk around the building. There are hiking trails near by.
Parking gets filled up quick.
Ngao Lor — Google review
Beautiful park with an Observatory at the top. There are lots of hiking trails. Please watch the posted signs.
Pay attention to the posted signs for parking on the way to the top as well as at the Observatory’s lot. $10 per hour! There’s free parking down the hill on the Western side and another on the Vermont side (Greek Theater).
vanina ivy — Google review
Although it was a little foggy when we visited it was still a great view of the city and an excellent view of the famous Hollywood sign. Plus I got my wings (as you can see) and it was a good time to visit with traffic and parking, which was great, with very little tourists. Definitely would make the effort to get there.
Chris Wiesel — Google review
The most known park of Los Angeles, which has a lot to offer. There are plenty of amazing hiking trails for all levels and lengths. Although it is definitely very popular with tourists and locals, coming in the early morning definitely helps to beat the crowds. We really enjoyed the visit.
Evgeniya Bozhko (KoriAndrTheCat) — Google review
FREE street parking on the weekends from 8-10am! Such a peaceful park with amazing views of LA and the Hollywood sign. Climb up high enough and you can see the observatory, LA skyline and the Hollywood sign all at once. Such a tranquil escape from the traffic and loudness of LA. Sadly I only had a few hours here and only got to do a few trails but there are a ton of them. A very popular and busy park in LA. Absolutely beautiful.
Aliza Brown — Google review
Visited on a week day and the parking space near to Griffith Park was closed. Forcing all visitors to park elsewhere. Would be more efficient if the parking space is open and even paid needed. Experience was breathtaking.
The Crypto.com Arena is a 21,000-seat multi-purpose arena located in Downtown LA, which has been home to the Los Angeles Lakers, Kings, Clippers and Sparks of the NBA; WNBA's Los Angeles Sparks; AFL's Los Angeles Avengers. The venue has also hosted Bruce Springsteen and Taylor Swift among many other top acts.
We went for Disney on Ice last month and it was great! Parking and getting in was easy and quick for those with vaccine records or record of a negative test already in hand. Restrooms were clean and I live that you can order noisy food and drinks online or on kiosks. The show was amazing and we had a blast.
(It will forever be THEE Staples Center)
Kay Bee — Google review
Visited for a hockey game and the stadium is huge with great parking options. Lots of food and drinks on all levels. Lot of people there but we never felt crowded. Great light show. Good view even from the top corner of the arena. Good music and signage. Overall a great experience.
Griffin A — Google review
This has always been a very well maintained facility. There's plenty of knowledgeable ushers to guide you around the huge building. Good and drink selection is pretty decent for a sports arena. It always fun being at " Staples Center /Crypto.com arena "
Sunil Karanjikar — Google review
I'm always going to call this place Staples Center or Kobe's place! The arena is nice, the workers are nice, the bathrooms were clean and I had a great time at the Sparks game. It was my first WNBA game and it was so much fun. Those players deserve more support from their cities.
Tasha Champion — Google review
Big, loud, crazy good arena to watch hockey 🏒. Nice choice of vendors , lots of easily accessible restrooms 🚻. The Kings were accommodating enough to lose to my Boston Bruins 🐻🖤💛, so I even got to see a live goalie hug! Great place to Celebrate a Hockey 🏒 Birthday Party 🎉 🥳!
Judy Kay Linn — Google review
Amazing arena. If you get the chance to watch a team or someone perform here, definitely take it! Just like most stadiums, parking can sometimes be a pain but there are many parking structures beside it or around the area. I recommend parking a bit farther just so that you can get out of the traffic mess post-game though.
Raihana Zahra — Google review
The LA Kings game was absolutely phenomenal. I didn’t realize how awesome of an experience it would be at a hockey game on the weekday. Not only was the purchasing of the tickets and easy process but also the parking as well. Of course the food was great. The drinks also. Although it is quite pricey it was still a great experience. I have to give a shout out to the hotdog vendors outside of the venue, those were amazing, and I highly recommend everyone to get some hotdogs before and after the game. I was even impressed with the waiters who came to service in our seats that was an interesting and very convenient feature. I’m definitely coming back and bringing more people with me to an LA Kings hockey game.
Rob Pene — Google review
Iconic venue in the middle of downtown that plays host to a wide array of sports, concerts, and other events. Parking may be tough, but once inside, everything is clean and modern and there are tons of food choices (the prices, especially for alcohol, are quite inflated though). Even the cheap seats have a good view, although they're a little higher up than normal thanks to all the boxes.
Christopher Roman — Google review
Came for Hockey! LA Kings vs. The Maple Leafs.
Ate food at Salt and Char (their fries were perfectly crispy and good but burger was eh).
For such a frequently visited arena, I would think they would provide better food. Even the Dodger’s stadium has good food!
My husband and I found parking nearby and it was for $30. Didn’t have to walk far at all.
They do have plenty of restrooms so that was good cause them lines get LOOOONG!!
Inside, seating is kinda scary at the top (I feel I could easily topple over) but it’s pretty nice and when the bass is used, you can feel it to the point where it vibrates throughout your whole body and could make breathing feel different.
I’m sure the suites and closer seating is nice. Hopefully, one day can afford to experience that!
Jessica You — Google review
My first time there at the Crypt and it was very nice! Went to a Kings game. Kings lost to San Jose.
Since it was a Kings game it wasn't packed so getting drinks wasn't too long.
Bathrooms are a different issue. Long lines even though the arena was half empty. Go early if you can to beat the lines.
Toulong Yang — Google review
A historical place, feels surreal inside. The rafters, the retired jerseys and everything else you see on TV, just come to life. The arena feels much bigger compared to other ones I have been to. The arena does a good job of keeping the crowd energetic. Lots stars can be spotter during the game.
The merchandise store has long lines before the game, but they vwr fast. The store lacks in inventory of different sizes of different product.
There are lots of dining options, but they are all unrealistically expensive. You will easily spend $50 eating a hot dog and drinking a beer.
Overall the arena feels very safe and secure. Has lots of exits, so getting out after the game is convenient.
Nehal Ahmed — Google review
We went here to watch a NBA game - Lakers vs Suns. It was full of capacity, but we enjoyed. This facility is modern and clean.
Notes:
You are not allowed to bring any food or beverage including water in NBA match. You need to buy so expensive beverages and foods (and not so delicious) inside.
taku — Google review
From Australia. Line up was smooth for entry. Staff at security ultra helpful, gave directions and just generally happy. Food was expensive but tasty. Super easy to order as well. Staff everywhere were great. Leaving afterwards was a smooth process. We parked underneath but still quick process. Parking we paid $40 and drove straight in. Forgot to pre book but dumb luck we had great experience with parking. Great experience
Epic Walrus — Google review
Love the games in any seat, it's clean, staff is friendly and nice. The food and drinks are a little pricey, but hey, that's LA for you. Lots of things to choose from and the team shop is always stocked! The Season ticket Reps. are all lovely and very current on upcoming events. The bathrooms are checked regularly and the seats are clean. It's nice to go, but it can get loud as well as crowded.
Jasmine Citarella — Google review
I came here for the Celtics & Lakers game on 7 December. I had a great experience visiting. The arena is very logically laid out and the food was tasty (albeit pricey). Check in was very efficient and the staff were very kind. Even in the cheap seats I had, it was still a good view. The huge screens help and add to it as well. I even won a jersey!
Definitely keeping this one in mind if I come back for another game soon. Thank you!
J B — Google review
I have not been here since about 2013 and I must say it was still an amazing experience. Plenty of concession stands everywhere, restrooms available in short distances. For it being LA the food prices is not too bad, same with the beverages. I was fortunate enough to sean in section 101 row 1, fantastic view of the Lakers game. Staff was very friendly and always available to help with any questions you may have. It was a full house and the energy was great, I will definitely make plans to come back. I might also do a different event all together.
joser v — Google review
It was clean in the public area, our seating in 300s was not, the entrance for American express holders was perfect to get in easily and parking was free if you go early enough. The down was that the food kiosks weren't open when we went in and Section 300s are way too high up.
They were kind to let us go out front to smoke, but having to have the original tickets to get back in was a pain, my husband had to come get me from the 300s. Maybe they need to find a balcony for the smokers there weren't many or stamp their hands with a different stamp every night.
Michelle Elmani — Google review
As I am born in the 90s, this will still be Kobe's Staples for me. Just so nice to walk around on a good day and watch the game live. Great times for LA this season.
Paul De Leon (PhilNY11) — Google review
Loved the whole NBA experience. Very great arena, easy to access with public transportation, security check is very fast. There are lots of choices to eat inside.
Andrian Kuch — Google review
My first experience to an NBA game, this stadium is really cool. From the entrance to the inside, everything is so organized. A lot of merchandise are sold here. More than i've ever seen elsewhere. Food and drink stations are everywhere. This franchise has been very successful through out the years. Great experience
Fonouvdior — Google review
Went to a Laker game. I liked the stadium. Big and new. But not much to see inside other than the mural. The parking situation is horrible. Paid online for a reserved parking spot for 80 dollars. But when we got into the garage we were just like everyone else. Except they paid 40 to park. We parked in the back area of the stadium. So we did see the little festival area in front for the game. No souvenir cups. Food prices about the normal. Cool area lots to do before and after.
chris sanchez — Google review
First time at a kings hockey game! Staff was very friendly and helpful. We brought our children, the speakers are very loud. They offer free headphones for children, but you will need to give them a photo ID to hold. Very cool statues infront of the arena, enjoyed out time!
M D (MrDee1983) — Google review
Awesome arena, first time here. Lots of parking. Parking was cheap (compared to what I am used to in Vancouver and Seattle).
Friendly workers, awesome fans. Kings lost though which was a bummer but my son was happy to see the red wings win. 😜
Great view despite being in section 327, row 4, seats 9-12. Pics show view from that section.
Scott Van Achte — Google review
LA kings game was a phenomenal experience. Never been to a hockey game before, and was totally worth it. The light&sound show, the player entrances, and the breaks were so entertaining. We witnessed 3 fights in one game so the crowd was loud. We got a suite and the private viewing was cherry on the cake. Highly recommend the game and the experience!
Gopi G — Google review
If you are a Lakers fans or you root for the other team, this is the place to be! It bleeds purple and gold. Full with so much history and statues of Lakers legends, great ambience! Games are electric with passion flowing. LA Kings also play here. If you are willing to walk a couple of blocks, easy $15 parking available close by. Gets you away from crowds too.
Ravi Govil — Google review
It's totally amazing! I went to Lakers' game vs. Chicago Bulls last night. Great game 141/ 131 was the final score 😊. Easy to go in and out, no problem for parking. We paid $40 for parking. Seats were good, section 206, and we paid $400 for two tickets. I really recommend this place, staff everywhere and helpful. We enjoyed last night game.
Karla Ybanez — Google review
I love going to games here but you definitely are not gonna save any money trying to have refreshments or food. Beers are $18 currently. Great view for many angle typically friendly staff and fun fun. Don’t miss the statues out front.
This massive museum is home to exhibitions on a variety of topics, including space exploration and biology. It also has an IMAX theater and a number of special exhibits that are open to the public with a special exhibit or IMAX theater pass.
3/28/2022 reservations are required as well as vaccination record and your mask! It is clearly stated on their website so I won’t get into more details. This place has the actual space shuttle that took on many missions and alone that was worth the trip. The exhibitions are good for K-12 but catered more for smaller children. We overall enjoyed it.
Violet Bauer — Google review
It was great to see the space shuttle up close. Free after 3pm. Very educational displays. Love the variety of the exhibits The journey of the shuttle from the airport to the museum is amazing to see. Great movie and there is a virtual ride that last 7 minutes for a fee. There are 3 levels grab a map a start your adventure!!!
Vertrence Terrell — Google review
Very interesting museum with free admission.
Unfortunately, some items need maintenance but it is absolutely worth it.
Being able to see the space shuttle Endeavor live is a truly fascinating experience.
Alessio CC — Google review
Good for kids. It’s free! There are there are 3 floors but highlight is on the second floor. First floor is just a gift shop and food court. You can spend half day here.
Steve Tung — Google review
Awesome place, used to come here as a kid, still love it as an adult. My kids had so much fun exploring all the exhibits. The Endeavor was my favorite. Best part is it's free. Parking is $15 great deal for a family of 4.
Paul Randall — Google review
I recommend to visit. Just remember about masks, and book online your visit, because it's limited!
I thought it just usual Science Center for kinds, you know, like most of them in general. But when came there, I change my mind. For me I open many interesting and useful things. I learned how does work some things that surround us! You can see there history about aerospace , aquarium tunnel and some aquarium that you can seat and watch the fish. Also thanks about fire safety. And the most exciting thing for me was "Endeavour". I just barely heard about it, but didn't pay attention. And there in center, you'll be able to learn more about this space shuttle that was Unbelievable 25 times!!! Also you can see all history of missions, crews and useful things that they did. Just imagine this shuttle was in space in total 299 days, traveled around Earth orbit 4,671 times. Traveled in total almost 123 thousand miles!!!
Dmytro Lytvynenko — Google review
A great place to take your children young or old for a memorable weekend getaway. There are 3 levels of fun and excitement that takes about 3 to 5 hours of detailed browsing and playing. The space shuttle Endeavor is my favorite exhibit. I get goosebumps every time I go visit it. It is the symbol of the pinnacle of human ingenuity and endeavors. The whole place is free to visit and the Rose Garden outside is very photogenic.
Ed C — Google review
Went for a field trip, there's so much to see and the store isn't actually that expensive! (Some of these pictures are from by a museum right behind, and I'm not sure if they are apart of the same thing. If your able to check them both out, you'll be happy 😁👍
Kimmy Kim — Google review
Had a wonderful time! The Mayan exhibit was phenomenal and breathtaking. Very informative and interactive. It's unfortunate that that was about the only thing we had time to see, because we got there so late and the place closes at 5 🤷♀️ Nonetheless, it was a great place to visit.
Courtney Trebesch — Google review
My kids had a lot of fun here. We enjoyed all the exhibits and the featured Maya exhibit. The space shuttle endeavor is always cool to see. If you are look for a cheap thing to do with your kids this is a good option.
Leathon Magee — Google review
It's a cool place for kids and adults alike with plenty of exhibitions about many different subjects. It has the largest collection of minerals/rocks that I have ever seen. There is no cost to gain access to the center.
Iberto Hernandez — Google review
Awesome place to spend with family for a day of science a learning. Exhibits and explanations are just amazing. The wow factor for me was to understand the history of US space shuttles and to see Endeavor space shuttle for real. The scale and size of Endeavour makes you realise the power of humans and the marvel behind the architecture.
A must visit destination for family with kids and space enthusiasts. There is no entry fee but they charge a parking fee.
Monk and the Genie — Google review
I never get bored with this place. The entrance is free, they charge only for the special exhibit, IMAX shows and parking . The highlight of this place is the space shuttle, Endeavour. The cafeteria food is pretty good. Perfect place for the families and people of all ages. It is surrounded by other museums like California African American Museum , Natural History Museum, Coliseum, expo center, stadium and last but not the least the beautiful Rose garden.
Swapna Madhan — Google review
The big attraction here is the shuttle, for obvious reasons. It is truly amazing to see it so close and have a sense of its massive dimensions. The rest of the museum is fine, but nothing spectacular. Still, it is worth visiting if your group has some young kids and you can expect to spend about 90 minutes visiting the museum (maybe some additional 30 minutes if you decide to stop by every exhibit). Parking is easily available in front of the museum.
Alex Lopes — Google review
Absolutely must to go place with young kids. A lot to learn and witness historic endeavour space shuttle - stationed here after retirement. You can visit all type of actually used space capsule with the astronauts details. Very cool. Aquatic section is also fun and don’t miss flash flood demonstrations.
Prasenjit Das — Google review
A great place for kids and those interested in science! All of the exhibits are interesting and many are interactive! And being able to see a space shuttle and an aquarium in one trip is something you can’t do anywhere else! Would definitely recommend to anyone in the area that has any interest in science!
Juran _O — Google review
Neat facility that has plenty to offer to adults and kids! Admission is free but I’d recommend finding a nearby neighborhood street and park there. I can’t justify paying $15 for parking to go to a free museum. Overall, the facility offered unique displays, artifacts, and various zones/sections. Whether you’re an avid space enthusiast, biologist, or nature lover, there’s no shortage of things to see and do that will keep you here for hours!
Braedyn Beal — Google review
The California Science Center is one of the best free experiences in LA. I have been going here since childhood and I still learn something new every time.
We came by on a Sunday afternoon, it was crowded but not too busy. It was easy to wander around and explore. My personal favorite was the reptile exhibit. Definitely bring kids! There are plenty of interactive exhibits too.
The food court is a little lacking, but overall the entire museum is a gem. Will be back soon!
Isadora — Google review
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700 Exposition Park Dr, Los Angeles, CA 90037, USA
The Huntington is a historical, educational and research attraction located in San Marino, California. It features an assembly of art collections, including works by famous artists like Vincent van Gogh and Rembrandt, as well as rare books in its library and lush gardens full of different types of plants.
This place is beautiful. Even on a day full of rain and cold weather we absolutely loved walking through and exploring everything this place has to offer. Plenty of plant scenery with a nice mixture of architecture, sculptures, and the galleries in between. The shop was fun to walk through and the coffee place had surprisingly delicious hot chocolate! Whether you have a few hours or a good chunk of the day to use you can definitely enjoy spending it here.
Shea Dilly — Google review
Although the ticket costs about $25, it is definitely worth the price. The gardens are exquisitely beautiful, with meticulous design and maintenance evident throughout. Any attractions labeled on the map are not to be missed. This is an ideal place not just for studying, but also for relaxing and taking photos.
Visiting in February is too early as many other areas were not yet ready for visitors. However, we still had a wonderful experience exploring the Japanese garden, Chinese garden, and the tropical and desert gardens. It would be best to plan a visit in and after April.
If I were a local resident, I would definitely purchase a membership and visit the place every week.
Sweet Kitty — Google review
Wow! Just wow! The gardens are amazing! You need more than one day here just to see all the beautiful gardens! My favorite gardens were the Japanese gardens. The museum of European Art, home to Pinkie and Blue Boy was also excellent and definitely worth a visit. Great experience overall and we’ll definitely have to come back!
Briana Fortnam — Google review
This was a perfect place to go for my birthday date with my boyfriend! The gardens were absolutely beautiful and the museums were very well maintained and organized. I would definitely recommend going on a cooler day as only a few of the gardens have shade, but the museums are air conditioned! I would highly recommend coming here whether it's for a family outing or date, and can't wait to come back!
Breanna Jones — Google review
Third time here. Becoming a member if you live within an hour drive or less is worth it. It's an amazing place to visit and see all the areas on the grounds. Some buildings were closed for reasons unknown since I didn't read the signs, but still a great place to relax and see some great sights and take photos. Super kid friendly too. Cafe with tons meal options on site. They offer little mini cart rides too, but plan on walking so pack accordingly and bring water as well (they do sell it also)
Edwin Ortiz — Google review
Wow. This place was amazing. Visited here on the suggestion of a friend and wasn’t disappointed. The gardens are beautiful and simply amazing. The art galleries are interesting and a nice size. The conservatory was pretty and great place for kids to interact. Lots of places to eat and plenty to see. We spent a few hours here but you could easily stay all day. There is a loop trail to follow which is easy to walk and runs through a series of gardens including Chinese, Japanese, desert, Australian, sub tropical and others. Great place to bring the family or catch up with friends. I cant believe this place is not more widely known. One of the best places we have been to in LA. Entrance fee $25 for adults. We will definitely be back.
The Red review — Google review
I remember coming to these gardens as a little girl when I lived in Los Angeles. I moved to Hawaii 30 years ago but have since come a few times to the gardens. This last visit I was surprised to see an entrance fee $25/pp. I don't remember ever paying to visit the gardens. However, I suppose these are different times. We spent at least three hours walking the gardens and didn't see everything but we were so tired from walking. The Japanese and Chinese gardens are absolutely spectacular and that is where we spent most of our time. The library was interesting but not what I had expected. we ended after three hours and sat in the restaurant near the entrance. We ate a "snack" before our dinner which was a deliciously prepared pizza.
We came on spring break for Hawaii and the parking lot was pretty crowded. But the grounds are so humongous we did not feel like there were many others around us as much. I totally recommend this place for anyone visiting.
ann narimatsu — Google review
The Huntington Gardens & Library is absolutely amazing! The beauty of the trees, plants and flowers is beyond description. The quality of the artwork and manuscripts on display is awe-inspiring. We had the best tour with a docent named Nicholas on Sunday morning. He was incredibly well-informed about the history of the property, the different types of vegetation, and the history of the artwork. We loved it so much, we bought a membership because we plan to go back many times throughout the year!
Tricia Ebert — Google review
They’ll be checking your tickets twice! So don’t put it away after the first time. I went on a weekend 11 AM and it wasn’t too busy. Parking was packed though. Lots of flowers and life here! If you go right, then you’ll hit the museum first. Its chilly in there so if it’s hot, go to the museum to cool off. They do have a kids area where kids can play with water and mist! They also have a greenhouse you can explore. The entire place is beautiful! I think they can add a bit more directions on floor or around the gardens. We got lost since it’s so big. Their gift shop things are so cute too!
Sherns Wang — Google review
The botanical garden that you must visit. Variety of climate zones from desert to tropics is rather big - make sure to spend at least 2-3 hours. Japan garden location with bonsai trees warmed my heart - so many of them and so lovely! If you’re into art - check modern art one and the one with library, Italian art and sculptures.
Aleksander Iziumov — Google review
Beautiful gardens, very nicely designed. I recommend buying tickets/making reservations in advance; we did so and there was no wait time. We visited the Chinese and Japanese Gardens, and they were amazing! In particular, the Japanese Garden had a really nice Bonsai tree section that I enjoyed. It was very sunny and hot, though, so if you’re visiting in the summer, hats and sunscreen are a must.
juha lee — Google review
This place makes you feel as though you are enveloped within a living painting. A truly magical place. We did not explore the entire park, but will be back soon! I highly recommend visiting this place. The weekend was a little too busy for our liking. We felt rushed in some areas. However there are pockets of quiet sprinkled throughout this park. Absolutely amazing.
Bailey J — Google review
Absolutely an amazing collection of themed gardens and landscapes. While some look good year round, late Spring and Summer are the best times to come see everything in bloom, especially the rose garden. Plan on a whole day to tour gardens and maybe have time to visit some of the museum collections. There is a tea house which is lovely for lunch. Plenty of subject matter if you are a photographer. If I lived nearby, would certainly pickup a membership.
Ben Deceuster — Google review
Amazing place. You can easily spend a whole day here, maybe two days. There are multiple art museums, and so many different gardens. Visited in January when a lot of the plants were barely starting to bloom but it’s was still very lovely. Highly recommend membership if you live in the area at all.
kevin x — Google review
Beautiful gardens, library and museums. We spent hours walking around and enjoyed every different section. The Chinese Garden and the desert garden were the stand outs! The plants are beautiful and healthy.
We recommend buying tickets in advance. The morning before, the first two time slots were sold out. We went on a Saturday at noon and the parking lot was quite full. It took us a few minutes to park and then another few minutes to get in.
Steph Couvrette — Google review
The Boone Gallery is my favorite Gallery here! The gardens are wonderful. It definitely has a corporate feel now that it is not owned by the family. I love the succulent varieties here. The Japanese garden is getting a wonderful renovation to the tea house! I really can't wait!
Kara Scanlon — Google review
An absolutely beautiful spot to check out for locals and tourists alike. Ticket prices are a bit high, but totally worth it! You gain access to the library, art gallery, and the expansive grounds with many acres of different themed gardens. My personal favourite is the Chinese Garden. You could easily spend an entire day here exploring the grounds, and because they’re so expansive, it never feels crowded, even on a busy summer day. There are also a number of food, drink, and coffee options on-site should you feel hungry. All in all a great experience, highly recommend checking it out!
Aaron Lo — Google review
Beautiful views and great way to have some exercise, enjoy the past and present. This place is a magnificent, kept up well over the years and continues to be preserved. I'm so impressed at the gardens and I love the artwork and history behind all the old books and letters of the past. I feel like you really need a few days to come here to really absorb and enjoy everything.
Bring snacks n drink, helps to keep you going.
J Bird — Google review
Absolutely love this place. Well organized, exquisitely maintained, and there's always something being added, repaired, or improved. The staff are always friendly and patient when I interact with them and it's never too busy to feel like you're unwelcome.
Perfect for family walks, taking your grandparents to get some exercise, afternoon tea, a picnic, or just relaxing on the grass to get some sun. The food can be pricey but the Chinese garden restaurant has some great options. The BBQ jackfruit vegan sandwich and the noodles are highly recommended.
Make sure to make an appointment in advance if you want to visit during high-traffic periods.
AD P (ADP) — Google review
August at The Huntington Library, Art Museum, and Botanical Gardens is a sensory feast for the senses. The botanical gardens are in full bloom, with vibrant colors and lush greenery at their peak. The Rose Garden is a particular highlight, boasting thousands of blooming roses in a spectrum of hues, creating a mesmerizing display of beauty and fragrance.
As you explore the gardens, the warm August weather adds to the charm, making it an ideal time for leisurely strolls and picnics amidst the stunning landscapes. The Chinese Garden's tranquility is enhanced by the serenity of the lake and traditional architecture.
In the art museum, exhibitions offer a fascinating blend of culture and history, providing a respite from the outdoor beauty. The opportunity to immerse yourself in world-class art and culture while surrounded by the splendor of the gardens is truly special.
Whether you're a nature enthusiast, art lover, or simply seeking a serene and captivating escape, The Huntington in August offers an unforgettable experience. The combination of botanical brilliance, cultural richness, and warm summer days makes it the perfect time to visit this iconic institution. Don't miss the chance to embrace the magic of The Huntington in August.
Jason Camorlinga — Google review
This is such a beautiful place. The gardens are spectacular. My personal favorite is the rose garden in spring. This last time we went we divided to try out the cafe. The staff was happy and friendly and the food was Topnotch. I love to take visitors here. It always impresses.
Krista P — Google review
Always a pleasure. The grounds right now are so green and lush. Temperatures are mild. Camilla are just finishing blooming and roses are a few weeks out from blooming. Cherry trees are beautiful and some spring flowers still visible. The succulent blooms are still visible as well.
Jodie Goodwin — Google review
My wife and I came here this afternoon because she wanted to visit this place after hearing such good things. They had a sign that said tickets were sold out so good thing we got our tickets in advance. Finding parking was okay but I could see a lot of spot being taken. It was the first day after the rain storm we had so a lot of people came out. The weather was perfect and the flowers were blooming. We were able to check out the art gallery, rose garden, herb garden, Chinese garden and Japanese Garden. This is a good place to go for walks and just enjoy nature as well. I would highly recommend coming here if you haven't yet.
Peter Xaymountry — Google review
Just go. What an amazing experience. Would definitely go during the week if possible, and avoid school vacations. We purchased tickets for early entry at 10:00 am, and got there a little late and the parking lot was already quite full. But having a pass makes entry a breeze. It was our first time and we loved what we experienced: The Chinese Garden, The Japanese Garden and the American Art Collection, which was exceptional and not crowded. We did not see everything so a pro tip is to pick your priorities and come back. Note that we walked four miles and didn’t cover the entire estate. The gift shop was delightful as well. Lots of food options and bathrooms and benches to take a rest. We can’t wait to return!
susan able — Google review
This place is incredible. Careful with timing, we were there on a Monday afternoon in March and it was pretty busy. Make a reservation if you want to be sure you'll get in. Cost is $25 for adults, parking is free. We walked the whole park in a couple hours, you can really tailor it to whatever length you want it to be. Don't skip the art museums inside either, they were worth a chunk of the time there. You really can't pick a favorite at this place, check it all out!
Bryce Schaefer — Google review
Visiting the Huntington Library and Gardens in Los Angeles was an exquisite experience. The remarkable collection of art and rare books dazzled with its diversity and beauty. The tranquil atmosphere of the gardens and ponds provided an ideal setting for relaxation and contemplation.
It's fantastic that the regular admission ticket costs $29, and it's advisable to book in advance to avoid queues.
Additionally, the staff members exhibited a high level of professionalism and friendliness, ready to assist with any inquiries. Their loyalty and hospitality made my visit even more enjoyable and memorable
Botakoz Arystanbekova — Google review
Make sure you stop by the Chinese gardens. The Bonsai on display there are just incredible. The structures and lake make for an impressive addition to what is already a beautiful landscape.
The admission price was somewhat high, but well worth it. I spent the whole day there and wished I had an extra day to explore every corner of this beautiful place.
R S — Google review
This place was incredible!! I’m a recent graduate in horticulture so it was amazing to see the huge variety of plants on the property. The desert gardens were by far my favorite part of the whole property, but I also thoroughly enjoyed the rest of the gardens that we saw as well as the American Art displays. I was worried the gardens would be a little sparse since I visited in the winter, but there was more than enough to see thriving on the grounds. I would recommend buying tickets in advance and getting there when it opens so you can avoid any crowds. You also need to plan spending several hours here if you want to see all that is has to offer!
The Battleship USS Iowa Museum is a beautiful and fascinating maritime museum that features exhibits about the ship's history and that of the United States Navy. It is permanently moored in San Pedro Bay and can be explored by visitors from its decks, bridges, and cabins. The museum was built in 1943 and served during various wars including World War II, the Korean War, and the Cold War.
A quick stop 2 hour tour of this magnificent battleship that plied the waters in service of the United States from World War 2 to its final decommissioning in 2011 to become the floating museum it is today.
The self guided tour takes you to nearly every quarter of the ship. There are other exhibits not associated with the Iowa aboard.
Aside from various small bits aboard screwed down to avoid breakage by guests...the Iowa looks as though she could set sail with a hardy crew ready to helm the ship.
Docents roam the deck ready with history and facts.
The cost for 4 adults is a healthy $95 + change. There is of course discounts for students, seniors and veterans.
Is it worth it?
I say yes. The amount of history aboard alone is worth the cost of a few hours, the friendliness of the docents is more than worth the money and time.
There is a gift shop at the end of the tour... The amount of goodies and curios will keep battle ship fans for another 30 minutes....
Don Hartwick — Google review
As an Iowan and a Navy family, this was a must-see on our trip. To start, if you are from Iowa, you get free admittance, so that was a great perk. The view from the ship is breathtaking. The ship is breathtaking. It has been very well maintained and each of the individuals along our self guided tour were insightful and more than welcoming. It was a great piece of history that all of my kids enjoyed (9 years old to 18). I was blown away by its size alone, but seeing how our service men and women are "housed" at sea was even more interesting. One part that surprised me were the living quarters for the women, and how they were separate at the time of this ship's service. I would highly recommend stopping here!!
K B — Google review
The incredible history behind this ship and all those who served in it is indescribable. It draws you in to stay forever in the ship! As you approach the deck, some of the veterans will greet you and be available for questions. Throughout the ship, you'll find yellow arrows as a guide with professional posts describing the areas being visited. These arrows will also lead you to an awesome bookstore full of items to cherish forever. All in all, one visit won't be enough to totally make justice to this important and most awesome part of the United States history. You'll be thrilled by it.
Ozeas Da Silva — Google review
The Iowa is history well preserved. Hosts are very friendly and knowledgeable. Self guided tour routes are well marked. Would liked to have seen more placards describing what it was I was looking at as far as some inner rooms. Saw no mention of a medical facility. Having now seen both the Iowa and the Missouri, the Iowa has more detailed restoration. Very well done. A heart felt salute to all that served on her.
Stan Arnold — Google review
The battleship history is amazing. Good way to know the technology, dimensions and equipment used in that time. I recommend to visit this on a weekday.
You can see free the exterior, but I recommend to visit it. If you never have been in a similar battleship.
There is a big parking lot close to the battleship.
There is access for stroller but you can't access to the tour with this, because there are many stairs.
Yo RJ — Google review
Adults, kids, & teens in our group all agreed that this battleship tour was more enjoyable than they expected. As a military veteran, I was pleased to see that our young folks found the ship and its hands-on history appealing and interesting. Nice, at-your-own-pace activity on a summer day… and good for the budget-aware. Oh, and Monday is a great day — few visitors.
M. Abbott — Google review
My cousin stopped by from the boat he was in from San Francisco before going to Florida on Nov 02, 2023 so we passed by to meet him for lunch. Next to their boat was the Battleship USS Iowa and it looked incredible. People who worked in the area were nice and friendly as well. We wanted to come inside and buy tickets but we didn't have the time, I will come back here and see when I get the chance and update my review.
Johnnef C Mendoza — Google review
This was such an interesting tour and very informative. We purchased the tickets at the gate and proceeded to walk through the various areas of the ship. They have so many signs to read and there are also several volunteers around the ship who are willing to answer your questions.
They have a neat museum as well with different interactive exhibits, a gift shop and the most delicious hot dog stand!
Such a great reminder of the sacrifices our service members make for us daily, especially those who have given the ultimate sacrifice for our freedoms.
Well worth the ticket price to see such amazing history and being able to be aboard a ship that has also seen three US President's.
Kristi Larson — Google review
I really enjoyed my tour of the Iowa. We had the chance to view the Captain's berth and see the tub that had been installed for FDR. The tour guides were friendly and informative. We had lunch on the fantail of the ship. The hot dogs they sell there are delicious. There's a good amount of container ship traffic so you can sit, eat your lunch and watch the ships go by. Schedule half a day for your tour.
Charles Walker — Google review
Very big ship. Expect 3 hours for this visit.
Used the gocity pass for this attraction. Totally worth it.
History, photo opportunities (look outside the shop too), and look at the life of sailing with different aspects (eating, tailor, barber etc.)
It's quite a long attraction (with lots of printed material) so time yourself well in case you need to visit other attractions nearby.
Follow the markers and you are ready. There's an app but note that the AR experience is difficult given the poor network.
Jason Foo — Google review
Hats off to the volunteers. They're welcoming and have a wealth of knowledge. The ship is in pretty good shape with some spots being renovated. My family enjoyed seeing the ship, seeing the living quarters, battle stations and the mess hall.They have a cool little game for the younger kids. It's worth visiting and exploring the ship.
Aaron Aardal — Google review
This is really an amzing ship. The tour is a bit tiring with the up and down ladders... but its part of the journey. One can really feel how hard is the life of the navy men ans women wbo live in this ship.
What i find very important is the significance of the ship during world war 2. Its interesting to learn more about the men and women who shared their lives in order to maintain the ship and delivered strategic goals for security and peace.
Though we wanted to have the presidential tour... it was just fully book at the time. Must book days ahead next time
Magilas Salvacion — Google review
Worth a visit. Kids had a great time. Lots to learn from history. About two hours to see everything. Lots of walking and climbing stairs. Wish the tour had included more of the guts of the ship such as the engine room. Several exhibits really rounded out the experience.
Carlos Reyes — Google review
Great place to experience history! Unfortunately we visited on a day when it was raining and experienced standing water that soaked our shoes. Someone pushing water out of these area would be nice. Also, there are some pretty steep stairs you must go up & down. Be aware if touring with the very young, seniors or those with mobility issues.
Ann Nelson — Google review
My brother in law, my father, and I had an incredible time aboard the USS Iowa, and with our excellent tour guide. We spent a scant four hours aboard and nearly got the whole run of the ship on our $75 guided tour. And we all concluded we have to return to see even more. What a great experience to see such a ship like that, and go through it in such detail. Special commendations to our tour guide, Bob Abelson, for letting us go in, out, up, down, and all around this great ship! A very worthwhile experience.
That said, the website is a mess, and something must be done about the experience. The site says the general access pass must be bought before the tours, but it doesn't say that the page will take you to the add-on page following checkout. Clear as mud overall. Same with scheduling for the tours; not the most clear. Also, the hot dog stand was closed early. But everyone aboard the ship was nice, we bought our add-on tour once we there, and everything is in fairly good condition. Will return again!
Nick Hernandez — Google review
If you are in the area this is a self guided tour that is amazing. I would give yourself a couple of hours at the minimum. Make sure to knock out restrooms before you start the tour. However, there are restrooms, food, beer and an awesome place to relax at the end of the tour. Enjoy.
R F — Google review
This is a literal piece of history. Well worth the price of admission. Take time while you're there to speak with the staff, you will learn a lot. Great for kids!
Dustin Alkire — Google review
This was our second trip to see Iowa, we were here 2 years ago and seeing the ongoing restoration of her is absolutely amazing. Last time we also did the gun tour (highly recommend!!) The staff is always friendly and telling stories of the artifacts.
Chris Tock (TickTockZoom) — Google review
A visit to the USS Iowa is a treat for people who are interested in local and global history. The docent who relayed the stories about the construction and use of this massive ship was very knowledgeable and interesting. His enthusiasm was contagious. It is important for people to wear walking shoes that are not slippery or high heels. The steps are steep on the ship, but the safety reminders at the start of the tour were very helpful on how to negotiate the steps. All in all the ship tour was well marked, great with explanations of each room, and very interesting.
The only downside was the lack of a real place to eat that wasn't a hotdog stand. But, that didn't really matter with the number of local restaurants within walking distance.
Louise Sattler — Google review
It was a very nice experience.
The ship was huge and it gives such a good opportunity n experience to visit a battleship which otherwise you can't anywhere.
It is a self-guided tour of the entire ship and shows how sailors life is, on the ship.
The view is spectacular from the ship and it actually is an enriched experience that u get while walking through the entire ship, There are no restrictions on taking pictures
I really loved it.
komal singh — Google review
I've been to this ship a couple of times now and always have a great time. The first time me and the wife and I went and checked it out and loved it. This is the second time we've been back to its current location, and we brought my daughter to this time, and we all had a blast. Prior to this, I saw her when she was in Oakland being renovated before being put down where she is now. Highly recommend for any families.
Richard Cooke — Google review
This ship is spectacular, hands down one of the highlights of my road trip. I have visited aircraft carriers and this is maybe even more fun. Very interactive, super hands on, for all ages. If you like boats, you will love coming here.
Aquarium of the Pacific is a large and popular aquarium located in San Diego, CA. The aquarium offers exhibits with displays of marine life from around the world, as well as behind-the-scenes tours for those interested in learning more about the animals. There are also touch tanks for kids to explore, as well as educational programs for all ages.
This was a fantastic aquarium experience for all of us, kiddos and adults alike. Very nicely priced. So much to see and experience. The kids got to touch sting rays, starfish, anemones, and even jelly fish among other creatures. It wasn't very crowded for a spring break weekday. All the staff members were super sweet and kind to the kids. They answered all questions in the best and most interesting ways to keep the kids wanting to know more. The theater was also a big hit with the kids, as well as the interactive tablets and stamp collections for the booklets(which they had in a huge variety of different languages, it was so refreshing to see this). We all can't wait to go back and see all the critters and creatures again.
Erika Hernandez — Google review
Absolutely wonderful experience! So many amazing exhibits and very informative and interactive displays. Parking was very easy and they even validated the parking. The cafes were good, and not packed. It was really cool to get to see the scuba divers feeding the fish, getting to pet sting rays, and feeding birds. We highly recommend putting this on the list of must see while in the long Beach area.
Jennifer Lemus — Google review
My weekend at the Aquarium of the Pacific was fantastic. Getting tickets in advance made things super easy. What really impressed me was how well everything was taken care of.
The staff did an amazing job making sure every exhibit looked great. From colorful displays to clean tanks, their hard work made the whole visit even better. It was not just educational but also visually stunning.
Big thumbs up to the team for making it such a great day!
Claudia K M — Google review
Me and my good friend had a great time here. We’re excited to see the seals!! They’re adorable and cute! I’m also surprised by the interactive activities here like jellyfish lab and ray touch lab. I’ve never had any experience to have a close look of these species. It’s so interesting. We are also expressed by the bird zone and also the sea otters. Everything here is very cute!
Fiona Zhang — Google review
Great experience for kids with its abundant information about the aquatic life and beyond - a lot more interactive activities. Got there on a weekday afternoon and it was fairly packed. Really a great gem!
I heard that there were a lot of upgrades to the existing so I couldn't tell aside from really enjoying it all!
Currant7 — Google review
I really loved the "touch" experiences. The opportunity to pet a shark, feel a star fish, even a jelly fish was amazing. There's plenty to see. We spent a couple of hours there and could've stayed longer if we had stayed for the short films, but figured we can watch videos on nature anytime. It's by the Shoreline Village which offers a scenic and pleasant stroll with shops and restaurants. We took a shuttle from our hotel so can't comment on the parking situation. It was timed entry tickets so a stroll was nice but found places to sit and wait outside.
Rosalind Smith — Google review
We've wanted to visit for years - I'm so glad we finally made the time to go. It's a great aquarium! My 17 year old and I spent hours walking around and really enjoyed all the exhibits. There are some unique animals that we don't have in any of our local aquariums.
I was able to get discount tickets through my union which made it even better!
Kalani Crosby — Google review
My kids and their cousins had so much fun here! They enjoyed the big tank show. They are thrilled with touching some sting rays, jelly fish, starfishes and sea urchins.
Ella — Google review
If you like oceans and seas and everything that is connected with them, then you should definitely visit this aquarium. In addition to seeing the ocean inhabitants, I learned a lot about them, the guide tells a lot of interesting facts, I also learned that during the pandemic, the owner of the aquarium sold everything she had and moved to live there and slept on a cot, just to have money to keep the aquarium, also many families donated money to help, on the territory there is a long wall, where engraved thanks to each family that contributed. I think this is the highest level of kindness and humanity, all the animals are kept in the best conditions ♥️ we were able to not only see but also pet some of the sea creatures, it's incredible!!!! There is also a small park with parrots, an aquarium with seals, a separate aquarium with penguins. I was impressed by what I saw and definitely recommend this place and wish it prosperity 👍🏼
KSV — Google review
The aquarium is really big. There are a lot of exhibitions everywhere, inside and outside. The staff is everywhere if you need more information about the species. They have food and drinks. Place is really good for kids. Everything clean and organized. The jellyfish are my favorites.
Antonio Neves — Google review
Hands down one of my favorite places to visit! I’ve been multiple times and each time is just as amazing as the last.
It’s never too busy the times I’ve gone so I’ve been able to enjoy each exhibit. One of the highlights was definitely the parrots. One perched on me which a friend got a photo of. Really fun experience.
Recommend it for family trips, a date, or even a solo trip!
Jose Navarro — Google review
My kiddos had a great time- I loved all the jellyfish and appreciated the stations of hand sanitizer throughout the museum. ** Don’t forgot to support your local street vendors. The fruit stand and ice cream truck outside offer yummy snacks.
YANI Cova — Google review
The aquarium is a nice place for the whole family. We had fun looking at the variety of sea animals. My favorite were the sea otters. They also have many places to get a quick snack or a bit to eat. The aquarium is not big, so it took us about 3 hours.
Carlos Miramontes — Google review
I haven’t been to an aquarium for many years, and it was the first time my husband and I ever visited one together. It is huge, with so much to see! We spent a few hours there enjoying the experience. My favorite creates to see were the sea lions, jelly fish, seahorses, sharks, turtles, and sting rays. And the many colorful fish and sea life - all of it was really interesting and invigorating to observe. It’s unreal how large these creatures can be, and it’s cool to learn about.
I love the layout of the exhibits, and the fact that they provide you a map (we would have easily missed things without the map, so it was great to have).
The highlight of the experience was the opportunity to touch a moon jelly fish! It was really, really cool.
Marcella E. — Google review
Fun for all ages. Helpful and friendly staff. A huge plus that they now serve alcohol. I wish someone told us to go feed the birds first thing upon arriving. I heard it was a great experience. Seeing them was nice. Even saw one bird do his cool mating dance only to get royally rejected. The jellyfish are beautiful and probably the most interesting to see. They have a very large tank with hammer head sharks and beautiful manta rays. This great exhibit makes you feel like part of the ocean. It's beautiful to see all the variety coexisting. It's a bit tough to see the octopus in his/her smallish tank. Some displays were down for repairs upon our visit so we'll have to return to get the full experience. The longest lines will be in the gift shop check out for some odd reason.
Jos? A — Google review
We visited the Aquarium of the Pacific and feel it was money well spent. There are loads of interactive displays, learning opportunities, friendly volunteers to answer your questions and most importantly, loads of aquariums! We arrived right at opening and didn't have to wait to get in. The aquarium is well organized and they do a great job of highlighting when and where presentations will be held. They have numerous aquariums filled with very cool sea life. They also have a shark, penguin, and sea lion / seal area. There are tide pools where you can "pet" the creatures if you'd like. I think the hidden gem here is if you're interested in whale watching you can book it through the aquarium along with access to the aquarium. For us, this was perfect because we could go early and checkout the aquarium and then jump on a boat to go look for whales. The cost was incredibly reasonable (we saved over $200 for our family of four to do both rather than just a whale watching excursion). The excursion comes with a knowledgable crew and you go out for a significant time. We were out for three hours! You'll want to bring sunscreen and hold onto your hats because it gets windy on the open waters. We were lucky enough to see a pod of common dolphins and a blue whale (we went in July). If you're going to whale watch use this route because it's cheaper and you're on the water for longer.
Alex Henricks — Google review
Husband and I come here once a year. I love the sea turtles and otters. Fun place. Can get crowded. There are plenty of places to sit down if needed. Snack bar food available.
Lisa C. — Google review
This was one of my best visits in california.Aquariums teach kids about nature and caring for one helps them learn responsibility. If you watch the videos, you see how educative and interesting the place is.
There are tour guides who will explain and educate u on the animals and fishes.
Snip Chiemeka — Google review
It's not worth it. I was really excited to be there but was not happy once I was done.
Nothing much or different I would say as compared to other aquariums.
The ticket is expensive as compared to the experience.
If u buy the ticket through city pass make sure you book your time slot. No one informed that to us and we were not allowed to enter without a time slot booking and it was full so could not book one on the spot. Had to go there the next day which screwed our itinerary because it's far n secluded.
I planned IOWA n aquarium the same day as they are close by n secluded with the rest of tourist attractions.
I gave three star for the space n set up along with shark's to see. N they had a fun activity of stamping a booklet and at the end they give u a prize. N you also get to touch some floral things that are there underwater (added a video of it)
Though the prize is the same for everyone -a tote bag.
komal singh — Google review
The whole staff was great and friendly despite the amount of children on field trips on Tuesday 11/14/23.
It had been a while since my last visit so I needed, I was having some questions on where to find certain areas and staff was friendly to answer all of them. Excellent service!
Moon jellyfish were my son's favorite area although they were a little on the hidden side of the aquarium.
I had forgotten how fun this place is! Thinking of getting their membership since it is at good rate.
Cinthia — Google review
It's been so very long since I've last been here. It's a lot smaller than I had remembered. Maybe I was just that little back then. But as an adult, it is still a fun place to visit with kids. The interactive activities with sea life are fun and educational. So many penguins, sea lions, sea otters, sharks, sting rays, many many different fish, octopuses, and my favorite - jellyfish! I also enjoyed the stamp stations! Also, surprisingly the cafe has pretty decent food!
Cristine — Google review
Wow this aquarium was awesome! My parents were visiting and we took my 3 year old daughter and all had a great time! We spent 5 hours there! Highly recommend checking out the shark and moon jellies touch pool. The highlight for my daughter was in the Art Gallery area. You could color a fish or shark on a tablet and then send it to swim in a virtual coral reef projection, it was so cool!
Brittany Morrison — Google review
Super cute, lots of touch stations. There was a pretty big croud, mostly because of school trips, but was able to enjoy the experience. An activity for everyone are the stamps that you can do along the way shown on the vistor guide & map
Celene Gomez — Google review
Ticket $44.95 (₹3753.15)
Spent around 2 hrs inside. It was a really good experience. Recommended if you are in Long Beach and haven't seen ocean species before and didn't encounter them.
It's walking distance from Long Beach convention hall and Hilton hotel. Book a ticket from their official website. Or if you are a AAA member you can get a discounted ticket ($36). If you are booking a ticket for 2PM they will allow you to enter at 1:45PM. Cheers.
Himanshu Gupta — Google review
Pretty good aquarium to spend the day at. Not the best aquarium I have been too but this one seems pretty well designed space for the animals and they seem take good care of the animals. Great for kids with many interactive touch sensory areas for the kids… also with plenty of hand washing areas at each area. Good time for adults and kids.
The ticket price seems a little high for adults and kids (3 or older)
Greg Kuebler — Google review
Such a beautiful aquarium, I adored all the exhibits, especially the shark lagoon made me happy. The volunteers and staff were all very friendly!
What a wonderful space for learning about our amazing ocean and everything that comes with it!
The daily ticket price does feel a bit too much. Honestly, I would consider getting a membership since daily ticket fees are not that affordable for young adults who aren’t students however I’m still unsure personally.
Jay Basu — Google review
Went with someone else and we both loved it. Spent several hours here. They had multiple activities and plenty of staff for help and/or educational purposes. Got to touch sting rays, starfish, and several aquatic plants. Absolutely loved this place. It is a must visit if you're in LA. This is the best aquarium I've been to within the US. Make sure to get your parking verified upon exit makes parking only $8.
Giselle Salazar — Google review
Aquarium of the Pacific was a great experience for the whole family. We booked in advance and arrived a few minutes after 9am, when they open. I am really glad we arrived early. We had plenty of time to pet the sharks and stingrays. We loved the stingrays so much we went back later. There were way too many people to enjoy them even an hour after opening. Parking is $15 in 2024. The Aquarium validated my parking, saving me $8.
I highly recommend booking a Whale Watching tour for an additional $35 per person. Check out my Harbour Sea Cruise post for more info.
The Queen Mary is an iconic ocean liner that has played a major role in maritime history since its construction in the 1930s. With a fascinating history dating back to the Depression era, the luxurious ship sailed across the Atlantic with celebrities and royalty including the Duke and Duchess of Windsor and Winston Churchill between 1936 and 1967. Today, it attracts tourists with its Art Deco interior, fine dining options, pools, and spa.
I love history and I love haunted places, so this was a great place to explore from me. You can explore so much of the ship at your leisure, or you can participate in a haunted tour. I roamed around the ship from 2:30 a.m. to 4:30 a.m. by myself just exploring freely and spooking myself out. We stayed in a cabin for a couple of nights and it was very comfortable. They had a great mix of comfort and convenience along with original fittings, fixtures, decorations that really take you back in time.
The ship has numerous exhibits, Museum areas, tons of information to learn from. The staff were very friendly, including the captain who we met at one of the bars on board - he was not drinking, just doing the rounds and introducing himself.
We ate at the Winston Churchill restaurant, the food was fantastic and the atmosphere was phenomenal. I enjoyed being on this ship so much and I would love to go back.
Oliver Warne — Google review
It said it was closed on my Google app. We were going to the cruise ship and I saw it and I was interested in seeing what it was like inside. I remember going there several years back and having Queen Mary beer and had a good experience there and they blew the ship horn. It was very interesting. Would like to see it open again. Looks like it needs some paint and some TLC
Kevin Petalos Vegas Realtor — Google review
Before we get started, it is important to understand that this ship is still being renovated and is nowhere near her former glory yet. With that being said, we chose to stay here because of its proximity to the Carnival Cruise terminal. It is literally less than a minute's walk across the parking lot! Now on to the good, the bad, and the ugly.....this Ship is neat and a peace of history. Once all the renovations are done on this ship, she will be amazing! With that being said, she needs our help to get renovated. They do tours, and the hotel all helps her get renovated to her former glory, so check out the website listed. Now, about our stay....if you come in before check-in, they will hold your luggage for you while you explore either the ship or Long Beach. The room we stayed in was just a standard room with 2 queen beds, but it was huge for a state room! We did have a problem with the AC, but so did everyone on our side of the hall on our floor. We opened up the port holes and were given a fan to put in front of the windows, and it was ok for the night ( we are from Texas, so the weather was pleasant to us). There are a few places around the ship that you can tell definitely needs work, but like I said, she is a work in progress. We plan on coming back and cruising out of this port, so we will see the Queen Mary again!
Myrna Talasek — Google review
Convenient for a pre cruise or post cruise stay. Rooms are small but comfortable and serviced every three days. Bath took a long time to fill. We were there on a storm day and all the internal tours were cancelled, which was disappointing as it wasn't necessary and would have given us something to do. Parts of the ship have free displays but even guests have to pay for tours. Free tea/coffee was provided on the storm day. Would it be too much to have this everyday? Nearby water ferry takes you across to aquarium and large selection of restaurants. We ate on board once and the corned beef sliders were very good. Bellboy Jeff and Jesus were the most helpful staff members. Reception staff were giving people checking in different information to that given us as we were waiting to check out and weren't overly helpful and quite vague at times. Art deco bar is nice and Starbucks coffee shop was OK but basic. We're glad we've had the experience of staying here but won't rush for a return visit.
Danae Bird — Google review
TLDR: We were charged $200 and randomly assigned a tour we didn't chose at a time we couldn't attend and were never told and now they are refusing to make it right.
Our family of 6 (2 adults, 4 children) went to the ship for lunch and a tour. We were excited because we used to love visiting and wanted to support their reopening. When we got there we paid $200 for admission and were told nothing, but according to the sign out front that included one of three tours. They handed us the ticket and we went inside and ate lunch. We then proceeded to the Tour Center to book our tour, only to be told we had been randomly assigned a 6:15pm Glory Days tour. We were never asked what tour we wanted, and we were not able to attend a tour at 6:15pm on a Sunday when our children have school the next day and we live more than an hour away. We tried to explain this at the Tour Center and were immediately and very rudely told there was nothing they could do. We tried again at the ticket counter, but after waiting around awhile were eventually told we would have to email to get a refund. I sent the email the same day (Sunday) along with all my documents (receipts, etc) and it is now Tuesday with no response. For $200 (and we spent another $125+ at the restaurant too) they could have at least explained that we were going to be randomly assigned a tour and told the time! (Really, for that price we should have been able to pick the tour and the time!) Ridiculous. We were going to book a room and the New Years Eve party but will definitely NOT being doing that now.
Angela Bentley — Google review
What an interesting place to stay. The well maintained and restored parts of the ship are beautiful. There are some older parts that need work, but I am sure that they are trying. The food in the restaurant was superb. The staff was all very nice, but we had to wait a long time for our room. They may not have enough staff. We were going on a Carnival cruise the next day, and it was a short walk to get there. It is a convenient and fun location as a place to stay the day before a cruise.
Edward Adamsky — Google review
I had a great experience with my daughters and my husband. We did the haunted tour and our guide was very nice and shared wonderful stories about the Queen Mary. The ship is absolutely beautiful although it gives a creepy vibes it’s still beautiful to see. I took lots of pictures just in case and sure enough going back through the pictures at home I’d notice some strange reflections and orbs. Pretty cool and scary! Definitely will be scheduling another tour soon.
Paola Anaya — Google review
A totally unique and beautiful setting for an evening out. I love going on Tuesdays during happy hour at the observation bar with live music. It is a glamorous and historic setting like no other.
I would say that there are some missed opportunities. Several areas are always closed, like the large ballroom on the promenade deck. but they would definitely make great venues for live music like in the observation bar. It would also free up some space as the bar can get quite busy. That would be a great addition to evening happy hour and would enhance the experience. It would be nice if more of the ship would be open especially in the evening because other than the bar there are not many open places. But the ship is a beautiful place to go regardless. I hope to see more work done to restore the queen Mary because it deserves a lot of care and improvement.
Jacob R — Google review
When I went a few months ago the inside was closed but I did get some great exterior shots! I'd call before you go if you're looking to take a tour or stay the night.
In 2004 however my mother and I did go aboard for a tour and to walk around on the ship and it was an amazing experience! The tour even took you through the broiler rooms! Gift shop had alot of neat trinkets as well!
So even revisiting it from the outside brought back memories.
Tom V — Google review
I'm so excited to get back to the Queen. It's literally been 10 years. Made a trip back before covid and it was closed for renovations. Back up and running, and I can't wait!! The tours are amazing. So full of legit history. Haunted ghost tours at night are pretty fun from what I hear. Like any historical place, I'm sure it's got it's share of the "dark side". The food was excellent and there were events happening all around. Such a great place to stay.
Tidy Car — Google review
The itinerary is very fast and there is no time to stay. I just enjoy its beauty and historical stories outside. I can see decommissioned submarines, torpedoes, and the majestic Queen Mary. It is a pity that I could have stayed until six in the evening and enjoyed ten yuan. The ticket discounts are available for a visit, and I will come back next time.
Christine — Google review
What an amazing experience! The history and displays and tour are so fun. The hotel rooms are very clean and up to date. We had dinner at the onboard restaurant Chelsea’s Chowder house. Everything we tried was so perfectly prepared and delicious. Just an all around wonderful experience and I wish we could stay for a few more days!
Rich Watkins — Google review
This was such an experience. Honestly the ship was so much bigger than I had dreamed it would be. From the moment we stepped on board we were treated like esteemed guests. Interaction with a crew member was fantastic. The gift shop was stocked with things that I could not pass up. The whole place was elegant and timeless. I got lost a couple times just exploring the beauty and grandeur of the ship. I wish I had more time but my feet were already killing me.
So I would have given this a five star review but I knocked it down one for two reasons 1) the haunted tour stopped at like 5, and was booked all the way to the next day at 11:30. That was unfortunate and I feel like at Halloween they should have more tours and offer them later at night. 2) the food options were minimum, one of the restaurants was closed, the other had a private event, and the last was insanely expensive. I would have even paid for the expensive one but it was like a two hour wait and I was tired so we door dashed. It seems like a missed opportunity to have one on the deck, or a restaurant out front so you could see the whole ship. All together though definitely an amazing stop on our trip through California.
Oh and I think I caught a ghost in the picture of the pool, zoom in on the left corner of the pool and tell me that isn't a man in a black hat...
Michael Cochran — Google review
Great location by the Port! There's a lot of history that they preserved. I did a really fun ghost tour that I attended and thoroughly enjoyed! The tour is done after hours at night. The event I went to was really lovely. Great picture opportunities all around! I haven't had a bad visit yet minus the summer heat. It does get hot at the queen Mary during summertime. During fall, it is perfectly chilled and a comfortable stay. It's just really old stuff around you. Be mindful there are many stairs around the ship, so wear proper shoes. Smoking is not allowed by any means inside the ship due to the highly flammable and sensitive wood that they kept to preserve the authenticity of the ship. It's worth checking out if you've never been, and it's bigger than the Titanic. If you see an event there, plan ahead and see about how parking will be because some events will only take a shuttle or rideshare to get there.
CC B — Google review
The history of the ship is really neat. It is a growth place to visit. However, my room was not worth the price. It had plenty of room and well kept but they were not able to controll the temperature. My room was boiling and I am sensitive to heat so I did not get much rest. Despite that I would encourage people to visit the ship as a museum and help support the historical value of the ship. The staff were great and brought fans ti help cool down the room. The bar was also fun to hang out at on the ship. There was live music and the drinks were great. The ships restaurants were all booked which forced me to have to off site to eat. I would recommend having a restaurant guaranteed spot for hotel guests.
travis mcivor — Google review
We did the paranormal ship tour and our guide Paul (Uncle Paul) was amazing. He had history with the Grand Lady and not only told us about some of her amazing history along with that of some of her passengers. Paul guided us to many areas of the ship Including the infamous room B340, the Captains room and crew quarters, and many other areas closed off all the while getting both history and paranormal information. You can tell he has an amazing love for This beautiful lady and it's not hard to see why. I myself had the Experience of being touched by something that I can not explain. She is a beautiful ship and I beyond happy that she is being restored. We want to thank Paul for the experience we had and his wealth of knowledge! And much of the profits are out back into The Queen Mary restoring her beauty. I can't wait to return and see her again!
Stefanie Mccleary — Google review
Staying on The Queen Mary is an amazing experience! As you walk in the ship you walk back in time! Our room was amazing, looking out over the bay. Lunch and breakfast were both delicious and the servers amazing. Everyone working here is very knowledgeable and happy to share the history of this magnificent ship! Loved the ghost tour! And if you go, make sure you check out the huge Lego ship!
Sandy Fragasse — Google review
Such a beautiful ship and a great place to stay the night. The history and stories behind this ship make the stay even better. Also can’t ignore the wonderful ocean views, sunsets, and dinners provided during your stay. Would recommend to anyone
Isaac Gould — Google review
Took a tour of the QM and learned all about this ship's amazing history. They are currently working on renovations, so we weren't able to stay the night, but I would love to return at some point in the future and stay on the ship. Highly recommend a tour once they open back up if you are in the area!
Jen Sanford — Google review
Randomly visited the Queen Mary and purchased the self guided tour. It was pretty awesome to walk through the engine room and through the halls. There’s labels through the tour that explain in details what’s what. I enjoyed this a lot more than I thought I would and would do it again. We ended our tour by having a drink at the bar and enjoying the scenic view of Long Beach.
Tanya Salas — Google review
Our stay at the Queen Mary Hotel in Long Beach was an incredible journey back in time! The moment I stepped into the room, I was captivated by the historic wood panels and charming porthole windows, which added a unique and nostalgic touch.
The ample closet space and dresser drawers were a pleasant surprise, making it easy to keep everything organized during my stay. The rooms were adorned with historic art, creating an atmosphere that truly transports you to the 1930s era of ocean voyages.
The Observation Bar was a real gem, providing a delightful setting to unwind with an evening cocktail. I loved the immersive feeling of being on an actual ocean voyage from the 1930s, even though the ship wasn't moving.
To top it off, the 30s and 40s big band jazz music playing throughout the ship added a magical touch to the whole experience. I highly recommend the Queen Mary Hotel for anyone seeking a memorable and nostalgic getaway. It's a true gem where history comes alive!
Andrew Allen — Google review
We loved staying at the Queen Mary. The history is amazing. The only thing that was sad is that we weren't able to see the gift shop, the museum, the isolation deck or partake in the ghost tour. I wasn't made aware when booking that you had to reserve for the ghost tour. I'm glad that we were able to eat on the ship but barely made their last night's reservation. It sounds like the ship reopened after covid. Perhaps they are low staffed or just getting to know how things work. Regardless, the staff was amazing, We loved our room and definitely will be back to do what we couldn't do with just one night's stay.
Deanna Noteboom — Google review
What a unique experience. We loved it. Walked around the whole boat. Stayed the night in a secure, quiet, comfortable room. The restaurant is always busy so book. Dessert menu is delicious. Highly recommended to do something different and memorable.
Jill Hansen — Google review
We did the paranormal tour here with our Girl Scouts...it was phenomenal.. nice and thorough, went at a good pace with lots of time for pictures or your own investigative equipment. They even held the tour for a few minutes because of traffic from an event nearby....so thoughtful!! Thanks for the wonderful experience.
Krystle Busby — Google review
This unique hotel is a decent value when you consider the insane hotel prices around LA. A fantastic bar on the forward deck area overlooking Long Beach harbor. Rooms are a bit dated and claustrophobic, but very clean and have a historic feel. Plenty of parking and great access for cruisers at the port within steps of the entrance. The breakfast was above average and the gift shops are great. Lots of history all over the ship. Haunted tours available.
Brady Bernhart — Google review
What a fun experience! Most of the ship you can tour yourself but they do offer several tours that you pay for. The room was nice and cleanly, but there is no air conditioning. We asked for a fan and that made all the difference. The beds weren't very comfortable, TV remote wouldn't change the channel, and there was a very limited amount of electrical outlets. We didn't experience anything supernatural in our room but did around the ship. The hotel staff were very pleasant and kind.
Deanna McMullen — Google review
Did the evening 2 hour tour of the ship. Parking is free after some point, not really sure when but we stayed until midnight. The tour was not crowded this late and the kids were not scared with all the ghost stories. Highly recommend for a different experience than the norm. Fyi the shops close at 8pm and dining was very good at the Promenade Cafe.
Alan Cabural — Google review
We were looking for a great experience while we were in Long Beach and this was such a great find. The ship is lovely, we stayed in a lovely suite on the M deck I believe. We had dinner-it was just "ok" and took part in the extended paranormal walking tour which we thoroughly enjoyed. We had the breakfast buffet before we departed the next day. If you are looking for a great evening and stay this is it, do the tour, enjoy the food, and stay the night!
Lisa Wright — Google review
I visited Queen Mary a week ago today and had an absolutely wonderful time. I'm an ocean liner enthusiast, and Queen Mary is my favorite ship. Finally seeing and experiencing her in real life was a real treat, a big thing I can check off my bucket list. All in all, I was aboard the Queen for about 7 1/2 hours and I felt like I could've stayed with my beloved ship forever. The only thing I wish I could've done is stay aboard one night, but that's okay, that just gives me more reason to visit the Queen again! I think a lot of people visit her without truly appreciating that she's a 90-year-old ship that once crossed the Atlantic Ocean on a regular basis for three decades, not some typical hotel. The modern amenities we're so used to with hotels aren't always going to be there aboard the Queen. But history and beauty? She has it in spades! I love this ship, and I'm grateful to the City of Long Beach and Evolution Hospitality for the constant restoration work being done aboard Queen Mary. She's in such great shape and there are more great things to come. Well done. I must also give a shout out to the guide who heads up the Glory Days tour. I'm frequently leary about tours otherwise, but this was really great. I wish I could for the life of me remember his name. Ah well. Anyway, thanks for the wonderful time!
Zach Hilgefort — Google review
Awesome experience. 1st time inside the Queen Mary . We pay 10 per person after 545pm just to look around without a tour . Awesome experience to be inside an amazing ship and the history that follows.From WW2 era to its paranormal activity and sights. Can't believe this ship has almost 100 years yet it holds strongly in beautiful Long Beach for people to stay, dine , tour and just to make great memories.Will be going back for a pay tour later on .
Josue Leyva — Google review
Staying on the Queen Mary was a dream come true. She’s gorgeous, she’s grandeur, and while at times there were some uncomfortable moments, if you’re someone who appreciates the paranormal, the opulence, art deco and history, this is a must. Despite dealing with a few drunks while on the paranormal ship walk tour, the tour itself takes you into many reported hotspots and places on the ship not open to the public. Additionally, if you’re into art deco, the Observation Bar is a must. All transports you back in time of war, opulence, and luxury. The bed in an inside stateroom I had wasn’t the most comfortable, and certainly you’re at the ship’s mercy of varying temperatures and stuffiness. But overall, the staff were friendly, the gym was both historic and massively functional, the food was fantastic, and it’s certainly worth either a day trip or overnight. I cannot wait to go again!
Ashley Keller — Google review
we had the BEST time here. incredible, once in a lifetime experience stepping straight onto a historic time capsule. the staff was amazing and accommodating. we ate at the restaurant and the food was delicious and our waitress was amazing. the on board gift shop was so cute and wandering around the ship was very fun. we stayed overnight and our room was everything we hoped it would be. everyone needs to visit the Queen herself.
lor — Google review
I did the paranormal ship tour with Christopher. I had all but given up on ghost tours because I’ve had a lot of duds. This was hands down the best ever. Christopher is so knowledgeable and you can tell he has a lot of compassion and respect for the people who have passed. He encouraged us to use tools which I have never seen before on a tour. We got a lot of activity and I can’t wait to go back.
Lyndsey McCracken — Google review
My wife and I did the Queen Mary "Haunted Encounter Tour" with Mr. Bill as our tour guide. Even when we did this tour at 10:30 am and with a small group, Bill was still able to spook us with the ghost stories of this ship. Bill narrated very well and the fact that you actually go into the rooms/parts of the ship where the ghost stories happened made this a worthwhile tour! It was definitely an amazing experience.
We also toured the parts of the ship on our own and man, the ship's intricate engine room and the Finest Hours part of the ship were amazing as well!
Added bonus: when you do the tour, you can also ask the staff to keep your luggage for the interim and they would store it in a locked room for free!
James Leonard Catipay — Google review
We did the self guided tour during their Off-Hours and it was great way to spend a few hours. We enjoyed exploring the vessel at our leisure. Kids were kept entertained with all the different levels and stairs. Parking was $25 which seems a bit much, plenty of room available. Our favorite part was the engine room. I would have enjoyed seeing the staterooms- I'm not sure if they're tourable
Large, popular water park with dozens of slides & attractions, plus an area for tots & a sand beach.
This park is so much fun; I would recommend bringing the kids! Only about 3 rides weren't operating that day, which was great! We got on all of the others! The longest line we waited in was 15 minutes! I will admit, I was expecting a longer wait times. Food was AWESOME!
Make sure you remember sun screen AND reapply! Stay hydrated! 💦
I would visit again 😍🤞🏼
REEM ALMIJMAJ — Google review
The place is a good place to visit with family and friends, to have fun in the water, the rides are good... Just that making a line for so long! It's crazy, by the time they close, you don't enjoy all the rides, maybe a few, and if you want the line to be faster, you have to buy a pass that is a bit pricey 🏊🏼♀️🌊💦⛲😎☀️well other than that my family and I had fun, did our best to enjoyed as much as we could
Claudia E Zu?iga (Clau) — Google review
It's Raging Waters. How can you not have fun? The chicken tenders are definitely expensive at $15 but they're really good if that's any consolation. The fries are also good. The lazy river is fun as long as you're in a tube. The water is very dirty so you don't really want to get in it. The rides are all great and the staff is friendly. It's a good time. Alot plenty of time for parking. While they have several shuttles and a bus, it's alot of people to move around.
Damon Fleming — Google review
I see that there’s a lot of negative reviews on this place but that is not the case on my experience. We had a great time here with the kids. The food is descent but if you want to bring your own food you can. Staff were always friendly to us and helpful. When we went it was clean and the stores were organized. The bathrooms were clean and there was always someone in there cleaning the bathrooms. Overall it was a great experience and would return for summer!
R Marchese — Google review
Love working here! Definitely a great team dynamic, plenty of room for advancement, and effcient way to earn some income during the summer months. Also grew up coming here as a guest with family and friends and have made some amazing memories along the way. Seen the transformations and improvements of the park over the years and hope to continue seeing the park provide guests with fun-filled experiences. I recommend a season pass!
Tiffany ?Tiff? S. — Google review
Cool family spot but there are a lot of negatives. Pizza at the cabana sucks. Preferred parking is $50! Like wow. Ice was not cold in the drinks. Tubes in the lazy river are first come first serve basis. Waves in the wave pool are not even high. Lol But I would come back tho.
Melystikal — Google review
We got the tickets online the night before, there was a Labor Day sale, one adult ticket was $39.99 plus a service fee around $4 ($8 service fee for 2 tickets). We also bought the standard parking ($25) and H2Go standard pass ($55). The parking was fine, we got there early as the park was opening. You have to ride a tram so I would recommend getting there early if you buy standard parking. We thought the H2Go pass saved a lot of waiting on a Saturday and allowed us to go on more rides. It was not overly crowded. A Beyond Burger w/ fries was around $18, so was the small locker which fit one backpack. It was fun! Lots of enjoyable water rides, my favorites were High Extreme and Bombs Away 😎
Li K. — Google review
Nice and relaxing day once we were permitted to go in area for Cabana we reserved! Gates opened at 10am, wasn't allowed in area to check-in for Cabana til after 10:15am,then not allowed in Cabana area til 11:00am...
Wasted time just standing around.
Need better procedure to accommodate guest.
Jackie Garner — Google review
A summer day perfectly spent with kids and friends!
Pristine wave pool , kiddie pool, and those big slides huh!! The big slides are more than enough for your adequate adrenaline flow...
Please remember of the long lines you will be experiencing for all big rides..
This was my second visit in 4 years and as always I found 2 to 3 rides were under maintenance.
Make sure you have enough of sunscreen and a sunglass.
Food inside is too expensive ,and not that savory , if you are taking premium parking $50, you may bring food and keep in cooler.
Have a waterproof mobile pouch or keep it in locker. Complete park is now cashless.
Njoy
Koushik Mukherjee — Google review
It's a great place. If you are looking for fun for a day, this would be a perfect water park for you.
But if you are looking for something very exciting, this may not be the best place for you.
There's a shuttle bus for a USD 20 parking pass. Not too far from the park.
We arrive at 1120, leaving around 1700. Save your favorite spot to the last could save your time on queuing.
The summer sale of USD 39.99 per person is a great deal.
I believe that the raging racer is the best facility for those who like exciting facilities and dislike queuing.
C.J. Wang — Google review
Group of 6 friends and I came on Father’s Day and it was -awesome- no long lines on any of the rides, we managed to do every single ride in the park. Snacks and stuff were pretty $$$ but that’s expected at any theme park. The wave pool had very small waves, but the lazy river was fantastic.
Devin Johnson — Google review
No outside food, coolers, or chairs allowed. But was fun! Great family environment. If you map your drive be sure to type " Raging waters parking" it will save you some miles!
Stara Letomaston — Google review
Raging Waters Los Angeles deserves a resounding 5-star rating for its exhilarating water park experience. While the $50 preferred parking is optional, I highly recommend purchasing it for the convenience and ease it brings to the day. The thrilling water rides and attractions make a waterproof cellphone case an absolute must-have, allowing you to capture every exciting moment worry-free. However, finding available lunch tables can be a bit challenging as some visitors leave their belongings on them without renting lockers. Nevertheless, this minor inconvenience pales in comparison to the overall enjoyment the park offers. While the $20 slush with one-time refill availability may not be the best value, the fun-filled activities and joyous atmosphere more than compensate for it. Raging Waters Los Angeles guarantees an unforgettable and splashing good time for everyone, making it an ideal destination for families and thrill-seekers alike.
Jun C — Google review
We went to the water park . The service was good and the slides were fun. The lines were decent in length. At the worst it was a fifteen minute wait.
Biggest advise is to arrive before 10 in order to secure a table for your family.
Do be aware that they have college students as lifeguards and workers at the water park. They were very a good people and friendly .
We also had problems with the parking which will cost $25 . But the bus was so fast to pick up. The food was kind expensive and not every thing they have as cappuccino they don’t have….
Sam — Google review
Pros = This is the best water park in SoCal, lots of different slides for all ages, a good lazy river, big kids play area, decent food and amenities.
Cons = The $50 "Preferred" parking lot is bullshizzery! You used to be able park close to the entrance if you got there early for the standard fee, but now it doesn't matter, $25 puts in the overflow lots a mile away and you have to wait for a tram, the preferred was half empty all day, that sucks especially for people with little ones.
They also could use some more shade structures around the food area, standing in line for 30-45 minutes in direct sun is brutal at 90+.
A Ev — Google review
Unless you pay $50 bucks for preferred parking, the experience is terrible. Even though it’s no where close to being sold out the tram comes once every 20 minutes. It’s also not very well maintained, slides have holes, speakers are rusted.
San Thach — Google review
Great place to keep Kool on a hot summer day but they have a lot of issues, one day they didn't have parking. It's a cashless park and their whole system was down not able to take payments at the front gate when purchasing tickets. Lines to purchase food can take up to a couple hours to get your food. They need to improve these things and the experience would be better.
Omar Valenciano — Google review
Very bad organization! There is not enough parking space for cars. very long queues for rides and for food. there is not enough space to put your things! no free tables to eat. if you bought a parking lot for $25, get ready to take a bus to the park and then back, there is a very long line back, so it's better to get out early. The food is not very tasty, it is better to take something with you
The Knott's Berry Farm theme park is a well-known and highly rated amusement park in California that features thrilling roller coasters, old-fashioned charm, and famous fried chicken. The park is extensive, with a range of attractions including the historical ghost town, the theme park with many thrilling roller coasters, the onsite Knotts Berry Farm Hotel, and the famous Mrs. Knotts Chicken Dinner Restaurant. Specials, deals, and events are always available on their website.
If you really can't afford other parks, or wasn't able to go to one because of the law, Knott's Berry Farm should be perfect and more affordable to save you from your troubles! They have neat merchandise for yourself or your friends and family, intense rides that will make you scream, like my personal favorite... the Silver Bullet from Ghost Town, and enjoy some awesome attractions and food! Heck, their chicken is fast, easy and high-quality, but also deliciously tasty! When you have your kids with you, you can take them to Camp Snoopy to meet up with your favorite Peanuts characters for some cute photos! If you haven't went to a theme park for a long time because of the pandemic or you're waiting very eagerly to go there, then America's #1 Theme Park of this will be awesome for you. Have fun and be very safe!🎡🎠🎢🚂
Anthony Merchak — Google review
AMAZING!
Knott’s Berry Farm is a very fun place for the whole family!! This place has many different types of attractions, whether it’s intense rides, mellow rides, rides for young children, popcorn stands, restaurants, games, and so much more. The way the rides are there, people from ant age can find a ride that fits them and they can ride it and enjoy it. The food there is also very good, including restaurants such as Johnny Rockets and Panda Express, and there are many delicious desert places and candy shops. Overall a 10/10, highly recommended for anyone looking to have a fun filled time!!
Gabriel Raco — Google review
I haven't been here in over a decade and was pleasantly surprised with my experience there yesterday. It was not busy at all for Sunday and the longest line we waited in was just an hour. The performances of the castmates in the Calico Ghost Town were a nice touch that I don't recall ever experiencing before. We got the meal pass which was a great value as it allowed us to eat one entree and side at almost any of the dining options every 90 minutes. I do just wish there were better food choices. Our favorite was Panda Express.
Ryan N — Google review
A visit to Knott's is akin to comfort food. I know just what to expect and there's never a dull moment. Each visit is a unique experience and tremendous fun. It is best to arrive early and simple knock out most of the park before nightfall. Highly recommend going for a season pass and visiting about every other month; definitely the best value in So Cal!
Jorge Rivera — Google review
It's a very fun park, it has a lot of roller coasters, some might be very intense for some people. There are other rides for adults and kids and have many other attractions only for kids.
Be aware that you might get wet in a couple of attractions, and usually they have a free storage for you to place you belongings while riding.
Anabel Pachano-Arismendi — Google review
This time of year Knotts is all decorated for Christmas with lights everywhere and it "snows" in different areas. It's so beautiful. They also have the Snoopy ice skating show, which is amazing! It's a lot going on in the show for everyone to enjoy, get in line early to get better seats. The lines are pretty long for the rides once 1:00 comes, but if you go early when they open you can get on a few rides before the lines start to get long. Parking also gets super full too. I highly recommend coming here to enjoy a day of thrills.
Camille Rios — Google review
You have to Go!🤘😎👍 This is my family’s first time visiting this park. This is so different than Disneyland and so much fun. The roller coasters run through the park and sometimes fly right above you. We went during the Boysenberry Festival and that was yummy. Get a tasting card to see what’s on it. This is a very fun amusement park. There is so much to do and experience and so much to eat and drink. You definitely have to go on 👻 Ghost Rider and Silver Bullet and you can’t miss the 1881 Steam Engine Train 🚂💨 Also take a break at sunset and go ride the Sky Cabin ride to enjoy the view above the park. We really enjoyed the whole park. The food was great they even had a 🐼 Panda Restaurant inside. You must stop by the 🚒 Fireman’s Brigade BBQ 👨🚒 and get a funnel cake with ice cream. Also you can’t go wrong picking something up from the bakery. We grabbed the unlimited all day refills cup about $20 you could refill every 15 minutes if you need to. We stayed from opening to closing and would do it all again. Be patient and be kind to the those working there. Have fun!
Adam Golling — Google review
A great theme park! If you like well themed parks and interesting and different rides this is the park for you! Dark rides, Coasters, Flat Rides, Water Rides, Interesting and unique foods! Boysenberry flavored EVERYTHING. Can't wait until I get to go back and have more fun with friends! Oh and dont forget the chicken dinner! It's a ridiculous amount of food for the price!
Chris Messick (Fuzzy Reviews) — Google review
Loved it, went during the boysenberry festival. There was so much to do. There were so many shops, and tons of new food items to try. Entire ghost town and many parts of the park are filled with gorgeous flowers and arrangements. Great for family pics. There's also a bunch of shows and activities going on for the festival. Workers are friendly and even give good advice on what to try or what times are best to avoid crowds. On Sunday after five the crowds died and it was so nice to see the different parts of the park all lit up. We really enjoyed our time and definitely got our steps in.
Grace Tapia — Google review
Great park. Size is good, not so big you’re trekking miles all day, not so small you’re done in two hours. Crowds were very manageable but we went on a weekday. Food choices are a big limited, unless you like burgers and fries. The Fastlane option is expensive but really worth it as it virtually eliminates any waiting for rides. There’s some really cute themes throughout the park and it’s very clean and well organized.
Only complaint is that there largest coaster is currently down and has been since 2022 yet the website didn’t mention that.
Neal Panhuyzen — Google review
We had a great time. It was the perfect day, not too crowded. It was our first time on the Hang Time ride and it was awesome! The only bad thing is that $50 for parking is just ridiculous, not sure we will be back anytime soon with those prices.
HEATHER HORD — Google review
Phenomenal! I haven't been here in 30 years and came to take my son who is 3. He loved it. It was hot, it was sunny, but we did the entire camp snoopy, got 4 meet and greet photos, watched one show and did 2 big kid rides. I loved it. It's an adorable park for my son and we stayed for four hours before it was nap time. Lots of shade, lots of space to walk and roam, cute photo ops, great food choices and honestly it was a fabulous time and I hope for him a core memory.
Vanessa C — Google review
SUPER FUN TIME! first time to Scary Farm and it was so good. The scare, the laughs, the rides, the clowns (good job), the shows ... everything was good.
The parking was a little far but the walk was just the warm up for the night. Starts at 7pm ends at 2am. Never a boring moment! Prices go up the closer it gets to Halloween and online is cheaper! Get your parking online too.
Chrys M — Google review
It is really nice. I love all the shops and that you can shop without entering the park. It was neat and clean and so nice! They have more rides that may be called old fashioned, but that's why I enjoyed it! Just simple good fun and good for all ages. The employees were kind and accommodating. We had a great day at the park!
Rosalene Mullins — Google review
It's been more than 10yrs since I been here at Knotts. Had trouble with tickets on line would not display the purchase. Showed the young lady at the booth and got management to help and they validated the purchase. A few rides close but still had fun and enjoyed a good meal.
Lorenzo Garcia — Google review
Small but good park with great rides. Went during Boysenberry Festival highly recommend for adults with or without young kids. Lots of booths , get the tasting card for sure or try them all . Really good portion sizes and great flavors.
1st time visiting this park. Good family park with lots of things to do for kids.
We will return again one day.
Adrian McCallister — Google review
A great alternative for families on a budget and who hate waiting in long lines. Less action then Disneyland that's for sure. No parades, no real fun atmosphere and no ongoing entertainment. Never saw Charlie Brown or Snoopy. No singers. No dancers. Didn't see any shows going on. The staff is definitely less friendly and actually saw a couple staff personnel yell at customers. I was actually shocked. Everything closes at 6pm and the park is very dark once the sun goes down -- awful night time lighting.
Lots of unhealthy food options, which is a bummer. I'm giving them 4 stars based on the fact that it's way more affordable than their competitors and also for short wait times on most of their rides. But there is definitely room for improvement. Staff should be more friendly and professional and less condescending and rude to customers. They should have better healthy food choices.
They definitely need better forms of entertainment. While waiting in lines all we could hear was boring outdated music from a distance. Should have a light show at night, which would also improve the awful nighttime lighting and increase sales. A Snoopy and gang musical parade, a fireworks show and dressing up the park with lights on trees are just some basic things that would elevate the park tremendously.
The rides were fun, fairly short but some are scary in a good way. My personal fav was finding 4 beautiful baby pigs taking a nap in the barn area (see my photo). The funnel cake was really good and the BBQ Place was decent, loved their corn bread -- a bit pricey but good.
James D — Google review
Had such an awesome time even though it was super busy.
Annual pass holder however had two first timers with me and they loved it.
The characters in Ghost Town are amazing at what they do, kept us entertained for a couple hours doing a few chores, deliveries and being thrown in jail… not even DL has this experience and is unique to Knotts!
A theme park for all ages… food could be improved but it’s above average for a theme park, end of the day it’s not a fine dining restaurant.
Roberto Alcaro (ITA80Y) — Google review
Had a lot of fun here! Lots of great rides. Many of the rides we waited 30 min or less for. The Silver Bullet was our favorite. We also enjoy the Sidewinder, River Ride, Jaguar, Coast rider and Hang Time.
There were 5 rides that were closed which was disappointing - especially the Ghost Rider - we were really sad that we couldn't ride that one.
Definitely recommend getting the All Day dining pass and the souvenir cup (purchased separately as drinks were not included in all day dining). You get so much food. We got 2 all day dining passes for our family of 4 and there was plenty of food for us. Little to no wait time for food. Food was all really good too.
The churro sundae was also so amazing! 1 was enough for 4 of us!
The App was a waste of time as the wait times were not updating and we're always wrong.
Lots of walking but overall, I would recommend and would go back again.
Mel Rhodes — Google review
Absolutely fantastic theme park, 10/10. They are the first theme park in the entire United States, and they've always been a top dog in coming up with new types of rides and implementing new innovations in them. There is a fantastic variety of rides for both the daredevils and the more laid back people. I would definitely recommend going early, ideally on weekdays, but at least arrive before the doors open at 10am if you're coming on a weekend. Sometimes they will open the front gates and let you enter the front of the theme park at 9:30 but not let anyone walk to rides until 10. Ghost Rider and Silver Bullet are my two favorite rides, and Hang Time or the drop tower might be the scariest rides I've ever been on. Lines for the rides can get up to 2hrs, download their app so you can choose the rides appropriately.
Eric Yang — Google review
Knott's Scary Farm was a fun experience. Our family attended while on vacation and really enjoyed it. The haunted attractions were well done and the actors walking the streets were great! I would recommend skipping the ride lines since they take so long and there isn't enough time to do the rest of the attractions once you've waited for 1-2+ hours for a single roller coaster.
Gerald Gabriel — Google review
If you want thrill rides, this is the place to go. The rides vary from family friendly and fairly tame to some of the most extreme thrills I've ever had at an amusement park. Seriously, intense doesn't even begin to describe some of the more advanced rides. Food is a bit pricey, but to be expected at such a place.
Brian Popelka — Google review
The staff here was not helpful most of the time. You could just tell they wanted no part in being there. The vendors that they brought in were nice. Some of the stuff they were selling was cute and crafty. The wait times for rides was atrocious but the ride line up is good. Some of the coasters don't live up to the hype. The snoopy on ice show was amazingly adorable, and all the boysenberry products were delectable! The chicken to go outside the park was delicious! We went back every visit to take a meal to go. The food in the park was better than most other theme parks we have visited! All in all a nice little gem to go to. Parking is the only thing that can be somewhat confusing, depending on what lots are open that day.
Stephanie Bean — Google review
I brought my kids Monday for the Boysenberry festival. I also had my partner who is currently unable to bear weight on his leg due to an injury so we rented an electric wheelchair & they had us go to guest services to get a disability pass so we could bypass the lines and get assistance. Well we were told we would be let on and bypass the wait but whatever the wait time was we would have to wait that time to ride that specific ride again, which was understandable. After about 3 rides, we had someone tell us no we need to wait the wait time to ride any ride throughout the whole park. So I think everyone needs to be on the same page and we need to be informed properly to begin with. The food this year was definitely not as good as last year which was a bummer. I didn't even use up half my tastings I paid for. Like any amusement park it's packed & crowed. People don't know how to move for people in wheelchairs. This is the cheapest theme park in CA so I feel like everyone comes here. The rides are fun, some shops are great. I love the glass blowing. I definitely recommend going during the week. Less annoying kids / people.
Michelle Chesmore — Google review
Beautiful Amusement Park! It was full of gorgeous Christmas decor. Festive and well-laid out. We visited on December 29; it was super crowded. The lines for the rides, restrooms and food were incredibly long; yet, we had a wonderful time. There were 21 in our group, and we had a blast. The park is ridiculously expensive. Bring your own food, drinks and snacks. They will check your bags thoroughly and take your photo upon entering. The crowds around the Christmas Season are huge; just grin and bear it. Make the most of it. Plenty of paid parking lots...$30 regular fee; $50 for preferred parking. Be ready to spend your $$$$ and have a great time; we did!!
Ruth Jones — Google review
Took the family on a little trip. The park was very clean the lines weren't terribly long and no rides got shut down. Be aware if you don't have a fast pass it can be frustrating. Sometimes they just let the pass holders on the rides leaving the normal line to just wait and if the pass line fills up again they just load them up again. They also don't like to fill up all the seats on a ride for some reason. The food is good but very expensive ($15-$20) as are the drinks so plan on eating and drinking accordingly. You can get water for free or buy all day food and drink passes. The adult beverages are more expensive than a bar or restaurant too. One spot had a single tequila shot for $20, mixed drinks and beers were about $12-$15.
a negrete — Google review
It's a fun place with something for everyone to enjoy. From kid friendly rides up to the adrenaline junkie. Those who want to sit down and enjoy a good show to those who want to place games and try to win something. Plus with over 15 places to dine, you definitely will find something your stomach is craving. I recommend their famous chicken family meal right outside the park. If you go before December is over they have special holiday menu items, decorations, and carolers. If you live within 2 hours, I recommend buying to season pass, right now it's on sale for $105, you can make $7 monthly payments after a $35 down payment.
Simon Perkins — Google review
We went on Super Bowl Sunday, so it wasn't too crowded, lines much shorter than usual. We had a great time, good funnel cake, Everything was clean, and the employees friendly. Good dinner at Mrs. Knott's chicken place. Will be back.
The Downtown Disney District is a central attraction in Disneyland Resort that features shops, restaurants, and a movie theater. The district is open-air and decorated with Disney themed elements, making it an ideal place to spend a day while in Anaheim.
The Downtown Disney District is a gem of the Disney brand and local area. This area has a host of restaurants, eateries, and shops for all ages.
A great spot to grab some adult beverages when on a date night or have a bite to eat with the family.
Downtown Disney District is within minutes walk from the Anaheim Convention Center and a host of various hotels and resort accommodation in the area.
Extremely clean and safe for hours of wandering and exploring.
Cameron — Google review
Love some of the seasonal updates that have been made. If you're heading down this Fall/Halloween season you're in for a treat. There are lots of new Fall decorations, along with seasonal food options for Halloween, Fall, as well as Hispanic Heritage month which I think is pretty awesome! They also have some some great food truck options and live entertainment on the Disney stage for Hispanic Heritage month and a free activity for both children and kids at heart. Expect crowds as always, but not too bad. Many of the stores have cute decorations as well as seasonal offerings.
Connie — Google review
It's been four years since we last visited Downtown Disney. It's a fun area to hang out with the family. We did an 1 hr 15 minutes of bowling at Splitsville Luxury Lanes and we had a lot of fun. They charge $25 dollars a person. Their drinks and food was really good compared to other bowling places. There is a waiting period to get your bowling lanes so we went shopping around to kill time. Grabbed some Starbucks drinks and all was good. The only downside is that there were a lot of people. A bit overcrowded. Oh! Don't forget to validate your parking ticket. If you spend $20 dollars you get 3 free hours of parking or just eat at one of their restaurants validate it and you get 5 hours free parking. Enjoy!
Cisco 1946 — Google review
If you guys a Disneyland lovers , you probably have been here.. It's a great walk, it's wonderful. If you want a quick Disney taste, food, and even soccer apparel.. I definitely recommend..
Rogelio Jimenez — Google review
I think this is the nice place to visit if you want to have a Disney theme in your day without visiting the park. No ticket except for the parking. The shops are nice including Lego and World of Disney, you can look for more Disnet merchandise here. The bar/cafe/restaurant also nice.
Yanti Rahardjo — Google review
What a wonderful family place. Lots to see and do. The lights at night are so pretty too. I wish they had another big Disney store with more older characters. Definitely something for everyone to do and for all ages. Ten out of ten would totally recommend for family fun and yummy dining. Brandon at Naples is the best. The pizza is to die for.
Lisa Smith — Google review
Disneyland truly deserves a five-star rating! It's a place where magic comes to life, offering an enchanting experience for all ages. The attention to detail in every corner of the park is awe-inspiring, and the attractions are a perfect blend of nostalgia and innovation. The friendly staff goes above and beyond to make your visit unforgettable. Whether you're meeting beloved Disney characters, enjoying thrilling rides, or savoring delicious treats, Disneyland offers a world of wonder. It's a place where dreams come true, and it's impossible not to leave with a smile on your face. A five-star experience for sure!
Lawrence Battle — Google review
I recently was made aware that you can visit Downtown Disney without an admission ticket! You do have to go through security but you do not need a ticket just to visit the shops and eat at the carts and restaurants!
I had a half day with no plans while in Anaheim recently so I spent half a day just walking, shopping and eating at the happiest place on earth! I enjoyed a street cart corn dog, candy and met up with my husband later for some ice cream! Highly recommend for a fun little excursions and tasty treats!
Krystle Pyrzynski — Google review
Downtown Disney is a vibrant haven that seamlessly blends entertainment, dining, and shopping into a dazzling experience. From the moment you step foot, you're enveloped in an energetic ambiance. The array of dining options caters to every palate, serving up delicious cuisines from around the world. The eclectic shops offer unique finds, making every stroll an adventure. The live entertainment adds a whimsical charm, creating an unforgettable atmosphere. Whether it's grabbing a bite, indulging in retail therapy, or simply soaking in the lively vibes, Downtown Disney is a must-visit for anyone seeking a delightful and diverse outing. 🐭🏰
Bo Taylor — Google review
Downtown Disney District is a very fun and entertaining extension of the Disney parks. The crown jewel is probably the world of Disney store which is humongous and has most of all the merchandise that can be found in the Disney parks.
There are tons of neat stores and fun restaurants, one of my favorites is Ralphs Jazz kitchen. Call ahead to find out when they have live jazz music, it’s a great experience. They also have a awesome Star Wars store at the very end of the district that has got tons of Star Wars merchandise.
Finding The Force — Google review
We went to Downtown Disney in Sept to enjoy the Halloween decorations before it would get busy in October to see them. But the parking is so ridiculous now! For the first hour, you have to pay $10 (whether or not you plan on buying anything from the businesses and restaurants). Then after that initial $10, you need to purchase a minimum of $20 to "validate" an additional 2 hours or so. So altogether, that means you still have to pay a total of at least $30 to spend any decent time in downtown.
$30 would only really be justified for actual theme park parking, such as if you are enjoying the Disneyland and/or California Adventure parks for the entire day.
After we found that out, that's our last time visiting downtown Disney. Unless we get dropped off and then picked up right outside the Downtown Disney district, and we walk to and from the area.
I don't mind the metal detectors because I feel like they are necessary in a lot of public places these days.
But I really think that Disney is getting too greedy. I remember a very long time ago when parking in Downtown Disney was free for 3 hours when it first opened about 20 years ago. Then they scaled that back to 2 hours of free parking. But now, the parking arrangement is ridiculous! What can you really do for the very first hour there? And to make matters unreasonable, you still have to pay $10 for that first hour, regardless of whether or not you buy anything from the restaurants of businesses.
In my opinion, if we purchase a certain amount from the restaurants or businesses there, that should at least be sufficient to validate at least 2 hours of time there.
I think my family and I will look for more reasonably priced ways to enjoy Disney. The Halloween decorations were really nice! But it's not really worth it to go to Downtown Disney anymore if you have to drive and park your car there for ridiculous hourly fees. This really takes the fun out of even enjoying your time there.
Mich L — Google review
The world of Disney is huge so if you're looking for something that you may have missed in the park you might be able to find it here. They have a lovely array of different items from throughout the park and just inside of the store itself. Then there are other shopping opportunities and eateries throughout the whole district it is also connected to the Grand California hotel so if you'd like to go in there and look around or you have reservations to eat it is a good place to go and look around before you go to the hotel.
T. Hutson — Google review
There's a lot of restaurants to choose from. It's always clean and decorated nicely. I last went during fall, and they have pumpkins everywhere. However, my new favorite detail are the succulent everywhere, espeically the planters hanging from the lamp posts. They're beautiful and drought resistant. I think if they added some string of rubies or bananas to dangle from them, they would be even more beautiful.
L G — Google review
Downtown Disney is kind of it's own experience. They have a variety of shops and restaurants and are a good option if you can't make it into the parks to get last minute souvenirs or visit an eatery. They also do shows on stage near the entrance opposite of the one near the entrance to the parks (more near the Disney hotels). It is definitely more of a money sink than an actual Disney experience and you do have to go through security to get in there. Still a nice visit though
Alex B — Google review
After you've explored the park, take a pleasant walk to enjoy some tasty, high-quality food or pick up a couple of meaningful souvenirs.
Plus, you can catch the fireworks from a unique perspective right here!
Behrang MI — Google review
What a fantastic experience. Downtown Disney is a wonderful experience, neat shops - from the Disney store, to LEGO store, Star Wars Trader post, great restaurants, breweries and more! You wont want to miss a trip down here!
Timothy Watson — Google review
Trendy and Upscale Shopping District with Different types of stores and eateries that caters to general public and Disney Park Visitors. Prepare to shell out top dollars for everything! A short walk from the paid parking area (you get up to 3 hrs of parking for.$10 with Purchase of.over $20 from retailers) . Plenty of things to browse and buy. The Vibe and Ambience are great. !
knight raider — Google review
It was a great experience for any Disney fans but not wanting to go to Disneyland. There are lots of shops, eateries and live performances here.
It was like we experienced first hand what would be like in Disneyland without going into the famous park, and it’s FREE!!! We plan on going to Disneyland next year so this was like a rehearsal :)))
Great experience overall!
Judy Margaret Chen — Google review
At 60+, it was the best experience ever with my Son and his family! Just make sure to rent a scooter ($85 and you get back a refund deposit) for the day i used it from 11 am to 11pm...and still didn't get to see everything!
Awesome experience.
C. Davis — Google review
The parking is definitely different from what I remember. It's been a while since last time I visited DT Disney District.
We visited on a Saturday around 5 pm. Parking lot entrance was very busy, but it was moving at a decent pace. $10 for the first hour. We paid $24 for very close to 2 hours.
Make sure you remember where you parked. Easy to lose your car in the parking lot. Outside parking.
There is also a security check line before entering the District. It also move at a decent pace. It took us about 10 minutes to get in.
Inside, nothing has change too much. It was nice today seeing all the Christmas lights on. I recommend eating before or after leaving Downtown Disney. All of the restaurants had a very long line.
We just walked into Starbucks and got some coffee, 20 minutes from start to when we had our coffees, not bad at all.
J G — Google review
Was my first time here. We had an amazing time. I didn't actually go into Disneyland, but the downtown district was amazing. Great stores and the fireworks were amazing!!
Sheila Weaver — Google review
My kids and I walked around and it's totally different from when I went there with my ex-husband about 13 years ago. It's really nice with shops, restaurants and people if you like to people watch like I do. 😉
Fe Deirdre — Google review
It's nice and clean. A great outdoor mall. It has several different restaurants and confectioneries. Clothing apperal and toy stores for all things Disney are all over the place of course. There is a must see Lego store there with huge figures. It also contains several flowers, multiple water features and a great walking space.
Disneyland Park is a world-famous amusement park located in Anaheim, California. The park features rides, shows, and themed lands from various Disney movies and cartoons. It is one of the most popular attractions in the world and has been operational since 1955.
We had an amazing time going to Disneyland it was an absolutely wonderful time. You can do so much fun stuff at Disneyland and you can eat so many different things There. I loved the rise of the resistance ride it was so fun and there was so much detail to it. I do have a few recommendations. Number 1 is to get genie plus and the app l. It makes your whole experience better. Also if you want to go somewhere like the blue bayou make sure to make a reservation in advance.i think it was like 60 days. Also getting the genie plus gives you access to the lightning lane witch makes the lines go by quicker sometimes so much quicker. I would highly recommend going to Disneyland it is such a fun experience.
Luke Heberlein — Google review
There's an undeniable magic to Disneyland. I mean, they literally infuse the smell of homemade cookies on Main Street. There's an atmosphere and vibe that is difficult to replicate anywhere else, especially if you are a fan of Disney's entertainment.
Some personalities may not enjoy the long-line waiting, buying tons of merchandise, and the exorbitant prices of tickets (or food inside the park). Price is a huge thing. Is it worth it? That will be up to the individual to decide. I think if you are going with children aged 6-12 it could be incredibly "magical" to watch them experience Disneyland, enjoy the rides, meet some of their favorite characters, etc. If you are going with only other adults, it may be best to make sure that everybody is a fan of Disney - because otherwise it may provide a lackluster experience and it may be better to go to a roller-coaster focused theme park. If you are going with extended family, hope to the universe that whoever is getting fast-passes for you gets it for a ride you like because you likely don't have much of a say in anything.
Overall, you are going to get your money's worth and have an enjoyable time, for sure. This is Disney's biggest money maker. It brings in more money (the theme parks in general) than basically any other portion of their business, and they own a ton. If you want to go and can afford it, it's worth experiencing at least once in your life - possibly more if you fall in love with it.
Nate Church — Google review
This was an amazing experience that we enjoyed in the rain and cold weather, we got the genie app and lightning lanes which helped out immensely. With the app we were able to see real time waits for ride lines couple days before, and schedule accordingly on the days that we were there. You can also search anything, like restrooms and restaurants. We were able to book walk up appointments for some of the restaurants and also mobile order food and coffee at some locations. This was very convenient while managing our time between meals attractions or shows........
Somesh Patel — Google review
We went for one day and tickets cost $164 each. Parking was $30, in which we also purchased ahead of time. Definitely plan ahead. We purchased a week and a half before our trip and although it wasn't the day we originally planned, everything worked out. My teens first Disneyland visit and they had fun. The only downside was waiting in line for the rides. Definitely get the Genie Service, it's only $20 per ticket, which I somehow mistaken the price. We arrived by 9am and waited for parking for about 15 minutes. Then walked towards the tram and did the security clearance [bag check, metal detector]. The tram was quick and they had multiple going at a time, back and forth, so the wait was less than 10 minutes. We were on the Disneyland Park side, so we walked and enjoyed the day there [was there for about 9 hours]. We didn't stay for the parade or fireworks. By the end of the day, the sun was too much. After being there all day, we realized it's better to go just before the sun sets, less sun exposure, shorter lines. Merchandise and food was definitely pricey. We will be back but for California's Adventure.
ANNE YIM — Google review
🎢Avoid Weekends if possible, we went on a Friday, each ride took more than 30 minutes we had a Genie+.
📱 Download the Disneyland App, there’s map on the app. And list of attractions, restaurants, rides etc.
🎟️ Genie+ is a must. Otherwise each ride will take an hour+, it’s worth your money believe me.
💧Stay hydrated. There’s water filling station everywhere, bring your own water bottle.
Karrie Chey — Google review
Crazy as it may seem. Disneyland wasn’t as packed as we expected. The wait times was less than we thought. Most of time waiting for a ride was less than a half hour. Of course the newer rides had longer lines. The earlier you get there the better chances of getting on the rides you like. We especially enjoyed getting on some of the original rides that were there when Disneyland opened. Kind of like Disneyland better than Disney World. A great day out. The only downside are the ticket prices these days.
Eddie S. — Google review
A great time! It always manages to make you feel like a kid again. The music stays with you but in a very subtle way. If you plan it right you don't have to spend a ton of money once you get in the gate to still have fun. I wish Genie+ was set up a little better, I think Fastpass we were able to do a lot more with. Lots of neat places to just hang out and enjoy.
Alex B — Google review
The happiest place on earth! Absolutely LOVE Disneyland! My family and I usually come here once or twice a year, normally around the holidays for their food. Honestly I've never had a bad experience. It does stay crowded no matter what day of the week you go but I'd think the weekdays would be better than weekends. There's always a bunch of tourists wanting to experience the magic as well.
Prices have skyrocketed every year so expect to pay around $200 during peak seasons for a one park ticket. And food, of course, will also be very pricey. But it's Disney - for some it's a once in a lifetime experience so if you're planning a visit here I'd definitely say indulge yourself and have a great time!
Lines for rides can be a bit long. My family and I usually go on Sundays so it's quite busy then. But if you download the Disney app ahead of time that gives you an estimate of wait times for rides.
You can also order food through the Disney app so you're not waiting in line! It'll give you a notification when your order is ready and you can also pay through the app so it's super convenient.
Highly recommend everyone experience Disneyland at least once in their lifetime!
Darien D. — Google review
I always have a great time at Disneyland with family. They had a great function during new years and the fireworks and band were very nice. Went with 26 people recently and oh boy was that a fun time.
k G — Google review
Amazing experience every time we go. The new Star Wars was better than expected. It felt so real! There’s always a crowd but well worth it! Loved the Star Wars Rise of the Resistance ride, it really felt like entering the Empire’s ship. The smugglers run was also enjoyable. The park was clean and well maintained. Using the app made planning the day easier. We also used the water refill stations throughout the park. Mobile ordering was easy and faster than standing in the line. Overall awesome experience and of course we will be back!
Hang Nguyen — Google review
Fantastic! Still the great Disneyland that I remember since I was a kid. Great rides and attractions plus the crowd control seems to be a little better (didn’t feel like I had to wait hours for rides). The app was helpful though could definitely be improved. And I do recommend getting genie+ if you wanna get on rides without the wait (definitely worth it.
Ricardo Seah — Google review
For early September, it wasn't too bad on crowd level. With Oggie Boogie going on its best to hit the rides after 6pm!! After 48 years, I was not disappointed! Great place for All ages!! Love Disneyland ❤️
Terri Bass — Google review
Fantastic place, first time visiting in over a decade. I highly recommend buying tickets, making the reservation, and buying the parking all in advance. If you're just going to Disneyland Park, I recommend parking in the Toy Story parking area. They have a shuttle that comes very often, and it saves you the walking (you'll be walking a lot in the park anyways). Even on a Tuesday the rides were packed and the walkways were FILLED with people. The new Star Wars attraction and the design around that area is absolutely beautiful. It looks like you're actually walking in Star Wars. They even have a life-size millennium falcon next to one of the rides. You should download the app so you can see the wait times by ride, as they update pretty often. Mid September is usually one of the least busy times of the year, and Tuesday is the least busy day of the week. Clearly it was still very packed, so be prepared. I would also recommend packing snacks and food because the food is very expensive inside. It also saves you some time ordering and waiting for food in the long lines.
Eric Yang — Google review
The Disneyland park is always clean and the cast members are usually nice. The parks were busy when I visited but it's almost always going to be busy. The things they sell are usually overpriced but it is a big tourist stop so it isn't surprising. The rides are fun but lines are super long and you have to pay for lightning lanes and such.
Frog N Friends — Google review
The Star Wars area is definitely the best part imo. Food was not as pricey as I thought it would be, but that mega pizza is definitely not mega size. I would suggest bringing your own lunch if you want to save $$. The rides were all really fun. I think the Lightning pass is worth it, especially if you are trying to do it all in one day! I would also suggest buying gear outside the park (same thing & cheaper).
Jorge Contreras — Google review
Always a great time during the Holidays! It is definitely getting to be extremely expensive for a family to go, but it also creates amazing memories for your kids. I really liked the idea of reservations to get in the park as it kept the crowds from becoming too overwhelming. And if you go… spend the money on the Genie Pass… it was worth it to be able to ride everything we did.
Disney California Adventure Park is situated in the heart of Anaheim, California and features some of the most innovative attractions on the West Coast. From Cars Land to Pacific Wharf, this amusement park is full of fun and entertainment for all ages. If you're looking for a family-friendly amusement park, Disney California Adventure Park is definitely worth checking out!
We loved California Adventures! They have some great rides, we loved radiator springs! Great place for kids!!! The entire Park smaller in size so there is less walking for little ones. Guardians of the Galaxy was one of favorite rides.
L. Helems — Google review
Great experience, more stuff to do for adults in this side and more interaction with the characters. My kids enjoy Disneyland more they are in the 5-6 year old range. Yet they still enjoyed seeing the Marvel characters. Food was cool looking but was not that great, it lack freshness. I will stick with the normal vendors next time. All in all we had a great will definitely visit again since we have the yearly pass. Next time I will take better photos 😂
Ken Gibson — Google review
A Captivating Park You Won't Tire Of!
Avengers Campus, a part of this remarkable park, promises endless excitement. I could easily spend my entire morning there. If you're a Marvel enthusiast, this is an absolute must-visit. The campus features a multitude of rides, with the standout being Guardians of the Galaxy - Mission: Breakout. This ride ingeniously transformed the old Tower of Terror into Guardians and is undoubtedly the best attraction in both parks. For any Marvel or Guardians fan, this ride is a must. Even waiting in line is a treat, with plenty of entertainment and props to keep you engaged.
Don't miss out on Cars Land either! The Cars ride sends you zooming around a high-speed circuit, and you'll often spot full-size Cars characters driving around the area. The California section is a delight, featuring the massive roller coaster, 'The Incredicoaster,' a giant Ferris wheel, a picturesque lake, and a variety of delectable food options. I highly recommend trying the mango beer, although be prepared for higher alcohol prices. Grabbing a hot dog on Main Street is also a wise food choice.
We also had the pleasure of dining at 'Lamplight Lounge' on the pier, which is located at water level. We watched the captivating light show from this vantage point, an absolute must-see. We opted for this over the fireworks show. After experiencing both parks (Disneyland Resort and California Adventure), it's evident that California Adventure is the less crowded of the two. There's more space to wander around without feeling the same level of congestion as you might at Disneyland Resort.
Nixon Caparas — Google review
We went on Monday Tuesday and Thursday. I was more pleased with Thursday due to it being less crowded in the parks. The Food and Wine Festival was happening at the same time we went and it did get crowded in some areas, but it was manageable. My sister told me it's better to go on Wednesday or Thursday for less crowds and Sunday is the worst day for crowds.
Raechel Sinclair-Dahlquist — Google review
We are not Annual Pass holders, but we have been visiting Disneyland twice a year since 1973 (except for when the park was closed for the pandemic). Although the prices are higher for everything, it is still a very enjoyable experience. Downtown Disney has new restaurants with excellent food choices. All I can say is "GO" and enjoy yourself!
Anthony Jose — Google review
We enjoy our time here most by going on Soarin’ and the Radiator Springs Racers.
We have the Magic Key so we get to visit as often as we want. But there are some things we’ve noted;
We prefer riding the Radiator Springs Racers at sunset or when it’s dark. The ambiance is more enjoyable, at least for us. Also, we usually pay for Lighting Lane but the last time we tried the single rider lane- just to see if it was worth saving a few bucks.
Of course, your group is separated when you do this but you still get to enjoy the ride. With that said, I still rather pay to sit with my family. But, we did have a conversation with a man who had a big family and he said it’s too expensive for so many people and I have to agree. So, depending on how big your group is and the cost that comes with that- the single rider lane will be much faster than the stand by lane.
I only mentioned our two favorite rides but there’s plenty more to do here.
Also, if you have interests in art I urge you to visit “Off the Page”, it’s a gallery where you can buy some really amazing pieces from some really talented artists (my favorite is Brett Owens). Some pieces are $$$ (mostly canvas) but you can always ask if they have the same piece in print or for even less, as a postcard. There’s so much more to discover here… so check it out!
Enjoy your time here but please visit both parks if possible.
Maria — Google review
My 1st visit to the park🎢 on a family vacation. Everyone had a blast!! 😃Awesome rides,🎡 good food 🍗, helpful & courteous staff. We stayed for the evening water show- absolutely the best, hands down...!! If you are a fan of Disney parks, this is a must see. 👀 Our family had a truly wonderful experience from beginning to end😁😄
Lanell Williams — Google review
This was a fun place to visit. Our kids enjoyed the rides and the activities.
The Avengers Campus is pretty cool and the Spider-Man ride was a lot of fun.
The Turtle Talk with Crush was really funny for both kids and adults.
Food was readily available everywhere you go.
Ride wait times we crazy, ranging for 30 min - 2+ hours.
Kat Brown — Google review
DCA!!! My favorite of the two parks!! Slept in til 10am and the lines were CRAZY! Would definitely recommend going closer to 8am. World of color ONE was truly amazing. Everyone in our party loved it and was in complete awe. If you stand in front of the gates by little mermaid and wait it out you’ll get a great view!! And maybe even a little surprise fountain.
Pauline Flores — Google review
The park is fun but waiting in line for an hour and then the ride “ breaks down”makes it a nightmare and a waste of time. Disney of course takes no responsibility and or no compensation is offered to customers for time wasted. Overall the park is great and is well organized, if you don’t buy the lightning pass be ready to wait a list 1 hour in line for any of the rides.
One start for clean bathrooms and some of the employees were really helpful.
Hugo Martinez — Google review
There really isn't another theme park out there like a Disney park. They spare no expense, it's so very clean, the staff are all professional and well organized plus there's lots to do. It's crazy expensive from parking to entry to food to merch but our currency exchange sure doesn't do us any favors either. It's an easy place to visit again and again. You really can't knock it until you've tried it.
They had just transitioned to Christmas when we arrived in late November...
Lee V — Google review
Awesome Disney themed park right next to Disney. It's totally worth visiting on a different day than Disneyland.
Many stand with really yummy food, desserts, drinks, wine & beers and cocktails.
Has a bit of a "grown up" vibe but still really fun for the kids.
Don't miss it, worth the extra day and the extra ticket.
jose orellana — Google review
Sadly, I found my visit to the Disney Calif. Adventure Park underwhelming.
I've got to say the Incredicoaster was fantastic and ideal for thrill seekers. The Cars-themed area was also really amazing to look at - so, so realistic. All employees we encountered were helpful and enthusiastic and the Disneyland app helps to plan your day, plus there's maps and wait times on there too.
Just like at many other theme parks, expect to spend many hours in lines for rides here, many which turn out not to be worth the wait. Even if you purchase Genie+, you can only choose a lightning lane once every couple of hours, and some rides have a separate lightning lane, which is just wrong when you've already paid extra. We chose to dine in at a cafe here which actually just turned out to be a Starbucks in disguise and was disappointing, though I probably should've looked into it a bit more.
If you're a Disney fan, it's worth a visit. Although maybe you'd prefer Disneyland, which you can walk across to in a few minutes. However, if Disney isn't all that important to you, Universal Studios was a much better experience in my opinion.
Roan Knowles — Google review
Really exciting place to visit. Really clean place, lots of places to eat with very tasty flavours. Lots of rides and roller coasters to choose from. Really busy at night. Not to bad in the morning. I would definitely recommend he king this place if your already going to Disneyland. Cast members once again are super friendly besides at the cars ride.
J — Google review
Honestly, going on a weekday during the school year is the best time to go. We were able to hit all the big ticket rides as soon as the park opened. We didn't see waits of over 30mins until close to 1pm
Samantha McDaniels — Google review
Truly a magical experience. The entire family had a great time with something fun and exciting for everyone. The biggest challenge to spending the whole day there (we were there 10am to about 10pm) was planning for the right clothing to bring to adjust to the temperature variance. We rented a locker to put extra clothes and snacks, and to put souvenirs so we didn't have to carry purchases around all day. A day at Disney is getting less and less affordable, but we feel it's worth saving up to come here.
Leo Lin — Google review
We truly enjoyed everything about this park especially guardians of the galaxy! All of the food was excellent and prices were on par it was our second time visiting and wont be our last! The only thing maybe was its graduating season so you get big crowds of youngsters that kinda mess things up but we know not to visit in May next time 🤣
Mr Fregoso — Google review
Had a Disney day by myself for the first time, and I had a blast. It was way better than I expected. I can't wait to do this again next week and this time I'll be staying a lot later to watch the fireworks. 🥳🥳🥳
Christopher Agustin — Google review
Great park for families and movie lovers. Pixar pier, Avengers / Marvel and Cars sections were fantastic! Lots to see, characters walking around for photo ops, it was fantastic. Definitely recommmend getting the Lightning pass due to wait times, some rides had an over an hour wait.
NASCAR Racing Experience and Richard Petty Driving Experience
Racecourse
Classes & Workshops
Sports Camps & Clinics
High-speed racing venue where visitors can drive or ride along in an authentic NASCAR vehicle.
Went to a race in February of 2023 and it was a fantastic experience. Besides getting in which was just waiting in a long line of cars, the racing experience itself was fantastic. The food options were endless, there was a pretty solid selection of merchandise. It was a very entertaining race and the best part was Kyle Bush (the winner). Definitely sad they’re turning it into a short track, but still happy I was able to see track before the renovations. 10/10
Joaquin Zaldivar — Google review
Amazing NASCAR Experience!!!
The NASCAR Racing Experience is one of the best NASCAR schools in America! For anyone who wants speed and thrills, come to this experience! The team is really awesome and nice, and the drivers are great! And the experience itself is really awesome!! For anyone who wants speed, come to this experience! It’s a ton of fun!
Christian Roberts — Google review
The roar of the engines is defending and the gush of wind that follows is tremendous while more than you can count race cars go flying across the track at 180, 190+ mph miles per hr. It's hardcore entertainment.
Mary Ann Abbott — Google review
So much fun
Margaret Jennings — Google review
Have you ever dreamed of getting behind the wheel of a real NASCAR race car? Well, believe it or not, this is a dream that can come true with a visit to the Richard Petty Driving Experience in nearby Fontana.
During this incredible experience, you’ll drive an authentic NASCAR race car. These cars have been driven by NASCAR greats, and you never know, you may end up driving one that was driven by one of your racing heroes.
Ankit Patel — Google review
They asked us to arrive 25 minutes ahead of time & we ended up waiting 2.5 hours
Yash Jindal — Google review
Never go here. Horrendous service with shady last minute cancellations and no refunds. Crazy that a place like this is allowed to operate a business.
Newport Beach, a charming coastal city in southern California, boasts a bustling harbor filled with boats and two iconic piers - Newport Beach Pier and Balboa Pier. The area also features the nostalgic Balboa Fun Zone, an amusement park offering classic rides and stunning ocean views. Visitors can enjoy various beaches such as the famous Wedge with its impressive waves and Corona del Mar State Beach. Additionally, art enthusiasts can explore modern and contemporary works at the Orange County Museum of Art.
Balboa Island is a charming harborside community in Newport Harbor with beach-focused activities, dining and shops. It has an entirely different feel to the bustling metropolis of San Francisco, with its quaint restaurants and chic shops. The island can be reached easily by car or ferry ride and is home to a number of attractions such as museums, galleries, sport fishing and whale-watching cruises.
This a great place for a date or a family outing. We love to walk around the smaller Balboa island and finish it off with a famous Balboa bar ice cream treat (on main street) or eat dinner at one of the many restaurants. There are also some public beaches to enjoy.
Curtis Jessup — Google review
Interesting island seems many properties are rentals. Saw many people partying outside their homes and really interesting front yards. Relaxing although parking is super hard.
You can spend an hour here walking through town and see some beautiful sunsets and have a frozen banana dipped in chocolate.
Scott Yu — Google review
So relaxing, great food and people are so friendly and took a car fairy to get to another island was awesome. Good experience for the kids and family.
Andrew Kerce — Google review
The view is breath taking . Great for walks , bike riding . Rent a boat to see all the beautiful homes and boats
Mo Tafolla — Google review
Such a beautiful place to walk around on a sunny afternoon!
Aurora Vintilescu — Google review
so beautiful, tranquility, peace, fresh...my favorite place
Steven Nguyen — Google review
Pros:
🤗 Fun and comfortable place to enjoy with family or a significant other.
🍌🥤 Offers snacks like banana frozens, smoothies, and juices.
🚴♂️🛥 Can rent and ride bicycles or boats.
🎄🚤 Houses and boats are beautifully decorated during the Christmas season, creating a fantastic ambiance.
Cons:
🚗🅿️ Traffic and parking can be very congested, especially on weekends and public holidays. Entering and leaving the island can be time-consuming.
🏝 Due to its small size, the island can be toured quickly.
📸 Criticized for being too touristy.
Cali Explorer — Google review
One of my favorite spots in the OC, and perfect pit stop on any LA to San Diego trip. Get a Balboa Bar or Frozen Banana and take a walk around the little island. Especially pretty at sunset!
Tristan Torgersen — Google review
Watching multi-millions dollars island homes is one blessing here, but I like even more is the paths around the island providing to the public to stroll. There are so much to explore including sitting by the beachfront watching various of water activities, enjoying blue skies and sunsets. Thanks to the local government and residences that are willing to share this piece of treasure to outsiders. Thank you very much.
Peng Tang — Google review
Balboa Island is a hidden gem in Orange County that is definitely worth a visit. The island has a charming, small-town feel and there are plenty of great shops, restaurants, and cafes to explore. The atmosphere is relaxing and peaceful, and the views of the harbor are breathtaking. The beach is just a short walk away, and there are plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities like kayaking and paddleboarding. Overall, Balboa Island is a must-visit location in Orange County for a fun and relaxing day out!
Mei Zhang — Google review
One of the best islands, and I will visit it again for sure
Sultan alnawmasi — Google review
My grandmother grew up here long ago when there was no lights or electricity and long before the ferrie existed. Love this little island and love the peninsula and pier. My girlfriend and I frequent the beach here almost every weekend and I'm never let down
Johnny B — Google review
I had a great time here I toured the island on bicycle. The town is very historic and the beach is very long. There are numerous activities on the beach with people playing football, basketball and persons were fishing on the pier. There is parking and public bathrooms. The beach also has a bike trail.
Lynden Sands — Google review
Always a beautiful place to eat, shop and walk on the boardwalk...the most beautiful island!
Shelley Perlin — Google review
Great place fun experience, I’m a repeat tourist to this beach area!
Stephanie Wallis — Google review
Cool place to hang out for a while!
Parking is always bad here, unless you are really early. BUT, if you type on your GPS “The Crab Cooker” restaurant, there is an inside parking lot right behind it. $15 for 2 hours, plus $2 every 15 minutes after that. Or you can do $50 for the whole day. We chose the 2 hours plus 15 minutes. We paid $19 for 2.5 hours. This parking structure is about a 3 minute walk from the beach!
Then we rented bicycles. $9 for 1 hour or $18 for 3 hours. It was fun just cruising up and down the bike path. But it does get really hectic around all the bars and restaurants area. But it was all cool! With it.
You can also just walk around. At night the restaurants and bar area get really lit! Fun times.
J G — Google review
This is an absolutely amazing place. Very beautiful and amazing place to spend your day. The island is second largest in the harbor and it is damn good. Less crowd which makes it one of the few places in Southern California you can visit safely (given covid times). You can play games, enjoy food especially traditional american cuisines, do private boat riding, watch whales and dolphins on a ferry or watch the million dollar houses along the sea line. In case you plan if coming to this place , I feel plan your stay between 5-6 hours. If you are in fishing business, don't forget your fishing 🎣 net.
Kumar Vaibhav — Google review
Terrific place for tourists and locals equally. Lots of restaurants and ice cream joints; a great place to put in your daily steps, especially in wintertime when it gets dark early. Parking on the main street could be a challenge, drive the island streets to find a spot.
Nelly Gerasimov — Google review
4.8
(719)
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4.5
(1434)
Newport Beach, CA, USA
I'll never travel to San Diego without this trip planner again
The Balboa Island Ferry connects motorists to the exclusive island of Balboa and its eclectic boutiques, restaurants, and yacht clubs. The 800-foot crossing takes just a few minutes, making it an ideal way to explore the area while on your way to or from Newport Beach.
$1.25 for adult
$.50 for kids
Take this ferry and go to the other side where the beach is. It's perfect to walk around and spend your afternoon.
When you get off this quick ferry try the corn dog right there by where you get off! The best batter corn dog!!
We had a great afternoon hanging out there!
Takako Cannon — Google review
Amazing place for a date outing. The ferry ride was beautiful and we got to see few se aliens and dolphins en route.
Aiswarya Abhisek Mohapatra — Google review
Balboa island ferry is a fun ride for all the family members, kids or grownups enjoy it, the staff are super friendly and helpful, the ride only takes about couple of minutes but it is very enjoyable, it costs around a dollar and a half to go one way, maybe more for a car, it can take up to 3 cars and about 10 to 15 passengers, it is always available and the view is outstanding when you are in the middle of the water with all the boats around you, highly recommended to go to the other side of the island with the ferry, worth the wait
Andy Gabra — Google review
We really like taking this Ferry! We ride it just for fun! It’s expensive and you can get out of your vehicle during the ride. You can also walk or have bicycle on the ferry. It’s a family tradition for us to come when we get a new car. We enjoyed the ride
James Lugo — Google review
This is one of the best and most relaxing and luxurious way to get between Balboa Peninsula and Balboa Island. We need to make sure as residents we do whatever we can to preserve this unique transportation. It has so many special memories for me ✨
Camelia Nemat — Google review
There is a BBQ place on this boardwalk called Balboa BBQ! that has the ABSOLUTE BEST HOT DOG AND BUN THAT I HAVE EVER EATEN IN MY LIFE!!!!!.....(Picture included)
I have never had a Hot Dog 🌭 that tasted like that ever! I was visiting from N.Y. and it Blew My fiance and I away!..... TRUST ME!
Bryan Regis — Google review
Experience the ferry here for the first time, it's great! A ferry can carry three cars and some pedestrians or bicycles. The sailing time is about 10 minutes, and the children are very happy. A car + two adults and two children, a total of 5 dollars one way.
Denzel Pitt — Google review
This very short ferry ride over to Balboa Island shouldn't have been of any importance. But stepping on and sitting for just the couple of minutes it takes to cross was somehow very tranquil. And bonuses: since there are multiple ferries running at the same time, we didn't have to wait, and, amidst a day of high prices for everything, getting a ride anywhere for $1.50 made it that much better.
Brad Smith — Google review
A different experience to enjoy the ferry from Newport beach to Balboa island and vice a versa. You can take the car with you on this ride. It's a 5min ferry but it's fun. I believe they accept only cash and it's $5 if not mistaken. But on busy days there could be a waiting time because each ferry takes only 3-4 vehicles onboard. Staff is friendly. Would definitely recommend to use this if visiting the island.
Viraj Gadgil — Google review
We had an amazing one day trip to Catalina Island our toddler enjoyed the trip. We are so glad we didn't bring a stroller as it is a hassle to carry and board the ferry. We brought a a duffle bag with our bathing suits towels and clothes for 3 and a backpack with snacks and sodas/water and it was all we needed for our one day trip. They also rent the E-bikes in the ferry for $100 a day and you get priority boarding on the way back. There is a parking structure where you can park until 7pm and get the ticket validated at the Catalina Flyer booth during the week.
Make sure to be ON TIME 9AM AND 4:30PM. They leave on time! Enjoy your trip to Catalina Island! 🏖🏝🛥
Cristy G — Google review
We dint see whale.. bt had amazing ride.. n they r having snacks n lunch for sale in boats.. so it was great time n we saw many many dolphins.
Swati Nagalikar — Google review
Just a great little ride over a short stretch of water, captain and mate excellent and only cost $1.50
Andrew Thomson — Google review
This was a fun little ride that someone recommended to me. It is cash only, which I didn't know. I had enough, but it was close. It was $1.50 for my car and I think $1 for me.
Molly Smith — Google review
Absolutely LOVED IT!!!! Not only did I get to see whales, also got to see dolphins! My first time going whale watching....Larry and Bryce were amazing guides and very knowledgeable! They made the experience even better!!! I am looking forward to my next trip!
T Boyden — Google review
Took my elderly father here to experience a boat ride, something he hasn't done since he was in the navy. A nice time was had by all. 😁
Bikes, Burgers and Blues — Google review
Fun, short, inexpensive boat ride between Balboa island 🏝️ & the Balboa Pier. Great walking and some great places to eat and walk around the ferry with lots of boats and beautiful homes to visually partake in.
Chris Bart — Google review
Balboa island ferry is such a fun and unique way to explore the town!
Balboa itself was not super super exciting. There are some cute gift shops and arcades. Other than that it’s mostly for the views in my opinion. But, a great way to spend your evening if you’re in the area
Adalie Burgard — Google review
Balboa Island is a beautiful place to visit especially on the holidays people do one of the best home decorations with so many lights ornaments that people like me that does not live there enjoy as much as if I go to the south coast plaza
luis mendoza — Google review
It's a cheap and fun experience to take your car across the ferry. Definitely worth it
D Yarrington — Google review
It’s just a delightful break from all the driving and enjoy that beautiful bay line and views for a sec.
It’s one of the things that defines Balboa island / peninsula and would definitely recommend if you’re with the kids or on a date (;
Family-friendly park with restaurants & a farmer's market, plus a steam train, pony rides & more.
Had a blast. Bought the 13 ride tickets for$40. We had five kids. Worth it. The kids liked the train and ferris wheel. Stayed for the magic show and some live music. Stayed for about 4 hours and spent money on food and snacks but it was all priced well for an adventure spot. It's a little slower paced so just wander around enjoy. Also the kids are super excited over this pineapple cream cheese pie and giant cinnamon roll
Jessica Watson (Psychomelon) — Google review
Took my cat for a fall walk. She loved it. I enjoyed it. Everyone was nice and accommodating to my kitty. No one bothered her nor tried to pet her without first asking. Vendors were pet friendly. there was a band playing late afternoon which made the place a bit friendlier and lively for people but too loud for my girl.
Janeth Vasquez — Google review
Cool place to shop and eat also lots of fun attractions for the kids as well. My wife always loves shopping in the stores here and the grandkids always love the rides and the animals and of course the candy it's a fun place for all ages here. Great place to have some fun for a few hours and be close to home.
Arty Jacobs — Google review
Great place to spend time with your family.
Lots to do. Family friendly. Feed the fish and turtles.
Restaurants, pizza place.
They have a really nice store with bake goods,
beer, wine etc.
Also a furniture store.
Can't go wrong visiting
this place.
Susan Ortega — Google review
An inexpensive spot for a quick outing. A $1 for admission and then additional tickets needed for ride attractions. The peacocks/wild birds were beautiful, and the pony rides provide a fun activity for kids. There are various dining options across the property that seemed to cover the basics (pizza, burger, chicken, etc.) As well as snack vendors for popcorn and such. I wouldn't say it's an all day attraction, but at least enough to spend a morning or afternoon at.
Matt Hernandez — Google review
My family and I love to come here on a Sunday. We love getting food and drinks. It's so nice to just relax and listen to the live band. They have many food options. We love the pizza, but we also love to buy the hot bread and pair it with meats and cheese from the deli. At the hamburger place, they have the best fries, and we also love the fish n chips. The roasted corn 🌽 😋 is amazing. The kids enjoy the candy store, and they have a huge variety of old school candies, which I love. Also, different nuts from chocolate covered to chili covered and plain. We also enjoy an ice cream cone from the ice cream store right outside the candy store. The veggies from the market are great quality as well.
Monique Ruiz — Google review
The all in one farm at Toms Farms. Awesome stores, awesome restaurants (pizza, burgers, etc). Huge parking lot available & plenty to see.
Customer service is amazing!
Local-forum.com
Local Forum — Google review
Stopped by after a Medicare appointment. This place is as iconic as the Madonna Inn. Great place to shop and buy specialty foods and bread baked on site. The cheese jalapeno dinner rolls are amazing, especially when topped with the port cheese spread. Yummy.
Cynthia Nakaya — Google review
Wonderful place to visit. Second counter height hardwood table we purchased from them. First one lasted over 20 years and is still in good shape, just growing tired of it, wanted something fresh and new.
Steve Prime — Google review
Always a great time. Awesome band and magician in Amusement park area. Tasty food, popcorn, & ice cream. Staff is always so friendly!
Kat Brown — Google review
Had fun. Had blueberry pancakes which are awesome! Did a little bit of shopping! Had some ice cream. As I was leaving in the afternoon I could hear a band starting. Overall, pretty good place to come for an afternoon! The furniture in the furniture store was incredibly beautiful! Very well made high end!
Melanie La Pan — Google review
I have been going to Tom's Farms since it was a vegetable stand on a 2 lane Rd. on the way to Lake Elsinore, ca. Pics show it has changed just a little😊 If you are headed that way it's a short hop off the I-15.
Barbara Cournoyer — Google review
Came here on a Sunday with my wife and daughter and this place was busy. Parking wasn't bad. We first went into the Furniture and Gifts shop and I was AMAZED at what they had in here. If you need to find a gift for anyone, you WILL find it here. I could spend a couple hours in here for sure. We then headed out to the cheese and wine shop. Loved it in there as well. We bought some bread and some pop and a brownie the size of my face!! Then, we walked over to the games and rides they have in the area. Great for the kids. We then went to have some burgers. The food was great and reasonably priced. We then hit the Candy shop!! Awwww man! Glad we saved it for last. I'll let the pictures speak for themselves. We definitely recommend and we'll definitely be coming back.
Juan Lozano — Google review
This was a fun place for our group of moms and toddlers to spend the day. Kids 2 and under are free for admission and rides. The little ones live the train and carousel, and the moms had fun getting margaritas and listening to the mive music. My only complaint is that the pumpkin patch was really small.
Linda Saunders — Google review
Pizza and potato salad were really good, the Huckleberry Cream Ale was delicious! My chili was cold or else I would have given 5 stars. But even cold, it was tasty. They have a farmers market and store with lots of yummy food and produce. We picked up some goodies!
Angela Sorrell — Google review
the location is small but it’s a nice place to take your little one! the petting zoo was rather tiny but good enough for my 3yr old and most of the rides seem to be about $5 per ticket. the rides are very tiny tot friendly and i’m only disappointed that the bounce house didn’t have any time up. the train ride was short but decent to ride! my kiddo loved it and we plan to return again for the carousel!
Elizabeth Wallace — Google review
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23900 Temescal Canyon Rd, Temescal Valley, CA 92883, USA
Mission San Juan Capistrano is a landmark Spanish mission founded in 1775. The site has been a place of cultural, historical, and religious significance for over 240 years and is home to an impressive collection of artifacts and art. The Mission also organizes events and exhibits that are popular with tourists, including a free audio tour that provides interesting stories about the site's history. Admission to the Mission includes access to the chapel, museum, gardens, and padres quarters among other areas.
So much history to learn. Inside of the mission grounds and exhibits are well taken care of and the exhibits are set up with numbers for an audio tour you take at your own pace. Membership is available. Friendly staff. Variety of items inside shop. If you collect flat pennies there are 2 machines located inside the mission...
Eleanor Post — Google review
I was completely blown away by the beauty and the history of this mission. What also impressed me is that the facility still plays an active role in serving their community, gardening for their food pantry. Missions have a complicated history with the indigenous peoples of the Americas but I noticed that there was special attention taken to acknowledge the sacredness of their culture as well as the Catholic faith. Another interesting part of the mission what the generous donation given by a local Jewish couple to restore some of the artwork. There’s a definite feeling of community beyond one set religion and it provided a welcoming environment for all. Oh, and it’s absolutely beautiful was well. A must see.
Deborah Zitomer — Google review
Always a great place to visit. Audio tour free with admission. Easy to use device. I've been visiting for probably 50 years and I learned a lot of new info by using the audio tour. New exhibits since the last time I visited. Cute area around mission also with shops and places to eat.
Wally 73450 — Google review
Stunning historial site to visit and book for photo sessions as well ($50-80 per hour). The grounds are meticulously kept, and the staff is friendly and helpful. Highly recommended! The surrounding Los Rios neighborhood and restaurants are worth visiting, too.
Lucia Diaz — Google review
Beautiful well kept grounds and gardens to wander as you enjoy the mission. Some ruins among other areas which have been restored. Plenty of history to these grounds…enjoy!
M Payler — Google review
We drove up from San Diego for the day and visited the mission. We were able to find free parking on the street, paid our $18 per person entrance fee, and walked around the grounds. It's beautiful, especially on a sunny day. Lots of beautiful photo spots. We chose not to take the free audio devices - we just followed the map and strolled around for about an hour. There are multiple restrooms inside and a gift shop. They were removing the Christmas decorations the day we visited (January 2), so if you want to see it decorated, go before the New Year.
Cori Nichols — Google review
Beautiful place to visit for some history. I love the audio option as you walk through the mission. The garden area is beautiful and such an awesome scenery to take it. The church is amazing and there’s plenty to see when coming here
Val Gutierrez — Google review
Was recommended to visit, so I took a trip. I don't think they have a designated parking lot, but the street parking wasn't far, so it was okay. The weather was great, and inside the mansion was pretty enough to visit more than a time. (I got the yearly membership, which was less than two visit's price, and they gave me free fish food, so that my kids can enjoy feeding the bit coy fishes, in two different ponds). I recommend the membership, if you go there! I will definitely go there next time! The town, garden, inside gallery, and historical museums are worth visit.
Samuel Eun — Google review
May just might be the ultimate month to visit. It was not hot or cold and there were millions of things in bloom. As far as the eye could see, there was delight, architecture, butterflies, children, brides and grooms families, beauty. Parking was very challenging, especially with a special needs child and an elder. Plan ahead and find parking before you visit this town. If your elder is not able to walk much, there are benches everywhere. But if it's a hot day, bring an umbrella for shade for this elder. There was people of all ages enjoying this historical site. The staff were fantastic and knowledgeable and very protective of the mission, not even letting the children put their fingers in the koi pond. We appreciate it. This level of commitment. The gift shop is gorgeous and full of wonderful things to bring back to friends and family. The town is full of restaurants but get a reservation ahead of time to save on dragging elders and little children around when they're fatigued. We noticed the street parking was for 5 hours which is probably enough for a family to scout around the mission, which is way too much for little children to take in in one day, but plenty of things to fascinate them at the same time. There is an art gallery inside, there's the soldiers barracks which kids love, there's an active Catholic chapel which deserves quiet, respect and modest clothing, there are the gardens and the ruins and the list goes on. Can't say enough good about this wonderful historical spot. Be sure to get your digital tour that you hang around your neck and listen to as it's very informative and not burden some in terms of length of listening which worked well for the children. Happy family memories are made at San Juan Capistrano.
Frances Peterson — Google review
I recently visited Mission San Juan Capistrano and I have to say, it was a truly magical experience. This landmark is a true gem, with so many amazing things to see and do. The chapel is absolutely stunning and I was in awe of the beautiful artwork and architecture. The museum was also fascinating, with so much history to learn about. And the gardens were simply breathtaking, with so many vibrant colors and beautiful flowers. I highly recommend visiting Mission San Juan Capistrano if you get the chance – it's a must-see destination for anyone who loves history, art, or nature.
SIRLUNA (David) — Google review
What a beautiful setting full of History and a great testament to the early Missionaries. There is the new and preservation of the old. Very dedicated personal work at the Mission San Juan Capistrano location. They explain the past very well. Plenty of restaurants nearby. Nice shopping also nearby. Easy access via the train from Los Angeles or San Diego Amtrak or Metro Link.
Jim Manion — Google review
Beautiful historic site which is explains the history of the Mission in Orange County. Has a beautiful chapel inside. Free audio guide included with admission. Has several exhibitions on different things: treasures, the mission’s operations history, different historic living quarters, etc. there is a gift shop as well that sells various religious things. While the site mentions the Native Americans who built the place, not much else is discussed about them, which is kind of annoying. I wish they would have included more recent scholarships on how the arrival of the Mission from Europe and other places affected the local Native American populations, both the positive and the negative. I also wish they dedicate a section/two of the place for the Native Americans who built this place. Aside from that they have a room on St. Junipero Serra which contains historical info about his life and ministries.
Han Setiawan (Han) — Google review
What a wonderful place to spend a few hours enjoying a historical sight. The entire site is beautiful with a fascinating array of plants. I felt like I went back in time and could easily imagine those who built and invested their lives in Mission San Juan Capistrano. The audio commentary is excellent and simple to use. There is a serenity to this place that is palpable. I will definitely go back and take others who
Ward Cushman — Google review
This is a great take to take the family to take the family, and it's easy to spend at least a couple of hours experiencing a piece of California history. This location is famous for the annual return of the swallows on the celebration of St. Joseph on March 19.
Buying tickets in advance is convenient, but if you are active duty military or a veteran, I advise buying tickets in person so you can take advantage of the $1 discount on tickets. Adults are normally $18 for admission as of the time of this review and $10 for youth (5-17). If you are military (active duty or veteran), visiting on certain holidays is free such as Memorial Day, Veterans Day, etc. There are also events such as concerts and civic celebrations that occur all year, so if you are a local to Southern California I would consider getting a membership as you can visit all year for free, and the passes are not linked to an individual, so if you have family or friends visiting, you can have them use the passes as well.
The grounds are absolutely beautiful, and your admission includes an audio tour that consists of a hand set that has recorded descriptions and backgrounds of various locations on the mission grounds. The two large fountains also have koi and smaller guppies. The chapel on the mission grounds is very beautiful for a small worship space, and it is amazing how much history is here. The gift shop is located at the exit and has many religious articles for sale as well as general souvenirs.
Definitely recommended as a place to visit and experience, especially with the family. My 8 year old normally isn't interested about historical locations but thoroughly enjoyed listening to the audio tour descriptions and feeding the koi. Not many places can do that, and any place that does is special.
Theodore Mac Quidem — Google review
Quiet and peaceful visit. Audio tour is rich in historical detail. So much to see, plan for at least 1 hour. If you have time, the visit could be 2-3 hours if you really take your time and take it all in. The chapel is amazing.
Gary Roehm — Google review
The best preserved mission we have visited! Such a wealth of information. Plan on spending at least two hours here during your visit to Old San Juan Capistrano. Tons of elementary students here during the week, so plan accordingly. Plenty of parking in the two lots nearby.
James Bray — Google review
Such a beautiful historic site. You can get the audio tour *easy to use* , the history is so rich. The cathedral is very serene. We saw many photographers taking pictures of couples for special occasions, makes for a great background.
Patricia M. — Google review
Wonderful place to visit and well worth the entrance fee. We spent over an hour exploring the grounds and buildings, and enjoyed the audio tour on our visit, learning about the mission and its people. It was a soggy day when we visited and they kindly provide umbrellas so you can still tour the outside areas.
Amy W — Google review
nice historical meaningful place . It is preserved pretty well. Has an audio tour option as well . Also has alot of flowers and butterflies freely roaming . Very beautiful place !
Guspacho M. — Google review
Came to watch the festivities on Swallows day. Rich in History. The volunteers and people were really nice. The grounds are in good shape. All kinds of friendly, nice people. Hope to be back next year
Garrett R. — Google review
Visited on St. Joseph's day. This is the day the swallows return to Capistrano. It was also the first day of spring. Program for today included mariachi, school kids, storytellers and more. Beautiful temperate day. Plenty to look at, spring flowers in bloom. In spite of this being one of the busiest days at this mission, there were still places to find a quiet place to reflect. I spotted other artists besides myself, painting on-site. Visited by tourists and locals alike.
Jodie Goodwin — Google review
If you want to support the conservation efforts of California's rich history, this would be a great stop. I didn't know that there are several of them across the state. This was a lovely stop during our staycation. They did a phenomenal job with the restoration. It's a good source of education for all of us. I loved seeing the kids do their video reports explaining what they have learned during their visit.
I also like the garden and how peaceful it is. They give discounts to Active Duty and Veterans.
Danna Keller — Google review
Beautiful, historic mission. The grounds were lovely, and the various displays and rooms were interesting. Items were labeled and the purposes were explained well. The selection of art was stunning! Nice gift shop with a good selection of sacred and secular items.
Pamela McBride — Google review
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26801 Old Mission Rd, San Juan Capistrano, CA 92675, USA
Dana Point Harbor is a bustling city hub in Southern California, offering boat excursions, whale-watching tours, a park, promenade, dining options, and shops. It's steeped in surf culture history and pays homage to influential figures with statues at Waterman Plaza. The warm waters off the coast are teeming with sea life, making whale tours a must-do activity. It's also an ideal road trip destination from Los Angeles, offering excellent dining experiences and beautiful hotels.
Always love to take pictures and a walk on the harbor or beach is the best place. Would definitely go again and get my camera ready.
Julieta Kleven — Google review
We visited Dana Point Harbor while we were staying at the Waldorf Astoria Resort. It was nice walking around the harbor, shopping, eating, and seeing a bunch of boats. There is a lovely park at the harbor as well, so we got to see a bunch of dogs while we were there which was fun. It was nice to see people out and about on water and on land. If you are looking for a nice place to walk around in Dana Point, the harbor is a great place to go.
Rosie Turkin — Google review
Nice place to wonder and admire the boats but also to have a nice relaxing lunch. It seems like a great place to walk your dog as well. I took the ferry there to the Catalina island and it was an easy place to get around
Diana Anghelus — Google review
If you want to have breakfast with beautiful seals at the weekend, Dana Point Harbor is the best location!
Aylin Bekem — Google review
This place is amazing. paddle board , kayak rentals available and pretty other water sports.Tandem paddling or kayak available etc. docking station is great. It’s great for a walk across the docking area and the restaurant. Amazing ocean view. Nice restaurant area as well.
Priyanka lallu — Google review
Fantastic place to watch sunrise and or sunset. Take a Walk, get a cup of coffee and enjoy ☺️
Poonam — Google review
It was a wonderful day. We sat in an area with a canopy, picnic table and benches. We were very close to the channel. We saw sailboats and people using paddle boards. Beautiful area and very relaxing. This area also has lots of wonderful walkways.
Susan Hutchison — Google review
Dana Point Harbor is beautiful with guest slips if you plan ahead. If you are looking to buy or sell a yacht please contact me Ian Van Tuyl at anytime day or night.
Ian Van Tuyl — Google review
Dana Park is one of the best places to relax and enjoy the spectacular view. You can meditate here. I also love the weather. Unlike in Temecula or SD, the weather here is very nice. It was 77 when I came here with my family compared to 89 to 90s in SD county. It is very peaceful here. The water is soo clean and crystal clear. The people are nice. It's close to supermarket and restaurants. Above all else, there are so much to do like paddling and riding on a boat. You can buy your own mini boat here. I'm not really family with boats and all but I know you can park yours there and just pay. It is very nice there. It is open to public. We used the back road so we saw the beautiful nature. You will drive up the hill and you can see the spectacular view from above. The landscape was wonderful. Just drive up there and I'm sure you're not going to regret. It's worth the time. It is not very expensive also. You can just buy food and bring it on the table beside the sea. Enjoy! Just make sure you clean up after yourselves to maintain the clean surrounding.
Maylene Pingol — Google review
Super laid back and beautiful place to walk and look at boats. Many people bring dogs. We love it here!
Saint Louise — Google review
The harbor offers free parking, a variety of eateries and restaurants, as well as a perfect spot to watch the boats set sail from. The harbor has an expansive view of the ocean on one side and grassland on the other for those who want to picnic or relax with their family. we really enjoyed kicking back and watching the paddle boarders and boats heading out for a day of fishing
Andrew McCauley — Google review
Dana point Harbor has a lot to offer you can walk around and there are lots of shops and restaurants and the beach,
Joyce Barnett — Google review
I LOVE LOVE this whole place. I come here at least twice a week. I love sitting by the park with plenty of spots and enough parking. I paddle board when I’m not sitting watching the boats from land. I walk along the path watching all the boats and others on kayaks and boats. I love the restaurants and the views and the overall energy of this place!
Nahaleh D — Google review
Have you been to Dana Point Harbor, especially during the Christmas holidays?
It is the prettiest place for Christmas Decorations! Decorations are all over the Harbor, and you can ride to see them all, or just sit and enjoy them while walking, having a meal, or shopping. Most beautiful Christmas lights I have seen at holiday time. Take a look!
Patricia Bishop — Google review
Gorgeous Harbor! Great Restaurants! Chart House has very nice views as you dine of entire harbour. Plenty of parks to picnic, and spend the day. Harbour is gorgeously decorated for Christmas & New Year every Year! A must see!
The March Field Air Museum is a hidden gem that hosts over 70 historic military aircrafts, including operational jets. The museum offers an extensive collection of treasures to learn from and contemplate, with the planes on display being just the beginning. Visitors can get up close to these massive machines and marvel at their power.
This is a hidden gem. The museum is much larger than I thought it would be and absolutely filled with treasures to learn and reflect upon. The planes out on the flight line are just the tip of the iceberg - and there are a lot of planes to comprehend. The ability to get so close to these massive machines is breathtaking. My favorite exhibit however is tucked in the back corner of the museum - the story of a WWII aviator in his own words by the letters he wrote home. The story starts at his recruitment in Buffalo NY to basic training to his death is the Pacific and to the recovery of his body. Powerful first hand understanding of the War experience. Look for it during your visit. You'll enjoy it too!
Geoffrey Hart — Google review
What an incredible experience. You don’t have to be aviation fan to enjoy this beautiful museum. Amazing technology created decades ago. You get to see the SR-71A Blackbird the worlds fastest aircraft up close. And the magnificent B-52 which is a monstrous aircraft. A very broad selection of fighter jets. There’s a lot to see at this museum so plan to take your time if you want to fully appreciate world class aviation.
Nas Sol — Google review
March Field Air Museum was a fantastic surprise for me, as I just happened to be in the area for business. They have several dozen classic military aircraft on display, and many in the process of being restored - I actually got to see a technician working on an F-4 Phantom as well as an F-86. Any military aviation enthusiast will love this facility. It’s a little more rough around the edges than more major air museums, but I loved that about it. You can tell the museum is a passion project for those involved.
Steven Hallmark — Google review
Having been to a bunch of aviation museums, including Dayton AFB, the USS Intrepid, and the Smithsonian, I would put this up there as one of the best.
They're very well stocked with tons of cool aircraft, and the staff is really enthusiastic. Plus they're right next to an active airfield with F-35, F-16, F-18, and Predators. I wish I had more time and will definitely be going back next time I'm in the area.
Alex Andrews — Google review
March Field Air Museum is Incredible! - Was there for the Ulises Cabrera For Mayor 2024
Campaign Kickoff and Birthday Celebration. It has changed dramatically since I was last there with many outstanding new displays and friendly staff members. I encourage everyone to visit March Field Air Museum!!
Fred Plimley — Google review
This place is wonderful for the family. We loved every part of the exhibit. The museum is well curated and maintained. The vets working in there are amazing and kind. We had a very good time.
Miguel Enr?quez — Google review
My family had an amazing time here! The tour guide was extremely knowledgeable with first-hand experience. So much to do and see. Nice gift shop. A wonderful history lesson!! Just wish we had more time to stay. I would plan on spending at least 3 hours to see and do everything!
Justin — Google review
This museum is fantastic if you ever wanted to see the Blackbird (The 'top secret' fastest plane in the world) up close and personal this is the place to go. I suggest you do not use the coupons mentioned on the first page. Check picture number two with the admission prices.
Philip arthur — Google review
March Field Air Museum was absolutely fantastic. Generally admission is $15 but Veterans get a discount. They have a gorgeous SR-71 inside with the canopy open so you can get a look inside the cockpit. Totally awesome. The flight line outside has a wonderful collection of aircraft from many decades of service. The staff are friendly and knowledgeable and a joy to talk with while visiting the museum.
Scott Schaefer — Google review
This place is truly a hidden gem, offering more than just the opportunity to see airplanes and artifacts; it provides an unforgettable experience of meeting former pilots such as the great Walter Fus. He shared captivating anecdotes and tales of his journeys, showing us pictures that filled us with pride for our men in uniform and the Air Force. I learned a tremendous amount from listening to him. Witnessing the dedication and effort required to maintain these engineering marvels was eye-opening. Exploring the cabin and being surrounded by controls, switches, and buttons was an exhilarating experience. This place is at the level of the NASA Visitor Center in Florida. Don't miss out on this amazing opportunity to bring your family and friends along and take advantage of this fantastic place where you'll create great memories that you and your family will cherish forever.
CoIin AIberto — Google review
If you live in socal, you owe it to yourself to visit March Field Air Museum and learn some history about such an important location that's been the home to some of the most famous aircraft in history. To live so close to such a historic place, it'd be a disrespect to our veterans and currently serving men and women not to visit. One of the coolest museums that I've ever been to where you can be within breathing distance of some of these iconic aircrafts. Oh and before I forget, yes they have dessert and they serve that as soon as you walk in in the form of the SR-71 Blackbird and it is magnificent.
Ruben Del Valle — Google review
Awesome. Awesome. Awesome! So glad I made the drive down here. Worth the traffic. Parking is easy and the museum has plenty of air conditioned indoor space. It can get very hot and, other than under wings, there is little shade in the outside areas. This whole facility is way more than I expected it to be. A huge selection of aircraft, vehicles, uniforms, and much more. Covers all the major conflicts, space, and civilian aviation. The inclusion of memorabilia from other nations is a really nice touch as well. On par with the Air Force museum in Dayton, OH.
Brent Hofmann — Google review
From my point of view, this air museum is one of the best among similar establishments in Southern California. It has a vast collection of military aircraft, including WWII and decades of the Cold War. My favorite airplane at this museum is SR-71. It was a unique reconnaissance aircraft capable of cruising for hours three times faster than the speed of sound. It carried incredibly sofisticated photo cameras and various advanced sensors. Visitors can see this amazing airplane from a close distance and even take a look inside of its two cockpits. There is a nice gift shop inside the museum. The museum's personnel is very friendly and knowledgeable. They also have many volunteers who are happy to answer any questions. It's a really nice place for any aviation and history buff.
Alexander Viduetsky — Google review
March Field Air Museum is one of the larger museums that I have visited. There are quite a few.modern warbirds. Sadly most are in terrible condition. The paint is peeling, wind screens are cloudy and many have flat tires. I would rather see preservative plastic on the glass than what I saw. When you can see the cockpits, they are in a decaying state.
It would be wonderful if someone could clean up the interiors.
Not a lot of prop driven planes, mostly jets.
I did enjoy watching KC-135's doing touch and goes. Plus a pair of F-16s took off, that fun watching.
March Air Museum is a great teaching location. Children will learn about military aviation throughout history.
Bradley Nakaji — Google review
Thank you, Mike, for the best tour ever!! Very fascinating information. This place was so much larger than we had expected, and it is really well done. Don't hesitate to stop by here!
Elizabeth Webb — Google review
Awesome museum! Super friendly people. Love the exhibits up close and free to touch most of them. Hands-on experience on may exhibits. Super Awesome flight simulators are free to use. Bring your good walking shoes. You'll need them outside for their extensive collections of well maintained military aircrafts. If you don't feel like walking, that's okay. They offer a guided tour where they do all the driving and will stop at every aircraft and give you an excellent description of every aircraft.
Love this place!! S
Gerundio Reoyo — Google review
Fantastic visit to March Field Air Museum! A treasure trove of aviation history with engaging exhibits and friendly staff. Great for all ages. Highly recommended!
Dmitry Kabachenko — Google review
The March Field Air Museum is a great air museum with a vast and interesting collection of aircraft and other items. Highly recommend visiting if in the area, and the numerous planes outside the museum are a great sight to see.
Brendan Kiely — Google review
The workers are very nice, very friendly, professional and above all they answer all your questions about the place. In fact, I think most of them have been working there for a long time because they know a lot about it. There are two areas. The inside area is history and The outside area has all the airplanes you can imagine. I really loved the museum.
Carlos Chavez — Google review
Stopped by the Museum on our way from Joshua tree to San Diego. My kids had a wonderful time doing a scavenger hunt for critters inside the museum/hangar. It was wonderful to see retired aircraft’s and learn about their history. Bring your kids along and have a blast…highly recommended!!
Bala Ramachandran — Google review
Outstanding museum, if you like airplanes or want to learn more. The mini bus ride around almost every plane is a must do (about 45 minutes). The military radio history is pretty good also. The people that work there are mostly volunteers and really enjoy what they do and are very knowledgeable. This place is a great tribute to those who served. Real glad we went.
Mike Harrigan — Google review
I’m impressed with the amount of aircraft that are on display. The docents are so willing to share their knowledge and sometimes experience in the exhibition. I recommend you a lot time to see the vast amount of aircraft on display.
Tim Taylor — Google review
4.8
(2275)
•
4.5
(387)
22550 Van Buren Boulevard, Riverside, CA 92518, USA
The Old Town Temecula Community Theater is a state-of-the-art performing arts theater that features both a 354-seat proscenium theater and a small 48-seat black box space perfect for intimate music performances. The venue offers stunning live entertainment from top artists, making it a must see for any visitor to the area.
Every seat in the house is good to go! The seats may be tight for those with a girth. We've been to a few plays and concerts here and have enjoyed each one. The folks who work there are top notch. And they have a snack bar outside the theater that also sells beer and wine if interested, should you choose to arrive early and relax on the spacious patio.
Tee Vee — Google review
HIGH-QUALITY PERFORMANCES! The Old Town Temecula Community Theater is outstanding! Each event I’ve attended here has been fun and enjoyable. I’ve seen play productions, concerts, and recently the Annual Jazz Festival! The seats are SO comfortable here and there’s plenty of ramps for disabled guests. The volunteers and staff are very welcoming and helpful. The venue is intimate which allows each seat to provide a great view! The theater seats have a lot of leg room. There’s upstairs seating, but it’s limited. You can also find a small balcony section on each upper side of the theater, however, they’re also limited in space. Most seats will be found at the bottom level. The theater’s box office can be found in the neighboring venue, The Merc. Additionally, the theater has a set of restrooms across from it and a snack shop that has wine, soda. candy and other goodies. The venue is family friendly and has a great atmosphere. Being in the heart of Old Town Temecula, one has several food options before and after an event as there’s many restaurants and bars nearby! I have an appreciation for this theater as they really reach out to the community and tickets aren’t overpriced!
Lorenzo Warfel — Google review
stretch your comfort zone and do something different while supporting local businesses. Go watch a play, bring the young adults with you.
Anywhere you sit is a great seat so dont' worry about that.
This place has also hosted ted talks, like a mini one but still quite good
It is kinda hidden, and even if you don't attend a play you should go check it out. Beats hanging out the in bars all the time.
Harry Gardner — Google review
What a fantastic facility! We came for the community theater and its performance of the Music Man. Bottom line... one of the best performances I have see in a long time. All the actors were great. The seats are comfortable. I hope Mom and Dad will bring me back again the next time I visit!
Geoffrey Hart — Google review
Great little theater. The Mary Poppins Musical had a great cast with amazing voices! We look forward to going here a lot more.
Karri Wagoner — Google review
The theater is a delightful small town venue, tucked behind Front Street. There is not a bad seat in the house! All of the seats are comfortable and offer a great view of the stage. The snack bar is convenient with drinks, adult beverages, and snacks. It is cozy and quite enjoyable reading the donors names on the artistic metal sculptures and plaques. The Addam's Family Musical was well done and entertaining with a quality cast. It was not as family friendly as we had hoped in language and content, yet still enjoyable.
Teresa McDonald — Google review
It is an awesome place to see a play, a show, singing group. Small enough to see from every seat. The wifey n I saw west side story. Our friends son wan acting in it. The sound of all the singing sounded great though the whole place. So go enjoy a show there if you can, sells out quickly!
Captain jack — Google review
I really like this venue. The theater is very nice. The price is right. The acting is above average and the variety of shows is very good. There is a snack bar with beer, wine, coffee, tea and bottled water. Also lots of restaurants nearby.
William — Google review
Nice place to visit, you will find good places to eat, listen to good music and buy endless souvenirs
Ariel Partida — Google review
Wonderful community theater. No bad seats! Lovely outdoor patio and lots of ladies rooms (!) Saw Music Man. Top notch cast, super kids singing and dancing, had the entire audience singing to 76 Trombones. A must for family Sundays and evening date nights.
Barbara Laurienti — Google review
Saw Led Zepagain here and it was a great venue! Sound & lighting were were really good. Seating was comfortable. There were no signs posted for the entrance so we walk around building twice to find it. Parking is $26 in the lots & you have to pay thru your phone. Not even the lot attendant could get it to work right. I had to park 4 blocks away at the city hall parking structure, which is free but made us miss 25 minutes of the show.
Mark Shifflet — Google review
Small venue, but that is a good thing. We sat in the balcony. Interestingly, the balcony is just one row of seats. That makes egress and access difficult. But the center seats in the balcony have the best view, so tripping over your neighbors is worth it!
John Steindl — Google review
Most wonderful Theater. Such a jewel and enrichment for the community. Great selections of shows as well!
Junee — Google review
We always have a good time at the theater. It's always clean, and the staff is helpful. Ticket prices are reasonable, my only complaint is the cost of parking.
Sharon Evans — Google review
We saw the Makaha Sons on Wednesday the 27th. Purchased tickets in January and surprised that 2nd row seats were available. Amazing seats and atmosphere. The acoustics were excellent as were the band and hula dancers. Looking forward to their return next year as well as other future performances.
Rick Pahoa — Google review
A must see when you're in town. Lots of restored old buildings, food options (try Goat and Vine restaurant) and shops. Make sure to also go down the side streets as there are other shops around that are worth visiting. Lastly, there's a public parking about 2 blocks up away from the main street that helps avoid competing in finding parking.
A Stint Abroad — Google review
Great venue, not a bad seat in the house. The place has the feel of a Broadway theater, with a gorgeous outdoor courtyard serving as a lobby. Saw the Andrew Lloyd Webber spectacular and it was a great tribute to the composer! Thoroughly enjoyed it!
Wilson Creek Winery is a sparkling wine winery that offers play areas, a restaurant, and live music. The wines are made with almonds and the winery has won awards for its almond Champagne.
Beautiful winery the grounds are amazing. The watermelon wine is so good and smooth. Staff was very friendly and accommodating.
Pablo Calderon — Google review
It was my 1st time, we left late but I had a good time. The grounds are kept nice and so was the restrooms. The white and sparkling wine was the best, the one red that I tried not sweet enough. They need a better and or bigger food selection. The staff is very pleasant, friendly, attentive and knowledgeable. This place is a beautiful picturesque place I will visit again.
Joely Simpson — Google review
We frequent the wineries of this area often. We are members at a few different wineries but not here yet but we have friends that are so we end up here often.
We have attended special events here as well. The family story is great and you should ask or read while there.
This is a nice spacious area with lots of gathering places. They usually have live music on weekends but it tends to get very crowded. Not a fan of crowds. They are very popular but their wine just doesn’t do it for me. Though I do love their peach champagne.
We will be back because we enjoy time with our friends but expect a crowd on weekends. And with a crowd comes lots of different types of people. That is fine and good but come on guys put on something other than your best NASCAR t shirt and ball cap. Look good for your girl and like your somewhere special with someone special. 😍
David Molner — Google review
We just got married in March of 2023! Rose, the event coordinator, is organized, communicative, and flexible. She really helped us meet our financial goals while making sure that WCW was going to be set up the way we wanted. She also made us feel right at home when we came and was generous with her time. The staff were supportive and helpful, genuinely excited for us and our big day. The venue was gorgeous even in a non-leafy season, and the ready rooms were perfect. There were plenty of places for exquisite photographs as well. The food was flavorful with good variety, and of course, the selection of wines was delicious. Our only complaint would be the cake was served a bit late and most of our guests did not get cake but we believe it was due to a communication error. They were generous with complimentary amenities and worked well as a team to execute a beautiful wedding day!
Erin and Chad Hicks — Google review
This place is full of love and care for its visitors. Fantastic wine, food and service. I would not hesitate to recommend Wilson Creek. There is a very upbeat positive vibe across the property. We loved the helpful recommendations and especially lived the sparkling wines. Thank you for a memorable day!
Craig M — Google review
Great place to visit. We took a winery tour led by 'Motor City' Mike, who was both a knowledgeable guide and a great singer! It was interesting to learn about the winery's history and wine production process. We tasted many different wines, all good. The restaurant food was good too, and our server was friendly. They even gave us a free dessert. The atmosphere on a Sunday was great!
Leonardo Ferreira — Google review
Wilson Creek is an excellent winery. Their selection is great. The servers know their wines and can offer great information on what to choose. They also know how to mix a few wines together, to give you an incredible drink. The seating area is large and clean. The vineyards are easily accessible and you can walk through them, while actually picking some of the grapes of the vine, to taste.
They have a restaurant that offers good food but in my opinion, is too costly for what they serve.
But if you're looking for a great winery to spend a day at, this is the one.
O M — Google review
We came for a wine tasting, which was fantastic.
We decided to hang out in the outdoor area, which was beautiful. We took advantage of the bar and grill and purchased a bottle of the Rosé and a charcuterie box. The wine was delicious, unfortunately the charcuterie box, when we eventually got it, was very disappointing. Once we paid, we waited by the bar, since nobody communicated to us where we would pick up our order. After about 20 minutes, we asked, someone explained that the food would be under the umbrella, we then moved to that location, the gentleman (same one that had rung us up), asked us what we were waiting for, which he then said that “maybe” the box on the counter was our order. Pictured is what you get for 20something dollars.
I would definitely come again for the wine, but definitely skip eating at the bar and grill.
Fiona D — Google review
Came here on Easter weekend and it was fabulous! We tried the new Coconut Nui Champagne and the watermelon champagne- they are to die for!!
Tastings are definitely worth it as you get to try 6 different wines.
We had some pizza and a chicken sandwich from the grill.
We also enjoyed an alcoholic slushy- which was peach Bellini flavored that day with a sangria float. 🤤🤤.
Definitely recommend this place for a fun tasting.
Tarah Ward — Google review
Lovely rustic atmosphere. Excellent food. Inspirational wine.
Stopped in with family to enjoy lunch and wines. Had a Reuben sandwich with a glass of their Barbera. Spacious venues throughout, allowing for a casual tasting with friends or a formal occasion.
James Wolan — Google review
This is a really beautiful winery. Michael gave the best tour that I've experienced in years. He shared the stories of how the Wilson family started the business here and introduced many interesting aspects of vines, grapes, and wine-making. My little kids enjoyed it very much. Highly recommended for families.
K S — Google review
Had a great experience doing a wine tasting here!! All of the 6 wines we tasted were fantastic and the bartenders were extremely friendly. They have a huge outdoor seating area and a playground for kids. Definitely will return.
Molly S — Google review
Huge space! it was a weekend we visited and was packed! Beautiful outdoor space. The shuttles around the parking lot was nice service and they were friendly. Shops and bar service was kind of slow (it was busy so understanding) and mostly go get your own style so if you plan to spend ALL day there without time limitation, it will be a nice slow fun day.
Hitomate packbag — Google review
Wilson Creek Winery is truly a picturesque destination. Its welcoming ambiance invites guests to mingle while enjoying wine tasting at the counter. Additionally, there's a separate restaurant on-site. While we didn't have the chance to experience the wine tasting or restaurant firsthand, our review is based solely on the inviting atmosphere and scenic environment of the winery.
Xavier K — Google review
We had a reservation for the Library room and had a fantastic time which was due to one person...Sarah. From the moment we arrived Sarah was happy to help us and made us feel welcomed. After Sarah got us settled at our table she did an excellent job at explaining the wines and guiding us through our tasting. While we had our favorites, we liked all of the wines we tasted. Throughout the entire time Sarah's energy matched ours and she was knowledgeable, attentive, fun, helpful, caring, and overall a joyful person. I definitely recommend this winery and look forward to my next visit. Thank you, Sarah!!
Penny Quantz — Google review
Had an excellent time at Wilson Creek Winery with my wife for our anniversary. Taylor the hostess was great. She is very knowledgeable on the wines, and made the wine tasting experience very enjoyable. In addition, we ate at the restaurant and the food was great. Most definitely will return with family and friends to enjoy the wines, great customer service and food.
Ron Bright — Google review
A beautiful spot for wine and relaxation. Even a hot day you can misters, cool wine, great view of the vineyards, and a relaxing setting. Some weekends they have great music and other weekends it’s just mellow music.
Highly recommended if you enjoy wine! Their tasting samples are great plus the price is far cheaper then elsewhere. They also have delicious cocktail combinations.
Their tours are well thought out, quite educational, and tell a great story of history and taste. Check them out! You can’t go wrong at Wilson creek!
Griffen Stapp — Google review
We visited Wilson Creekside Grille for lunch and wine tasting! We had a great experience from the weather, to the staff, super fun vibes, and delicious food! We spent over half our day here walking around, lunch and winery, so I recommend absolutely going and making the time to truly enjoy yourself! 5/5 & 10/10 Recommend
Lauren Monet — Google review
Definitely worth the trip to the far reaches of Temecula's wine country. If for nothing else, then to sample their star-studded lineup of flavored sparkling wines. There's not a bad flavor among the 8-10 different bottles. The employees were very nice and friendly, and the lead bartender at our bar was very knowledgeable. Beware, this place is so popular it fills up quickly. I recommend you make this the first stop on your tour of the wine country.
Mike Rossi — Google review
We have been members of this beautiful winery for a few years. Even though this is a busy winery, we feel important. The service is always excellent, the music good, the food good, the atmosphere good. The wines are excellent and their bubbles, oh my, perfect for summer and celebrations. My favorite is the Peach Bellini. Hubby loves the creative concoctions prepared by the staff, who mix the various sparkling wine flavors.
Seating areas throughout the beautiful grounds allow for group gatherings or intimate chats.
Rosie Wilson, one of the founders, who is in her 90s, always makes an appearance at every special event and mingles. This is so special.
Rosy S — Google review
We got lost on the way there with our limo driver. We ended up stuck on a dirt road. Be careful. I seen a paved parking lot and the main road once we arrived so you don't need to be on a dirt road at anytime. Anyhow.. the winery itself was fine and the service was great. The wine tour was ok too. The wine tasting itself was good as well, although I felt they should have provided something to clear the palette to help distinguish the wines in between tasting. I would return.
I must mention the food which was on point!
The Ponderosa Running Springs — Google review
Got attacked by a drunk individual and the security and staff basically did nothing. When I retaliated, we got asked to leave even though everyone around us vouched for us and informed the staff that the others involved have already been starting fights with others and we were not to blame. I asked to speak to the manager and their response was to ask us to sit down to de-escalate the situation and they disappeared. Customer service is nonexistent and wine is at best gas station quality.
Laith Quntar — Google review
Very good customer service for young and newbies. Felt welcomed. Can picnic. You can bring your wine tasting glass to picnic outside. I love it.
Kristina — Google review
Beautiful winery with great service. Our group came on a really packed Saturday, and as busy as it was, the service was 5 stars. We really loved the wine tasting experience here and the ambiance was really great! There was something for everyone, we enjoyed being upstairs for the tasting and chatting with staff as well as the more lively crowd downstairs, and then still the kiddos have a play area downstairs by the creek. Food was ok, but the slushie was stellar. If you get a chance, go!
Shae Rouzan — Google review
We had the pleasure of hosting my daughter’s Bridal Shower at Wilson! Linsey, the event coordinator was AMAZING! We had a vineyard brunch and the food was delicious! Wilson was so flexible and provided outstanding customer service! We will choose Wilson over and over again!
C Howe — Google review
Great place for a day at the winery! This place is huge!! And the wine selection is great. I came for a graduation party during the week and it was not as packed as they can get, which was nice. Service was very friendly and food was yummy. Great scenery for a date or just a good time with friends and family.
Andrew Rodriguez — Google review
I had a wonderful time visiting this boutique winery! It was a lovely day and the atmosphere was festive! While sampling wines we got a visit from Santa!
The staff were friendly and helpful during our wine tasting!
The parking lot was huge, but there was a cart that came through to take you from your car to the front entrance of the winery!
Wonderful memories were made during this visit!
Shane J — Google review
We did not stay at the hotel. We went to their wine tasting at the winery. Unfortunately, we found their white wines, including the chardonnay, to be overly sweet. We sampled two of their red wines but found them to be undrinkable. Despite this, we appreciated their charming shop and the friendly, albeit busy server.
Marie Kang-Scott — Google review
4.6
(1961)
•
4.5
(910)
35960 Rancho California Rd, Temecula, CA 92591, USA
The Oceanside Municipal Fishing Pier, originally constructed in 1888 and now in its sixth iteration, stretches 596 meters over the Pacific Ocean, making it California's longest pier. In addition to offering stunning views and spectacular sunsets, the well-maintained pier is a popular spot for fishing. Those who take a stroll along the pier can also enjoy sightings of local wildlife. About halfway down the pier, visitors will find a small store selling fishing gear and souvenirs.
Oceanside Pier is the longest pier over the Pacific Ocean in California. The pier is well maintained, lots of people enjoy walking the pier daily. It's a great place to take children and it's an easy walk. You can fish from the pier and about half way to the end of the pier across from the Lifeguards is a small fishing tackle and souvenir shop. It's pretty easy to see wildlife from the pier and the views and sunsets are amazing.
If you find my review helpful please give me a thumbs-up 👍 Thank you!
Ric Listella — Google review
The restaurant at the end of the pier is shut down. Seems like a great place to have a restaurant! It's a long pier, so you get to do a lot of people watching if you like that sort of thing. Also, a good spot for pictures.
Jennifer Cleary — Google review
Great views of the coast and ocean. We were able to watch the surfers below and see the pelicans up close. Easy walk to the end of the pier.
GR Wentling — Google review
A fun spot to be able to take a casual stroll over the ocean! Great views and fun shops along the way! You can even rent gear to go fishing! The only bummer is there is a great building sitting unused at the end! I would love to resore it and make something fun for the area! I'm curious who owns it and if it's for sale or if someone needs help restoring it!
Sunshine and Beaches Traveler — Google review
You will love this place. Is perfect. This place you can find everything you’re looking for. If you’re looking for food for fishing for good beach, a place to rest. they even have a food lifeguard security. This place is very nice and clean and the good thing is they have a good part a lot stronger recommended for family and France. they have tables placed to sit on. They have place with shade gosh this place it’s fantastic if you’re looking for a place to spend a whole day with your family this place for sure it is a Good Pl., Oceanside.
VoltaAoMundo ThiagoBianco (VoltaAoMundo) — Google review
This place is so beautiful! There is something for everyone including a playground for the kids, a bike path/ road right next to the beach to walk, bike to drive by. There is also a fishing pier, a dock for boating and the sunsets is just gorgeous as well! We spend 6 days here with family and couldn’t literally walk anywhere right from the beach!
julie Phillips — Google review
Sunny 🌞😎 day and perfect weather, Beautiful sunny and clean beach, this day there was a cycling event, perfect weather. I enjoyed my stay in the place and I recommend it to get out of the routine and change the environment.
Francisco Quijivix — Google review
is an absolute must-visit for both locals and tourists. Its lengthy stretch offers not only a haven for fishing enthusiasts but also provides a mesmerizing backdrop for sunset admirers. As the sun descends, the pier becomes a canvas of radiant colors, with the horizon painting a breathtaking tableau of golds, pinks, and purples. The gentle lull of the waves and the silhouette of the pier against the setting sun make it a memorable and calming experience. It’s not just a pier, but a sanctuary for moments of reflection and appreciation of nature’s beauty. Highly recommended for a tranquil evening rendezvous.
Artur A — Google review
One of many municipal piers that dot the southern California coastline, these are usually good spots to watch surfers and take a walk and look at the water. This is a less developed example of the category, with a restaurant and bathrooms and a municipal amphitheater underneath the entrance. There's a small dedicated parking lot and metered parking in Oceanside at the foot of the bridge that connects the pier to the city.
Scott Pactor — Google review
I could have spent my day just sitting on the Pier. First time I was there, loved the atmosphere, the people, it was a really fun time. I especially enjoyed listening to music 🎶 from a guy set up as a one man band & it was Awesome!
Moon Goddess — Google review
We often visit Oceanside Pier during weekends. We love the beach and pier. Mostly people come here for fishing. View is very nice. You can observe surfer’s surfing on the wave too.
Beach is nice and sandy. I always find Pelicans there.
RIMAL & SHIVANGI PATEL — Google review
Nice views and a cool breeze at the end of the pier. Left side is all gated up. Restaurant is closed. A few small shops still remain but unless you like to fish, not much to do here
Esther — Google review
It’s a wonderful place to have a walk and get some sun and fresh air. I went there in the morning and many people engage in all sorts of activities from sports to fishing. All age groups and ways of life represented. A special place even only just to sit and watch people go by or surfers or the gulls or the waves or…
Barbara Calvi — Google review
Beautiful sunset!! Nice spot for my daughter to play on the playground, play in the sand and in the water. It was a quick trip there but we both enjoyed the family atmosphere.
Kay S — Google review
It's a pier! But it's a nice pier. Fun to walk out and look back at the shore or out to sea at all the boats. Watch surfers, people fishing. Great for taking photos and because it's such a long pier it's an excellent way to get in your steps with nice surroundings.
Alexandra Browning — Google review
The Oceanside Pier in Oceanside, CA is an amazing landmark for most northern beach in San Diego County. Stunning views, charming and quaint atmosphere! Morning walks along the pier is essential!
ish v (ish digital cloud) — Google review
Love the beach live in Vegas, so Oceanside has always been one of my favorites. When I was in the Marines, I went to school at Camp Pendleton. So have some good memories in this area. So when I get a chance I will come here with the family.
Luis Carrillo — Google review
A nice place for an ocean side stroll and nice views. But don’t bring your dog, animals aren’t allowed on the beach or pier.
A former restaurant at the end of the pier is shuttered. There was a smaller pop up stand with some food options.
If you are here visiting and a movie buff, check out the Top Gun House which is just off the pier.
Jeff Meyer — Google review
I have never stopped by Oceanside before but it has very beautiful wide beaches that spread horizontally and the view from the pier is absolutely gorgeous.
It’s almost Xmas season so I see many surfers are enjoying the water.
I can tell Oceanside is one of the old beach town so it’s mixed with old school type of places and updated things.
I recommend it sometime stopping by here between LA ⇄ SD trip.
You can use the coaster train and the train stops one block from the beach. It seems very convenient.
T M — Google review
We arrived to the pier in the morning, and there were already a lot of people there. A good place to stop for a couple of hours and then go down to the beach and just stroll along the shore.
The only drawback is that you will see several homeless people and drug addicts on the pier.
LEGOLAND California Resort is a playground for all ages that features attractions such as rides and shows in an imaginative LEGO world. For the little ones, there is SEA LIFE Aquarium and LEGOLAND Water Park while the larger kids can enjoy LEGOLAND Legends of CHIMA Water Park with its spectacular Lion Temple Wave Pool and crocodile swamp.
First time visiting, and extremely happy! Very clean, very friendly staff, not over priced for food or souvenirs. Park is on the smaller side but it is geared towards younger children so it was great. Never waited more than 20min for any ride. The amount of detail is absolutely insane! From the mini city to random pigeons and ducks and creatures throughout the park it was great! The kids had a blast, they were excited to see the blocks come to life, and were able to ride just about everything. You can also get wet on the splash pads. Park closes early but we had more than enough time to do everything we wanted and a little more. Well definitely be back!
Kimberly H — Google review
Go city pass all inclusive worth the price to pay if you plan for more days in San Diego, so many things for kids to do: boat riding, ninjago ride waiting time is a bit too long, kitty disco drop, dragon ride, kids car ride, water park ticket is not included in Go City all inclusive which is a bit disappointed but we didn’t have enough time this time. Highly recommended place for family and kids, you can also buy year pass with affordable prices with water park.
Chris Hu — Google review
I love coming to Legoland with my 8yr old and 13yr old because it never feels as crowded as other theme parks. I tend to get anxious with big crowds however this place feels like you can breathe when you're walking. The water park can get packed, but it's such a nice perk to have access without an added fee for platinum, elite and gold members too!
Adriana H — Google review
Legoland has been on my bucket list ever since it opened 25 years ago. I feel lucky that I can afford to take my kids to experience this wonderful park with me. We had a great time exploring all things Lego! However, the ride lines were super long when we first got there, so we decided to explore the park instead of waiting in line for rides. The kids had a blast exploring the multiple playgrounds and we took multiple pictures with all the Lego builds throughout the park. We had lunch at Pizza Mia and it was alright, but a little pricey for what you get. It would have been better if the pizza had more toppings. One thing to keep in mind is that the park is cashless, which can be nice or not so nice depending on your situation. If you are from out of the country, you could rack up extra charges, but we were lucky enough to have a US credit card. In the afternoon, the lines for the rides were much more reasonable. We rode a few rides and played a few midway games, and stayed there from open to close. I would recommend that you take two days to experience everything this park has to offer. If you plan on visiting the water park as well, then you would need three days.
Adam Emery — Google review
Took the kids here for spring break and it was awesome! The hotel has packages that include park entry. They also can sell you the mini figure (which you can trade with any employee). We went on a Wednesday and Thursday and it wasn’t that busy. I’d avoid Friday through Sunday. The Friday we left it was as busy as we’d seen it. All the rides were fun and we never waited more that 30 mins. While they allow some food and drinks be prepared to buy food in the park. And as expected it’s $15+ per entree. Park closes at 5pm so plan accordingly. But if you are going to go stay at the hotel, it’s right at the entrance, breakfast is included too. Plus they have a bunch of Lego areas for the kids to build. A lot of entertainment and stuff after hours at the hotels too.
Jack Otto — Google review
Well designed and maintained amusement park. It is pretty clean and many characters here are made of Lego bricks. Periodically there are performances. Definitely download their app so that you can navigate the park and see the waiting times for every ride.
Henry Wang — Google review
First time here , loved it. My grandson had a blast. Love the fact that there are lots of play areas. My only complaint I have is that they need to have maintenance clean the refill machines more often so people won't have to fight off the bees and have more stations available.
Patricia M. — Google review
As amusement parks go this one was cute but not very clean or efficient. The kids still had fun but it took attendants 10 minutes to unload/load guests on rides so expect to go very few rides. There’s fun food options but lines are long. Our favorite areas were the outside playground areas! Also they played like 8 versions of “Everything is Awesome.” It got old quickly lol. Definitely fun for the Lego lover! You do need a reservation. Great family vacation!
Majeela L — Google review
We just had the best time here! We spent two days, could possibly have used a third but man the kids loved it! (As did the parents) the vast range of activities was more than I expected from the themed playgrounds my boys could have spent all day at to the building workshops and fun little shows to the cool rides! It was definitely a perfect time to bring the kids youngest 5 and oldest 10. They all found something amazing. The weather was a little chilly for the waterpark but we still made the best of it and the kids magically lasted an hour there. On a warmer day they could have easily spent another couple hours. The aquarium is also pretty exciting and something we could have spent more time on. Great place for families! Definitely would do again before the kids get too old.
Robert Childs — Google review
Legoland in California was wonderful!
It really amazing seeing all the buildings and different characters made with Lego’s.
Perfect place to bring the all the family.
There’s a lots of games, rides and shows for them to see. It makes it easy when you download the app and see what rides or shows have the shortest wait times.
The 3D shows are really fun!
🍌🌭🌽 😂
TEA REX — Google review
What an incredible experience. As a long time Lego fan, a childhood dream was finally achieved by actually getting to see the park in person. Obviously many of the rides are catered to kids but we mostly spent our time taking in the incredible builds. The park has much more of a laid back park feel. It's not like those theme parks where you're sprinting from one thing to another. Here you can just take in the beautiful surroundings and enjoy the day.
scott benton — Google review
My 7 year old loved this place especially when we were able to do the water park part of Legoland. I got my tickets through the military ticket and tours. They had a 2 day package deal that included the park, the sea life part, and their water park. So worth the ticket price because before this, I only got a one day pass. So technically we both went 3 times. 🤣
Dana Zupan — Google review
Always wanted to come here when I was a kid, but never had the opportunity. Now as a 34 year old, I got to go with my 4 year old and two year old daughters and it was a blast. Everything is so kid friendly. My kids had a blast. My only wishes are that they have more Lego figurines/statues throughout the park to look at and that they have more lights for the miniature cities so you can see them better in the dark.
Michael Lui — Google review
Stayed in the hotel Saturday night. The hotel will grab your luggage while you go into the park so when the park closes you can just walk to the hotel room. The room was ready 2 hours before scheduled. It was fun to do the scavenger hunt which is the money in the safe photo. The outdoor pool is heated but also note that if staying at the hotel you can go to the hot tub over on the castle side.
Donny — Google review
I was surprised by how much I actually loved this place. Last time I visited was almost 20 years ago and it has grown a whole lot since then. Just the right amount of rides to keep your day full and lots of little shows everywhere to keep you entertained. My favorite part though was the center of the park which is a massive Lego town. It was amazing to say the very least
Elisha Renee — Google review
Awesome small park that can be reasonably navigated in a day with kids. Cool miniature areas modeled after major US cities. The Dino area was packed but understandable because it's new. Great to see a nod to Duplo for the toddler ages!
Isaac M — Google review
Perfect for kids, but definitely not cheap.
You get the best value and experience from booking in advance and staying at one of the hotels. We stayed at the “Knights” hotel, which the kids genuinely loved. From the Wizard-themed room with a bunkbed and mini treasure hunt, to the outside entertainment on premises, there was generally always something for the kids and us to do while relaxing at the hotel.
Being guest also gets you free breakfast at the buffets, which was better than most “free” (continental) breakfast options I’ve had. Other meals at the Hotels were decent as well, with my favorite being the heavily-peppered 14oz New York steak at the “Dragon’s Den”.
Legoland itself changes up often enough to stay interesting, but there are always lines for everything (as one expects at a huge amusement park). Luckily, as a hotel guest, you get “early access” to the main parts of the park, which helps cut down waits at the popular rides early-on, and makes the rest of the day a bit easier.
It is definitely easier to walk back to the hotel to rest, or after a long, eventful day at the park, compared to having to drive home/elsewhere.
All the food and souvenirs inside the park are really expensive (but decent in quality), while the Lego sets (at least) are still MSRP.
Half the water park was closed when we were there, which was unfortunate, but seems to be a seasonal-thing.
The aquarium was larger than expected and pretty nice for the space available.
There are also plenty of playgrounds and other things for kids to do outside of rides that don’t generally have lines.
Live performances can be hit-or-miss, but our kids seemed to enjoy everything.
Scott — Google review
I love going on the weekdays. Not as busy. So kid friendly and my kiddos can pretty much go on anything and they are 5 and 7. We got rained out last year. It was so easy to go again. The Aviator ride with the triple Decker couch was my favorite. Highly recommend this place for a day of family fun.
Jordanne Starkel — Google review
It was our first visit with our 3 year old grandson. Everyone had a great day as there is entertainment for every age group( I had a hard time getting all of my men out of the areas where they could build with lego bricks). We ended up converting our tickets to a season pass.
Kathryn Wafer — Google review
First time experiencing Legoland and a big theme park with my young kids and we think it was really great! We stayed two nights at the hotel and had two days at the park. It really is big enough to need two days, especially with some rides having 60+ minutes waits. Paying to get on a ride quicker is something new to me but we did not feel the need to do it. Kids need to learn to wait and snacks and fun games together can teach them the skills! From toddler, preschool and early elementary I felt like it was a great layout for all my kids to get to experience rides. The multiple play areas with slides and playgrounds is also amazing to sit and let our kids run wild in a contained area. I’d like to see more benches with back support, as a nursing mama that was difficult to find. Plenty of bathrooms spread out, could always use more family bathrooms that allow strollers to come in. As a vegan family I’d love to see more options. Even just snacks, not candy ones, that are healthy and non dairy and have no animal products in them! Thankful we could bring our own in! The app was really helpful to know wait times and directions within the park. We felt like it was a great family vacation overall!!
Amy M — Google review
I had a wonderful experience though it rained for the first half and most of the rides were closed, I did not let that affect the review. Later on it cleared up and we had an awesome experience, the food was a bit pricey but Smokehouse BBQ was amazing and a good portion size, I got the baked beans, Mac and Cheese, and the Taste of Texas, which was pulled pork, brisket, and a hot link! All of it was delicious! The rides were amazing, we went on the submarine ride, which had real fish, and a fun treasure hunt, the new Dino Valley roller coaster, which was a great intro to someone who has never rode a roller coaster, the carousel which is a timeless classic, and my daughter rode the horse ride in medieval area, which is 36" height requirement and minimum age of 4. Parking was good we found a spot quick and a short walk to the entrance. Overall great experience!
South Carlsbad State Beach is a scenic beach known for swimming, surfing, diving, fishing & picnicking. The beach also has a cliffside campground.
We love South Carlsbad State Beach! Reservations are easy to make, camp sites are well maintained & public bathrooms & showers are always clean.
Rebecca Bare — Google review
Camped here for a night in one of the “premium sites”. It was flat enough for easy sleeping. Clean camp site, well organized campgrounds and staff was pretty nice at check in. The views were fantastic, and well worth paying for an oceanfront spot IF you are lucky enough to land one. I could easily see staying here comfortably for a week.
Ryan Mull — Google review
Nice location and staff! Great ocean views!
Papa Dan
DAN-PATTI BERNSTEIN — Google review
Love Carlsbad. Best little Gem of a village in all of California. The beaches are beautiful and just a beautiful little clean town. My all time favorite vacation!
Judy Brown — Google review
The moment they heard my accent, they immediately told me the place "was full" and that I'd have to go 1.5 miles to the next beach. As I was exiting, I saw them allow at least 4-5 other cars in after me. Guess there was enough parking for "locals"? Don't know what's going on there, tbh.
Update:
Just walked in here from the other beach side, and there's tons of parking! The photo here is just one of many vacant places.
Abhay Aggarwal — Google review
Great for sunsets but can be rocky. Parking is a challenge at times so come early.
Thomas Overton — Google review
Carlsbad State beach for camping is one of our all time favorite beach sites. If you're lucky enough to get a site, just do it, and know it'll be a blast. The snack bar is amazing, the hosts are awesome, bathrooms are clean and stocked. But come on, you get an ocean front stay with the best beaches & weather possible, what's not to love about Carlsbad?
Molly Mullen — Google review
Absolutely beautiful. I came here with my family. It was clean, had plenty of parking, restrooms, and lots of space for activities. The park rangers were really helpful as well. We had a wonderful time, and we’re planning on making it an annual visit.
Kinley Palmer — Google review
Nice beach in Carlsbad. Easy access to the beach right off of the road with decent amount of parking.
Scenic views, access to waves, amble locations to set and enjoy and space to roam
Luke Freeman — Google review
DON'T LEAVE YOUR BELONGINGS OUTSIDE. We stayed here in our camper and were sorely disappointed. We loved the views but unfortunately, our gas can was stolen, and when we tried to report it the ranger just said "Oh, yeah that's a bummer". They did not make a report or ask for our names. They do not lock the gate at the north end of the park so pedestrians can walk through at any time and we assume this is how our gas can was taken. During our stay, the garbage trucks came each morning around 3-4 am which was very strange and loud. This is a great place for families but if you don't like children this would be a place to avoid like the plague. Some of the best sunsets I've ever seen but this made it impossible to drive through the park during that time as everyone would walk down to the restaurant. There are no sidewalks so you have to walk in the road. This is the perfect place for surfers and families but not ideal for people who like privacy, security, and the ability to come and go with ease.
Taylor Wells — Google review
The beach looks pretty good. The parking lot is open till 7.30 pm at summertime, but you can park your car on the street if you find a spot (lucky you ☺). Only propane grills, no wood and charcoal (that's a sad thing).
Darya Shestakova — Google review
We love visiting this beach everyone we go to Lego land. It's very conveniently located. Clean, safe and kids have fun. We usually stay at Hilton Carlsbad so this beach is walking distance and is very convenient.
Bala Venkataramanan — Google review
I love this beach! I fell in love with this place from my first trip when I saw dolphins just off the coast with my wife. The walk up and down the beach is relaxing and safe during the day, and the large oceanfront houses are a site to behold on a long stroll.
Doug — Google review
An excellent beach with a long coastline to enjoy hiking and the salty air of okonan. Lots of space for sunbathing and smoking! There is free parking!
The Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve is a large, undeveloped stretch of coastline on the Southern California coast. The park features rugged landscapes, including forests and beaches, and is home to a variety of animals, including dolphins and bobcats. The reserve is easy to get to and features convenient parking.
Torrey Pines State Reserve has some of my favorite hiking near San Diego proper. The landscape is amazing with the vast amounts of erosion and shrubs in the area surrounding the beach. I love taking the west overlook and taking the trails down to the beach from exploring in that area. Get there early since parking fills up fast. This is a great place for a quick day hike!
Jeremy Janus — Google review
We took our family that just flew in from Germany to take in these beautiful views. They loved it. A lot of people where there. The views are stunning. Weather wise was perfect for the hike. Parking is $25 and the line seemed to move extremely slow. But it’s definitely worth going. But I believe there is parking outside if you are lucky and patient enough to keep driving around.
Angelika McKinney — Google review
Beautiful beach park with lots of trails to walk around on. Going down to the beach is a bit challenging as there's more than 100 steps, but shouldn't be too much of an issue. Just note that the next beach over is a nudist beach so you might see some naked people
Jacob Teeter — Google review
One of my favorite spots to walk/hike and relax at the beach. I never try to find the free parking, just use the south lot and pay $15 during the week and $20 on weekend. Bathrooms and sinks with soap and water. Nice hike - can adjust length by adding loops. Love the beach trail. Clean beach, rarely over-crowded. Saw a group of dolphins, even!
Dedina W — Google review
Amazing state park and reserve! There is a $20 fee to enter the park by car which is well worth it. Alternatively you can find a free parking spot close to the park and just walk into it along the beautiful beach. I would recommend taking a free natural walk tour at 10am. Our volunteer guides, Steve and Leigh were amazing and super knowledgeable!! They knew a lot about the park, its inhabitants and plants. Loved the walk! Also amazing trails. Loved Guy Fleming overlook with whale and dolphin watching spot, and beach trail which leads to the beautiful beach!!
Volodymyr Korsun — Google review
It was a great place to hike. Beaches were beautiful as usual. I loved the sunset cliffs more than this. Parking was busy but we did find a spot. Restrooms were decent. Plenty of crowd on a Saturday. So, slightly tough to enjoy peacefully. Also, has a 20$ entry fee. Not as good as sunset cliffs but alright I guess!
Venkatesh Prabhu — Google review
Spectacular, amazing and stunning views!!!
If you are visiting SD or haven’t visited this place yet, this is a must!
When you get to the top there are few hiking trails with different miles to choose. The most popular is Beach trail which brings you down to the beach and walk you straight to your car😃
Parking next to the park is hard and can take you time but it’s not impossible sometimes we do have those lucky times. There is a lot of parking around maybe 0.50m away or you can pay 20$ parking for the day😜
Susan G — Google review
This state Park is amazing, never gets old. I don't mind paying a $20 fee to park at the gate, well worth it. Great customer service, clean trail, clean beach and plenty restroom... Loll... Please note, no dogs aloud, but again it is a great experience... A little over 2 miles if you take the beach pathway or over 4 miles if you decide to walk up to the beach then go back up towards "the road" or Torrey pines lodge. They have done an incredible job by adding a new trail and fixing the stairs going down the beach. 5 star hike by the water.
christelle tachon — Google review
Excellent hiking trails! Due to having small children we opted to pay the $25 to park at the parking lot at the top of the hill and walk down from there to the beach instead of trying to find free parking and walking up the hill. FYSA, they do not accept a military discount or the national parks pass. There are bathrooms at the top and bottom of the hill although the top bathrooms were closed and they just had porta potties. The beach trailer was about 2 miles round trip and takes you down the beach. We were able to do it with our small children without any issues. The path is fairly wide for most of the areas.
Matt Wittkopp — Google review
My favorite hike close to home. You will need to pay for parking (if you don’t have a state park pass) and can park at the bottom and walk up or there is a small parking lot up the hill. The path is easy to walk through but will get your heart pumping. Accessibility to the beach will depend on the tide.
Stay away from the side of the cliffs if you’re walking on the beach. I’ve seen them fall and it can be scary.
Kikumi Phelps — Google review
Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve is an absolute gem! From the moment I stepped foot on the trails, I was in awe of the breathtaking views and pristine natural beauty. The trails are well-maintained and offer a variety of difficulty levels, catering to both casual strollers and avid hikers alike. The towering Torrey pine trees and coastal vistas create a serene atmosphere that’s perfect for reconnecting with nature. The staff is friendly and informative, providing helpful insights about the flora and fauna. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, this reserve is a must-visit destination for anyone seeking tranquility and adventure in equal measure.
Camila Espino — Google review
Beautiful state Park for hiking regardless of your fitness level. Beautiful trails through woody and arid areas with amazing views over the whole San Diego shoreline. Many nice places to take a short break and sit down. One trails ends up to beach access and there is a small visitor center showing the native species. Worth a half day or day visit. Also no entrance fee.
Ali Stone — Google review
One of the most amazing spots in San Diego County with beautiful trails and stunning views.
Watch the most spectacular sunsets, while dolphins are chasing the waves below. Intricate sandstone shapes created by the water and wind give this park a unique charm and the indigenous plants and flowers are an attraction of their own.
Walk all the way down to the beach and enjoy the waive-carved colorful rocks.
To avoid paying for parking and admission, park across from the golf course and walk to the park.
Portable toilets are available and are always kept nice and clean.
Don't leave San Diego without visiting Torrey Pines!
Anatoly Petkov — Google review
Our favourite place in San Diego.
There are any trails from easy to moderate. We take longer one and take detour to smaller ones between. Nice activity for couples who likes to stay active and healthy like us.
Monica Banavase Somashekara — Google review
A great beach with easy access , clean bathrooms and trails. We went towards the end of the day around 3pm so there was parking. If you go in the morning, it’s gets full fast and people park along the road to avoid paying the 15$ daily use. You can enter and park or drive up to the visitor center. The beach has nice mix of black sand and beach sand and few round river rock. Tide pool is short of a mile walk from life guard tower one at flat rock but you need to go during low tide or you can’t access during high tide. It’s not too crowded and lots of open space
Jeffery Kong — Google review
Gorgeous views of the ocean and natural scenery. We paid $18 for parking at the entrance and drove up to the visitor center parking lot. Friendly staff at the center and informative exhibits. We took the Flat Rock Beach trail and it was super easy with kids. Mostly downhill with a few steps. Zero shade, and though the beach was a welcome sight on a hot day we had no relief….no marine layer just hot wind! Despite the heat we decided to make a loop to the North fork Trailhead via Broken Hill Trail. I’d call this moderate as it was all uphill. Once we got to the junction it was flat all the way back to the visitor center. 2.2 miles in all and the kids were tired and sweaty but triumphant.
Really beautiful scenery and plant life. Bring water!
Alvin Gogineni — Google review
Really nice natural reserve! Pretty busy on a Sunday morning but worth it for sure. We did the beach loop trail and walked from the north beach lot. It was around 4 miles and moderate difficulty. The views from the top are really wonderful and the terrain is cool. We went to yucca pt at the top and the view is beautiful. The cliffs along the beach on the way back are also really beautiful. We did see small debris falling so stay aware.
Sara Valderrama — Google review
It’s just gorgeous! The view is stunning! I think it’s the best state park in CA. The guided tour is a must have if you are first time visitor. We really enjoyed the two-hour ( it’s supposed to be one hour) tour guided by Gary. He’s so knowledgeable and made the tour such a pleasure. This park is a pure gem which is so special and unique in Southern California. It recalls me of those beautiful coastal areas in Northern California. It’s a must go in Southern California.
Diana R — Google review
This was a fun little day hike. Ended up walking 2.8 miles through some trails a few hills and then brought you down to the beach. Where are you finished a hike back to the parking area.
When we started, it was pretty overcast, but by the time we got back to the parking area, it had burned off and was pretty nice.
I would consider this an easy hike, but there are a few challenges with some stairs and a couple hills.
Scot Meeker — Google review
The Torrey Pines trail hike in San Diego was an absolute delight. Nestled beside the scenic beach, the trail offered breathtaking views that took my breath away. The rugged cliffs, the vast expanse of the Pacific Ocean, and the vibrant coastal flora created a picturesque backdrop for the entire journey. The trail was well-maintained, making the hike enjoyable for both beginners and experienced hikers. The cool breeze from the ocean and the soothing sound of the waves provided a calming ambiance throughout the hike. I was particularly impressed by the diversity of the landscape, from sandy paths to rocky terrains, offering a varied hiking experience. The sighting of local wildlife, including birds and plants unique to the region, added an extra layer of charm to the adventure. Overall, the Torrey Pines trail hike was a memorable experience, perfect for nature enthusiasts and anyone looking to escape into the serenity of the coastal wilderness.
Sajjad Raeisi — Google review
I went to Torrey Pines to take a walk on the Guy Fleming Trail. Fairly easy trail, although not wheelchair-friendly. Beautiful overlook over the beaches and surrounding nature.
20 dollars was a bit much for the one hour I was there. If you go there to stay on the beach the entire day, you get enough value.
Nicki Lolk Sørensen — Google review
Nice hike with ocean views. We parked just before the entrance to the park and had a short uphill walk to start the hike. The trail was clearly marked and could be done in a loop, or you can finish the hike on the beach and walk back to the parking lot. We opted the beach route so we did not have to back track. We didn’t see any snakes but saw a spider that was capable of eating a small child.
K P — Google review
Lovely hike with incredible views all the way! The razor back formations are one of a kind and super pretty. Overall the walk isn’t too strenuous but well worth the views. When you are down on the beach make sure to see flat rock and check out the tide pools.
EB — Google review
Great State Beach and State Park! Nice trails to choose from in the Nature Reserve area!! I like the fact that there is no trash bins which doesn’t invite trash! Really nice trails and views for a good whole day to spend walking in and around.
PJ — Google review
I didn’t purchase tickets online and it cost me $15 at the gate for a daily pass. I went on a Monday morning and there were plenty of parking spaces once inside the gate. All of the trails are pretty short and moderate. My favorite one was the Razor Point trail. Great views of the cliff side and a nice 180 degree view of the shore. The Parry Grove trail was also a good one. Spent about 2 hours in the park and was able to do most of the shorter trails. Beautiful blue water down here compared to LA.
Aliza Brown — Google review
I love this State Natural Reserve hike! It’s definitely worth it to walk all the way down to see the beach. It’s a bit of a walk, probably around 5-7 miles of hiking. You can start from the Torrey pines golf course and finish at the Torrey Pine beach if you wanted too. The scenery is amazing and the views are gorgeous! I highly recommend people to hike this trail. It’s mainly flat until to get to the beach part.
Steven Yang — Google review
What a lovely park. The entry price is a bit high at $15. The paths are well maintained. Lots of volunteers to help with education and advice. The lady at the car pay booth was adorable.
Ninette — Google review
I loved this area. It was very peaceful. We lucked out and didn’t have to pay for parking but there are paid parking spots. There is a beach below that has a good amount of stretch. However, on top you’ll get these spectacular views that are unmatched. It wasn’t very crowded when we went either. This was one of the reasons why I love this city so much. Beautiful weather, perfect temperature, and that nice cool breeze. Wear sturdy sneakers when going down. Bring a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen.
Nicholas P — Google review
Visited this park on Jan 1st. Parked inside, there were plenty of parking spots inside @9.30am. there were a lot of people. We did almost all of it including the smaller loops inside except for the coastal trail. By the time we reached the coastal part it was nearing high tide and we thought of not doing it and returned. From one lookout in the Guy Fleming Grove, we saw multiple pods of dolphins! It's my first time seeing dolphins. Torrey pines are also a highlight here along with many other native plants. Must do while in SD.
Evelyn Paulose — Google review
Beautiful views and lovely hikes!
There’s a little cottage towards the top that is a museum about the wildlife.
You can park at the bottom and hike up, or park at the top and hike down and back up. The street parking along the road is free, but sometimes hard to come by.
The hikes can take as little as you want them to last depending on how far you go.
The Torrey Pines Gliderport in San Diego is a popular spot for hang gliding and parasailing with stunning views of the coast and ocean. In addition to this activity, guests also have the opportunity to learn how to fly paragliders or tandem flights.
This place is awesome, we took a Falconry class with Dave and the other lady but I forgot her name. These is a private property and you cannot just walk in, you have to either be with the Falcon chickens or flying the parachute thingies there. The falconry classes can be found at Total Raptor Experience.
jorge corbaton — Google review
The glider port at Torrey Pines is an amazing place to experience the beauty of the Southern California coastline. The location offers breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean, and is a popular spot for hang gliding and paragliding enthusiasts. The launch ramp provides a perfect launching spot for those seeking an adrenaline-fueled flight.
The staff is knowledgeable and friendly, making the experience even more enjoyable. They provide all necessary equipment, including gliders and harnesses, and offer instruction for beginners. The glider port also offers tandem flights for those who want to experience the thrill of hang gliding without the commitment of learning how to fly solo.
The facilities at the glider port are well-maintained and clean, providing a safe and comfortable environment for visitors. There are also several picnic tables and grills available for those who want to enjoy a picnic or BBQ while taking in the stunning views.
Overall the glider port at Torrey Pines is a must-visit for anyone looking to experience the excitement of hang gliding or paragliding. The staff, equipment, and breathtaking views make it a truly unforgettable experience.
regis kwong — Google review
Did not glide today as there was a 130 lb weight limit due to weak winds (next time we will call first). Extremely affordable gift shop! That was impressive! Friendly, knowledgeable staff. There is food but burgers and dogs. So fun just to watch!
Stacie T — Google review
Amazing location with an amazing view. Great food on site. Everyone is so friendly in the area and parking is free. We all know how hard it is to find parking in San Diego. If you want to go to the beach you can hike all the way to the water from the glide port. I just hope you are able to make it back up.
James “Chubster11” Himes — Google review
A spectacular sight as we watched them glide down the cliffs. There was plenty of parking space when we arrived close to noon. Next to it is a hike down to Black Beach which can be a challenge to some but it's worth the exercise as we relaxed by the beach.
Kim Wang — Google review
First of all, people who works here are absolutely amazing ⭐️what an amazing soulful atmosphere! Thank you for such an incredible experience and time with You! Thank you for the memories you gave us and for the wonderful support and care you gave our little one during the flight! There will be a thousand of people flying with you but for us you will be a memory for whole life 🪂
Lucy I am — Google review
This is one of the top spots I always take people when they visit San Diego! It’s best at sunrise and sunset. There is always plenty of parking, and they have a bar and coffee shop so you can enjoy a drink while you watch hang-gliders fly.
There are hiking trails that connect from this gliderport that you can also take from here. Some go down to the beach, and some go to other nearby peaks.
Jess Lin — Google review
I recently had the pleasure of visiting Torrey Pines in San Diego and it was an experience that I will never forget! The views from the top of the cliff were absolutely breathtaking and the trails were well-maintained and easy to navigate. The staff was friendly and helpful, and the park was kept clean and free of litter. I highly recommend this park for anyone looking for a great place to explore and enjoy nature. 4 stars!
shirish kamat — Google review
The Gliderport never disappoints. One of these days I'll sign up for a tandem flight. However, in the meantime, we visit several times a year and enjoy lunch and the view. The seating and food preparation areas have improved, allowing a leisurely lunch while watching paragliders take flight and land. An outdoor pizza oven was added, but couldn't tell if it was in operation the afternoon we were there. Highly recommend this place for local and out-of-towners. It used to be that you could bring your own sack lunch and sit and it, but they now have signs indicating no outside food may be brought into the seating area. We share a burger and fries. Ordered another plate of fries as they were so good.
Sue Martindale — Google review
Went here for Total Raptor experience, be sure to book ahead of time it's AMAZING and one of the few ways outside of being a registered pilot to enter the field. Be aware of the rules ie don't walk on the grass area--just DON'T! It's for your safety and frankly your terrible cell phone photo ain't worth getting hurt or worse hurting one of the pilots who is trying to avoid hitting you (I saw so SO many people thinking they could sneak out to grab a selfie 🙄) you'll get a stern warning trust me they don't mess around, be aware of the signs/areas, the risks and wear extra sunscreen. There's a small shop that sells sandwiches, refreshments but bathrooms are porta potties in the parking lot. I recommend parking farther away and walking or ubering over as the lot fills quickly on nice days. Such a great venue to enjoy the ocean, the paragliders and the amazing views (and hang with some winged friends for an afternoon!)
Kate S. — Google review
This was an amazing experience! This is a must see if you are visiting South California. The gliders lift off and land in an area very near the observation area. In addition, there is an overlook area where the gliders zip past the edge of the cliffs with the ocean in the background. Truly an experience we will cherish.
Scott Higdon — Google review
Great location. Sightseeing.
Portable restroom.
Parking on dirt.
Walking is great and easy here.
LAZARO HERRERA — Google review
I recently visited this beach, and it offers a unique experience for surf enthusiasts. The beach is known for its excellent surfing conditions, making it a popular spot for riders looking to catch some waves.
One advantage of this beach is the ample parking available, which is often a rarity at popular coastal destinations. It's a convenience that can make your visit more enjoyable, especially if you're hauling surfboards or beach gear.
However, it's important to note that there's a significant drawback to this beach. The walk up and down to the beach can be quite challenging due to steep inclines or rugged terrain. This may pose difficulties for some visitors, particularly those with mobility issues or families with young children.
In summary, if you're a dedicated surfer seeking great waves and plenty of parking, this beach could be a fantastic choice. Just be prepared for a bit of a workout when navigating the terrain to get to and from the water.
Ethan Wehman — Google review
We did not go up, but it sure was fun to stop and watch all the fun people were having there on the cliffs. It was a beautiful day and there were smiles all around - beautiful scenery. We contemplated but there was somewhere else we had to be. Would love to go back and try.
Theresa St. John — Google review
Great views and was able to see the para gliders here! The walks down the steps lead to apparently a nudist beach. Felt cold up top by the cliffs so bring sweaters!
Ethell Yarbrough — Google review
It's very nice views are overwhelming. I don't like that they have port-a-potties 🤮 the seating are needs revamped metal High chairs are not it. The food vendors seem ok I didn't order anything.Lots of bees so be careful, we visited in October and there was tons around the glideport viewing area. The parking lot was spacious lots of places to park just be careful people don't pay attention when backing up (I prevented an accident. Had to lay on the horn so this guy didn't Backup into this other car). Walking around the grounds 😵 lots of steep & narrow paths and uneven paths. I'd highly recommend wearing some decent tennis shoes. Not flip flops I seen this guy wearing some and I was floored. I personally wouldn't recommend bringing kids to any of the paths its definitely not safe for little ones (or strollers, etc) I did see a dad with his child in a backpack type of thing which was nice but with how narrow the paths are I'd not recommend it.
Eric B. — Google review
Fun place to experience the freedom of flying...gliding. Very relaxing. Incredible views of the Southern California coast, especially the cliffs that you won't see other places. Bar service, food, and picnic tables make it a natural place to hang out and enjoy a couple of hours in the sun. Port o potties have ALWAYS BEEN DISCUSTING. Bring your own wipes.
Christi Webb — Google review
We did this for my wife’s birthday. If you call the phone number at the glider port desk they will let you know if it’s windy enough to fly well and how busy the line is. We were up in the air for about 20 minutes and each had our own pilot but they flew close enough together that we could smile and see each other in the air! My guide was very skillful and went closer to the cliffs while my wife’s stayed high in the sky since she was more nervous. We landed back on the same spot we took off from right by the desk and bathrooms. During the flight there was a photographer that took these awesome photographs.
Levi Renninger — Google review
What a great experience. The 20 mins up in the air is the perfect amount of time and we got two great guides.
Didn’t get the photos or videos which was fine because the ones we took on our own were cool.
Kristina Bolt — Google review
This was the highlight of my trip to San Diego, and I did it on a whim. I am so glad I did! Christo, my tandem paraglider instructor, made me feel so comfortable! Do it! Do it! If it didn’t cost money, I will do it again!
gladys Aakre — Google review
Went on a Wednesday and there were about 5 paragliding sails taking off and landing. Peaceful activity to watch. Parking was really full though.
Lisa Mcclure — Google review
Beautifull sunrise spot. Be ready for some stairs and some elevation when climbing back up. Great spot, everyone has been friendly.
Tamara Cooper — Google review
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4.5
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2800 Torrey Pines Scenic Dr, La Jolla, CA 92037, USA
Really great excursion. It's not that far from the city and the views are very scenic. The staff is very courteous and gives you other ideas of where to go in the area for different viewpoints. There are 3 ziplines total and you really fly on them with beautiful views of the mountains and river. Highly recommend and I will be going back the next time I'm in the area.
Brandon List — Google review
I booked an appointment for December. They called me some time after I booked it, I didn’t answer and within 10 minutes, refunded me on a card that I lost. I immediately called them; they told me they would call me back to fix the issue. They never did. I called them 4 times, left several voicemails. I never heard back. I called the camp grounds. Again, never heard back. I emailed both the zip line email and the campground email. The zip line email bounced back. The campground never replied. If they don’t reply soon, unfortunately I’ll have to take them to court for my refund. It’s been two months and I’ve been patient. This is really disappointing as I try to be understanding and accommodating but I can’t be if they literally will not return my calls.
Rebecca R. — Google review
Took the family zip lining in June 2019 and had a great experience. The employees all were great and we all felt very safe during the entire tour. It was very hot when we went in June. In the high 90’s so we booked a early trip to get done before noon. Wear sun tan lotion and they supply the water. I would suggest listening very well about the stop positioning. I have done zip lines in Hawaii on two other occasions and this stopping system is very different. The stop is much faster than one would think.
B. Dieter — Google review
Awesome experience! Highly recommend. The staff was really nice, friendly and extra patient with me.. I have a physical disability yet that was no impediment to go on this adventure. I went to celebrate my best friends birthday and it was simply amazing.
Azucena Garcia-Ferro — Google review
The staff were knowledgeable, professional, and took safety seriously. I have been zip lining a few times but this was one of the better experiences. I would recommend this to anyone that likes the outdoors or wants a thrill. Well worth it.
T M2 — Google review
Great local experience if you are up to a bit of an adrenaline rush here and there. About 90 min from San Diego, La Jolla area via scenic drive on local backroads lies the thrill of the gorgeous 3 zip lines at the outskirts of Mt. Palomar.
The young crew that made sure all of this happens smoothly, without hiccups was highly entertaining, more than helpful and obsessed with safety of participants, just the way I like it, considering we had 2 teenagers in the party. They were were friendly and constantly tested our knowledge of zip line flying and breaking/'landing', which is crucial for pleasent experience.
Three times of 45 seconds of 'free flight' (well, almost) that you will never be able to forget!
Bojan Vukadinovic — Google review
The staff all have great positive energy and love their job my friends all loved the zip line. I personally didnt get to go cause I was 6 pounds too fat, maybe next time. But the waiting was nice down by the stream, so peaceful and relaxing. A very beautiful land.
Gregg H — Google review
Covid safe! Super safe an fun. Lani, Mathew,Monique an Casandra were awesome. We highly recommend. Make reservations on line. Thank u all for making my hubby b'day special. 10.2020
Ana Maria Gurfinkel — Google review
Beautiful views and wonderful staff. I always look for a spot that has the best views. The stream was nice to zip over. I just wish they had more than 3 lines.
Vicki Vaillancourt — Google review
Fun! Fun! Fun! Located in the La Jolla Indian Campground, ZZZip would make a great half day trip or if you wish to camp or RV, this could be a great weekend getaway. During the summer you can rent a tube and float along the St Luis Rey River also. Reservations are needed that can be booked online. The guides were extremely wonderful. Melissa, Joe and everyone else were very helpful and knowledgeable. For safety, high winds may limit your experience due to uncontrollable mother nature. Overall, this zip was hip and pip and given a tip.
Mini Hsu — Google review
Took my son and his friends for an overnight camping, tubing and zip line birthday celebration. A great time. The people working at La Jolla Zip Zoom were all very friendly, professional, efficient and fun. Great marks on customer service. Even greater marks on the amazing zip lines. If you can I recommend going the day before ($35 for a tent site), spend the afternoon tubing in the river, then a zip line adventure in the morning. You get a discount ~$25 off if you are a camper.
The San Diego Zoo Safari Park is a sprawling wildlife sanctuary with hundreds of exotic animals from around the world. It's perfect for first timers and provides a close-up view of some of the most impressive beasts on earth.
San Diego Safari Park is the best zoo in Southern California. You have a lot to explore and try out.
Make sure to talk to the guide at the entrance for some useful tips of that day.
The lion’s sanctuary is the best and we had a great show (see the photos and videos). The tram experience is very good for the kids and the driver is very knowledgeable and funny. You can take a lot of photos.
You will have a close encounter with kangaroos and elephants too. If you are lucky then you may pet a few kangaroos.
There are many locations to interact with animals, but most of them are closed on the day we visit.
It is not very clear which way to go. So, use the map and plan it well. Then you don’t have to walk back and forth to cover the places.
It took us around 7 hours to complete (30 minutes lunch).
The food is a bit expensive and not that great. But try out the fudge.
Joseph Stalin — Google review
The park is amazing. It is a great way to somewhat experience a "safari" in the midst of California. My entire family (5 of us) spent a wonderful day at the park. So why 4 stars?
1. It is expensive. The 5 of us spent around a $1,000 with all the rides. The entry tickets are about $60 per head. But what you experience is somewhat limited.
2. Not enough carnivores. If you were thinking you'd be driving by a herd of lions, that's not what this is. Your safari will take you by 4~5 animals - giraffes, rhinos, zebras, and some gazelles. Again, safari is a bit underwhelming.
Other than that, we had a fantastic day. The kids felt like they had their fill of animals. Food and drinks were reasonable. And a fantastic family outing.
Wook Chung — Google review
Tourist attraction? Yes.... But a place where animals live and are treated better than I get treated in life? YES! A place where animals have a chance of not going instinct? 100% A place to have an up close and personal view and education of some of the most beautiful animals in the world? 1,000% Every visit to this wonderful place provides you with chances of seeing animals in their natural habit living environments. Your contributions to this park help save these precious lives. Great for the whole family. One of my favorite experiences here is the tram ride. Take a tram around the expansive Serengeti environment with very happy and well cared for animals. A must see experience and photo opportunity.
Mack Fitz-Gerald Photography — Google review
The Safari park is great for outdoor activity, walking, families and visitors of all ages. I am a local so I know that the Safari park can get very hot in the late spring, summer and fall. Plan accordingly by wearing a hat, bring a refillable water cup - free refills of water at the restaurants, sun screen, lightweight clothing. That being said- we visited in January and the temps were perfect with a little cooler breeze now and then. Food prices can be expensive but the portions are reasonable. If you're a local consider getting a pass which will be good for Safari Park and San Diego Zoo. There are different pass levels so e aware of restrictions when purchasing. There is a lot of information on the website including stroller rental, mobility scooter rental, operating hours and current pricing. You can apply the cost of your ticket to a pass if you decide to upgrade. The patches are smooth and easy to walk but the park is big, riding the Africa Tram is essential to seeing the open savannahs with Giraffes, Rhinos, Gazelle, Antelope, Water Buffalo, Zebras and such. Download the app for easy access to more info on the go. Paper maps are also available as you enter.
Mary “Mom's Travel Team” Loeza — Google review
It's an amazing full day's adventure. Parking is on a hill, so drive to the top and start your search for a spot there. It's more than a safari ride, there are many exhibits and themed areas.
No matter what you do, be sure to take that safari tour. The guides are well versed and are quick to point out the sights. Wild antelope, giraffes, cheetahs 🐆, and more.
There are gift shops, of course, and a few different food choices throughout. You can save money by bringing your own food, saving money for the gift shops!
Enjoy your day, and be prepared to walk into a great adventure.
E&C Cox — Google review
Great experience! Diverse animals, plants and visuals were thoughtfully presented and shared. Reminded me of being in Africa at the overlook lunch spot! There was a good energy that was shared from staff and attendees! People were enjoying themselves and parents and kids seemed relaxed. Gorillas were fascinating and their size was something I hadn't appreciated until this visit. Highly recommend.
Michael Nicolai — Google review
I cannot say enough good things about this place! They are a non-for profit so everything you spend from the tickets, food and souvenirs helps the animals. They did a great job with the park set up, tons of land for the animals.
It is beautiful and the staff really cares about the animals. Great way to see animals and not feel guilty doing it. While they are in captivity, they have adequate space. On the tram ride the driver said they have had the highest success rate of any park with endangered animals reproducing.
They talked about the white rhino being down to 2 females and they have scientists working to "Jurassic Park" it and create a male white rhino. The goal is for 1 of the 2 females to carry the male rhino, if successful. Now that is cool!
We met a senior couple there and they said during the week seniors were free. Not sure if this is all the time or just during the month of Feb (2022) or just a special promotion. This is a great place to go for all ages!
Mama_ KT_ — Google review
Well worth the time and money. I felt it was better than going to zoo. Animal’s definitely had more space to roam around and very well maintained. There are lot of endangered species they take care of and help breed some of those in a very sustainable way. When we went there the animals were very active and I am guessing because it was not too hot. Try to do the Africa tram in the morning because most of animals will be moving around vs sitting in shade during afternoon. Line was not crazy to get the tram. They have 3-4 trams which rotate around so it doesn’t take time. We didn’t do any other reserved safaris. If you want to get super close to animals then you can try those. We walked around 6-7 miles as per our fitness watch. I guess you will walk around that much if you want to cover everything. Most of the volunteers are knowledgeable and friendly to talk to.
Deepak Patil — Google review
Our absolute favorite place to visit. Doesn’t feel as crowded as San Diego Zoo since it’s much bigger. Many animals to see and explore. Great trails for walks with amazing views. If you are local, membership purchase is definitely worth it. Plus, with every visit you are helping animals! Have fun!
Katarina Thompson — Google review
If you don't mind a lot of walking, this is an amazing place to visit. Such a great variety of animals and habitats. It was quite warm the day we went, mid 80's. But plenty of shade to be found. Loved the Kangaroo walk about. Kangaroos right in front of you, with no fence between! Also loved the peaceful Bonsai garden.
christi hamon — Google review
Safari Park pre-pandemic: 5 stars. Safari Park 2023: 3.5 stars.
To be clear, it’s still an awesome experience for any animal lover, but if you’re picking between going to the SD Zoo or the Safari Park, I’d recommend the zoo. More animals and more bang for your buck at the zoo—to really experience the highlights of the Safari Park you have to pay up for one of the safari tours. The cost of admission is $70 alone and adding a safari will cost another $60-150+.
While safaris are optional, it’s really the only good way to get close to some of the animals (giraffes, rhinos, etc.) given the enormity of the space. Animals have so much acreage to roam, which is wonderful, but it does mean they may not be in viewing distance from the sidewalk. If you take a safari, the guides will drive you out directly to where the animals are.
Pre-pandemic, the safaris offered incredible experiences like feeding giraffes and rhinos, and petting rhinos on their horns. It made the experience worth every penny, however, you no longer get to feed or touch any of the animals. I read that these experiences are no longer offered because while the park was closed during the pandemic the animals got used to not being fed/touched by tourists, so when they reopened the park they did not resume these activities. Not sure if that’s the reason, but either way, it’s a shame because at least for me, the contact with the animals was the best part. It was disappointing not to have that opportunity.
The safari was still cool, and our guide Kelly was incredibly knowledgeable. It just quickly turns into a very expensive day. For two admissions tickets and two safari tickets, we spent $400. We could have easily spent a lot more had we wanted to ride the carousel, take the balloon ride, etc. The San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance is a wonderful cause, so to me it was also worth it to support their efforts, but would just advise others go into it aware of the costs.
Whitney Proffitt — Google review
The safari park was a lot of fun to visit. The exhibits for the animals are spacious and nice. There are a large variety of animals from different locations and ecosystems to see. Tickets are expensive and if you want to do any of the safaris past the basic tram that doesn’t get you very close you have to pay some steep additional prices. But the park itself is very nice and worth a visit. We enjoyed our day there.
Derek J — Google review
My 1st time to California and I'm not disappointed!
The Safari is pretty cool, and the animals have a lot of area to be free. I would say there is a lot of walking for sure, ups and downs inclines that are pretty formidable.
If you are staying at a resort I would do the 90 min sales pitch to get the free tickets if you can or if the resort offers that.
@65-71 per ticket plus 20 to park or 38 for up front Parking ,it would be well worth it.
lupe santos — Google review
What an awesome experience. Parking is $20 and a little trek but worth it. Be prepared to be a part of the action. Walking through the park seeing everything up close and personal. The Safari trips are worth the extra cost. The guides are knowledgeable and you'll see the animals as if you were in the Serengeti itself. Greatest advice: buy the 2 or 3 day pass. It will take you that long to fully get it while enjoying everything there is to take in. You will not regret it.
Born of Love — Google review
Very nice place to visit, especially for families and children to see and learn about the different animals. I went on a weekend and it was packed with people & it was the peak of summer so a very hot day too. I say go on a day when it's cool and nice since it involves a lot of walking. Bring plenty of water to drink or buy 1 of their souvenir cups that you can refill all day with water or any drink (if I remember correctly), for free at any drink station around the park.
Also, when it comes to ticket and parking prices, I feel like they were on the pricy side for a zoo/safari park, but hey, it's California. I had a 1 day pass ticket and it was around $74 per adult and $64 per child (ages 3- 11) at regular price. If you purchase your ticket online before you visit, then you can save a dollar or two.
Overall, I liked visiting here and would go again.
Tomoya T — Google review
Absolutely beautiful. An amazing park with so many passionate intelligent employees. I was so excited to tour the park. The food is bad. Only complaint. Pizza was bad, pretzels were stale, churro s were stale. Bird show was awesome! And the safari ride around "Africa" was amazing! Can't wait to return!
Nicholas Nilsen — Google review
Second time coming here with family. Came on a hazy Sunday that was a bit cold but it didn’t dampen our experience here at the SD safari park. Lots of good options and gift shops right upon entrance. Plenty of staff if you have any questions. I got a latte at the coffee stand they have in the beginning, decent and quick service. The exhibits are great ranging from the nocturnal duck billed platypus, young kangaroos, lions, jungle bats, wild cats, tons of birds and a huge African animal enclosure. The team ride around said enclosure is always great with lots of tips about the species they have on display. First time we came and we did the big zip line experience. Totally worth it. The views of the park from up there are incredible.
Nick Bowan — Google review
Incredible zoo. The themes, layout, and diversity in the park deserves huge praise. You could spend an entire day here and still not see everything you want to see. The food at their overlook restaurant is exquisite too!!
My only feedback is some additional signage could be valuable, to remind you of dead ends and paths that loop back to where you might not want to end up.
Senad Besic — Google review
Can to the Safari Park to enjoy the animals in a bigger habitat. There is a lot to see and do. Just make sure you bring plenty of $$ and good walking shoes. I went on the Africa tour which was about an hour long. Ir was so cool driving into there habitat and seeing them up close. It did cost some money but worth it since it goes into helping the animals. There was a hot air balloon and zip line as well. Great for the kids as you get to get a better understanding of the animals with the friendly and knowledgeable staff everywhere you look. Enjoy the pictures and videos
Alex Maravilla — Google review
Had a great field trip with our school. There are so many wonderful animals to visit. Park is clean, and so are the restrooms. Most employees are friendly and welcoming. The food area is equipped with a variety of quick snacks. We enjoyed our day at the Safari park. There is a small playground area with plenty of shade that became our spot for about 20 minutes. Kids had a blast.
F. Acostaa — Google review
Beyond the Scenes African Safari tour is extra and needs a reservation. A guided tour beyond the scene with the most informative guide driven around and beyond in a passenger cart for 90 minutes. These tours are the best way to navigate throughout the park. We had a private bird show too. My family made the comment we learned so much more about wildlife than if we were just on our own through the park. I highly suggest it. Our guide was excellent and very knowledgeable.
Alice PiperMorris — Google review
The best time to see them is when they’re called out for snacks 😁.. So be there on time and prepare your phones/cameras for their amazing interactions. And buy tickets ahead. Also, you can get good price if you get a combo/package of “San Diego Zoo” and “San Diego Zoo Safari”. Yes those 2places are different from each other so please don’t get confused 😊… In this videos, you can find these gorillas at San Diego Zoo Safari.. my suggestion was, be ready for a long hiking 🥾 😁. You can bring your own snacks too but please don’t feed the animals nor leave your garbage everywhere. So bare in mind to be packed all the time.
Zindee Hegseth — Google review
San Diego Zoo Safari Park - an amazing experience and one the whole family will love.
Parking
Fee is $20 on our visit or $48 for proffered parking. We parked in section 4 and waddled over to the entrance.
Entrance
You chose the location and then you get provided with all the options available.
We did the AFRICA TRAM
You walk past the main enclosures and a short stair trip or elevator ride towards the tram car and off you go on a 30 minute ride.
We loved the Rhinos and the Giraffes good to see them in such a grand setting and they look at home, if that sounds right….
The commentary on what is seen on the journey is 1st class. Informative and Allows information not known on these majestic animals.
Thank you for allowing such an experience.
After we took our tram ride. We followed it up with a visit to the
Lions
Gorillas
Elephants
The highlight for me was Mary and Peggy the San Diego Zoo - Safari Park Volunteers.
The stories they told us and the information on the residents was so detailed and you could feel the genuine enthusiasm for the role they play.
Overall we had an amazing day and one I wish we had done sooner.
Thank you. For having us.
James Cairns — Google review
Great place, but it's a confusing layout, in my opinion. We couldn't figure out how to leave when the park closed.
We ate at a restaurant that overlooked the fields. It was amazing to see giraffes and other animals running by while you're eating! We ordered tuna sandwiches, a beef and cheese sandwich, and mac and cheese. All the food was delicious too, so that was a double win!
I LOVED the safari experience that we paid extra for! Hands down, my favorite part of the entire day. The guide was AMAZING and so funny! Will visit again when in California!
Sara Cire — Google review
Great day at the park. The birds seemed to be in a particular mood to show off, but we also enjoyed our encounters with the gorillas, the kangaroos, the tigers, and an excited platypus. The enclosure designs give some space to the animals while letting the park visitors get a good look at everybody, and the walking paths and botanical variety are enchanting on their own. We did not go on any of the special attractions aside from the African Tram, but there are a few fun things to do that we did not try. Food options were pretty good but nothing particularly fancy or special. All of the Safari park staff were friendly and helpful. We spent about six hours there, saw most but not all of the exhibits, walked a little more than five miles, and had a great time as a family. We didn't have any kids with us, but the other young visitors seemed to be enjoying themselves quite a bit. Great experience!
Erin Hatch — Google review
This place was wonderful. I like the way there's so much room and they've incorporated a lot of different countries. We got to see the platimas which they're the only two outside of Australia. We went for senior day where if you're 65 or older you don't have to pay it mission. I would definitely go on this safari tour. The bus driver was very knowledgeable.
Cynthia Parker — Google review
Such an amazing place to spend the day. A huge variety of amazing animals. The show at 2pm was very fun and entertaining. The free trolley was a very cool up close experience with the animals. Will absolutely be visiting here again 😄
Anthony Cunningham — Google review
Great park. The animals are great, the plant life is amazing and so many birds. Lots of volunteers to help you navigate but not in the right locations. The maps are not very good, and the signage is confusing. Bad time of year to go...long wait for the safari tram because of all the class trips. Food is very expensive and you have to pay for parking. Also, they couldn't process my Canadian credit card so I had to buy passes on line and pay service charges. They don't seem welcoming to out if country guests. An expensive place to go.
P.J. Phillips — Google review
We have been visiting this park for years, and it never gets old. We have an annual pass to support this amazing park and unfortunately, we can only visit once a year since we are busy. It is not a zoo where animals are in small, caged areas. There is a Safari Tram that takes you around a large safari tour with a live guide who talks about animals, their conservation and efforts to protect endangered species, etc. The Park is huge and includes botanical garden & bonsai exhibits. We like walking around. The best time to visit is during the holidays and stay after dark to see the beautiful sunset and enjoy the “Wild Holiday” events/lights. We arrived early afternoon and it wasn’t too bad parking & entering the park. The animals including the tigers, gorillas, and platypuses were active.
Catherine Hunt — Google review
This safari park is very nice. Love seeing the open spaces for the animals as opposed to small living quarters. This park is clean and spacious. We purchased tickets online and walked right in.
Love riding the tram and seeing the rhinos and giraffes.
Hang Nguyen — Google review
Amazing place to take the family. Easy to navigate and takes less time than the zoo. More interactive and up close than the actual zoo as well. They have a Australian walk through where you have smaller animals running all around you. You can go up in a large, gated hot air balloon for $20 and overlook the entire park. They have beautiful well detailed exhibits. The coolest thing by far was the safari . They take you on a tram througha giant, open safari exhibit to see rhinos, zebras, giraffes, antelope, and much more free roaming animals. If you have younger children I would definatly advise picking the Safari Park over the zoo, very great for kids.
Coleman Elliott — Google review
It had been over 10 years since we had been to what used to be known as Wild Animal Park. There were a lot of changes. No longer were we allowed to handfeed the giraffe and rhino (See old photos). The natural areas were still there, and large animals (giraffes, rhinos, antelopes) roamed freely. It's a lot of walking, and fairly hilly, so we recommend riding the free tram to get an overview of parts of the park. We loved the variety, even seeing California Condors!! It's a pricey day, but a special treat.
Wellington Joe — Google review
" Fun, but very limited access unless you are super rich"
* I do not believe there is a need to visit both the San Diego zoo and the Safari, just pick one, they are almost identical now, but you will get more up close experiences at the zoo and less of hill walking then you will have to endure at the Safari.
The San Diego Zoo Safari Park has undergone significant transformations since my childhood visits, evolving into a sprawling haven for diverse animal enclosures through considerable investments. This expansion brings a delightful array of wildlife closer to visitors, yet it blurs the lines between the Safari Park and its sister, the San Diego Zoo, making one ponder the necessity of visiting both.
While the park has modernized, introducing upgraded facilities and expanding its footprint, this growth comes with a caveat. Many of the park's premier experiences now carry additional fees beyond the entry ticket. For instance, while the Africa Safari is included with admission, the Asian Safari demands an extra charge. Moreover, ongoing construction dampens the overall experience, notably in the kangaroo area, where restrictions limit interaction, a stark contrast to more immersive encounters available abroad.
The tiger enclosure, complete with a waterfall, stands out as a highlight, showcasing the park's commitment to creating enriching habitats for its residents. However, the park's mountainous terrain poses a challenge, turning a day's visit into an exhaustive endeavor. Visitors should strategize their route to minimize fatigue and aim for early arrival to secure closer parking and avoid a strenuous trek to the entrance.
The staff and volunteers exude warmth and friendliness, enhancing the visit. Yet, the steep additional costs for exclusive attractions underscore a shift towards exclusivity, with prices ranging from $100 to $500 extra per person, per experience. This pricing strategy may alienate the average visitor, steering the park's appeal towards a wealthier demographic.
In summary, the San Diego Zoo Safari Park offers a rich tapestry of animal encounters and natural beauty, marred slightly by its steep hills and high costs for exclusive experiences. While it remains a remarkable destination for wildlife enthusiasts, visitors should be prepared for the physical and financial demands of exploring this expansive, evolving park.
Nate — Google review
Incredible zoo with a wide variety of exotic animals! The animals are obviously well cared-for and in great health! The zoo is clean and beautiful. There are docents (helpful guides) in red shirts, stationed everywhere! They can tell you details about almost anything near where they are situated or how to find something.
The basic entry fee is $72 per adult, but you can buy upgraded experience tickets too. Definitely take a ride on the Safari Tram to see the giraffes, zebras, rhinos, and other animals! We even saw a baby rhino when we were there! You get a great view of them from the tram! You can also go up in the balloon (not included in the base entry price) but we didn't try that. They have a variety of animal shows as well that are really cool. There's a really cool cactus garden as well! SO much to do and see!
There are a lot of souvenir and refreshment options sprinkled throughout the park. The food is a bit pricey though, so expect "theme park" pricing! You also have to pay to park but there is definitely plenty of parking. They have trams that can take you to and from your car if you have to park far away because the lot is SO big.
Plan for a whole day (or maybe 2) there - the place is huge but lots of fun!
Greg Popp — Google review
I visited both the zoo and safari park in 2 days. Loved both, but enjoyed the safari park a bit more. Lots of animals to see. The staff and volunteers are very knowledgeable. I also opted for the zip line - what an amazing experience!! And we saw a platypus!!!
Leo Lin — Google review
4.7
(25141)
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4.5
(4634)
15500 San Pasqual Valley Rd, Escondido, CA 92027, USA