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Wanderlog staff Updated • updatedMar 31, 2023
How long is the drive from Yuma to Temecula?
The direct drive from Yuma to Temecula is 220 mi (354 km), and should have a drive time of 3 hrs 20 mins in normal traffic.
If you’re going on a road trip from Yuma to Temecula, we did the research for you and compiled some great stops along the way — with San Diego, Carlsbad, La Jolla, Escondido, Coronado, Oceanside, Tijuana, and Encinitas, as well as top places to visit like Museo Sol del Niño and Plaza Cachanilla, or the ever-popular Museum of History In Granite.
The top cities between Yuma and Temecula are San Diego, Carlsbad, La Jolla, Escondido, Coronado, Oceanside, Tijuana, and Encinitas. San Diego is the most popular city on the route. It's 3 hours from Yuma and less than an hour from Temecula.
Tijuana, a vibrant border city in Mexico, is known for its bustling Avenida Revolución with souvenir shops and lively bars. The city boasts landmarks like the neoclassical Jai Alai Frontón palace and Centro Cultural Tijuana. Visitors can enjoy lucha libre matches in local stadiums and explore nearby Rosarito's sandy beaches. Tacos Kokopelli offers a unique twist on traditional fish tacos under the guidance of an experienced executive chef.
1% as popular as San Diego
27 minutes off the main route, 68% of way to Temecula
Coronado is a city situated on a peninsula in San Diego Bay, California. The area is popular for the Hotel del Coronado, an old Victorian hotel established in 1888. The wide and flat Coronado Beach is situated across from the hotel and attracts sunbathers and surfers alike. It also includes a leash-free dog beach while the nearby Centennial Park offers stunning views of San Diego's skyline.
3% as popular as San Diego
15 minutes off the main route, 71% of way to Temecula
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La Jolla is a beautiful coastal area just north of San Diego, known for its rugged and dramatic coastline. It features stunning views, wide beaches, rocky cliffs, pine trees, sandstone canyons and natural reserves like Torrey Pines State Park. La Jolla Cove offers sweeping ocean views while the Shell Beach tide pools are home to anemones and crabs.
16% as popular as San Diego
12 minutes off the main route, 72% of way to Temecula
San Diego, located on the Pacific coast of California, is famous for its beautiful beaches, parks, and pleasant weather. Balboa Park is a major attraction with its renowned zoo, art galleries, museums, and gardens. The city's deep harbor houses an active naval fleet and the USS Midway museum. Brigantine Seafood & Oyster Bar is a popular restaurant known for its award-winning tacos and fresh oysters.
Most popular city on this route
8 minutes off the main route, 73% of way to Temecula
Encinitas, a charming beach city in San Diego County, California, is situated about 25 miles north of San Diego and 95 miles south of Los Angeles. In the heart of Downtown Encinitas, there's a restaurant serving up delicious Filipino dishes like lumpia, garlic fried rice, pancit varieties, caldereta (a beef stew), and chicken adobo. The weekday lunch specials offer a mix of these delectable options.
1% as popular as San Diego
13 minutes off the main route, 76% of way to Temecula
I'll never travel to Temecula without this trip planner again
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.
8% as popular as San Diego
12 minutes off the main route, 80% of way to Temecula
Oceanside, a charming coastal city in California, offers a delightful blend of natural beauty and cultural attractions. Visitors can enjoy the palm-dotted Harbor Beach and explore the bustling Oceanside Harbor with its marina and shops. The iconic Oceanside Pier stretches into the Pacific Ocean, providing stunning views and recreational opportunities. For those interested in surfing, the California Surf Museum showcases an impressive collection of surfboards and exhibits on renowned surfers.
2% as popular as San Diego
13 minutes off the main route, 81% of way to Temecula
Escondido, a city in San Diego County, California, is one of the oldest cities in the area. With a population of over 150,000 people, it has become a major destination for craft beer enthusiasts. The city is home to Stone Brewing, the largest producer of craft beer in the county since 2006. In addition to this renowned brewery, Escondido also boasts several smaller operations offering unique taprooms and craft beer experiences throughout the downtown area and its outskirts.
3% as popular as San Diego
2 minutes off the main route, 85% of way to Temecula
Best stops along Yuma to Temecula drive
The top stops along the way from Yuma to Temecula (with short detours) are San Diego Zoo, USS Midway Museum, and Balboa Park. Other popular stops include SeaWorld San Diego, Anza-Borrego Desert State Park, and Av. Revolución.
1
Museum of History In Granite
Museum
History museum
I am a volunteer tour guide several days throughout the week. I assure visitor's an amazing personal overview of this Museum of History engraved and etched in granite!
If you love history, humanity through-out the ages and art, this facility is for you! Especially now during covid as the Museum is all outdoors!
Well worth the visit for families with children, Seniors looking to recall historical events and Singles contemplating getting married in the Church on the Hill of Prayer.
Stop and be welcomed for your visit!
James Beard — Google review
100+degrees, no one present to give a tour. An aerial tour would be awesome if there was something else there to see. Population of 2 in Felicity, CA! Closestbathroom is a portable potty at gas station on exit. You can see it from exit. $5donation on integrity! Center of The World!!! It was too hot to walk along granite wall. Unique!
Claudia Bowman — Google review
Oh the weird & wonderful things you find in the desert. This exhibit is part of "The Official Center of the World" compound, which also houses a section of stairs from the Eiffel Tower, the Arm of God sundial that points past a pyramid and toward a small church at the top of a hill, reached only by a long set of stairs.
Along the route are numerous (and growing) granite carvings that tell of the history of Humanity, American history, US Military (Marines & Navy) and French, religious history and much more.
Quirky but something interesting to do.
Sharise, The Word Chef — Google review
Had a great time at this wonderful museum. The staff was very helpful and gave us a tour around the grounds. We actually met the founders last week in Mexico while waiting to cross the border back into the US. Highly recommend stopping. It’s only seven miles from Yuma and surrounded by the beautiful desert.
Guy Knapp (Guy and Vicki) — Google review
This is an odd place. We paid $8.00 to get a certificate that we visited the official center of the world. It was a busy day - and they only had one guy working the gift shop. They make you watch a video and participate in a wishing ceremony.
The history in granite is odd. The video says it’s intended to provide historical information for the far distant humans to read. It seems a little like one persons view is what in history is important. There’s a section about our diets including information about how many hamburgers the average human eats.
Laura B — Google review
Interesting must stop right off the highway. I spent a little over an hour there. You start with an introductory video explaining how this came to be then your tour guide will take a few minutes with you showing you some of the highlights, snapping a few photos for you if you would like, and then you will explore the grounds on your own. So much information about the world around us here captured on the stone it’s like everything you ever learned (or didn’t) about history is documented in granite.
Kevin Wessel — Google review
Lots of history to read, staff are friendly and helpful. Hidden gem in the Yuma area that you may not have known was there. Phone cameras can capture sun rays hitting the pyramid at mid day which makes for great pictures.
VPlay — Google review
Truly a hidden gem in SE California! I was pleasantly surprised by visiting this place! So many panels to read! I ended up buying books so I could concentrate later on all of the content. If you appreciate history and facts as well as a unique experience you must stop here, the center of the world. Read up on this via their website as well as read the Wikipedia page. I doubt there is a place like it anywhere in the world.
Ann Martin — Google review
Pretty cool. Some amazing historical facts about just about anything you can imagine. They keep adding more information so it could easily be an annual event to read more. We were there about 2 hours and saw/read about 10% of it.
Wendy White — Google review
Plan on spending several hours if you want to actually read all of the history around this place. Everything you see there is all carved with a Dremel and then white paint is added to make it pop. The chapel has like 57 stairs to climb, however very beautiful view from the top awaits. At the end they give you a certificate to use for your future visits.
Sarah crashell — Google review
It was very interesting, Employees were friendly and informative, and the young lady was a sweetheart and walked with me and took some photos and got me started out (they also have a tour I declined)
So you walk along the plaques that are engraved beautifully, read about our history, famous artwork, a church on a hill at the end, a maze (3 circles) and more I didn't get to ( this visit) I believe on our armed forces and parachuting? Which they do they do there once a year. I was there for about 2 hrs, I got a bit burnt in December so I would not do this in the heat/ hot months. ..... and a pyramid over the plaque that says it's the center of the Earth.....
Cute gift shop, & you get a certificate so you can get in free in the future.
It was pretty cool, I'm glad I went!
Megan Thiel — Google review
Very interesting exhibit. Depending on how many panels you read, you will spend one to three hours walking around. We arrived after 3 pm but if you go earlier, definitely bring sunblock, a hat and some shades!
Doug E — Google review
This site is definitely one to see. Still growing in the artwork etchings, but amazing what has been completed. The admission is for the season, so I hope we are able to go back. Many facets from the creation of the World are shown. Having the nativity made our Christmas season visit extra special.
Irv Rutan — Google review
Celebrating the year with a visit to the open-air museum "History in Granite." This idea was started by Jacques-André Istel, a French immigrant, 20 years ago and has not yet been finished. Located in the city of Felicity, CA, 15 or so miles from Yuma, AZ, it was created for future generations. Using only red Granite, which is durable, he has taken on the task of capturing the history of humanity in detail. Only 30% finished, it is a unique experience to be there. Points of interest: 1. The arm of Michelangelo's creation points to True North and is the starting point. 2. The Pyramid is the Official Center of the World. 3. The Chapel on the Hill. 4. The Granite Walls engraved with the history of humanity. Truly an "Unusual Experience."
Pablo N. Vasquez-Urbano — Google review
We had a lovely time. Worth the time and money. The staff went above and beyond expectations. They were welcoming and knowledgeable. Don’t believe the weird hype on-line, it’s a fun activity for all ages.
Interactive, family-friendly museum featuring exhibits on science & art, plus an IMAX theater.
Good . Clean . Safe
Indoor Technological Museum
IMax theatre
Park and Playground
Plenty of Parking
Trolley Station for
Downtown Mexicali tour
Wilfredo Mayorga — Google review
The place looked like it was really impressive at one point but when we went even though my kids had a great time, also everything was broken or out of order. Very few things worked or were completed and almost no signs to indicate you're wasting your time on it.
Jesus Madrid — Google review
Needs attention to appearance, needs proper maintenance, some attraction/activities are closed or need repair
carlos amador — Google review
Went to see a couple 3D movies. Excellent features at a great price. Very clean, decent snack bar, and had a very cool interactive kids area/ museum. Nice park area as well.
Dave parsons — Google review
Its so fun with your kids and lots to play with them
Valentin Cuevas — Google review
A good place to take your children. Unfortunately the place was lacking in making everything functional. I just feel, if you are going to charge a premium and all the activities are very low maintenance and low technology, the equipment should be operational for the children to enjoy themselves.
Louis Chavez — Google review
A lot of fun and interactive activities for kids
Christian Guzman — Google review
Great price ,many different activities for the kiddos ,the only complaint I have is that the restrooms need a cleaning.
Daly P — Google review
There's a lot to see and it wasn't crowded at all.
Ken DV — Google review
4.3
(2198)
•
4.5
(79)
Alfonso Esquer Sandez S/N, Zona Industrial, 21010 Mexicali, B.C., Mexico
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Rooms, guests
2
Rooms and guests
Rooms
1
Adults
2
Children
0
3
Plaza Cachanilla
Shopping mall
Shopping
Gift & Specialty Shops
Low-key shopping center offering a variety of local stores & services, plus a casual food court.
Found many good things here so I'll definitely be back.
Brenda C — Google review
There are quite a few stores in here, and there's nothing necessary to complain about. But it's not my preference. I prefer other malls (plazas) in the area. I think because it's one of the older ones or the oldest ones, the infrastructure is not my favorite. But still a good place to walk around in and a lot of things to see
Rex — Google review
Really bad place
But all the time pay for the parking the car.
Then if we go for do shopping and plus the parking and the don't have responsibility for damage in your car.
The restroom are really dirty and the food is with cockroach 🤮, and the are free.
Yadira Villanueva — Google review
Huge mall.. and I do mean hug. Just not anything interesting enough to buy. Everyone has the same items at different points in the mall. A few good hits here and there but not really my kind of spot. You have to be looking for something specific if you come here otherwise it's just walking around.
Alex Maravilla — Google review
It's a good mall. Bigger than others, and there are a lot of restaurants. If you want to eat Chinese food this is a good place.
Eliseo Ibarra — Google review
This is a huge mall with many different stores. Most of the stores are clothing and shoes stores, but there are other things here. The food court is pretty large. Also, they have AC.
Bryce Caster — Google review
Plaza has many shops and food establishments in its food court. Food is inexpensive. Great atmosphere.
David Gonzalez — Google review
Nice clean mall, took my daughter quince dress shopping....great selection of stores.
Juls Aresti — Google review
Very large plaza with lots of different stores with nice things average prices and very clean
Salvation Mountain is a distinctive and offbeat attraction located on the way to Los Angeles. This quirky landmark features a mound made of adobe, adorned with vibrant religious folk art. Created by Leonard Knight, the project is free to visit and allows visitors to walk up the mountain, as long as they remain on the yellow brick road. There are restrooms and shaded areas available for those who want to explore this unique destination.
Seen this in the movie, "Into the Wild" and put it on my list of must see. Visiting the high desert decided to take a day trip here. Nice drive along the Salton Sea on a paved two lane road. Be sure to gas up, have water, sunscreen and hat. Arrived in the morning and it was already hot. Easy to find, used GPS. There is parking off the road. The area was clean and a port-a-potty on sight was surprising clean and serviced. An on site care taker was friendly and working on maintenance. Information flyers and postcards are available which I loved and took advantage of. A donation box is securely set up and suggested. There was also a selfie shelf to take photos. Genius! You can wander and explore where permitted. Sunset photos would be the best. A California icon that is worth the time.
Sandi Young — Google review
If you are on a road trip and have time to swing through this place by all means check it out. But it’s basically a bunch of funky artwork and a glorified homeless encampment. Everyone there was nice and you can get some cool photos for IG but overall not worth making a special trip unless you are really bored.
Jerome Cooper — Google review
Weirdest place I've ever been but, I like strange things so I had a great time seeing the different odd things and people. If you're going there don't forget to stop by and see East Jesus. The only thing you may not want to check out is the hot spring I did and there were three people naked in there bathing. Oops!
Valerie marr — Google review
Visited in April 2015. A truly amazing and unique place that left me inspired. Bit of history: Leonard Knight, born on November 1, 1931, was the 4th of 6 children. After serving in the Korean War as a vehicle technician, he embarked on a remarkable artistic journey. Knight’s passion for spreading love and God’s message led him to create something truly extraordinary.
In the 1970s, Knight painted “GOD IS LOVE” on a hot air balloon crafted from patchwork materials and a stove. When the balloon failed to take flight, Knight prayed and felt that God’s response was to build a mountain. By 1984, he discovered Slab City, a transient and retiree commune, where he decided to leave a “small monument” made of concrete and paint. Over the next five years, the project grew, and the current Salvation Mountain emerged. Leonard Knight passed away in 2014 but was able to visit his beloved creation one last time in May 2013.
Jan Rosenberg — Google review
A great stop during your roadtrip! It’s free to visit and you can walk up the mountain as long as you stay on the yellow brick road. There is shade and some bathrooms too. Enough parking spots available. Loved all the colors!
Vanning Wilder — Google review
I highly recommend the visit. Amazing to see what one man created over 22 years. You won't need a lot of time there, however there is so much to see near by. (Slab City, Salton Sea, Bombay Beach)
Troy Manley — Google review
The people responsible for this interesting place always take great care in keeping it clean and touching up the painting. It's s truly an amazing sight to see in the middle of this Niland desert community.
L.J. Herndon — Google review
This place had a very "mad max" like feel. A lot of retired vets and people who live outside of societal norms inhabit this place. Lots of art all around 🎨 cool place to travel too and take pics of the scenery. Also, know as "Slab city"
Anthony Torres — Google review
Beautiful landmark everyone should see once in their life. Friendly folks working there who answered all of my questions. It's free to come check out, but they rely on donations for upkeep/maintenance... So donate to them, it's the right thing to do.
mill garrett — Google review
We were invited to go there on Thanksgiving friday. It was a unique place to see for the first time for sure. But there was some kind of junk yard across this place, not too far from it.
Ted Tris — Google review
You won't regret this visit. Beautiful & enlightening. Truly a remarkable place, hidden gem in the desert. The people are nice & welcoming. Please bring donations (especially paint to preserve the mountain & art). Don't forget to stop by East Jesus & their the local gift shops. Help spread the message: "GOD IS LOVE" 💖💖💖
Val Med — Google review
I wanted to be more impressed than I was. A lot was closed off unfortunately. I appreciate art and the time that goes into it but overall it was just ok. The best part was seeing the Salton Sea along the way to the mountain. The area is definitely a no man’s land. Strong smell of human waste in the air. Not worth a 6 hour round trip drive. Honestly, once you’ve seen these photos you’ve seen it all.
Leah Martin — Google review
Yes I first knew about this place from Into the wild. Always wanted to follow Chris’ foot steps to pay a visit. Unfortunately couldn’t be here before Mr Knight passed away in 2014. (Instead I hiked the Stampede trail to find the magic bus in Alaska the same year). It means a lot to me to be able to get here finally. I drove here from Toronto, Canada. Made a little donation and wishing the legacy can be continued.
Trekker T. — Google review
Absolutely must visit this place. It’s about 1.5 hours off the beaten path. We only had an hour because we had to catch our flight but you could spend an entire day. Search for Cam and Brenny on YouTube to learn more. You’ll drive through Slab City and about ten minutes beyond is East Jesus.
Cameron S — Google review
Impressive labor of love. The clay and brilliant colors are pretty dazzling although be aware that parts are closed so you can't walk along the entirety of it any more. Road there is pretty bumpy so be prepared for the experience of thinking you're lost. The host is super friendly and you'll likely see some locals from Slab City on the way.
John Picardo — Google review
Landmark of this area! How can one person devote his life for this amazing space. I respect all his efforts and contributions. Very colorful and meaningful. Just be careful not to destroy this place as a tourist. Although there should be continuous reinforcement work, the covid ourbreak disturbed it. Now this landmark is a little bit broken.
J. Kim — Google review
What a beautiful art piece! They have a selfie station here so you can get a lot of pictures with the art. I went on a day after it had rain so you can't really get up close because the piece is very fragile. They also let me send up my drone and take pictures from the sky. It looks beautiful, both on the ground and from above. Definitely recommend to anybody who loves outdoor installation art. The message is also something we all need to hear.
Michael Wilt — Google review
Came during a weekday afternoon in Feb - weather is pretty mild but hot compared to rest of SoCal (can’t imagine what it’s like in summer). Nice colorful monument that can be seen from faraway, definitely worth a visit if at Salton Sea otherwise not sure I drive all the way here. Take some time to explore Slab City while at it. Expect dirt road and eclectic surroundings.
Wee Khim Lee — Google review
In the vast desert wilderness lies an astonishing art installation. Gratitude to the creators and caretakers who transform ordinary objects into art amidst the barren expanse. Appreciate their expression of love through creativity and beauty. It's a pity one can't climb it due to maintenance, but hopeful for a chance to experience it up close in the future.
Parking and public restrooms are available.
Jing — Google review
Such a cool place to see. The paints are very bright, so all of the pieces stand out. Would definitely recommend checking this out.
Big Ann — Google review
Such a fun spontaneous day trip , beautiful artwork .. such vibrant colors in the desert.
Unique place , to explore. Enjoyed taking pictures with all the vibrancy that surrounded
Dela Cruz — Google review
Drove here with friends while on vacation during the early few days of January. We went on a Wednesday during the afternoon. We traveled from Joshua Tree to Salvation, which was around 120 miles. It was an extremely long drive. The roads near Salvation Mountain are very rough despite being paved with asphalt. I would advise taking an SUV or other car that has a bit of ground clearance. We got stuck in the sand near a road-side stand because of this.
Despite the setbacks, Salvation Mountain is an impressive place, and the story behind it is very interesting. It's about spreading a message with peace and love. One thing I would also mention is to avoid the bathrooms since they aren't sanitary.
I have been here a few times. The last time was in 2016. Fascinating place to see and experience in person. You will need 4WD as it can get muddy in spots. Can be a challenge to find though. Just follow the steam, lol..
Michael Martinez — Google review
These are the old mud pots and a nearby ruin along Davis road including a shot of one of the geothermal power plants showing its relative proximity. The steam is from the power plant, not the mud pots. Unfortunately the road leading to the new mud pots and the Salton Butte Volcano is inaccessible as the tiny lane leading out to the salt flats is marked private property/no trespassing(apparently owned by Imperial Water District).
Theresa Sandford — Google review
Unfortunately the roads to get to the mud pots are poorly maintained gravel. You cannot get close enough to the mud pots to see much. I wouldn’t recommend it.
Kiersten Smith — Google review
These are not there. Looks like they dug out irrigation ditches and destroyed them.
L Watts — Google review
Quite a relief to see New Mud Pots being placed here. So many old sites have been ravaged by the vagaries of time. To have new ones in earth tones is a natural wonder. I remember back in 1983 when it was said that the Davis pots would corner the market, and we all know what happened to Davis. For one thing, he said non stick would never catch on. Taught me at least you have to be willing to change.
Allen Kennedy — Google review
Could not get anywhere close. All roads and trails were posted and gated. Even though the Red Hill area was deserted with my, I would get caught, so I decided not to risk it.
Theodore Wall — Google review
The directions led to a dead end as far as I could tell. Had a 4WD but couldnt figure out where to take it from here :)
Catherine Eichel — Google review
Since they posted the old mud pots with no trespassing signs these are the only ones you can get to, use Red Hill rd until it ends then head north, use Google Earth to see where they are, if it is wet you'll have to walk, but they are bigger and better than the old mud pots anyway. Mullet Island is a rhyolite lava dome volcano.
Red Hill and Obsidian Butte are all part of the volcanic complex and sits on the Imperial Fault and is about 3 to 4 miles south of the San Andreas Fault. If there is a big quake get away from the volcanic zone asap as rhyolite magma always erupts explosively and a big quake could set them in motion. Those close geothermal power plants dotting the landscape are built on a volcanic zone. Although Salton Buttes eruptions are typically small some of those power plants will get trashed and airborne volcanic ash will restrict air travel if the wind blows the wrong way.
Mountain Fisher — Google review
You will need a four wheel drive to get to the mudpots, which we did not have. Apperantly there used to be mudpots at Davis and shrimpf intersection, but while we could smell some activity, none of the mud areas were bubbling.
Arvid Jense — Google review
2.9
(22)
•
4.0
(74)
Calipatria, CA 92233, USA
I'll never travel to Temecula without this trip planner again
1920s-built stone tower with observation deck for desert views, plus a museum & gift shop.
An absolute gem that is just a little off the beaten path. $7 per adult to climb the tower and explore the Boulder park. Great place for kids to blow off some steam in the middle of a long car ride. It is windy and colder as you are on the top of a ridge, so bring a jacket or coat. Clean if spartan bathrooms.
Bert Carroll — Google review
I really enjoyed my visit to the Desert View Tower. There's an interesting story and a great vibe here. If you like history and unusual architecture, then this place is for you. The tower offers great open air views of the desert from the top. The lower floors are filled with an eclectic and interesting blend of gift shop, bookstore, museum items and other oddities - a authentic roadside attraction. Leave plenty of time to explore Boulder Park and view the carved rock sculptures. In addition to the really nice people that operate the site, you may discover and view the peafowl that roam the grounds. Definitely worth the visit and the bargain price of admission. Don't miss it.
Mick Calarco — Google review
I stopped by this Desert Tower on my way to Phoenix from SD.
I believe this location is part of SD as well. This tower is interesting. It is made out of small boulders alone the I8. I would mistaken this to be a light house if this was near the ocean. Inside, there's a circular near 360 degree window view of the outside. Inside is a small give soft with all kinds of wonderful stuff if you want to bring back a little souvenir.
On the outside, there's a boulder park you can walk up to. it's like a little mini caves and tunnels you can go through, but be careful with your steps.
There's also a opening with some picnic tables. it's great to just take a breather from the long drive, visit the tower and the boulder park, have some picnic before continuing the long journey.
Oh, by the way, the people there are just friendly.
Oh, one more thing. there's a donation box outside by the boulder park. Be sure to contribute a few greens for the great people that is keeping the place nice and clean. It cost money to flush your radiator water. you know.
Sam Wong — Google review
LOVED THIS PLACE!!! So excited to stop and check it out. Unfortunately we got here after closing so we didn't get to go in the tower and explore, but the rest of the area was super neat!! The carved and painted rocks were amazing. The view was gorgeous. There were live peacocks. The little short road from the highway to here had all sorts of fun odd alien scenes! We weren't sure how much we were allowed to explore, so we didn't. It looked like it was actually people's homes and back yards so we didn't want to intrude too much. Will for sure stop here again sometime
Megan Morris — Google review
This place holds a place in my heart! I've only been here twice: a decade ago when my son was little and today with my 2 daughters. It truly is a HIDDEN GEM!
A friendly man in the Tower welcomes everyone in like old friends, offering history and quarters for the telescope at the top. Lots to look at while you make your way up. Native artifacts, taxidermy, gemstones, arrowheads and even Scorpion novelty lollipops for purchase in their giftshop.
There are loose walking sweet, sociable dogs, chickens and peacocks on the property.
For only $9.50 per adult, you get full access to the Desert View Tower, the property which has full restrooms and the Boulder Caves!
A fun labyrinth through boulders, caves & hideaways.
We will be back as long as they'll have us!
Melissa E — Google review
Neat little stop right off the interstate. They were super friendly, prices are very reasonable, and was overall a cool, fun experience. I'll probably bring the family next time. The view around the mountains is spectacular.
Brenndon McGill — Google review
The view from the tower is super cool and the boulder climbing is quite fun as well. I’d gone by it on the 8 a number of times, so I’m glad I finally decided to check it out. I definitely recommend making a quick stop.
Walker Moberly — Google review
This place is a great little gem. My son and I hung out for almost 2 hours. Most of it was exploring the cave to the back of the tower.
The tower has great views of the area. The winds, though, were blowing hard but are not an issue once away from the tower. The tower is a crazy mixture of all sorts of curiosities and is fun to explore. The real fun is the rock caves. My son and I spent about an hour and a half exploring. Just be careful and do not get stuck like me. There are also a few dogs and a peacock living on the property. The current owner is also looking to sell. With enough money, it would make a great airbnb.
To go in the tower and cave, you have to get a ticket ($13 for the 2 of us). If you have the time, the rock caves and view are worth the stop.
Eric Tashchian — Google review
wonderful, lawless place with a cool tower that looks out on the desert for like a million miles. getting to the tippy top is kind of a tiny adventure and preety rad. quirky, sincere caretakers. making your way through the stones and sorta caves is super fun and there's many corners, tunnels and peaks to explore. the rock art is super cool.
the tower has stuff for sale like art, books, and tchotchskes. some older lady was leading a meditation session for several people in a room on the bottom floor.
sometimes there's chickens and peacocks 🦚 roaming around, but they never let me touch them, which is super lame 😆. no stars removed because it's a universally known fact that peacocks are total jerks.
Jessica Zim — Google review
We stumbled across this on a drive from TX to CA. It’s tucked away and a little difficult to find. It has wonderful views, lots of cute dogs, and a neat gift shop. We had a lovely chat with Sam, who also recommended the more scenic Highway 80, which was lovely! There was the option for a paid tour, which we didn’t do. Either way, it’s a great place to get out and stretch your legs.
Kelsey Lee — Google review
The gentleman who runs the tower is lovely-friendly and helpful. In addition to telling us about the tower and boulder park, he told us about other cool things to visit in the area. Would recommend visiting if your headed out the I8, rather than making this a destination. Gets windy and cold in the spring so bundle up!
Lauren Busby — Google review
Great stop between Arizona and San Diego. Awesome view of the Imperial Valley. Great place to get out stretch maybe have lunch. Picnic tables. This is a private area and the owners are really nice. Cool eclectic shop and fun little cave boulder hike to crawl around in. Keep young kids close. There are cholla cactus and small crevices that kids could find them selves up against. Plan on spending at least a 1/2 hour. Tickets are required to go to the top of the tower and boulder path. Clean bathrooms. If you do not do the Tower or boulder caves, it is free. Consider a donation though.
Paul Green (Pablo Verde) — Google review
What a fun stop! The view is awesome, everything is so interesting to look at and the Boulder park was so fun to explore. We had kids aged 5-18 and all of them thought it was really fun.
Jenna Young-Christensen — Google review
Desert Tower is a step back in time. Epic views from this historic site are well worth a stop. Museum, gift shop, Boulder Park hiking, restroom and the climb to the top of the open air tower are included in nominal entrance fee.
Eileen Martinez — Google review
Loved this place, I reviewed it under another name already. We just happened to see it while driving by. We stopped to check it out. The gift shop was closed, I believe because a hurricane was coming. There were people there who lived on the property, either owners or caretakers. They were very nice, let us walk thru the cave/Boulder trail for free (tho I left a donation in the box). They had beautiful well behaved dogs. We saw a couple of peacocks, the guew was awesome and the cave walk and carvings were cool. I am sorry I missed the gift shop, would Def stop again if I was in the area. It was a nice break from driving. I believe you can go in the tower when it's open, but even from the outside it was nice.
Kelly Lugo — Google review
My wife and I stopped here after passing it a few times before. It was a beautiful day and I knew the timing was right. And it was! The view was awesome, the caves and carvings were fun and there was a lot of cool information. I definitely recommend staying and chatting and enjoying the views.
Thomas Riley — Google review
Cool spot to pull over and check out. Great view from the tower. Nice people.
Ashley Crewl — Google review
This spot is special. The views, the rocks, the desert flora and the denizens make for an interesting and fun experience. It's rustic and relaxing.
Sue Ann Van Epps — Google review
Amazing place do not pass totally worth the stop on the way to San Diego or back to Phoenix so much cool stuff to see and do for the adults and kiddos!!!
Krystle Foster — Google review
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01 In-Ko-Pah Park Rd, Jacumba Hot Springs, CA 91934, USA
Anza-Borrego Desert State Park is a massive wilderness area that boasts an abundance of hiking trails, wildflowers, trees, shrubs, and cacti. It's considered one of the richest natural-history museums in the nation and features stunning desert vistas that are unmatched in their privacy and beauty. Camping opportunities abound for those seeking a more secluded experience, with plenty of space to explore off the beaten path.
We loved our stay at Blair Valley. We got a beautiful campsite. It is a wonderful time of the year to visit. There is so much to see here. The desert is in full bloom this time of year. Will definitely return.
Kelli Van Liew — Google review
Beautiful slot - but NO signs as to how long and/or if it was round trip. The state park magazine said 1.5 miles round trip - but it was actually closer to 3 and there were 2 other groups down there trying to figure out if they should turn around or if the trail would loop back. Both ways worked, but there was no sign and no obvious way out.
Lorna Walker — Google review
We had a wonderful excursion at Anza-Borrego Desert State Park. It was so delightful to see the dry desert come alive in swathes of bloom as far as the eye could see
... all the way to the foothills. A glorious sight.
These were grouping of a variety of plants in colors of yellow, white, magenta, orange, and purple. Also, cactus blooming in some areas. The interesting, rusty giant metal sculptures of varying creatures were so fun to see. Make sure your first stop is at the states visitor center to get the scoop on the current bloom sites, the history, reliable maps, botanical display, hikes, and see an interesting film. It will assure you get the most out of your visit.
Victoria Schumacher — Google review
This state park has so much space that it's incredible. If you want privacy take your car a little off the beaten path and there is plenty of spots to camp and enjoy the night. The desert is magical, spend a night out here and experience it yourself.
Steven Mejia — Google review
This is a wonderful place to explore for a day. We spent about two hours here, discovering the statues and enjoying the picturesque landscapes. It gets pretty hot here, but the desert is really nice. The roads are good, not if you want to see the statues close by though.
Evgeniya Bozhko (KoriAndrTheCat) — Google review
We saw one of the most breathtaking views of wildflower blooms here! The visitor center is good with a lot of interesting information about the park and its wildlife. Must visit if you are intrigued by desert ecosystems.
Shruti Dalvi — Google review
I love primitive camping and backpacking in Southern Anza-Borrego. Quiet serene, lots of big boulders and Ocotillos.
I used to say the desert was mostly a wasteland, but I've learned so much about life in the desert the past 7 years. From water sources to seeing humming birds and dragon flies. The plants, the animals and the history.
There's so much to experience.
Avoid Mid June - Mid Sept due to heat. Winter is never too cold.
Chris Groshong — Google review
Nice area, can be warm and a bit breezy, with good roads. There is wonderful visitor center with lots of interesting books and info. It even has an informative short movie and the gift shop. You can buy food or bring a picnic and enjoy the park in the center of town that is dog friendly, has restrooms, and the kids can play.
Kathy Parsons — Google review
An extraordinary desert with miles and miles to explore. There is so much stuff in this state park to discover, you will need weeks to enjoy everything it offers. From spectacular dark nights for star gazing to a natural Oasis in the middle of dry land. Miles and miles for off road vehicles to enjoy. A BLM shoot area nearby to bring your guns and shoot whatever it is that you shoot. Deceloped campsites are abundant and primitive campsites are also around. Tons of RV glamping for your enjoyment. Bring water as it can get pretty hot very quick, and please keep your dogs hydrated and cooled.
I recommend visiting:
- The wind caves if you have high clearance vehicle and 4x4.
- Borrego canyon camp site. Walk a mile in to find the Oasis
- Slot canyon. No off road or 4x4 needed here. Bring a camera for sure!
- Tamerisk Grove campground for cabin sleeping, but you must bring your own sleeping pad.
- Drive up to Julian (outside of Anza borrego state park, just about 39 miles west) if you have time, but do it in the early part of the day as most shops and restaurants close earlier than normal.
- If you have dirt toys bring them, the Ocotillo off road area is just phenomenal.
jorge corbaton — Google review
I thoroughly enjoy this, the largest state park in CA. The wild flowers are beautiful this winter. There is lots of great history to learn at the visitor centercand the park is designated as an International Night Sky destination. Many campers bring their off road vehicles in certain designated areas. A very nice park.
Heidi Martin — Google review
Amazing state park! We didn't even get to see everything but the parts we saw were so beautiful! Font's Point at sunset was so gorgeous but you definitely need 4 wheel drive to get there. The slot canyon hike was great. Visitor center was nice and the staff there were super helpful in helping us choose which hikes to do and how to get there. The Palm Canyon Oasis trail was absolutely gorgeous and 100% worth taking the time to hike. Can't wait to come back someday!
Bethany Huebscher — Google review
Went for my birthday weekend- absolutely incredible. Very hot during the day and throughout the evening. Temperatures drop significantly close to 10pm-11pm.
Chiffon Lark — Google review
This desert park is so big and diverse with so many things to see and do. The visitor center near Borrego Springs is a must see and the rangers/volunteers there will give you suggestions and directions for whatever your interests.
William “Bill” Stacy — Google review
This state park’s wildflower super bloom season is so beautiful and picturesque with the backdrop of the mountains. With the cool breeze, the calming scent of the wildflowers fills the air and soothes the soul. And the metal sculptures add a cool touch to the park, especially the dragon one.
kalyani chikshe — Google review
Always a fun visit! Even better if you drive a high-clearance 4WD vehicle to explore the many trails and slot canyons! Highly recommend.
Tom Bleicher — Google review
Visiting all of the sculptures is a must! Do watch for scorpions and rattlesnakes in the summer. It’s way too hot in the summer for dogs unless you plan an early morning. It’s considered an International Dark Sky do Milky Way photography is amazing too!
jacinda smith — Google review
Great place, from the various palm oases to the statuary field (which I will separately rate) and more. And, most of it's free! Note: if you're driving a rental-car company SUV with highway tires, take seriously the off-highway roads with "loose sand" signs.
Steve Smith — Google review
Since this is the largest state park in California, expect to do a lot of driving. The area is surrounded by mountains and desert floors. There are numerous washes throughout, but there's very few signs from the road to give you a warning where it is. By the time you see the small sign in the wash, you've gone too far and have to turn around.
We stayed at Tamerisk Grove CG but probably should've stayed at the Palm Canyon CG due to size limitation. There's also over 500 miles of road for free boondocking with 30-day stay per calendar year
We did see the Truckhaven Rock area, Font Point overlook, and hiked the Slot Canyon out to the Borrego Badlands. Excellent spots if you have a couple of days.
While not part of the park, we did visit almost all of the large sculptures seen around the city of Borrego Springs.
We have a 4x4 pickup truck but not high clearance. Recommend it for some of the more technical roads. Most washes were fine with just a 4x4 vehicle.
We recommend visiting this park if you happen to be in the area.
Mike Smith — Google review
We went to see the flowers - and we were not disapointed. We skipped the vistor center which was overwhelmed, but as locals we just followed the directions of the rangers who were directing trafic, with calm professionalism depite the chaos all around, and we were not disappointed! I love this State Park and try to go durring the bloom every Feb/ March, phenomenal!
Colleen Patricia Garrett — Google review
Beautiful park. Drove there to go hike the palm canyon trail, and I can say that the drive itself is worth it even if I had not done the hike. After the sun set, I was able to see the stars very clearly. It was a breathtaking moment as you cannot see a starry sky like this in most cities. This park forever holds a spot in my heart for the experience it gave me and the stars it showed me.
Venue featuring historic engines & trains, plus a train ride across the Mexican border & back.
Very nice museum. In some ways better than the Southern California Railway Museum in Perris CA. (that one has too many interesting areas off-limits) This museum is about the same size but you can see the whole thing. Train only runs on Saturday. I rode it 20 years ago and it was enjoyable. Some very interesting and rare locomotives.
James S. — Google review
The Campo Railway Museum is pretty cool. Don't have high expectations it's a Museum for a reason. It's fully operated by all volunteer staff. It's a great place to take the kids and just let them run wild.
Sharon Burton — Google review
Took a trip back in time today on the Pumpkin Express. It was a cute 45 minute trip towards the boarder and back. The ride was educational as well as it explained certain historical items along the trip. We ended at the depot and were able to go through the museum that they made Halloween themed which included a chance to pick a pumpkin. It was a great day of exploration. HUGE NOTE: Make sure to grab a mask before you go, because we didn't so we had to buy one at the depot in order to board the train.
Kara Johnston — Google review
Awesome place to visit! 45 minute train ride is great. Museum is clean and really cool. The ladies behind the counter are really funny. A must visit! . @sandiegojohnnysurf on you tube I will be posting a video soon.
San Diego Johnny Surf — Google review
Went on the polar express which was a great experience. The depot itself had a ticket office, gift shop, and bathrooms. It was very clean and nicely decorated. The train was also clean and nicely decorated with elves handing out hot chocolate and cookies and also coming around several times to pick up trash. There were a few singalong Christmas songs and Santa and Mrs Claus greeted all the kids and handed out bells.
Brett LaCues — Google review
Went here for Easter my little girl had a marvelous time. It was raining this year so the indoor egg hunt was perfect and my Daughter loved being on the train.
sasa moody — Google review
There are a lot of interesting trains in railway cars in this outdoor museum. It was a little disappointing that you could not climb on them or look inside. They have a very nice way restored 2353 engine, but it requires you to buy tickets. Facilities are very nice with the gift shop and Public restrooms. It really is located out in the middle of nowhere, so it was a good find.
Charene Robinson — Google review
This museum is a hidden gem. There is a great collection of historical engines and cars, ranging from a steam engine to a Coaster engine. The story of the railroad in San Diego is told by historical photos and displays, plus some of the cars on display. Adults and kids alike will enjoy the train ride. The best part is the entry and ride fees are very reasonable and a great value. In addition to the exhibit building, there are 8 tracks with locomotives and cars to explore, and some new exhibits are under construction.
Ray Frohnhoefer — Google review
My kid LOVED the Halloween train! First class was worth the extra few dollars for the access to a pretty parlor, beautiful seating area that wasn’t cramped and the complimentary drinks - her favorite was the Scary Temple 🎃. Although the ride wasn’t long enough for either of us, the main hall with the two trains decorated for fun and for scary - were possibly an even bigger hit than the train ride itself. The volunteers were all so very kind and a big part of why we had so much fun. Thank you for all your hard work and for making kids so happy!
Cindy Gatlin — Google review
So much fun!! The volunteers are friendly and inviting. The train ride was a blast & we can't wait to visit again. A smooth 45 minute ride through beautiful rolling hills with Big Band music playing overhead, gave us us a rare glimpse into its history. We saw horses, cows, and hawks in an area most people don't get to see. Like them on social media & you'll receive $5 off! Children under 3 ride for free. Tons of free parking.
Melissa E — Google review
Very unusual and fun experience. About an hour’s drive from San Diego. Trains inside and outside, some quite rare. Some are also in a state of neglect. Interesting nevertheless. There is a relatively inexpensive train ride that rides along the countryside to about a couple of miles from the border, and then back. Total45 mins. And yes you can see the wall quite clearly. I recommend sitting in the rear car since that way you can actually see out the back door. There is a chance to ride in the locomotive with the engineer as well. Nothing like this for a photo op for the train/history and photography buff! Some spectacular views of the “Wild West”,especially if you go after the rain, when it’s green. The staff is knowledgeable, friendly and there on a volunteer basis.
Swapnil Khoche — Google review
Troop 765 visited the museum for the Railroading merit badge and had a great time. The volunteers have been expanding the museum and did a fantastic job decorating for Halloween and even have a special Halloween train ride.
Matthias Blume — Google review
Great for kids who like trains and old guys who love trains
Nice 45 minute train ride on the last of the San Diego to El Centro line. The volunteers who run it are very friendly. The museum has some interesting train cars (steam locomotive, caboose, mail car...) in it that you are allowed to walk through and explore. It also has some exhibits and examples of train signals.
It's a bit of a drive from San Diego, but it's a nice weekend drive.
Galleta Meadows is a unique desert sculpture park located along the Southern California S-3 highway in Borrego Springs. Created by artist Ricardo Breceda, the park features over 130 massive metal sculptures known as "Sky Art." These sculptures include creatures such as elephants, raptors, dinosaurs, mammoths, saber-toothed tigers, serpents, horses, and even a sloth.
Galleta Meadows is an awesome place to visit in Borrego Springs with animal and human sculptures spread across the town and valley. There close to 100 sculptures of animals and humans and it is truly an incredible collection of art sculptures with many appearing life like. Great for photo opportunities and can easily spend a few hours to see and try to find all the sculptures, but well worth it.
Brendan Kiely — Google review
Lovely little drive (came through Julian entrance). Make sure you bring extra water because it gets HOT! The statues are wonderful to look at. You can google the locations of them all beforehand and screenshot the map since service tends to get lost since this is a remote area in the desert. The dragon is by far the largest sculpture. Some of the sculptures are accessible by walking only since some of the dirt roads have been blocked off to preserve the area. Also, some of the dirt roads are very bumpy with deep holes so make sure you drive carefully or take a 4x4.
amber enriquez — Google review
Sculpture in the Meadows run through Borrego Springs both North and South of the roundabout in town. You can drive up to many to get a close view and see the beautiful and detailed works of the artists. This is a must do in the area and worthwhile time spent viewing.
c “cfl” lane — Google review
The sculptures are amazing. The amount of detail is incredible. The road getting there is rough at times. But absolutely worth the drive. The serpent alone is worth the drive. And it's free
Gary — Google review
What a fun place to explore and I don't even think we saw everything. I guess there is bunch of different Metal Sculptures thru out Borrego. The dragon one is cool and the scorpion and cricket one is pretty cool. The scorpion you can actually drive up to and some other animals. The dragon..no they have it stringed off but you can walk up close to it and take pics. We drove off to another road and saw a hawk or eagle one and horses. Half a day trip then enjoy the small town they have there.
Heidi Kindel — Google review
Loved being able to get up close to most of the sculptures. Some are closed off to vehicles now and it was too hot to walk out to them. Very impressive!
Sara Hoege — Google review
Wonderful place to visit is definitely worth going during the daytime. Because at night or closer to dark you can't see much
Godzuki26 — Google review
This is such a neat place! There are many different sculptures spread across the desert. It’s private land but the owner generously allows visitors to come experience the sculptures, and it’s free to visit.
Gretchen Mominee — Google review
Really cool place that you can drive up to and take pictures of all the sculptures. If your in the Borrego Springs area, it's a must see especially with how easy it is to access and check out. Definitely find a map of all the sculptures and save yourself some time!
Shawn Hunter — Google review
What’s not to like? These sculptures are scattered all over this massive park. You don’t have to see them all, but use them as little stopping points on your way to other things.
Nicole Ridgely — Google review
“I had the wonderful opportunity to visit the charming town of Borrego Springs. After finishing my activities, I decided to venture out and stumbled upon the enchanting Galleta Meadows Estate. The estate boasts a collection of stunning and one-of-a-kind sculptures scattered throughout the area. It was truly a mesmerizing experience to walk amidst these artistic wonders. If you’re ever in the area, I highly recommend paying a visit to witness these beautiful sculptures firsthand.”
Carolina Camero — Google review
It was such a great experience driving around to find the sculptures.
kat ben — Google review
Spectacular metal sculptures all over the place. We only visited 53 while more than 100 should be out there. Some Google Maps coordinates of certain sculptures are not correct. But that is not a real problem, because you will see most of them from a distance!
Rüdiger Gefeke — Google review
Nice little place for a rest and sight see some awesome art sculptures if you are in the Borrego area.
I was there during some beautiful rainy weather :-)
Orion Hauk — Google review
It was really cool. You can see all metal sculptures by driving in the area except the dragon!
Mahshad Mzzm — Google review
Amazing spot for some night photography, unfortunately I may have dropped my memory cards at the scorpion or serpent.
Still a great (and eerie) experience attempting to get the right shot in pitch black and dead silence!
Abhi O — Google review
Going back to Vegas I decided to make a detour & check this place out. I love it's pretty random & unique. The sculptures were cool.
Rochelle J. — Google review
It was a cool experience. Seeing all those metal sculptures. I really like the reddish color of the sculptures. Especially nice when the sun hits them.
What a wonderful place. The grounds are gorgeous with wonderful hikes. The staff is friendly and accommodating. The food was awesome! Great fitness classes and wonderful swimming pools and spas. We hope we are fortunate enough to return some time.
Alice Dimicele — Google review
This was my 2nd stay at “The Ranch” and probably my last. Think of a glorified summer camp for middle aged white upper-class women.
I was a solo traveler who stayed 7 days in a Ranchera and spent about $7,500 which included 4 spa treatments, extra lattes, and tips for one week. Even at this price point, I was told by one of the long time Ranchers (has been at the ranch 30+ times) I was staying in the "Ghetto" of the Ranch and joked that I was on the "wrong side of the tracks." Someone said this used to be the area with a sewage problem, so you get the idea. Yes, even at the ranch there are clicks of snobby women so be prepared to deal with that while you are there.
I stayed in room E3. The room was okay, it had an ant problem in the bathroom, I mentioned something the third day, but the problem persisted. Ants all over the bathroom floor and counter continued throughout the stay. I must have been near an area for employees, several times I went to take a nap in the middle of the day and could hear people talking loudly in Spanish outside. Again, think of this place as a fancy summer camp so bugs and ants are to be expected, I guess.
I was really looking forward to Sound Healing, but they had a visiting teacher that was just awful. I remember it before being one of the amazing classes they offer, but this woman sang and spoke the entire time (sometimes chanting “I love you I love you I love you” repeatedly which to me was weird), I could hear workers outside speaking in Spanish, people shuffled in over 10 minutes late, people next to me were snoring loudly. Not the experience I was after and I was counting down the minutes until I could make my exit.
Some of the instructors you will love some you will hate. I felt Cathleen was unprofessional and critical to the people staying there. I felt she was rude to people in class and just seemed like a person that had been there too long (I believe she was the head yoga/Pilates person) which was sad. She started off coming into my first class with her complaining about how she just came from a complaining guest that was ranting about how bad her room was. Again, some people will like her and the experience, but I did not. I came to the Ranch to get away from that and heal, not to hear that.
Overall, I feel that classes need some updating, but 90% of the guests are mostly fit over 55 white women so I guess the classes are good for and cater to that demographic.
Spa: The Spa treatments were not as good this time as they were the first time I was there. The only treatment I can recommend is the Japanese Facial. The other massages and facial I had were mediocre including a stone massage that the guy spent 50% of the time futzing with the stones and a Ranch Massage where she gave me a light rub and a towel that barely covered my body. They have this exclusive skincare line for facials that the "Spa Specialists" look at your face and give you a skin care regimen. The two facials I had resulted in two separate "skin care regimens" so take it with a grain of salt.
All the buildings, Health Center, rooms are okay but, in my opinion, needs some updating (remember summer camp style). For $7,500 a week, you are staying in old school, Spanish tile room with basic amenities.
Food: Delicious vegetarian cuisine but the coffee is horrible. Consider bringing your own to make in your room if you want to. They have the Bazaar which has lattes and espresso drinks but plan on spending $7-$8 (not including tip) per small to medium sized drink.
Best Part: The landscaped grounds are stunning and the morning hikes.
At the end someone asked if I was ready to go home and I said “definitely.” She looked completely shocked by reaction of wanting to go home so to each their own! I guess if you have unlimited money and vacation time do it! But if like me, you save for something really unique and special and only have a couple times a year to travel, you may find a better suited adventure and luxurious vacation elsewhere for this price point.
Suzanne B — Google review
I have gone to La Puerta several times now. The atmosphere has changed and I won’t be returning. Although they have several great instructors, they have some really bad ones that use inappropriate language during classes.
I also didn’t feel safe this time on the hiking trails and if you can’t keep up with the hiking group, they encourage you not to join. So, I hiked solo and along the path I seen some mountain lion tracks. When I reported it, they knew about a local lion near the stream, but did nothing to inform guest. The next day, workers had raked over the mountain lion tracks. In addition, the women aren’t very friendly and don’t welcome solo travelers to their dining table, so often you will eat alone. Many other great places to visit with younger women. I ended up checking out early and cancelled a future trip. Trying to get my money back was a bigger challenge than hiking up those hills. Adios Rancho!
Maria Ash — Google review
This was my 4th stay at Rancho La Puerta and probably my last. The Ranch has changed and hasn't changed much over the last couple of years. Meaning? The Ranch needs an update. I stayed in one of the Lunas suite and for close to six thousand a week, I expect a shower/bathtub that is accessible, clean, and able to use as an actual bathtub. In addition, the sofa is the most uncomfortable seating ever and it is impossible to relax and lay down to read a book.
The classes need some updating too and some of the staff appear to have anger issues and several of the instructors were extremely unprofessional in their instructions and in their use of vulgar language during the class. I am not sure why they are hiring people that speak so poorly to their guest, but it was irritating after a while. I cannot tell you how disappointed I was with the several of the Yoga instructors and for several of the classes, we were just lectured at and we only did about 3 stretches while being forced to listen to the instructors rants. The atmosphere was anything but kind and welcoming, it was the extreme opposite of the practice of Yoga. It was hostile and for those women who go to the Ranch to recover from past traumas, I do not recommend taking the Yoga classes until they overhaul the instructors.
Spa: The VHC is old and also needs some updating. The Mexican tile is and was a good thing of the past, but Mexico has evolved so much and the Ranch needs too also. The therapist at the spa on the other hand are the most professional and talented as they come. The activities directors needs to take some hints and advice from the spa director.
Food: Same food year after year. A couple of new updates and dishes would be nice. However, the kitchen staff is exceptional and always willing to assist, as long as you do not ask for chicken, beef, or pig.
Grounds: This is the one of best thing the Ranch has going for them. Beautiful grounds.
Treatments: Like I said, the massage therapist are professional, kind, and extremely talented.
maria ash — Google review
It was an amazing experience, I have no words to describe it... thank you to all the workers of this wonderful place. ❤️
Rick Saa Productions — Google review
I stayed at Rancho La Puerta for two weeks in 2014. The whole experience was great. The staff was lovely, the food was healthy and delicious.
They made special efforts to remember diners' food allergies. It's great not having to remind the waitstaff and kitchen staff about this with every meal.
Of the guests, I had mostly good experiences, and I made a number of friends who I've met up with back in the States.
They had great exercise, yoga and meditation classes for everyone from serious athletes to less athletic elders. There were classes on meditation, postural therapy, Feldenkrais, TRX, weight training, all kinds of water exercise classes, crystal bowl meditation, and more.
There was entertainment including a music program with an outstanding opera singer. There were guest lecturers who lectured on sleep, health, exercise, spirituality, history and politics. There were a number of art classes including painting, sculpture, and an iPhone photography course.
The hiking was probably the highlight of the trip. There are numerous hikes with great views. The climate is dry. They have a breakfast hike which I'd highly recommend, where the group hikes a mile or two to an organic farm where the staff prepares and amazing breakfast at the farmhouse and gives a tour of the farm.
I left Rancho La Puerta feeling about as relaxed and healthy as I've ever been, and have nothing but fond memories.
Jayson — Google review
Rancho la Puerta is amazing! The food is healthy, there are fitness classes from easy to medium, and there are lectures and performances too. Be sure to book a massage. [Edit as of May 2022: Covid-19 protocols are followed; masks are required inside public buildings. Everything is as fantastic as ever.]
David Bowles — Google review
Always a lovely time--staff is so attentive and welcoming. Other guests are wonderful. Excellent food, well-taken care of grounds, and the classes are amazing.
Jennifer Phillips — Google review
Hi there! To be clear, I just booked a room and have not yet been to the ranch. I am rating based on a very poor customer service experience with reserving a room with a booking agent. I am quite disappointed by this experience given how much money I just spent. After reading rave reviews for the ranch I convinced a friend to go with me. After my friend booked this morning I called in to book. I was given a total cost. When I asked for an itemized listing of fees (standard rate per night taxes etc) to understand the thousands I would be spending, I was told it would take an hour to prepare. I called back twice and waited for 4 hours only to be put on hold for 10 minutes before the booking agent finally sent me the paperwork I asked for 4 hours earlier. The paperwork provided no breakdown of rate per night which I had to explain was standard for a resort. When I expressed frustration that I was being treated like my business did not matter, I was told (again) how busy they were (read: too busy for you) and was literally told “I’m sorry you feel that way” (a failing grade for customer service 101). I made it clear that I had convinced my friend to book with them and was only booking out of loyalty to my friend. Again, no thanks for bringing in business nor an apology for brushing off my business. When I asked to speak to the manager, I was put on hold and then told the manager would not be available for another hour. As a busy professional (working hard to fund a luxurious trip), I said forget it I was not wasting more time. The agent was not at all kind or gracious and did not validate any of my statements re feeling like I wasn’t being valued. I truly hope the experience at the ranch turns out to be amazing so I can redo my review. Presently the customer service I have had so far leaves me feeling nervous that I booked.
Rupi Legha — Google review
Amazing place with lots of fun classes to try and interesting people to meet. It's a very special place.
Only thing that didn't work so well for me was having no wifi in the rooms. Wish someone had mentioned this BEFORE I booked!
Ondina Hatvany — Google review
This is not a spa although there is a spa with comprehensive spa services on premises. It is a complete health resort. You can partake in sports such as tennis, pickleball, and volleyball. Exercise classes include Pilates, yoga, circuit training, and aquasize. Food leans pescatarian and is super fresh and organic.
Although women way outnumber men, there is a lot for men to do.
There are different hikes you can do every day. The grounds and surrounding hiking paths are gorgeous! Definitely will return!
Marty Seigel — Google review
I recently had the pleasure of staying at Rancho La Puerta, and it was an absolute delight! The serene surroundings, impeccable amenities, and warm hospitality made for an unforgettable experience. One standout highlight was the exceptional instruction provided by Thea, the pickleball instructor. Her expertise and passion for the sport truly shone through, making each session not only instructive but also incredibly enjoyable. Thanks to Thea, I feel like I've made significant progress in my pickleball skills. I highly recommend Rancho La Puerta, especially if you have the chance to learn from Thea. A truly 5-star experience!
Jim Clark — Google review
I wanted to really love this place, but too much construction and too close to the road. Not as peaceful and serene as I had hoped and with so many guests there it just felt more busy at meals,etc. than I wanted which made it harder to relax.
e z — Google review
The whole experience was incredible. It would take writing a novella to adequately convey what my week there did for me emotionally, physically, mentally, spiritually. I felt like I was in a nest being lovingly tended to and cared for but in a non-intrusive way.
Holly Bosshard — Google review
This is so exciting they now are selling Residents that you own starting at approximately 2,000 square ft. they ae built start of the art no dry wall and more like living in a luxurious piece os sustainable art. They have an organic community garden and cooking school, Community classes every day from the same staff that teach at the Ranch. What a healthy peaceful safe lifestyle. i could move there in a minute. It is only 15 minutes from the Tecate Border that is easy to cross. You park on the U.S. side and the walk over and walk you threw customs and take to the Residences for viewing.
Lions Tigers & Bears is a non-profit organization that aims to provide a safe and protected environment for abused and mistreated animals. The organization relies on the dedication of volunteers who often have other jobs but still support the mission. Visitors can take a two-hour informative tour and donate the admission cost towards helping the animals. Additionally, there is an online Wishlist available if visitors wish to bring donations to contribute towards their cause.
Great place to learn about the animals they have there. Even with the two fences, the small groups setting allowed us to get some great views. The 2 hour tour was perfectly timed and I wouldn't hesitate to visit again.
Alberto Guardado — Google review
Woooow! This was a birthday gift from my friends. It was truly a great experience. We got to meet Bobbi and she was amazing. Michelle and Annie were very knowledgeable guides. It's definitely worth the trip. Learning about the stories of these poor animals and so many others in the US. It's time to get aware and protect these beautiful creatures. Thank you everyone at 🦁 🐯 and 🐻 for such an awesome first experience.
Keena Palacio — Google review
What a great find. The day spent at the park was fantastic. The tour guide was very good and the exhibits were very nice and the animals were very active. Buy tickets before getting to the park to make it easier. Love what they do for rescues. Will go back to support this cause.
Stephen Hawrysz — Google review
Such an awesome sanctuary. You can tell they really care for their animal guests. Got to feed a white tiger so I was definitely satisfied with the entire experience. Employees and volunteers were super friendly and knowledgeable, can't wait to visit next time
Heming Diep — Google review
Amazing experience with some absolutely gorgeous wild animals! This reserve saves and protects wild animals taken in as pets or abused in industry and gives them acres of land to recover and be safe. Fully non-profit organization that survives off donations and volunteers! Love it! 🥰
Kai Bynum — Google review
What an amazing experience!! Getting to see these animals up close and was breathtaking. All the animals are so well cared for. My husband and I were able to feed Louie the lion and Suri lioness, Nola the white tiger and Conga a super cute leopard. So cool!! Beautiful property. Our tour guide was kind, very informative, knew so much about each animal and answered all of our questions. Had such an amazing time.
Elle Gee — Google review
Love the mission of this non-profit. It makes you feel good to see so many volunteers dedicating their time and efforts to these animals. Some of these volunteers have other Monday-Friday jobs, but they are there to support the mission. These animals deserve to live the rest of their life in a safe and protected environment. They have been abused, mistreated, and some left to die. The two-hour tour was very informative and we learned a lot. After the tour they allowed us to roam and revisit any encounters we liked to see again. The cost for admission is for a good cause, it's a donation to help these animals. They also have a Wishlist on their site, if you wish to bring donations.
Annette Luong — Google review
One of the greatest experiences we’ve had in a long time! The employees and volunteers there educate people about the care of the animals. They explain how they rescue these poor animals from hideous side shows in circuses. I would highly recommend it
Enzo Sullivan — Google review
Great sanctuary for many animals. The location is beautiful, and the volunteer guides are very friendly and knowledgeable. We paid for the experience to feed one of the animals, and it was something I will never forget. They're doing great work here and definitely need all the support they can get.
Paul Kenney — Google review
This place is incredible. It was an amazing experience, and I'm so thankful for all the hard work they do to help these beautiful animals in need. Our tour guide, Jay, was amazing, knowledgeable, and funny. You can tell he loves what he does.
Olaya Litchney — Google review
Great experience for all. Their passion for preserving the lives of these animals is inspiring. If you are looking for something to do and support a local business of the San Diego area this is a must. Ask for Jay he really makes it memorable.
Arron Thomas — Google review
This was such a phenomenal experience! Because of the weather we didn't get to see the bears but just another reason to come back! Bonus because of the weather our group was super small so it felt like a private tour! The staff are so kind, so knowledgeable, & it is clear the primary focus of the sanctuary is the animals well being & education, not pandering/entertaining the public. The work they are doing is so important & it was an entertaining & educational outing!
Kristy Hobbs — Google review
We had a good start of our day in Alpine out with the lions tigers and bears and what a nice time. We had a tour guide who was very informative (I couldn’t get a video without someone talking) my only grumble… personal pet peeve. :) We left thankful the money we spent is all for these beautiful animals to have a safe life. My 16 year old wanted to obviously pet and play with these beauties.. and if we can go to a place where we can do this we need to pay attention to why.. (sedation?) is what I learned.
The enclosures allow for you to watch these beautiful creatures roam their homes. I would suggest if you have younger toddlers who are less likely to be able to listen to the “no running” you might be want to give them another year to have them really enjoy this great piece of land.
Priscilla Marie — Google review
The owner's story is inspiring. The property is beautiful. The tour guides and employees/volunteers are all very friendly. The ticket prices are worth what you get. The stories of all the animals is bitter-sweet.
Adriana Polen — Google review
Such a wonderful experience and would highly recommend everyone takes the time to visit this beautiful place. Everyone we came in contact with was nice and friendly. All the animals are well taken care of and loved. Money well spent and all goes back into the care of the animals and their habitats. Thank you for creating a sanctuary for these animals so they can spend the rest of their days in comfort and happiness. We will definitely be back.
COLLEEN FLEMON — Google review
Such an amazing sanctuary for these large beautiful animals! Bobby has created a wonderful home for them. Definitely a must see!!
Vanessa Ratliff — Google review
Amazing. This place should not exist but because people think it would be cool to have a wild animal as a pet then realize they can't handle it anymore, this place is the animals safety net to live out their days. Thanks Bobbi and all your volunteers for giving these animals their best life after the hell they have been through. For those interested, this place is a top notch experience and incredible facilities for both animals and us humans. They even have one you can pet. Tom was a good boy.
Viejas Casino & Resort is a well-appointed hotel with various dining options and complimentary Wi-Fi. The establishment boasts of a seasonal outdoor pool where guests can relax and unwind. In addition to the exceptional slot machines, the New Year's celebration held at the casino was an enjoyable experience for all attendees. The staff members are highly professional, while parking can be slightly inconvenient; however, free valet services are available to alleviate this issue.
This was my first stay at the willow hotel & spa, and let e tell it was the best stay ever. I got the suite it was beautiful very clean I loved everything about the suite very comfortable. The pool was amazing, loved how you have the casino in the same place and across the street the outlets. The service was great. Food is delicious. The VIP host Blegani was awesome so I thank her so much because for my birthday I had a great time.
Wendy Yanez — Google review
Man,the food and the service was great! I ate at the Cafe twice in the past week and both times there was no complaints. My server's name is Grace; she was attentive and informative but not one of those pushy people. If you happen to be up there gaming,stop in and grab a bite, you won't be disappointed.
David Mierez — Google review
Very nice resort. I felt it was a little on the pricey side. But my room was nice and clean very big bathroom. Had a wonderful meal at one of the restaurants in the hotel. I like the quick check out they text you in the morning that when you're ready to leave you just text him back out and then they check you out you don't have to go to the front desk. That's quite handy
Debi Martin — Google review
A great experience we had for 3 days. The bed was a king size and very comfortable. The room was large with a dining table and 2 chairs. A large shower and good-sized bathroom. The room was cleaned and disinfected. We really enjoyed our stay.
Rodney G. — Google review
Every time I come here I feel like they have new games. I have a service dog and it was pretty strict coming in. I’m glad they are taking extra steps to not allow PETS inside. They also provided me with a medical band in case something happens they know right away. I love spending the nights in their rooms and bingo is a lot of fun, just wish the hall was attached to the main building.
Chelsea — Google review
Best Casino! Great amenities, great service from the valet crew, room is spacious, casino floor is great, restaurant is great (food and services), restroom is always clean. Bestest best of all is the one and only, the amazing host Carmela, she will take care of you at all time! Very friendly host and anything you need, she’ll getcha! If she can’t talk at the moment (because she is giving the best customer service for all), she will for sure get back to you ASAP. I wouldn’t came back if it wasn’t for Carmela!
Next time you stop by, look for Carmela 😊
Sen S — Google review
My wife and I love Viejas. We have been staying at your hotel, both regular and the willow for years. We just spent the night at the willow on 3-24 to 3-25. I guess we spent over 2500.00 this time. I would venture to say we have spent over 30,000 over time at your resort. The grove steakhouse is also one of our favorite restaurants in San Diego and we love it. Last night we had a different experience. We ordered oysters. As a former professional chef, I know that oysters kill more people than all foods combined and need to be treated carefully. the oysters that we were served were "scary" shriveled up in the shell, obviously dead and should have been thrown away. Any professional chef would have never served them. It was insulting. The rest of the food was great the lamb was cooked perfectly and my wife's lobster tail was ok. When the check came we discovered that the frozen lobster tail was 150.00. The wholesale price for a frozen lobster tail at most is 20.00. As a Chef when you mark up prices for food items you multiply by 3. Food cost, labor and over head. That lobster tail should have been prices at 60.00. I can even go as far as 75.00 to be fair. When we saw the bill we were shocked that it was 150.00. I asked the the manager Raphael, he was pleasant and tried to help us. Our server swore that she told us the price 2 times. Her name is Toni. She is a liar. My wife and I spend thousands of dollars dining out and we know our stuff. At some point the "manager" Rosemary got involved and told us she was going to call security if we pressed the issue further. I am absolutely mortified that after the money I have spent at you casino that my wife and I would be treated this way. I have not posted this online yet and I would prefer not to. You have my contact information and I would appreciate a call please.
David Johnson — Google review
Aside from the awesome slots, the new year's celebration was amazing and fun. The staff are all amazing. Food is great no matter where you choose to eat inside. The only thing that can be a little frustrating is parking, but they do have valet which is free.
Meghan Owens — Google review
I had a special offer for a birthday bash that was great. My daughter came with me and we enjoyed champagne, cupcakes, live music, a photo booth, and outstanding fireworks. We played in the casino until 11:30 and spent the night in the hotel. The room was very nice and the bed quite comfortable. Only two things could have made the stay better — winning a jackpot and turning the heat up in the casino.
Gerry Cobb — Google review
This place is super nice, it's very clean and plenty of space around the casino slot machine. The people that work there are very nice and so helpful. We've been to many Indian Casinos and this one is our favorite place. The eatery places are off the hook!
Ernie Mireles — Google review
Viejas Casino is a Classy , Modern, Very Clean Casino. This place made me feel so comfortable and happy 😊. There was a wide variety of slot machines, table games etc.... one can play penny machines or High Roller machines. All pay out decently. I stayed all day, the Buffet is inside and is EXCELLENT!!! Even if you are local you can book a room, swim in the pool, rest and relax then start all over again feeling HAPPY
My husband and I highly recommend this place
Erlinda Ochoa — Google review
The room at the Willow was amazing and so quiet. The view from the windows were so tranquil and enjoyable. The tub was so huge and definitely was a big plus.
Thanks to our host Carmela for making this experience so enjoyable and relaxing. Definitely plan on staying here again in the near future.
Omar Benavidez — Google review
It smells horrible!!! Hits you the moment you walk in the door. Heavy very strong CIGARETTE Stink. Something must & could be done to pull that out & away from the public. Our hair & clothing reek. We were only there 30 minutes. We will NOT be back!!
Been over 24 hours & still coughing up junk from the Smoke!
It is beautiful & well maintained. Staff is very kind & helpful. A lot of building going on. Good for them!!!
Just please, for the health of staff & guests...IMPROVE THE VENTILATION SYSTEM!!!! YOU CAN'T TAKE OUR MONEY IF WE CAN'T STAY TO GAMBLE!
C. H. — Google review
Out of the way casino with a nice hotel. The staff is pleasant. It would be more convenient if it was closer to San Diego, but blame that on the US Government's treatment of Native Americans. If the land was nicer, they just would have moved them further away and kept it for themselves.
Rob Dinkel — Google review
Best casino I've been to in California. The dealers are great, the service is outstanding, the bar were going quick with a line of orders. The drinks were great with a good price. Overall I am coming back with a bigger party next time.
Anthonie Kee — Google review
I would highly recommend this casino over any other casino in San Diego. It is huge, super clean, fun, good food and you win! It is also beautiful and the customer service here is awesome! They always have some kind of entertainment that everyone can enjoy. You can actually hear the fun, people having just a great time. Try it out, you won't be disappointed.
Chewy Girl — Google review
Ate at Cafe in the Casino. Sandwich & soup was excellent! Server Kelly was attentive & efficient!!
Outlets: Sad to see so many shops closed. I did go into the Native American store - beautiful artists work and purchased some items!
Kasey Rigsby-Ferree — Google review
Went this past weekend for Christmas with four other couples. Great Hospitality the rooms are absolutely amazing. Ate dinner at the Grove highly recommend their steak dinner as well as their Seafood tower. The cafe has a variety of foods that are so nice size and great. Everybody that came around was polite helpful the bartenders were amazing .I highly recommend Viejas like I said we stayed two days and there was five couples . We were treated amazing.
Lil' Mama Ressa — Google review
I was able to reserve a super nice suite for my family from out of town. The staff was amazing, my VIP rep Luz R. super great. Told them the days and was able to reserve them. Also, when I checked my guest in, I was able to go look at the room and place a Easter Basket which was nice, also they asked me if I needed anything for them and was able to have waters, sodas, robes, etc. brought up to the room.
Thank you for all the wonderful service. It made their stay a happy experience.
Lexis Johnson — Google review
The room was spacious and clean. The non-smoking room smelled great. The smoking room smelled awful like cigarettes 🚬 🚭 😕. We asked for a non-smoking room and got switched a few hours later. Other than that, the stay was great 👍🏼 👌.
Leticia Barcelo — Google review
It was first visit at Viejas Casino and Resort , and my experience definitely was filled with so many positive memorable highlights! From the moment I entered I was greeted with warm smiles and superb attentive service! The staff members went out of their way to ensure that all my needs were met, and that I felt welcomed throughout my stay. Super friendly and helpful blackjack dealers. Huge thanks to the friendly and accommodating staff who made my stay truly enjoyable!!!
Alexa Bubn — Google review
We stayed for several days and it was amazing! Everyone was so friendly and helpful and made the experience wonderful. Usually when you stay in a hotel for multiple days, you’re ready to go home, we were not! Very comfortable beds and room was quiet and peaceful. Will be going back soon!
Julie Miller — Google review
Quick getaway for my birthday with the wife. We come here maybe twice a year. Had an issue with our room not being ready, so they moved us to the Willows Hotel. That’s what you call making it right! Wow this hotel is amazing. We were put in a suite with direct access to the pool from our room. You can really tell the staff works hard to make the rooms immaculate. Felt like everything was brand new. Separated into rooms, two tvs, comfy couch, comfy king bed (I am picky), huge bathroom/shower, stocked fridge (complimentary).I was going yo go buy a toothbrush cause I forgot mine, but there was one, with toothpaste in the drawer. Ranks up there with the nicest rooms we have ever stayed at. Staff was friendly as well. Didn’t win in the casino, but the room felt like one. We’ll be back soon.
M Shigs — Google review
Just stayed there the other night for our 15th anniversary and while our previous stays over the years have been good, our stay this time was horrible. There was no hot water in our room and we had to take cold showers. I don't understand why a place like this wouldn't have HOT water figured out.
Mike Nelson (miketank24) — Google review
The room was tampered with upon our return even when we had a do not disturb sign on the door. The atmosphere is nice if you're only looking to play the slots without winning. I've put as much as 400.00 in the same machine without a bonus, but I enjoyed myself. The perks of food and hotel stay are top tier. Other than the hotel room I have to say it's an enjoyable place
Tracey Thompson — Google review
I had an exceptional stay at this hotel! Our VIP host, Giulia, greeted us warmly and ensured that every detail of our stay was taken care of. She is a truly a gem and Viejas is luck to have her. Upon arrival, the bellman , James was incredibly attentive, helping us with water and luggage.
As for the room, we stayed on the Willows side and it was absolutely stunning! Impeccably clean, beautifully decorated, and equipped with all the amenities I could ask for. The bed was incredibly comfortable, ensuring a restful night's sleep.
Overall, the level of service and the quality of the accommodations surpassed my expectations. I felt like a true VIP throughout my entire stay and would highly recommend this hotel to anyone looking for a luxurious and personalized experience.
Brianne Thomas — Google review
Had a staycation due to husband returning from deployment, and the stay was great. Room service was great, staff was great, room was clean and comfortable. Casino was fun, I wish machines were a bit friendlier but overall, we had a good time.
My only gripe is that the pools are not heated and they were closed.
Christina Mendoza — Google review
Clean rooms. Service was excellent, except for the room service, Dine in food. Now don't get me wrong, everything about our stay was spot on from Valet, check in, bell service, accommodation's, quick service, friendly staff, etc...
It was just how food was prepared for dine in room service. The omelets we ordered were spot on delicious. The toast had a burnt smell to it, but wasn't burnt. Coffee tasted week. Bacon was killed, burnt to a crisp. And I do mean "CRISP!" Sausage was also over cooked. And we had to call back for butter for the toast. They were all dry. And the yogurt parfait were very good.
So, I would give Viejas a 8.5 out of 10 stars.
Great place to go for a get away! Just if your going to have breakfast or dinner, I would go to their restaurants, or the new grab and go! Didn't even think about this new place inside. Its a great little place to grab a quick bite, And they even have tables to sit and relax at while you enjoy your snack, Or meal.
jesman65 — Google review
Very Clean & Attractive. All Staff pleasant & helpful. Haven't been there in years. A quiet afternoon with no big crowds. Took an old friend and he agrees !
Joe Lonzello — Google review
Eduardo is always pleasant, welcoming, and attentive. Eduardo always asked us if we need help or assistance with anything. He is very professional around my service dog Tika and tries not to bother her. I appreciate that. Eduardo will go the extra mile in helping us get settled and to check to see if our room is ready.
Thank you Eduardo for you do your certainly a one of a kind. A true gentlemen.
Bill Redmond
Lively casino featuring table games, slots & poker, plus eateries, bars & live shows.
We did like the layout of the casino, and the spacious, free parking that was available to us. The core of the place is very good and everything seems well kept up. I felt very safe in the multi-level parking garage. Inside, they had a nice array of machines. We didn't have great luck, but it was still a fun place to go. We did stop at the Asian food place and ordered a few items. Those came in prodigious amounts, we were able to take enough home to have a second good meal. This place is a little bit out there, but definitely worth the drive if you like clean casinos. I'll give it a thumbs up for sure.
peter pinkham — Google review
This is a really nice hotel. Everything is very clean and feels almost brand new. I stayed in the hotel or a couple days and had a great experience. The slot machines were paying out very well (to those around me 😳🤣) I saw a couple people get jackpots over $1,000. The bingo room is really nice and you get great value for your money. The only issue I had was food selection. They are still getting the food court put together so there were only a few choices and very few vegetarian options. I have a feeling things will improve once the restaurants are all open but that is definitely something to keep in mind. Overall I think it's a great resort and I am definitely going back. *If you have the MyVegas app you can earn complimentary stays and plays 😉*
Dave TheBowler — Google review
Hurts to have to give this place 3 stars instead of my usual 5.
1. I was told that due to a new policy, Sycuan no longer allows guests to bring snacks from the outside into the resort. I don't understand this new policy. If I'm spending hundreds on games and a room for 2 days, why can't I bring my favorite snack for my time in the room that I paid hundreds of $$$ for? Furthermore, Sycuan has a market less than a minute away. I'm not sure if it's owned by the same company, but what's the point of the market if we can no longer bring snacks and drinks?
2. I was informed that the resort pool closed at 1:00pm on the day that I went. This was nowhere on the website, calendar, anywhere for guests to see in advance. If so, I would've booked my room on a different day. Again, I'm paying hundreds for a room and on games. Why can't I use the hotel amenities or be notified in advance when they will be closed. I decided to go out to the pool for the one hour that I could, but the waitress spent the entire time talking and never served me once.....I left after 10 minutes.
I have come to Sycuan quite a few times throughout the year to relax. When I come, I usually reserve a suite, relax, play games, and go to the pool. I typically spend hundreds here and usually have a great time, but I guess things have changed......maybe I'll try Valley View...
Other than that, the hotel hosts were amazing, and the food at viewpoint was good as always.
Jonathan Henderson — Google review
The food service workers we encountered were very friendly, helpful and personable. The front desk gentleman was not rude, but not welcoming. It was almost like he was working from a script and seemed irritated by a question or two.
The food was wonderful, the drinks were well made, and the pool was nice.
We upgraded to a standard suite, which was a bit disappointing since the sitting area was simply a small couch on the other side of a 1/2 wall. The bathroom was fabulous and huge, nice deep tub - excellent amenities.
The balcony had a nice view, but I didn't think the upgrade was worth the additional $90. We got cold during the night and realized there were no extra blankets stored anywhere. We could only "up" the thermostat, which wasn't practical because it got too hot, and had to be adjusted throughout the night.
My biggest complaint was how incredibly noisy the A/C was. It banged a lot, and at one point we both got up and just watched TV because we couldn't sleep. There was one point where it sounded like someone was bouncing a ball against the wall. We looked forward to getting home to sleep the next day.
Overall, it was a nice stay. This was for my husband's birthday and he had a good time. Nice local getaway.
A Jones — Google review
Wow, were we impressed! Everything is so new, clean and wonderful. The food at the Bourbon and Bull was exceptional. The rooms immaculate and comfortable. The spa was amazing. I'm really hard pressed to find a fault other than the smell of cigarettes in the casino.
Edward Miller — Google review
Clean and bright enough to see all around the casino. Plenty of parking or you can let them do it. Free shuttle service if needed. Great food. Great player rewards when using a card. They have fantastic concerts that you can get tickets to see. The machines pay off a lot. It's 24 hours of fun.
Jeanette Bond — Google review
This is one of the nicest hotels I've ever stayed out of almost 200. The hotel tower, rooms and amenities are all 5 star. Everything is immaculately clean and service is very friendly. The restaurant with the mountain view was great and the casino was clean and well maintained. I would come back to this area to specifically visit the Sycuan resort again and would love to see the full pool area in full season. It was great that even in winter the main pool and a hot tub was open for guests and fully heated. I'm a picky guy and I couldn't really find anything I had an issue with even if I tried. Thanks for a great stay. The attention to details didn't go unnoticed (the location of shower faucet especially!).
Kyle Schwarz — Google review
I'm a San Diego local, and have been coming out to the resort solo and with friends since late 2019. I don't necessarily come out there for the more exciting activities. I come out for peace, fun with friends at the hotel pool, the occasional concert, and the great dining experiences.
There's something so soothing and reviving about swimming in the lazy river all day, reading a book in the pristine hot tub, and looking out at the mountains. If I wanted one, I know I could get a great massage or spa treatment at the spa downstairs. And as a student, I appreciate the convenience of the Office Center when I need to print something out or use a regular PC.
You can rest assured that valet and the bell staff will always be careful and cautious with your car and suitcases, and it's always nice to see the same faces welcoming you back.
Days at the pool are wonderful, whether there are just a handful of folks, or its packed with activity. No matter how busy it is, the poolside servers will always bring you the best drinks and food, and security keeps a vigilant eye on everything to help things run smoothly.
I've heard that night swim (movie nights) and the poolside music events are great. The hotel also hosts conventions and events.
As for the hotel itself, the rooms are always pristine and beautiful, well-appointed and cozy. No matter what part of the hotel you are in, you will have a nice view and a lovely stay. It is well worth splurging on a suite, as they are absolutely stunning and have all the modern conveniences.
I have never had a negative experience with a single staff member, of any part of the hotel. Same goes for the dining experiences, though I lean toward Viewpoint, Bull and Bourbon, and Starbucks for most of my meals. The all-you-can-eat sushi at Elicit is also great.
I look forward to coming back year after year!
L Dee — Google review
The service personnel walking around are not very friendly. The waitress at the Rank & File was great. All the personnel working inside the Live & Up Close concert venue were great. Great concert venue - very up close & personal. Parking was not bad at all. Biggest down fall is the smoke from the all the smokers. It wreaked havoc on my sinuses. The small non-smoking area was not any better because the smoke does not miraculously stop at the door
Maria Carapia — Google review
Sycuan was absolutely beautiful! We had a wonderful stay and the food was great! I would give it 5 stars but unfortunately we had the worst casino/gambling experience ever. Our money disappeared, quickly! There was no up and down, give and take like every other gambling experience I've had before, at Sycuan it was just all downhill and fast.
We had a wonderful experience as far as our room, the staff and the restaurants so we will definitely visit again, we just won't participate in gambling.
Auna — Google review
Stayed in premier suite with a balcony. The view is great! The retreat pool is awesome! Highly recommend to spend a couple hours in the pool. The only issue is the casino floor smell like hell if you are a non-somker. Will absolutely stop by again next time nearby San Diego! 👍🏻
Richard Lee — Google review
It's a big facility with a lot of options. It's not difficult to find certain areas like the bingo hall and the poker room are, which can't be said for other casinos. They unfortunately don't have the food court anymore, which once saw Hodads, but they still have options that fit whatever you're craving for, with a steakhouse, sports bar, pizza and a place with a more fast food vibe upstairs. I stayed once and their rooms are nice. It was very clean and had space to easily walk through. I've had up and downs with the gambling, but that's about what you expect if you play long enough.
T Th — Google review
This is my new favorite hotel! I was surprised by the quality of service that I experienced here. The hotel itself smells amazing, there is no smoking in this gaming area. The rooms were clean with beautiful, modern decor. The food was good (there’s a Starbuck’s!!!). Awesome views of the hills, but my favorite part was the valet service. It’s included as part of your stay at the hotel and they give you a cold water bottle everytime you get your car. It’s the little details that matter so thank you Sycuan for a great experience.
Miriam Carmona — Google review
I took my mother to go play Bingo for her birthday it was the second session of the day the Bingo room is very big. The service is quick. we had a great time we didn't get lucky. But the atmosphere was great it was very comfortable and we had a lot of space
Lisa Rene M — Google review
It's not conveniently located and people can still smoke inside the property. I appreciate the free ev charging in the parking structure which is located on the 3rd floor. There is a Starbucks inside that's open until 9pm. Every time we come here, it's always busy even on a regular day. This is a place to relax and enjoy.
sherly — Google review
Wonderful place for a getaway. The amenities are top notch. We will be excited to try and come back when the pool is an option. They have one portion open but the lazy river was closed when we were there. All of the restaurants were pretty satisfying. Except for the Chinese one, that was a disappointment. The only downside was that the beds were super uncomfortable. I've stayed in a lot of hotels and the ones that have the beds that are harder as a rock. Definitely make it hard to want to come back when everything else is so enjoyable. Gorgeous view up in the San Diego mountains.
Kendra Barney — Google review
This was my 1st time going to Sycuan. I had a great time at the hotel. The rooms are nice and the beds are comfortable although the pillows suck. We went swimming in the pool and enjoyed the hot tub as well. I'm not a gambler, but I sure had fun at the slot machines. I wanted to go down the lazy River unfortunately it was closed. I am going to go back in April or May when the entire resort is open. Overall, a great time was had by all.
Shawn DeLeon — Google review
Be careful if you're staying at the hotel. Unlike major hotel brands that will let you leave early without penalty, Sycuan Resort will NOT and will charge you if you leave. Always remember when you're staying on an Indian Reservation they operate on their own guideline and are proud of it. They would rather take your $150 with an archaic policy then keep you happy and keep you coming back in the future. BTW the rooms are nice and the food is good, it is unfortunate the management is focused on policy and not people.
Tim Flatt — Google review
A beautiful resort in a beautiful location. My room at the hotel was clean, modern, and had very nice finishes. The staff were friendly, helpful, and professional. I tried 3 of the restaurants and all were delicious and had fresh food. The bars were well staffed and comfortable. Had a great stay!
T E — Google review
My spouse and I love coming here to stay at the hotels. The rooms are always clean as well as the casino floors. I enjoy eating at Rank and File, they have the best servers there and great New York Steak :)
Chelsea M — Google review
Update
A Frustrating Episode at Sycuan Casino Resort
My recent experience at the Sycuan Casino Resort left me deeply disheartened and frustrated. Despite being a frequent visitor and my dad's elite membership at the casino, the events that unfolded were far from what I expected in terms of customer service and consideration.
The situation arose when my dad's truck, facing serious brake issues, required our attention. Seeking assistance, I approached the casino staff and requested permission to temporarily leave the truck on the premises while I retrieved my towing equipment. Initially, they granted this request without hesitation.
However, matters took an unfortunate turn when, while picking up my dad, a police officer approached us. I confidently shared that we had received permission from the casino staff to have the truck on the property. To our astonishment, the casino staff contradicted their earlier approval when contacted by the police officer. This abrupt about-face not only caught us off guard but also left us in a difficult and unnecessary predicament.
The outcome was twofold: we were compelled to pay approximately $200 for a tow truck, even though we had our own equipment available. Adding to this financial burden was the fact that the truck's brake issues were not resolved. Despite our explanation and urgent circumstances, the casino staff allowed us just one hour to remove the truck from the premises, disregarding the gravity of the situation.
I am truly puzzled by the casino's decision to challenge our honesty, particularly given our genuine need for assistance. This disappointing incident has left us feeling unsupported and disillusioned. The lack of consistency and empathy from the casino staff is particularly disconcerting, especially considering our history as patrons and my father's esteemed membership status.
My visit to the Sycuan Casino Resort has been overshadowed by this regrettable occurrence. It's with great disappointment that I acknowledge the erosion of trust in their customer service and commitment to their patrons. I would urge others to exercise caution when dealing with this establishment, as this incident has cast a shadow on their integrity and dedication to their guests.
Andy W — Google review
Tried to go to the Powwow but it was too full to park and they weren’t sure if they had a wheelchair van to park remote so we went to the casino instead. Charged in the garage and donated a ton of money to the slots. Tried to eat at Bull and Bourbon, but they didn’t know anything about food allergens, I thought this was Cali. :-/ The security folks were awesome. Starbucks was awesome. Had to go eat at In-n-out.
Jared Larson — Google review
First time at this resort. All I can say is wow!!!! Beautiful resort and so much to do and so many eating options. Everything I had was amazing. They also have an amazing pool area. Also the staff was very nice. The best part of all was the spa. Also if you like to gamble they have a large casino and a poker room. I will be back very soon.
Lucretia Wesley — Google review
First time here to play bingo, and it was so nice! We barely made it in time, and didn't know we needed to have an account just to play. But the desk signed us up so quickly to get us into the game in time. My only nitpick would be concessions. They never ever came by after multiple requests and we had to wait until the break to get food. I guess stack up on food and drinks before the game.
Vanessa Gonzales — Google review
First time coming here, glad we did. We were visiting from Hawaii and stayed 2 nights. The casino is clean and well spaced out. The restaurant choices has really good food. The rooms are really spacious and comfortable and the staff is really friendly. Definitely going back.
Diedrick Griep — Google review
This is a hidden Gem about 6 miles outside of El Cajon. We absolutely liked it very much. The customer service was excellent. They really make it a point to recognize their military and first responder personnel. It's not ginormous but it's definitely big enough. Plenty of places to grab a bite and plenty of gambling to enjoy. Slots, tables bingo. We will definitely be back.
Mario Alvarado Jr. — Google review
Place was nice
But the machines were super tight couldn't win nothing got bonus and didn't pay nothing.
They talked all night that this is the home of the jackpots. Should be saying
The home were you go home broke 😢
Last night just feeding the machine's
No return what so ever at least give some money back to I can keep playing and enjoy the evening.
Eddie Johnston — Google review
Really enjoyed my stay at this location! The rooms are pretty clean and had great amenities. I was able to check in and out fairly quickly. Parking was also free and accesible. All staff members were polite and attentive. Price per night is about $200 and there’s a $100 refundable deposit fee.
Francisco Reinosa — Google review
I didn't stay at the hotel. So I can't give rooms an honest rating. We went for breakfast at the Viewpoint and played on the slot machines for awhile. The Viewpoint is the main reason we return to Sycuan. The food is excellent and the service is great. In all the years we've been coming I've never won big. I also don't play Max bet amounts. The machines sometimes let you win enough to keep you entertained 😁 It's always a good experience here the service is good. Everyone is so friendly and ready to help if you need anything. The one thing I've noticed lately is it can get pretty warm at times. I almost asked if the temp could be turned down a bit. But other than that it's all good!
Irene Oshiro — Google review
Wonderful front desk interaction! This shout out is for Andrew at check in, thank you for welcoming us and providing stellar service. Informative and accommodating, we so appreciate you. The 4 star rating is because we walked in with gear from an opposing team and the security guard by the parking lot made us throw away groceries and then carded us (almost 40 by the way....) and then worst of all, security by the Pink Buddha lounge ran up to us and reached for the drink out of my hand and proceeded to throw it away. I guess they don't approve of drinks we bought at their own gas station on their property. Worst casino interaction, Sycaun we love you, but look into guards with better personal skills.
Melissa W. — Google review
Large clean rooms, the restaurants were good overall. Nice view from the room. As a non smoker who will tolerate some smoke,I found the casino a bit overwhelming at times. The pool was refreshing.
Patti E — Google review
Stopped in on an afternoon with my family in town. Unfortunately after we got lunch and played a few games it got very unpleasant. First while my wife and mother were in the woman’s bathroom I saw a man coming out. I informed security but they seemed to put it off. After that an entirely separate incident occurred when another man told my mother to get the F out of the way in the casino. The man was wearing what looked like kitchen clothes. After confronting the man I told security again but they failed to respond. Just a very sketchy atmosphere.
MSC — Google review
This place is the best between the 3 casinos, which is about 30 minutes away from us. We've been 3x, and my husband always hits big. I win something that is not usual when going to casinos. We win when betting the minimum, so that's the other reason I like this place the most. The staff is friendly and the place is very clean plus well kept. They have a non-smoking area in which a door divides it from the smoking area. Unlike most reviewers, I can say the non-smoking area does not smell like smoke at all.
Do remember everyone's experience will be different, but this place is worth a try. Also, the food was delicious at the Pink Buddha. The restaurant staff was attentive and friendly as well.
Jamul Casino is a versatile entertainment hub that offers both table games and slot machines. The casino also features live music and a variety of dining options, including a steakhouse with scenic rural views. With excellent ambiance, diverse culinary choices, and attentive staff, Jamul Casino promises an enjoyable experience for all visitors.
I've been to quite a few casinos and live close to Pechanga. It's a really nice one but this one hit on an entirely different level. Just upon arriving you can see how absolutely beautiful it is. Everything is updated, valet is free and the employees there were the first ones we saw. They made an incredible first impression. Going through the door, the security officer greeted us and asked for my ID (which made me feel young so thank you!!). My goodness I was in such awe when we got upstairs even as a smaller casino it is SO grand. Pictures don't do it justice. I love the intimate feel. I love that every single employee was above and beyond. They perks they offer are awesome! A discount with each person when you have a players card. I received a $20 dining credit, my boyfriend got $10 in free play he won about $70 with! It was seriously just and overall amazing time. I can't wait to be back.
A Mother's Day to remember
Georgina Vasquez — Google review
I am a huge fan of the Jamul Casino, but unfortunately, we had a negative experience with one of the operators. After arriving in San Diego, my husband and I were looking forward to dining at the steakhouse for brunch. We had previously spoken to a lovely woman on Easter who made accommodations for us. However, when I called today, the woman I spoke with informed me that I needed to make the reservation online. This was different from what we were told on Easter, when we were informed that we needed to make reservations with an operator for brunch. I explained this discrepancy to the operator named Brianna today, but she didn't seem interested in helping us. She was very abrupt and told me that her computer was rebooting constantly. Despite this, I remained patient and told her I would wait, but she seemed very frustrated as if she didn't want to assist us. Following this, she asked for my player card number, which I found strange since it wasn't requested during our previous reservation. At this point, it was clear that Brianna was very frustrated and didn't want to help me at all. This unfortunate event occurred on Sunday, the 14th at 1:30 AM. Despite this negative experience, everyone else we encountered at the casino was very nice and friendly, from the women who attended the restroom to the young man at the coffee shop, Cathy Pastry Chef and the wonderful waitress Jenna we had on Easter. I truly hope management addresses this issue with Brianna and I wish her better days. I apologize for calling so late, but this was the time we arrived in San Diego. Work is work, and I will be praying for Brianna.
Cecilia Salman — Google review
We come to this casino weekly and have always had a great experience. We are at the Mexican restaurant and had the most unprofessional experience. My spouse had a promotion that gave credit plus a discount. We were told we can use one or the other, which we were fine with. The lady was extremely rude and called her “supervisor” who was even more unprofessional then her. We did not make a big deal nor did we ask for an explanation. He was rude and condescending to us. When I asked for his supervisor he stated “he was the supervisor and no other person in the casino is running the restaurant” and refused. There are several casinos in the area. This will definitely be the last time we come here. It is incisors to me that the poor leadership does not value their customers and I am sure do not care if they lose regular customers due to their lack of leadership training and unprofessional behavior.
Freddie Joseph Guzman — Google review
Well I give it a five for my experience. I came here with some friends to attend a drag show on The Rooftop after dinner at Fusion. Dinner was good, the drag show was awesome and I only gambled for about twenty minutes and still can't out ahead. It was a good day.
Tressa C — Google review
Prime Cut Steakhouse was off the hook great venue with an amazing view, over the top service by Janine, food was very pleasing with large portions, and drinks were top shelf.
I recommend this place for a great change of pace from downtown. The starters were very eye appealing and tasty. Drinks I stuck to the whiskey and was pleased. Bison was very good cooked to medium and fries. Janine was an amazing server who knows the menu better than the chef.
Greg Cobb — Google review
I am in awe of the exceptional and extraordinary hospitality at this place, deserving of a perfect 10-star rating. From the moment we arrived, the valet offered us refreshing water, setting the tone for a remarkable experience. The guest services went above and beyond by presenting my friend with delightful birthday necklaces, making their special day truly unforgettable. The abundance of fantastic gifts and incentives for first-time visitors added to the joy of the occasion. I am immensely grateful that I chose this place to celebrate my friends' birthday, as every staff member we encountered took the time to wish them a happy birthday, creating a magical atmosphere.
Joseph Ugi — Google review
This casino has it all, great atmosphere, amazing food and so much to choose from, super great service from all the staff all and we just had an awesome afternoon. Thank you everyone at Jamul Casino
Baine Neveu — Google review
Went to the jive for a beer was Impressed by Olga! Not only is she easy on the eyes but she runs the bar well! Is quick to empty ash trays and greet guests with a warm smile. Quickly gets you your drink and receipt! This is a bartender that clearly earns 4 out of four in performance reviews! I posted a picture of the bar and not the bartender out of respect for those in the service industry! After a long hard days work you provide us with much needed respite. With a warm smile and great customer service we appreciate you all!
Mario Alvarado — Google review
Travel distance not bad. The parking structure sucks. First time here and I didn't care for it. I had fun people watching. New member sign up I received $10 but my wife got $50. Nice restaurants onsite.
Sir Jones 78 — Google review
1st Time here. It's looks very beautiful. We went to eat at Emerald. Wow.. food are delicious. Friendly Staff. Casino OK. No win.
J M — Google review
Jamul Casino is a colossal disappointment. From rude staff to dismal gaming experience, it's a cesspool of frustration. The ambiance? More like a dingy dungeon than a vibrant casino. Save your money and sanity; steer clear of this sorry excuse for entertainment. Trust me, you're better off flipping coins in a dark alley
Vasantha Moorthi — Google review
Came to eat on a Sunday and stumbled on a magical surf and turf buffet of grilled steaks, fried lobster tails, fried shrimp, crab legs, mashed potatoes, salad, veggies, and so much more! And the drinks...I may have went overboard with the Bloody Mary flight lol which was pretty much 4 regular size drinks! All tasted great but I couldn't finish.
Juanita La Shell — Google review
I went for New Year. They had a wonderful band that made the place feel alive! Everyone got a NY Hat and the place was fun.
Mar Carrera — Google review
We had dinner at Loft 94, and afterwards proceeded to the Jukebox live music area. First time to Casino and was very impressed. My only issue is the cigarette smoke. Everything else was great. 👍
Justin Moody — Google review
Just started going here, and already started winning more than the other local casinos. I can't wait for the hotel to open that they're working on. When I first got my rewards card I won a dinner for 2 lobster dinner. It was very delicious. You are greeted warmly and they also have free refreshments. This place is very clean and staff is friendly among all levels.
I highly recommend Jamul casino.
The Tijuana Cultural Center is a contemporary museum that showcases Mexican history and culture through exhibits, installations, and an IMAX theater. It provides visitors with an interactive experience with informative displays and vibrant art pieces. The center also boasts one of the best iMax theaters globally, making it a must-visit for movie enthusiasts. The staff is friendly and accommodating, allowing visitors to explore the exhibits comfortably.
The Tijuana Cultural Center is a great center for the arts. It’s a cool place to come and enjoy a few hours in a featured exhibit. They also have one of the best iMax’s in the entire world.
I spent some time here recently at a couple of interesting exhibits, one historical and one modern. A lot of interesting information and interactive, fun art pieces. Super vibrant and moving work. The staff is nice as well — they let me stay in an exhibit a few minutes after closing.
All around an enjoyable and easy experience to have while in Tijuana.
Christopher Gorrie — Google review
A very attractive place for a day visit, the IMAX cinema is the best besides being very cheap, they have a bookstore, restaurants and museums, as well as a large parking lot, it is worth visiting at least once a month
DAH Financial Consulting LLC — Google review
Great place to visit and take pictures. It’s a cool monument to see. Check it out
Brandon Leuangpaseuth — Google review
"The Tijuana Cultural Center (CECUT) is an absolute gem in the heart of Baja California! As soon as you step inside, you're greeted by a stunning architecture and a vibrant atmosphere that's perfect for exploring and learning about the region's rich culture.
The exhibits are thoughtfully curated and diverse, showcasing everything from contemporary art to traditional crafts and history. My favorite was the interactive exhibit on the history of Tijuana, which offered a unique and engaging perspective on the city's fascinating past.
The staff were friendly and knowledgeable, and the facilities were spotless and well-maintained. The outdoor courtyard was a lovely spot to relax and take in the sights and sounds of the city.
I was particularly impressed by the center's commitment to promoting local artists and preserving the region's cultural heritage. The events and workshops offered were a great way to engage with the community and learn more about the area's vibrant arts scene.
Overall, the Tijuana Cultural Center is an essential experience for anyone interested in art, history, and culture. It's a shining example of the city's dedication to preserving and celebrating its rich cultural heritage. Highly recommended!
Elliot Hernadez Lagarda — Google review
The Museum is worth it. Especially for students.. Nomadic, natives, Spanish missionaries, Revolution great teachable lessons..( includes English descriptions) The Cecut also has a cafe/ deli.
Mara M — Google review
Nice place to spend an hour or two. Small but nice botanical garden and entertaining aquarium are both recommended to visit as well
Dmitry Bn — Google review
Great place to visit, see some mexican art, and learn a bit about Mexico's history. Has quite a few Aztec and Maya artifacts. There is also a cool IMAX theatre which plays some good documentaries. Tickets are cheap to - $7.50 US dollars for two people. Definitely recommend!
Volodymyr Korsun — Google review
I recomme... If you have time to spare diffently stop by and check this place out. Great place for anyone! Parking is a small fee. Free entrance, cafe, book store, gift shop, aquarium, small botanical garden and a theather nearby. I've find this place very interesting and with plenty of history. Overall great place to spend time in Tijuana, Baja California.
D G — Google review
We had a great time with the kids, so much to explore, very clean. There was plenty of staff around for assistance, felt very safe with the children. Used restrooms and the were very clean. We had a great and fun experience, highly recommend !
b zatti — Google review
I’ve been to Tijuana many times before, but I never had the opportunity to explore anything outside restaurants. So, I decided to look for the top places to visit in TJ and this came up, so I gave it a try!
It amazed me the first time i saw it, as I was getting off of my Uber, such an interesting shape and very different and unique from the rest of buildings in TJ.
Once inside, I got a ticket to experience the IMAX screen. The sound and visuals were outstanding.
Definitely worth it!
Laura Osorio Feregrino — Google review
Beautiful place, really nice rich culture here. A wonderful place to learn about the area.
Beckie Blakey — Google review
Really cool spot to visit; I didn't know they actually have a lot more than just the main auditorium, but also an aquarium and stages for different activities and shows; its a nice place to spend a Saturday or nice evening especially if your into all things educational.
From nature to history and outer space they have shows for everyone!
Ricardo Mendoza — Google review
A really nice place to spend a day with the family, we visited the main museum, the aquarium, some of the temporary activities taking place on the explained and watched a movie in the IMAX Theatre, we also had a chance to walk the botanical garden... You will have a blast!!!
Tony Herrera — Google review
Loved this Museum! Lots of information on Baja. The IMax movies was great. The Cube art exhibit was interesting.
Bought a wonderful souvenir, an artist made bow and arrow!
Lila Schnell — Google review
Attended the Binational Conference of Social Work Post-Pandemic. Excellent location on a Friday. Vendors galore set up all day with food, can lots more. So much fun. It is across from a beautiful mall. Lots of traffic as there is a turn circle, be careful. I enjoyed the cultural experience. Very friendly people and helpful all around. Will go again. The exit at the border was about an hour, so be patient, and go with a buddy for company and to chat with a long the way. Remember your passport.
Shlyn Guarian — Google review
Was a fun place to see and visit. The ball is the imax and the museum is behind it. It's all in Spanish, which should be obvious, so make sure you or someone that's with you speaks it.
Robert Moody — Google review
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4.5
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P.º de los Héroes 9350, Zona Urbana Rio Tijuana, 22010 Tijuana, B.C., Mexico
Av. Revolución is a renowned street characterized by its historical significance and palm-lined path. This lively thoroughfare boasts of vibrant cantinas, galleries, cafes, souvenir shops, and an array of restaurants, bars, stores that cater to a diverse crowd. The area is known for its bustling atmosphere with many people enjoying themselves in dance clubs and other entertainment venues throughout the day and night.
The Las Americas Premium Outlets, which is located in San Ysidro, offers shoppers a wide variety of brand name stores at discounted prices. It is one of the largest outlet malls in Southern California, and with 125 stores, it has something for everyone.
My favorite mall for shopping in San Diego. Large amount of stores that include the common brands. Prices are great...yes it's an outlet mall and the merchandise is at least a year old. But, unlike the other malls in SD, it's really hard to leave here without buying something...usually from multiple stores.
Ronald Dolsky — Google review
Sizable outlet at the border with overall nice layout and so many other stores/plaza nearby.
The collections are good but some offers are more expensive compared to other location further north.
Yousef A. Almubarak — Google review
Las America's outlet is by far one of my favorite shipping centers in San Diego County. Their outlets have it all, and most of the time, they have deals on top of their lower retail prices
Jesus San Miguel — Google review
A large, well-appointed outlet mall with multiple brand shops at outlet prices. Strategically located at the US Mexican border. One can spend the day enjoying the shopping experience and having a bite to eat.
Hani Alahdal — Google review
We've been here plenty of times and we really like this Outlet. There's a lot of stores to choose from. Must visit for shopping!
Janicee S — Google review
It was a great experience to find all your shopping needs. Offering a wide variety of outlets from outdoors, indoors, apparel, cosmetics, etc.. worth checking out if in search of more specific items and stores by specific vendors as Las Americas Premium Outlet might have it for you. Las Americas Premium Outlets is an awesome experience for the family. The atmosphere is so family friendly. This mall is home to over 100 stores which include shop exclusive brands such as Gucci, Prada, Victoria's Secret, Pottery Barn, Lululemon Athletica and more! Known as the gateway to the Texas Hill Country, North Face, Adidas, Columbia, Aerie, Avon, American Eagle, and Bass. This premium outlet center offers plenty of parking spaces so you can move around to different shops with ease. There are also a handful of eateries here, such as a bubble tea cafe and pizzeria. The furniture was nice quality. I didn't walk around and see what all stores were around but from what I I see they have a big variety to choose from. I would recommend visiting here with your family. It is best to give yourself two days to explore all the stores.
Saad Alsaedi — Google review
The prices are not that low but still recommended. A nice place to do some shopping.
Fet — Google review
I visit the outlets here on occasion and there's plenty of stores and things on sale. Parking is free and available but during holidays it can be hard finding a spot. The worst part here is exiting through the border area where traffic gets jammed.
Trending Nordic — Google review
Definitely try tacos from one of the trucks parked outside! Good outlet to shop! Not some many collections though!
Hinduja Kumar — Google review
Very nice place
Contains lots of brands with reasonable prices
omar salah — Google review
pIt is an excellent shopping center with famous brands as well as very nice stores where you can buy quality at a cheap price.
cnntmkn — Google review
Lockers! I have been trying to find lockers near the border for quite a while. There are lockers available in this mall, which is practically next to the border. My girlfriend and I stashed a large quantity of liquor in here before crossing the border into Mexico. If we hadn’t done that, bringing the liquor back would’ve been problematic at immigration. It’s next to the Puma store. You can rent for multiple days. The larger lockers will easily fit suitcases.
90293Mike — Google review
No much varieties even no much different sizes available .. difficult to find all brands !
Some shops are not well organized
FAWAZ ALJEHANI — Google review
I Love shopping here. So many different stores and Always good deals and some good food trucks for when you get hungry and some restaurants are available too. Weekends are pretty busy but it's still A Great time.
Melinda Crowe — Google review
Lovely shopping mall. Good selection of shops. Excellent ladies' bathroom.
Jenny Heenan — Google review
Good outlet center in San Diego. Not the best outlet in the world but they have decent offers from different brands. In my opinion they could have more brands. But it is ok…
Adrian Roth — Google review
It was a really nice place to go shopping 🛒 👍
John Garduno — Google review
In this shopping center you can find everything at good prices and it is close to the border with Tijuana, you can cross quickly, do your shopping and return to Mexico on foot faster than by car. I have a lot of fun when I go with my mom.
Fun winery with a lot of interesting sculptures. Didn't know what to expect, but I think it's worth checking out if you are in the area.
David Smith — Google review
Really weird visit on a Saturday afternoon. The tasting room was closed and there was a little bar set up outside to the left. Looks like they were doing that for awhile but no signage. A man walked over from an outdoor table where he was sitting with a couple of others and asked us what we wanted.
No menu and there were only two bottles of wine opened. Both reds, no whites. No wine tastings. I had to ask how much it was for each glass. I was told it's $10. Wine was ok.
We came to look at the art anyways. A very eclectic collection and fun to walk around. This place has definitely gone downhill since I was last there a few years ago.
There's a giant chest board that's literally falling apart with holes in the floor. The place looks a little unkept now, which is sad to see.
Sharon Black — Google review
What I think is happening with all the 5 star reviews for this winery is that they're all based on the Art and atmosphere. Which are incredible and I definitely encourage everyone to check this winery out for that sole purpose. However, one must also leave a review in regards to service and the wine itself. Upon finding the random corner for a tasting, the guy said it was over and the two remaining bottles on the counter was what was left. I asked if I could purchase a new bottle and he said he would open it up and let us buy a glass. We finally sat down to enjoy our wine and I refrained from spitting it up on the ground. It was horrible! I would give this place 3 stars if it weren't for the unique surprise and surroundings. See this winery, yes. Drink the wine, if you're used to box wine from your youth I suppose.
PaulSebastian — Google review
Wish I would of taken more pictures of this place but dang is there a lot of art. For those of you with a Mexican heritage you'll notice that most of the art here is from Mexican artist and that should give you some pride!
The sangria here was a nice delight on a 90 degree day!
Hector Guevara — Google review
Experience: five stars. Wine: three. My boyfriend and I came for sunset and a tasting. Service was excellent. The setting was romantic and interesting with all the art. The cheese plate was delicious. I want to give this place five stars, but a winery with wine that disappoints can't quite pull that off. But if you don't go for the wine, you'll have an incredible experience. We will be going back!
Holly Buderus — Google review
Omg this is a hidden gem we stumbled upon. After my hike with friends. The art is beautiful. I can't wait to bring other friends.
E Lizete Ramirez — Google review
Beautiful winery with unique art and amazing views. Had my wedding here in 2019 and the owner was very accommodating and made me feel like family. Definitely a place where you can go relax and enjoy the beautiful mountain views.
Bertha Espino — Google review
Amazing and eclectic collection of artwork on the grounds. Beautiful place for local wine tasting. Kitchen offers pizzas, salads, cheese plates.
Lovely staff.
Patricia V Waldron — Google review
This place is just a really cool ambiance with interesting statues and art all over the premise. They have some food and plenty of wine options as well. All with a beautiful view of the surrounding mountains.
Rhonda Mousali — Google review
This place is amazing. Not only is this a wonderful winery, it contains a collection of high end sculptures worthy of a museum. As a visitor you are able to walk around all of the art freely. The atmosphere is casual. A person interested in visiting here should visit their website for times.
The Playas de Tijuana neighborhood is located in the westernmost part of Tijuana, Baja California, and extends from the northern border with the United States to Rosarito Beach Municipality in the south. The Bullring by the Sea was established in 1960 within this area.
Old Poway Park is a beautiful, historic park with plenty of photo opportunities. The setting is perfect for weddings, family pictures and more. There's also a vintage train that kids love to ride.
This is a nice park with historical information about the railroad and homes buibuilt in the early 1900s. It also displays history from the late 1890s. There are really good local eats. They have a farmers market every Saturday. There is also a small veterans park that honors the local veterans.
Monica Moore — Google review
If you are looking for a charming town square where you can step back in time, Old Poway is for you. I came for the railroad and stayed for the Artisan market, where I got paella. Yum! There's plenty of free parking in various lots sprawled across the park, but you will have to drive around closed roads to find them. I went into two of the free museums (donations appreciated) and learned more about Poway's history. The market closes around 1pm on Saturdays, so go before lunch to enjoy the food. The street corner musician was fun.
Betty Trinh — Google review
Do you need a place to get married? Take senior pictures or family photos? Have a birthday 🎂 party or just hang? Old Poway Park is perfect!!!! Beautiful setting and lots of photo opportunities!!! Great place to gather and great parking!! The train 🚆 is definitely a plus!! Kids of all ages love to ride on the old time train!!!
Ruth Wallis — Google review
We enjoy gathering after church service on Sunday for special occasions.
Potlucks and great fellowship in the beautiful outdoors. The children enjoy it also. Train rides, playground or take our own volleyball net for a game or two, most likely more. Plenty of parking. Restrooms available and clean.
Maria Robles — Google review
Love this park so much. It's small, but probably the most famous park in Poway, with a lot of history. It's beautiful, has large, old trees, cool old buildings, an old train, The Hamburger Factory next door, and walkable distance to many other small businesses. It's a wonderful park. No playgrounds for kids, though.
Alexandra — Google review
A big but quaint park in the middle of Poway. There is no playground at this park but there's another park right across the street (in the north). There's a farmers market on Saturdays, and the train runs on the weekend (I don't remember which day). It's a great location for photoshoots.
Akiko Morgan — Google review
We love coming here with our less than 2 year old granddaughter. She loves the steam train, and probably would love any of the rolling stock they offer. Highly recommend for the rail fan in your family.
Robert Rael — Google review
A gem of history in North County SD! The docents of the historical buildings are generous with their time and knowledge.
The train engineers started a little over time and let us go for a ride just before 1pm shut down time.
The reenactment we attended was thorough about life in mid-1800s wild west.
A fascinating visit, we will sure to return to! If we lived closer than Oceanside, we might volunteer to be train engineers!
Lalli Guerriero — Google review
Great local park. Has a train that goes around the park. They even have a steam engine that they bring out at different times. There's a restaurant, a Farmer's Market on Saturday & lots of picnic areas. There are other shops very close. The park has holiday specials. Christmas in the Park is great! Parking is not a problem. Lots of spots for photos too.
Boxeromine — Google review
I really like this park for a walk and also there are many different activities. On April 15th there was a flower show which was beautiful! Thanks to the organizers!
???? ?????????? — Google review
Beautiful park in beautiful poway. Take a stroll around the peaceful park enjoy the creek, get some craft beer across the street, heck you can even bring your own alcohol to the park (it's allowed)
leonardo sandoval — Google review
One of the best spots in San Diego. Have raised and brought 2 generations of dogs to this park. Also one of the most popular photo locations thanks to the train park side. Professional photographers love this park.
Robert Shaw — Google review
So blessed to see so many people enjoying Old Poway Park on this beautiful Sunday afternoon.
The train was going and the museum was open.
We enjoyed a short still thru the park with our dog.
Debbie Lynn Gaustad — Google review
This park is beautiful, quiet and just plain fun. If you go on Saturday there is a great farmers market. Many buildings are recreations of early Poway buildings. They have a small gauge railroad that takes tourists on a circuit around the park.
Terry Schultz — Google review
Great place to relax! Lots of picnic areas. Be sure to check out the historic Poway Railroad and museum. Fun area for the kids, too. On this Saturday, they had a huge farmer's market, so check ahead.
James Bray — Google review
Very visually stimulating and beautiful. It can get a little busy at times but it's really nice.
Aaron Farr — Google review
It's such a peaceful place. Be sure to visit on a Saturday morning so you can enjoy the street fair. The food is amazing! Go hungry. Don't stop for breakfast before arriving.
John Drop — Google review
I lived in Poway in the 80's and didn't know about this place! The farmers market was amazing!
The Coronado Bridge, which spans over the San Diego Bay, offers a perfect view of the city skyline and passing naval ships. It is a landmark bridge that is worth visiting if you are in San Diego. The bridge has beautiful architecture and offers a 360-degree panoramic view of the bay. It's an early morning favorite for photographers as the light shines brightly on it.
Amazing drive across the bridge with mesmerizing views of the ocean, San Diego and Coronado. The breeze of air is unmatched, it is an amazing experience. This bridge is a bit long and not to mention perfect height for you to take pictures. Have your camera ready before driving across!
Evander Quijas-Torres — Google review
The Coronado Bridge is an iconic bridge in San Diego and the drive across it was very scenic. I especially enjoyed the curve where I could see the bay and the whole city! What a neat work of architecture!
Kiet TT — Google review
Beautiful place for walking with a city and bridge views, especially at night! Recommend!
Oksana Artiushyk — Google review
Gorgeous view I feel in heaven my all family enjoyed the view
valenteen peejo — Google review
It is an iconic bridge in San Diego. We had to cross this bridge and go to Colonado Island, but the driveway was restricted due to weekend markets and events, so we had to go a long way.
M Pak — Google review
Views from the Colorado Bridge are so amazing. Such a beautiful sight. Down below is Chicano Park and crossing it is the suburbs of San Diego. You gotta drive thru at least once if you are visiting. It's a landmark!
Melystikal — Google review
Pure engineering! I love me some math that just makes sense. This 2 mile bridge is a work of art and worth the drive across to Coronado. My wife didn’t like it as much as I did since she hates bridges over water and heights. So that was entertaining as well. 😝 A must see if you’re in San Diego. Stay classy and always remember the true meaning of San Diego, 🐳 🐱
Shawn — Google review
Very cool bridge with great view to haven and San Diego
Colin Zhong — Google review
Here are some in-depth pics of the inner workings from this bridge and its gorgeous views over looking Coronado and Downtown San Diego. A lot of hard work and dedication goes into maintaining this bridges integrity and its 2+ mile long beauty. Big salute to the men/women risking their lives daily... Thank you for all you do! SALUTES🫡
Jay T. — Google review
very long bridge and drive across but amazing views of the city. the bridge itself has no design though.
abu bana — Google review
It was beautiful here. The day was rainy and overcast. Not busy at all.
LKathleen Lindsey — Google review
Iconic San Diego… lovely to see from San Diego, going under in a boat, flying over in a plane, and driving over to Coronado Island. Beautiful at sunrise, daytime, sunset, nighttime…graceful, Art.
B Owens — Google review
Beautiful view from the bridge when leaving work!
Kobe Long — Google review
Good looking views of San Diego skyline and bridge. Bridge could have used bike lane or walk lane plus little bit of glitter would have enhanced ocean view. Driving has no view. From park, you can see views.
Aalok Gautam — Google review
There is so much to love about this bridge! It's truly a San Diego icon and great to photograph from any part of the city and Coronado. I do wish they had a bike line or a walk path for the bridge since you can't see the views that well when driving on it.
Bernardo Winery is a long-standing winemaking complex in landscaped gardens with a tasting area, restaurants & art shows. The winery has been operating for over 130 years and grows Italian, Spanish and French varietals. They make wine in a collection of historic buildings and have a restaurant on site that opens up onto a patio right in the vineyards.
What a joyful and wonderful place to visit! It’s like a vineyard wonderland village. You can taste wines, you can eat foods and you can shop around. The wine here is very tasty, we tried their only sparkling wine here which I enjoyed it very much. It’s very crisp, light, and dry. The foods here are decent too, I loved their pizza. The decorations and atmosphere here are so good, I’ll bring my family and friends back here to taste wines and wander around.
LULU . LIVE — Google review
Visited this Diamond in the rough recently for a daytime driving event to celebrate a birthday. This place is very easy to find and is not far from the freeway exit. There is ample parking that is separated between a few lots on property. You will pass a few boutique shops as you drive in. Once you park and head in you feel like you’ve traveled back to a fancy western town. Quaint wooden buildings line small streets. They very Froom boutique clothing retailers, a sweet shop and a coffee roaster. There is a full restaurant on site and the tasting room is quite large. Lots of outside and inside seating at the tasting room. Glasses of most wines here are about $15, they have tasting flights which are a good deal and they give you discounts on take home bottles of the wines. Honestly the red sangria they serve in the tasting room is pretty amazing. Also you can share carafes of it which I highly recommend. The coffee shop and the sweet shop are fantastic. We didn’t get a chance to try the restaurant but everything looked great. We will be back for sure
Nick Bowan — Google review
This place is incredible. We had an office party here. We were having aome fun competition of the Wine formulation. Although, I don't drink but I had so much fun playing game. Wine smells great! Such a nice food and Staff. I would highly recommend this place foe the group event.
Amit Pandya — Google review
Beautiful winery! It feels like a small town with shops around. Plenty of parking and interesting signs with the history of wine making around the place. Get your wine at the Tasting room and food at the Kitchen. Smooth service, very friendly people.
JitkaKac — Google review
This place is a hidden gem! Plenty of things to do in the little village. We checked out the shops and vineyard, then had some wine and pizza. The pizza was ridiculously good and I am a HUGE pizza guy. I ordered the margarita pizza and the calabrese pizza (both delicious!). The Moscato was really good and we actually took a bottle home. 10/10 experience and we will most definitely return!
Josh — Google review
this place is awesome!! it’s so much fun for everyone. the gorgeous vineyards in the back are perfect for photos and just hanging out while the courtyard is just beautiful for everything else. the food is delicious, and so is the wine, of course. please visit this amazing place!!
addie gresiak — Google review
On Friday the winery comes alive! Farmers Market, although small, with local vendors with fruits, veggies, bread, gorgeous Italian table clothes, jewelries, and a fine restaurant , and of course delicious wines!
Miriam Todesco — Google review
I really like this place and its my Mothers favorite winery. Can be busy sometimes and difficult to get a table. But last time I visited their was plenty places to sit. Their ROSÈ Sangria is delicious. My sister loves the spaghetti meatballs with a passion. I like getting their boards and a flight of white wines. Also cool place to look at. A lot of history for those history buffs, beautiful gardens, and the rustic vibe is great..!
Alejandro Mejia — Google review
My boyfriend and I came here on vacation from Canada, and were super impressed with the character of the winery. It’s beautiful and welcoming, with tons of seating and little shops.
We visited the tasting room, and both employees working were kind, knowledgeable and welcoming, particularly Michelle. The wine was delicious, and since we aren’t wine experts we received lots of guidance about what to expect from each wine in our tasting.
I write this as I sit at the kitchen waiting for fresh pizza in the gorgeous California sunshine, I reflect on how wonderful this establishment is and how wonderful of an experience that was provided by all the staff, and strongly recommend this as a stop to anyone who enjoys a class of wine and an eclectic market. Absolutely stunning!
Nicki Van Eck — Google review
What a beautifully peaceful setting and old world Europe meets rustic country vibes! The wine is lovely and the service is even better! Cecily helped me out today and made recommendations based on my taste and they were all excellent. Plus you're surrounded by shops, plants, and a fountain all in this courtyard. Highly recommend!
Beth Roesler — Google review
Pro: close to residential areas; easy to access . Beautiful and artsy place to have coffee or stroll around. Good place to take some photos.
Con: food quality not so good. I didn’t expect delicious foods there but rotten salad is too much.
Nancy H California — Google review
I went to this winery for a wedding so there were additional flowers and decor everywhere but the place itself had a nice rustic farm style that made all the white flowers more beautiful. Greenery everywhere and a small fountain, this place was gorgeous yet simple. The food was delicious as well and we had some good wine. You can never go wrong with an Italian menu. Definitely a beautiful place to have an intimate wedding. They had a spacious bride and groom suite and umbrellas for each table to block that San Diego sun. I'd recommend it as an event venue.
Kelly — Google review
My goodness, what a wonderful little collection of shopping, wine, and amazing food. Friendly staff in the tasting room and the restaurant make dining a pleasure. The wood fired pizza both smells and tastes delicious. The charcuterie board was to notch. Insider tip. Stop by the tasting room to select your wine before heading to eat. They have good discounts on their wine as well.
Cami Ward — Google review
Didn't like wine. Staff was nice. Atmosphere interesting. Just wasn't for me. Charcuterie was OK...not the best... Did it gf by taking the crustinie off. Still quite spendy. Won't be going back but worth a visit to see.
Robin K. — Google review
Michelle (who happily self-proclaimed as a "Karen") kicked three families out of the winery because "children are no longer allowed"
My friends and I got to the winery and it was chilly outside. We saw two women leave their table (next to the only heater) and we moved over and patiently waited for staff to be available to clear the table. She came out and stated "great, you just sat yourself at the table (which is open seating) before staff cleaned it, cool" We had already shared with the waitress that there was absolutely no rush in cleaning and that we had moved over to be next to the heat. All night she kept coming to our table only (excluding any other families there that had children running around) to tell us the children need to be seated at all times. She eventually grabbed one of her poor workers and forced him to come tell us to leave. She came out smiling and you could tell uncomfortable he was. He even told us that it wasn't his choice and that she was the general manager and was making him. As someone who is a manager, I've never made my staff do my dirty work. She then went on to tell us she doesn't have kids and never wants them and offered a disgusted look to ours. She smiled and smiled as we talked to the manager. I asked for her name and she said "Michelle, actually it's Karen, I'm a Karen".
She had it in for our group the minute we arrived and it was so blatantly obvious that other customers made comments about it in small talk with our group.
We have come many times with our families and never had an issue, until meeting her. She was so unpleasant and smirked the entire time while forcing her employee to do the job she was hired to do. The worst kind of incompetent manager that takes the credit without doing any of the work.
Discrimination on the basis of parental status happens where a person is treated less favourably because of their parental status than someone without the same parental status in similar circumstances.
There are no signs or warnings at this establishment of a kid free policy. In fact, she walked past several kids on the way to us. She was hovering around us all night and made it so uncomfortable that other people noticed. I supposed if that's the kind of person this winery wants representing their name and their brand then they've won the lottery. It's so unfortunate that she would stand there and smile and keep walking back and being petty. I've never seen a person with such poor management skills, I almost wonder if this is an instance of nepotism or a pity hire. I hope she can be properly trained, I'm sure the winery values family people and this is a person who openly boasted about never wanting kids.
April Nipper — Google review
I visited with my husband for the first time on Sunday, and I will be going back very soon! The vineyard grounds are beautiful and historic. The atmosphere, music, decorations, everything was a historic farmhouse style that really blew me away. Along with your standard wine tasting you can get at any winery, Bernardo Winery also has food, beer, a museum, a clothing shop, candles, gelato, sweets, a coffee shop, olive oil, vinegar, pottery... It almost seems endless! If you're lucky you'll even be visited by the cats that live on the property! This would also be an absolutely beautiful wedding or party venue.
Gabrielle Cioffi-Dinkel — Google review
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13330 Paseo Del Verano Norte, San Diego, CA 92128, USA
Balboa Park is a sprawling outdoor destination in San Diego that is home to the city's renowned zoo, 17 museums, gardens & more. The park also features numerous theaters and trails.
Such a lively place with plenty of foods and music. Great architectural buildings all over. Walking alongside fountains, sculptures, beautiful trees with so many people was a great experience. Nearby places are also amazingly beautiful. Cactus park across the road was superb as well. A very nice walk in well paved sidewalks.
Ashutosh Shandilya — Google review
True gem. This place has everything - gardens, museums, restaurants… if you are little lost, stop first in visitor center. They will give you a map, explain and inform what events are happening right now around. Very useful. I was amazed by architecture which was really close to the Andalusian one.
Aur?lia Blankenship — Google review
Best place to visit with kids, family and friends.
Balboa Park is a 1,200-acre (490 ha) historic urban cultural park in San Diego, California, United States.
In addition to open space areas, natural vegetation zones, green belts, gardens, and walking paths, it contains museums, several theaters, and the San Diego Zoo.
most its regular 4 to 5 hours if you want to cover all area.
Pawan Rajput — Google review
Balboa Park is a captivating blend of art, culture, and nature. The architectural charm and vibrant gardens create a visually enchanting atmosphere. The diverse array of museums ensures there's something for every interest, making it a must-visit destination in San Diego.
Sara celis — Google review
This is such a beautiful area with so much to explore! Even if you don't go into any of the museums, gardens or any other venue inside it is a great place to just walk around! Has a great cluster of buildings from all different nations, interesting!
K S — Google review
I really loved Balboa Park while I was here last time. It’s even better with the perfect San Diego weather. It has everything that you would want. It has museums, San Diego Zoo, gardens, theaters, food, etc. it’s also a National historic landmark. I would have to return since I didn’t check out too many of the museums, only a couple. There is no shortage of parking spaces, very easy to find one then walk around. Just a note, we came on a week day and it wasn’t very busy at all. The architecture was mesmerizing and intriguing.
Nicholas P — Google review
When in San Diego even just strolling around Balboa Park is a must. Definitely a much cheaper option to the zoo. The museums are reasonable and absolutely lovely. Great little restaurant with beautiful sculpture garden where you can take your wine and have a drink. Nice and spacious, lots going on and something for everybody.
Jennifer Kelly — Google review
Great place to walk around and waste the day!! With or without the dogs and family lots to see comic con museum was there last week, automotive museum, and the Japanese cherry blossom 🌸 garden which was extremely beautiful just like the movies when the pedals fall to the ground it resembles snow. Must check it out while in season.
Josh Tardieu — Google review
Great park with a lot of attractions. The museums are great and worth getting a season pass or finding a deal online to go to multiple. The gardens are beautiful any time of year and great for a stroll. The architecture was the incredible. Walking through the court yards and walkways will yield a visual gem around every corner. Parking at the zoo and walking over is the way to go. Its free, plentiful, and easy to get in and out even at peak hours.
Amjad Kinhnarath — Google review
If you are visiting San Diego this place is a must see. Bring your walking shoes and get ready to walk through the many Museums, theaters, shops, and wonderful views this place has to offer. It was nothing of what I expected, the Balboa park connects several Cathedral style venues on this wonderful walkways that include the San Diego Zoo, the Natural History Museum and several other museums. We didn't even have time to see everything. There is a tram that takes you to all the parking lots. I went there on a Tuesday and it was very crowded, so weekends must get really packed. I highly recommend this place if you have a day to kill and spend some quality time with the family or significant other. Although I saw many snack vendors, I didn't see many good restaurants so I would recommend bringing some sandwiches or whatever you can bring to eat. There are many areas to sit under the shade and relax on the grass or a bench. We went inside the natural history Museum and paid the admission but was a little disappointed with it. It probably took us around 20 minutes to see the entire Museum, compared to the natural Museum in L.A., this place was very small and was in need of more exhibits. Other than that, I gave Balboa Park an A+ because it really impressed me.
Isrrael Espin — Google review
I've lived in San Diego for a decade now. I'm not a huge beach guy... Too crowded... Too many sharks... Too much sand. But Balboa Park is damn impressive! They have acres upon acres of green space with winding paths, gardens, bridges, and water features. They have world class museums with amazing architecture. They have a world class zoo and probably one of the only outdoor urban archery ranges?! Unfortunately they have a non-migratory transient population, but that's pretty much all of San Diego. And the place is big enough to share anyway. I feel like Balboa Park is always the perfect temperature too; Close enough to the ocean to have a cool breeze with tall eucalyptus trees providing relief from the sun. If you're coming to San Diego for the weekend, don't miss out on Balboa Park.
Samson Leonard — Google review
Certainly one of the nicest spots in San Diego! Hosting the historical buildings of the universal exhibit, it can be easily visited on foot. Different museums can be found on the way. The park is huge, and it needs a full day at least for a proper visit.
Margot — Google review
Visited the museums and the Japanese tea garden. The Japanese tea garden and museum were like a breath of fresh air for my soul. The zen vibes of the garden made sipping tea feel like a peaceful ritual. Exploring the museum was utter aww, discovering the beauty of creative artists. It was a day well spent, soaking in nature and history, and I left with a heart full of good vibes.
Niti — Google review
The greatest location in all San Diego, adorable and really friendly location. Majestic choices of multiple museums. I wish I had the opportunity to visit all of them. But just walking by the all parc is an impressive experience where is great to go around and enjoy the street art. The grass is so beautiful. There is a lot to do around there, like enjoying the street art artist or enjoying a seating in the parcels with a lot of friends. Strongly recommend anyone who’s travelling around San Diego. I’d like to mention and Thanks a lot the nice ladies from the visitor information center, they were really nice, welcoming and helpful. I’m grateful for their information. I’ll wait for you in Vancouver ;) thanks
SG SG — Google review
Wonderful place for wandering around enjoying time with family and gorgeous scenery. Parking was tough the day we went, but once parked and out of the car our visit was amazing. Can't wait to go back!
Theresa St. John — Google review
Beautiful place to visit with the family. Very serene. We stopped by after a visit to the museum. Parking took about 20 mins to find however it was well worth it. Great place to visit when you’re in the San Diego area.
Lovelle Monty — Google review
Gorgeous architecture and gardens! Well worth the visit, even if you don't go inside the museums. There's such beauty everywhere, food and gift/trinket vendors, a couple restaurants, and talented music performers placed thoughtfully throughout (electric violin, acoustic guitar, flute etc). Start at the information desk to get a map. If you do want to go inside the museums, they have a rotating daily schedule that lists what buildings are open that day, which is usually a handful. Wear good walking shoes and get there early as the afternoon is very busy.
sotagirl1 — Google review
Balboa Park is a cultural oasis in the heart of San Diego, where you can explore, play, learn and discover. Whether you are looking for art, history, nature, or entertainment, Balboa Park has something for everyone.
You can visit one of the 17 major museums, ranging from fine arts to natural history, from science to photography. You can enjoy a show at one of the several theaters, including the historic Old Globe. You can marvel at the beauty of the 18 free public gardens, featuring roses, cacti, orchids and more. You can also meet the animals at the world-famous San Diego Zoo, home to over 3,700 rare and endangered species.
Balboa Park is not only a place to see, but also a place to do. You can join a guided tour, take a class, watch a demonstration, or participate in a festival. You can also rent a bike, play golf, have a picnic, or ride the carousel. There is always something new and exciting happening at Balboa Park.
Balboa Park is a national treasure that has been delighting visitors for over a century. It is one of the largest urban parks in the country, covering 1,200 acres of landAd1. It is also one of the most diverse and inclusive parks in the world, celebrating the cultures and communities of San Diego2.
If you are looking for a fun, educational and inspiring experience in San Diego, look no further than Balboa Park. It is truly a place where you can find your park3.
Ashley Barnette — Google review
Nice park with 2 expos that held here. As a results, the historical building and museum along with impressive garden are spread around. Music performance, park, restaurants, it’s a place to chill and spend lovely time with friends. It’s larger than I expected. Love this place.
The Foodie Architect — Google review
Beautiful building structures and a bunch of Museums to visit. If you do a simple search, you can see some have free days. It’s a beautiful walk at night as some of the building have a light shining at them.
I did attempt to go to the haunted trail, so it isn’t there quite yet, maybe in October.
This park is one of the must visit spots, doesn’t cost a dime. I highly recommend it for tourist or family visiting in a weekend.
Marcos R — Google review
Probably in spring or summer a better time for a visit. January rather not. However, nice buildings and villages (Spanish village).
Having a complete day the forest paths would be interesting.
Michael Vees — Google review
Cool place with gorgeous views. There are many things you could do or see. Definitely recommending to visit it. They have really cool zoo there that I definitely recommend to visit with friends or family 🔥👍
Dima Yakovets — Google review
New York has Central Park and San Diego has Balboa Park which is hands down much larger. But, stats include a few museums and the famed San Diego Zoo; which more than likely have additional fees.
Either way... If you are in the area spend a day or two exploring the park and all it offers. It was very nice and peaceful.
Walter Day — Google review
Beautiful place to walk around. There is so much to see the buildings are beautiful. Wonderful places to eat. Nice playground for the kids. Relaxing place to just enjoy.
Anita Solis — Google review
Enormous park packed with play areas, picnic areas, gardens, dog walking facilities and an array of museums.
There really is something for everyone here; you can either choose to spend a fortune on entrance tickets or nothing at all and still enjoy the park.
Michael Lees — Google review
Excellent experiences in this amazing San Diego park. There are numerous museums with fees, there's the outdoor Organ Pavillon with numerous free concerts, check out the free international cottages filled with cultural information.
Huge park, lots of walking, hidden trails and amazing trees, flora and flowers and fountains.
Eating is spotty, a couple of expensive restaurants, take your picnic lunch as there are numerous locations for relaxing in the shade.
LaDawnya — Google review
I cannot believe I haven’t been to this place. I lived in San Diego for a few years and I visit here every year. This was my first time to Balboa Park. The architecture was stunning. The grounds were gorgeous. We didn’t have to pay to park, and we walked around and saw all the amazing buildings and artwork. The small museum was free to enter. There even was a St. Patrick’s Day parade going on. my daughter wanted to go into the cannibal exhibit. There were so many different museums that you could’ve entered. They all charged though. There was public bathrooms. The tall clock tower at noon was the best part. Hearing the chimes was great, but the music that it played at noon was so fun.
Kristen Kupinsky — Google review
This is a great place for so many things to do and see. I went for one museum and ended up walking the entire complex and checking out the sites. Found places to eat and many places to visit. Absolutely beautiful place but if you want to see it all bring your wallet because most require some $$ to get it. I did not want to spend a lot so I ended up just walking the grounds and seeing all the beautiful architecture and landscaping. Would recommend even if it is to just walk around and view the sights
Robert Jantz — Google review
Super beautiful park!!! I was so shocked with how many attractions and things to do. Manyyy many museums and little shops and eateries. Definitely can be entertained for hours here. From working out, jogging, sight seeing, shopping, etc. 10/10 recommend.
The Zoo in San Diego, California is home to animals representing more than 400 species from around the world. The zoo was founded in 1852 and features a conservation society that works to protect endangered animals.
We loved visiting the San Diego zoo. It's world famous for a reason. We also learned that it's not only a zoo but also a botanical garden. It is stunning to walk around. There is so much nature and beauty aside from the animals.
They grow so many different plants and trees there.
The bus tours are well worth it to check out the outside of the entire zoo and see animals along the way. Plan to be here for at least 3 hours if not more. Also the zoo allows you to bring food and snacks so you don't have to worry. They're so baby friendly which was great. There's a whole baby station where you can wash your baby bottles if you plan to be there long and need to feed the baby with a clean bottle. I loved it.
Rabeea Jabbar — Google review
This is the best zoo I’ve ever been to. All the animals are very active and fun to watch. They have a large variety of animals so there’s something for everyone.
The transportation included in the ticket is amazing. The 30 minute free bus tour gave us a great overview of the zoo and let us see a lot of animals. The guide was very sweet and very knowledgeable. The kangaroo buses made it very convenient to get from exhibit to exhibit.
The zoo is very large and it took us a whole day to see everything.
Kathryn Q — Google review
There was so much to see here. We spent about 6 hours and didn't see all the animals. All the exhibits were entertaining. The free gondola ride across the zoo was great. Free parking. Reasonably priced food, drink, stroller rentals and souvenirs. Would definitely go back to see what we didn't get to see this time.
Kristin Weatherby — Google review
We had a great day at the zoo! Parking is close and free, which is amazing! We took the zoo bus tour first thing, which gave us a good overview of the park and helped us figure out what we wanted to see. We loved all the methods of transportation through the park because it is so big. There is a kangaroo bus to 4 different areas. We didn't use this because we decided to just walk it so we wouldn't miss exhibits. But we did the aerial tram from one side to the other and back. We also used the elevator by the bridge two times to help with the hills. We happened upon an animal encounter by zoo workers with an aardvark. So fun! The animal enclosures are so beautiful, as is the park foliage. We ended up staying until 7:30 pm, much longer than we expected. There is so much to see!
Khristine Pettingill — Google review
This one is a most do!!! Great zoo!!! It's huge so I definitely recommend to get there early, wear comfy clothes and shoes so you can see the whole park because is definitely worth it, but to see it all u have to be early. It's very clean and beautiful also u can bring your own snacks and Beverages. Small coolers are allowed and if not they have so many restaurants and places to buy whatever u need. One more thing bring sunscreen and enjoy!!!
KIRA G — Google review
I recently visited the San Diego Zoo and I must say it was an incredible experience. From the moment I walked in, I was amazed by the vast array of animals and the beautiful environment they were in.
One thing that stood out to me was the care and attention given to the animals. It was evident that the zookeepers genuinely cared for each animal and provided them with a comfortable and stimulating environment. The animals seemed happy and well taken care of, which is a testament to the zoo's dedication to conservation and animal welfare.
The variety of animals at the San Diego Zoo is truly impressive. From elephants to meerkats to polar bears, there was something for everyone. I particularly enjoyed the different exhibits and habitats that allowed me to see the animals up close and learn about their natural behaviors.
The zoo also offers numerous educational opportunities. From interactive exhibits to informative signs, I was able to learn so much about each animal's habitat, diet, and conservation status. It was both fun and educational, making it a perfect destination for families and animal enthusiasts alike.
The San Diego Zoo is also beautifully designed and well maintained. The pathways were easy to navigate, and the landscaping was lush and vibrant. It's clear that a lot of thought and effort goes into creating a welcoming and visually appealing space for visitors.
Overall, my experience at the San Diego Zoo was nothing short of exceptional. The combination of stunning animals, high-quality care, educational experiences, and beautiful surroundings make it a must-visit destination. I highly recommend it to anyone looking for a memorable and enjoyable day out.
Gary Mitchell — Google review
The San Diego Zoo is hands down a five-star adventure waiting to happen. I mean, where else can you go from hanging out with pandas to checking out flamingos and then chilling with koalas, all in one place? It's like a global safari without the jet lag!
But here's the thing that makes it truly special: not only is it a blast, but it's also a powerhouse for conservation and research. These folks are like the superheroes of the animal world, working behind the scenes to save endangered species and educate the world on the importance of wildlife preservation.
And the setup? It's like Mother Nature herself decided to design a zoo. The exhibits are beautifully crafted to mimic natural habitats, which means you get up close and personal with animals in environments that feel just right.
So, whether you're a wildlife enthusiast, a family with kiddos who adore animals, or just someone looking for a wildly fun day out, the San Diego Zoo has got you covered. It's not just a zoo; it's a wild journey that leaves you with a smile and a heart full of love for our furry, feathered, and scaly friends. Five stars for this fantastic place where adventure meets education!
Kenneth Ross — Google review
One of the best zoos ever. I went on a Sunday at around 12:00 noon. Great parking, not too crowded, and great weather, what else can you ask for.
Hop on the 30 minute tour bus, the guy gives you a lot of input about the zoo and its animals and it helped me plan for my day. They have what they call Kangaroo buses with four stops. You can get on and off at whatever stop, very convenient to get to the areas you want to get to. On this day, the animals were very active, it made my day even more eventful. I paid for the Polar Express experience, found in the same area as a polar bears, it was worth it. I also saw a lot of children walking around with their face painted, but I didn't see any adults doing it. My thought, why not. I got my face painted, it took all but maybe 5 minutes, and I loved it!
I drove from the San Fernando Valley to San Diego, two and a half to three hour drive.
If you're in California, and within driving distance, the San Diego Zoo is worth the drive.
Desiree Mier — Google review
Best zoo in the Country, hands down! It's super clean and the animal exhibits are so well kept. It's huge, it's easy to spend all day there. The employees are very helpful and happy to answer questions about any of the animals. The skyfari was so much fun also. We loved how many things were included with your entry ticket! So many amazing animals to see.
Kalin Cowan — Google review
The Zoo exceeded our expectations. We stayed all day and have never watched so much activity by the animals at a zoo before . The trails and facilities were clean and well kept which makes for a nice experience as well. We took the free bus tour to start our day which gave us a good overview of the park. After walking to every exhibit throughout the day we ended with a trip up and back on the Sky tram. Overall, a great experience!
April Mangum — Google review
The San Diego Zoo was amazing! The volunteers were helpful with directions and giving info about the Zoo residents. You definitely need an entire day to see everything. My wife and I probably experienced 90% of it. Definitely take the tour bus, so you can have an overview of the park animals, then go see your favorites. The sky lift was an awesome experience itself.
I highly recommend coming here. We will definitely be coming back with the kids on our next trip
Anthony Hyslop — Google review
It's been a few years since we've been here but it has changed in such an amazing way!!! The new children's area is great!!! They have beautiful new exhibits, new buildings and structures. They have a wet play zone for the kids with waterfalls, arcing waters and splash zones. They also have a dryer you can pay to use to dry off too! They have amazing new merchandise for the kids as well. If you haven't been here in a while, I'd highly recommend it! We had so much fun!
Cassey Hawkins — Google review
Let’s be real- this zoo is just unbeatable. It is a magical experience just to walk through it , let alone to witness the stunning variety of animals and plants. Hands down it is a must-see of San Diego. Definitely download the app and try to do the bus tour early morning or in the evening as I think the animals are more lively. There is always a chance that you won’t get to see some of the animals but you won’t be disappointed with the monkeys, koalas, and the many stunning aviaries. The history of the zoo and its many many animals is also captivating and a gift that keeps giving after you leave. It is definitely doable in one day but another day may have alleviated some of the angst of seeing or not-seeing some of the animals.
Nicole Todd — Google review
We had a wonderful time! The staff was very friendly and helpful. Everybody was wonderful. Even the crowd was relatively nice and respectful for California. we had a great time. We saw lots of animals rode the gondola and had funnel cake. The park was very clean. We couldn't have asked for a better visit, and we will definitely be back! Thank you so much for a wonderful experience!!
**UPDATE**
We ended up staying for the last show, and it was amazing! Lots of energy, and you could tell the performers really enjoyed what they were doing, It was very enjoyable! I would highly recommend staying for it!
David Hughes — Google review
My daughter and I did the roar and snor. Our experience was amazing. The tents were well maintained. The bathrooms were well kept. The food provided was decent, typical camp food. Plenty to go around. The late night snacks were a welcome plus. The staff was professional and friendly. The tour guides were amazing and very informative. The grounds are beautiful even in the midst of construction.
Jasmine Warren — Google review
Great clean and beautiful zoo, I definitely recommend to get there early so you can see most of it, and it’s definitely worth the time and the money.
Loved the bus/ shuttle system and the gondola sky lift.
Also you can bring your own snacks and Beverages. Small coolers are allowed and if not they have so many restaurants and places to buy whatever u need.
The staff was super friendly and knowledgeable about the animals! Gift ships were awesome.
Alaa Oussi — Google review
Great experience. Had a free pass but if I had to pay I would definitely not come frequently. The place is amazing, great vegetation and amazing and exotic animals. There is great bus-tours that get you around and would definitely recommend the Kangaroo Bus. Animals seem to be somewhat free and there is very helpful info next to each one of them
Nicolás Perales — Google review
I herd that this zoo is world wild famous. But I was not impressed at all. It is a big place to spend a day. There is many animals to see. Cable cars that takes you to other side of zoo. And two bus lines. One is with four stops around the zoo. And other one is like a tour bus that talk in detail about zoo. Part I didn’t like is they just returned Pandas to China. And I really wanted to see panda in person. Other one is that I could not see most of animals in park. Cause their sports are so big and majority of animals been hiding in their homes. I will try Safari park next time.
Alex Luthor — Google review
We did a full day with all tickets purchased online in advance. Early admission through the baby boom package, zoo pass and then dinner and aurora. The entire experience was first class. Having attractions like the kids park, gondola and bus tour as part of the ticket are very nice. Lines always moved very quickly and we're well organized. The zoo is as much a meticulous garden. The grounds are amazing. Staff were extremely engaged and attentive. Early morning pass was exceptional opportunity to be in the zoo before it got busy. Only issue was the amount of times we had to double back. The app and map are not always clear and it is easy to miss a turn and head in the wrong direction. Dinner at Albert's was very good. Plan for the whole day and enjoy.
Adam Thompson — Google review
I enjoyed my trip to the San Diego Zoo. I would recommend getting the tickets online to save a few extra dollars. It is $70-$72 to get in to the zoo, which may seem like a lot but at least they offer free parking. The zoo itself is massive. The bus tour and tram ride is included with the price of the ticket was nice and was a great way to explore the park. I would recommend renting a scooter for $60 dollars to fully get the most out of the park if you aren’t able to walk. I walked 6 miles and still did not see the entire zoo. I would also like to recommend the zoo creating an app for the public to guide us better.
Jack Furlong — Google review
Easily the best zoo I’ve ever been to. There are so many animals and you need a whole day to see everything. Lots of walking, but there are plenty of buses and other forms of transportation to bring you around the zoo. I loved the tiger and the polar bear, they also have a really cool elephant exhibit.
Christopher Ciminelli — Google review
While my daughters were on spring break I decided to go to the San Diego zoo during the week so it would be less visitors and ample parking. I bought our tickets online so when we got there all I had to do was show the tickets on my phone they scanned it and that was it off we went to our journey of seeing all the beautiful animals. Let me just say it was a good decision.
There was ample parking. It wasn't crowded there was a nice crowd but it wasn't so crowded that you couldn't see the animals that you wanted to see.
We had such a great day at the San Diego zoo. I must say I was a little bit disappointed only because some of the habitats that we went to visit were empty and we wanted to see the animals but overall we had a great day we saw some beautiful animals and we were very happy. I hope when we go back that we will see more of the habitats filled with animals. It was beautiful though and very enjoyable.We also got some great pictures at least for my phone😂 Oh! I almost forgot and they serve drinks🍹now I was happy again. I haven't been to the zoo in a long time but I was very pleased to have a margarita while I walk through the zoo. 😄 You must go and have fun with the kiddos!
Jocelyn Howell — Google review
This place is great! Plenty of benches and shady spots along the trails. I spoonful advise you bring a water bottle which they will refill with water or buying a free refill soda. Plenty of animals to see. Plenty of things s for kids to interact with. There's a reason this is considered one of the best zoos in the world. Definitely a must visit if visiting San Diego. If local buy the champion membership. Skipping lines, separate entrance, and includes wild animal park as well. Good for 2 people and you get two free passes. So if 4 purple going. It basically pays for itself on first visit. Click"helpful" if you found this helpful please
SanDiego Food Czar — Google review
We loved our trip to the zoo and would heartily recommend it to anyone. In fact, we have to put it as the number 1 attraction in San Diego. It really is something not to miss when you are in the city. We took the guided bus tour first and it was a good way to see the whole area before the walk around the zoo. There are restaurants in the zoo and the food was great. Would recommend wearing comfortable shoes since it's a big area you'll be walking. Take a stroller if you go with children or you can rent one in the park which costs you $16.
Lakshitha Dissanayake — Google review
The zoo was such fun! It was clean and well-maintained. The restrooms were clean and the staff were friendly and nice. There were plenty of places to sit and get out of the sun. The animals' cages were well kept, and there was a good variety. We rode the tour bus and took the sky tram with ease, and had a blast. On a Friday morning/afternoon, it wasn't too crowded, although we had to wait about 45 minutes to pickup our tickets, so it may help to add some kiosks to aide with this in the future.
Rosalie ONeal — Google review
Being the most pricey zoo I’ve ever seen before, it’s totally worth it. This place doesn’t just take great care of their animals but they really care about the cause of protecting them. The tours you can go on at the zoo are fantastic, the place is so big you could spend all day there being entertained and you would still have more to see! While the price of a bottle water is $6.50, at least it’s going to a good cause. The Zoo is incredible and really lives up to the hype it has.
Cole Myer — Google review
Great place for groups, families, and/or couples to stroll the paths and view the animals. Feeding time is the best time to go. Mid-day is probably the least favorable time to see the animals out and about in their areas.
Parking is free. If you go mid-day or later might as well start looking for a spot in the closest isles and work your way farther away.
Their are food choices but not as many as the wild animal park.
Hard to believe there is a zoo in the center of a city but when your in there you forget.
Michelle Blair — Google review
The San Diego Zoo is definitely one of if not the best zoos in the country. There are so many animals and so much to see and do. The exhibits are nice and the whole zoo is really well put together and maintained. It’s slightly expensive but worth the price. We had a variety of ages in our group and everyone had a great time. We got there just before it opened and had no problem with parking.
Derek J — Google review
We had a great time at the zoo. The first thing we did was the bus tour and I'm glad we did it right away because it got very busy later in the day. It was also great to give us an idea of the zoo layout and see the animals from a different side in some cases.
Jamie Lawson — Google review
You have to love the zoo! The koalas, the big cats, the aardvark, the elephants, the baby bears, penquins, rare birds, plant life and so much more!
It was a beautiful day in San Diego and the zoo is a must see. We took advantage of items included with your admission such as the mini bus tour, the kangaroo bus transportation and the sky tram, but mostly it's great to walk around and observe the amazing wildlife. I was impressed by the efforts of the zoo to provide what appears to be suitable habitats and the proper environment for these wonderful creatures. Take in all you can as there is so much to see and much to learn. There were a few areas under construction, but hardly noticeable as you take in the vast area of the park. We have heard the safari is a great option and plan to check it out on a future visit. For our initial visit we wanted to walk throughout the zoo at our own pace. The walking is up and down hill, while our biggest challenge, to be honest. was dodging the hundreds of strollers. While also fun to watch the excitement of kids seeing some of these animals for the first time.
The shops, restrooms and food/drink stands with tables and seating placed throughout the park, provide opportunities to take breaks during your stay. Pace yourself and allow most of the day to experience as much as you can. Have fun and support the San Diego zoo!
Cindy D — Google review
The Zoo is one of our favorite places to explore as a family. We have a membership and visit often. There are always new things to see, and the grounds are beautifully maintained. I feel that they do a wonderful job of caring for the animals here, and their conservation efforts globally are impressive. We feel good about supporting them. 💚 The children's Basecamp area is so much fun, even as a stand-alone activity. My girls love the water area, climbing structures, tree house, and monkey bridge. They could easily spend hours in this area. This area of the zoo also hosts the cleanest restrooms, in our experience. I usually pack swimsuits & towels for my girls to change into, as I know we will undoubtedly end up in this area and get soaked. Not a problem when it's hot though, the water is a welcome cool down. The new exhibits in this area are very cool as well. We always have a great time at the zoo.
Lisa Bylund — Google review
Having been to the Omaha zoo last year had some high expectations and wow does San Diego Zoo deliver. Just an exceptional overall experience.
The variety of displays were amazing. Love all the different areas. Our favorite for sure was the gorillas 🦍 but they are all awesome.
The scale of the zoo is awesome, super easy to navigate but you are walking through such great greenery the entire day would be a nice walk even without the animals. Really enjoyed all the unique plants and trees as well.
The staff is super helpful and very informative as well. Loved that.
Matthew schmitt — Google review
hands down the largest zoo I’ve ever been to (and I’ve been to many of them). clean zoo & lots to do and a plethora of exhibits to see — I recommend spending the whole day here when you buy tickets, which I suggest you do in advance (and check for value days!). many food and drink stands and options available. knowledgeable and kind staff members and volunteers throughout the zoo. you can hop on the kangaroo bus for a tour or ride the sky-ride gondolas to view the zoo from above. my friend and I were visiting from out of town and had a blast!
Alyssa Walzak — Google review
This was amazing space. The exhibits are so well designed that even though it was busy, it was still possible to have special animal encounters around each bend.
We have a medical service animal, named Penny, who loved it. The animals were pretty curious about her, too. The Harpy Eagles were especially intrigued by our furry companion.
There were just so many great spaces to experience nature together with people.
Jeff Swigert — Google review
What a fantastic zoo! I can see why it's rated the highest in the country!
We knew when we booked this trip that a visit to the famous San Diego Zoo was going to be a necessity. The value day pass is a fantastic deal if you're going to visit on a value day. The zoo at times can feel a little bit like a maze, but it's worth going down every path and seeing every exhibit and animal.
The zoo is very well maintained and there are volunteers all over to help guide you and provide insight and/or answers to any questions you may have. And the scenery is gorgeous!
There are also extras included, even with the value passes, like the guided bus tour and the kangaroo bus (hop-on hop-off). Make sure even if you see the whole zoo on foot that you take the guided tour, you get some great perspective and different views!
Mike W — Google review
It's literally the best zoo we have ever visited. If you have a toddler, make sure you take your stroller. There are a few hills inside that will tire them out. There are plenty of restrooms and quick food spots. Seems the staff takes care of the animals sanctuaries quite well. The only con is parking. Make sure you arrive earlier than planned to get a good spot. You can also park on the street by the school next to the dirt road. No fee. You can then walk for about 5 min until you reach the zoo entrance. There is no VIP parking. Purchase your tickets in advance to avoid wait time. If you are going during January, you may need a jacket in case it gets cold at night. One more thing, download the app. It was extremely helpful for inside the zoo navigation and for other information regarding zoo time shows and attractions.
F B — Google review
It’s been quite some time since we’ve visited the San Diego Zoo but I was truly happy we did. It’s just as big and beautiful as I remember. I LOVE all the animals, especially the koalas, elephants, giraffes, and the aviary that has not only birds, but working ants. That truly was awesome. A must see for everyone. And please know that the bus ride throughout the zoo is free which we were thrilled about!
Arlene Aninion — Google review
My feet are screaming as I write this. lol. I would consider this zoo an all day affair. There’s a lot of walking to do and some hills you’ll be going up and down. It seems like they fill up reuse able bottles with water for you and they have one you can buy for 14.99 for the day and get any fountain drink with free refills. Water is very important while walking around. Your favourite animal is probably here so bring your back up batteries for videos and photos! The zoo is super clean and the staff loves talking about the animals. The sky ride was a crazy view but if you don’t like heights then avoid. I was white knuckled holding the bar.
If you have kids a 2-day pass isn’t a bad option as they might not be able to handle all the activities they have for kids AND walk an entire zoo.
Joe “JoeColor” — Google review
Absolutely a great zoo. There are lots of amazing animals to see, lots of fun activities to do and plenty of good places to eat. My family and I have been to most of the top zoo's in the country and really like the San Diego Zoo. The price per person is very fair. I would highly recommend this zoo.
Patrick Elmore — Google review
Beautiful facility with a lot to see. Tickets are $74/adult, but a lot comes with that. They provide a 35 minute double deck bus tour as well as a "kangaroo bus" to help you jump to different areas of this HUGE zoo. We took the Skyfari Aerial Tram up to the top - free of charge - and I definitely suggest using it to get to the top and walk down the zoo because some of the walkways are extremely steep. A wide variety of animals, plants, and shopping areas. There is also an opportunity to feed a giraffe a biscuit for $7!
Seaport Village is a popular shopping mall in downtown San Diego. It has about 50 shops that are open throughout the day, year-round. The mall features a cozy and inviting atmosphere with lovely gardens and fountains surrounding its waterfront area.
Wonderful Place!!! Love the little shops. It's very well kept and has clean restrooms. It has a lovely classic carousel. Places to eat. Great Photo opportunities. What a great place to enjoy the water either at night or during the day. Make the time and come down! GOD BLESS!
Ernie Carrillo — Google review
This little harbor village is great for a walk. It's right next to USS Midway but the vibe is quite different. Slower but more friendlier. Many shops and great view of the ocean. Plenty of benches and beach seats for a relaxed sightseeing. The parking lot charge fee but you can get validation from stores or restaurants.
Andy Mai — Google review
Perfect spot for San Diego visitors. Restaurants, shops, carousel, hotels, musical venues, and so much more. A must for first-time visitors and great locals hang out. There are plenty of parking and restrooms. Fun for all ages and families. Don't miss!
Ms Mona — Google review
This is a cute, family friendly, picturesque shopping and dining area in San Diego. Right along the water, it is a great spot for tourists and locals alike. There are lots of cute little restaurants and shops. This is a great place to pick up souvenirs and explore. It’s also walking distance from the headquarters and the USS Midway.
Robin Curry — Google review
The scenery was beautiful at Seaport Village. The weather was perfect. The boats and yachts were out. Perfect spot to share with lovers,friends, and family alike. There was biking, walking, exercising, and boating. Places to eat, lots of room for children to play. If you're visiting San Diego, start your treasured new memories here. 💯❤️
Gloria Smith — Google review
Late post
Came with some friends and one of them kinda broke her leg so she we knew we couldn’t walk around too much but the Village itself is quite beautiful, people come to walk around the boardwalk, chill at the park and best of all they are dog friendly. The stores are typical of most places, The Bay company souvenir shop, boutiques, sun glasses, hat store, crazy shirts, toy store, hot sauce store and so much more. Can’t wait to come again and actually walk around the whole place! Give them a visit!
Tawny Valdez — Google review
Lovely afternoon at the Seaport Village.
Scenic walkable area with lots of small shops and food options.
The main parking lot is about $8 per hour...but arriving at around 5pm on a Thursday afternoon, we saw a parking lot next to that one for only $5 for three (3) hours. Keep an eye out for this one if visiting.
Lots of photo ops along the San Diego Bay.
You can walk along the water up the USS Midway, piers, Maritime Museum and Waterfront Park areas.
Jason Persaud — Google review
This place has been a favorite of mine ever since I first visited it in 1989. Seaport Village is a monument to me. A valuable historical artifact. From fine dining, stores, art galleries, breweries and waterfront walkways, you can’t pick a better place to spend time with friends, family, or just your pups. It’s a favorite of locals and visitors alike!
Eric Atilano Sr. Loan Officer NMLS #394507 — Google review
A beautiful walk by the bay with sailboats everywhere! Many unique shops with great souvenirs and gifts. Food trucks and sit down restaurants in all price ranges and each having waterfront views. Public restrooms were available which was very convenient and they were clean. Sitting areas with umbrellas along the walkway. Definitely come back at night, it has a magical ambiance with lateras and lights lighting the paths.
H Caballero — Google review
There’s a lot of little shops such as, gift shops, souvenir shops, yummy food, drinks, henna tattoos, tarot readers, cool views, places to hang out on the dock. It can get crowded a bit even tho we didn’t go on a day where it should have been. I liked it a lot ❤️🔥
Abigail H — Google review
Seaport Village is a fun place to visit. There is something for everyone, you g and old. Also, there is lots of wheelchair accessibility and it is very near downtown. The views of the water are amazing. You can see the Coronado Bridge, walk downtown, and even visit several museums. There are a lot of shops and restaurants so be sure to bring your appetite. There is also live entertainment, especially on the weekends.
Cristian Arreaza — Google review
What a great place to either walk around and enjoy the scenery or do a little bit of shopping. Lots of little shops and restaurants, outdoor or indoor. Beautiful waterfront walk. Walking distance from downtown, also to the USS Midway Museum. When you are in San Diego, make sure to give yourself a few hours to meander through the little paths and walkways. We had a bite to eat and stopped for a drink in a couple of places. Everyone seemed very friendly and welcoming. We were in San Diego only for a few days, and made sure we came down to seaport a few times. Seems like there was always something going on, buskers or some festival... Fun times!
Eva Munch — Google review
It was super bowl Sunday a few hours before the game started and a friend and I went down to see Port village for a walk. There are a lot of great shops and restaurants of course, and it was a beautiful day.
Mike Hess brewery was not too crowded and my friend mentioned they had great tacos so I was in! We had a surf and turf taco, grilled shrimp, and a Veracruz taco as well. Can't remember the fourth taco but they were all delicious!
We also tried a few drinks, one of which was a lavender seltzer that was pretty good, and my friend had one of the beers. Fantastic atmosphere, great people watching and other views. Highly recommend and I will definitely be back.
Summer Sandberg — Google review
My wife and I had a wonderful time walking while enjoying the wonderful weather and sites. There are many activities to do and enjoy. Plenty of stores and restaurants. The place is well kept and clean. My only advice is map out the parking spots so you have different options for parking as it was very hard to find parking. My suggestion is the underground parking located at the Waterfront Park. The fee is $15.00 for the day and they are open up to midnight. It is also a couple of blocks away from Little Italy. I recommend visiting Seaport Village.
Marlowe Soyangco — Google review
One of the best spots I've found to take beautiful photos. Had a bottle of wine and walked around with friends. The shops, park and atmosphere are great. It's dog friendly. There are many places to eat and drink. Saw people flying kites and having a good time. At sunset the boats and water look amazing. I plan on visiting often and taking lots of photos. Seaport village is a big area so there is a lot to explore. It would take more than a day or two to see all the attractions. There is also fishing tours and cruises that can be booked there as well. O e place I plan on seeing is the aircraft carrier museum.
Jessie Moe — Google review
Quaint little coastal touristy haven. There are tons of places to get a bite to eat, breweries, wineries...... We did the SEAL tour to see the sea lions... We spent a complete afternoon/evening. There are many gift shops and places to just relax and enjoy the atmosphere.
Crystal Bejjani — Google review
The place is beautiful. Nearby the sea, offers an ideal evening walk. A lot of gift shops to buy memorabilia to save your beautiful memories with. On the other hand, it was a nightmare finding a parking spot on a Saturday morning.
Φίλιππος Φιλίππου — Google review
Quirky collection of shops and cafés in a unique setting right next to the water. Obviously set up to cater for the tourists but very pleasant regardless.
Michael Lees — Google review
More than any other place, when I think of San Diego, I think of Seaport Village. Not only is it a picturesque walk along the San Diego Bay, complete with views of Coronado Island and Bridge, naval bases, ships and vessels (military or otherwise), the yachts in the marina and, if you're lucky, a pod of dolphins or whales swimming by, but there's plenty of things to do, see, and myriad places to explore, experience, shop and dine, for locals and tourists alike!
Parking is plentiful-enough, although absurdly expensive. Do yourself a favor and find a place nearby, and walk here, to save yourself an unnecessary and exorbitant fee.
Jason Van Camp — Google review
Before visiting Seaport Village, we were forced to panic for a while because of the silence when we were pushed back by crowds in Little Italy. If I had been asked early in the morning, I would have seen freshly caught tuna cut on the spot, but I don't regret it. Because we had a very satisfying breakfast thanks to you. It has a beautiful port and a beautiful garden and park where you can take a walk. Two old veterans were anchored and very touching. It's a must-visit place when you come to San Diego.
M Pak — Google review
The first time I came to Seaport Village I really enjoyed walking the art galleries and shops. However, since that visit most of the art galleries have moved from Seaport Village. There is now one art gallery - the Christopher Harvey Art Gallery, which I did enjoy..
Most of the stores are now tourist traps selling cheap souvenirs. But there is plenty of dining options.Dining has never been on our agenda the days I have visited.
Still, I did enjoyed the walking along the pier.
Leisa Watkins — Google review
Best place in San diego. View was beautiful. Large lawn gives you peacefulness and neatness. There's no solicitor, marijuana smell and homeless.
Restaurant nearby was also perfect. Hope you visit here and have memorable experience :)
Inwoo Nam — Google review
Cool little spot with tent vendors. Businesses mostly sell souvenir-type things. There are a couple of restaurants I would want to go back and try. The air smells delicious because of all the food being made here. Also, they have a huge indoor carousel for the kids.
Remie R — Google review
This place is gorgeous and it has it all. I’ve been to SD multiple times, however I didn’t know this place existed. There is so much to see, there are lots of cute little shops, restaurants, ice cream shops, beach chairs to enjoy the ocean view and sunset. It’s a must!
Vanessa Chaudhari — Google review
A beautiful waterside complex with many shops, restaurants, a nice promenade with a beautiful sunset. It's a big contrast to Downtown San Diego, where there are many homeless people and empty storefronts from bankrupt businesses. When you walk from the Convention Center here you will feel that San Diego is a beautiful city.
Cirrus Sanofi — Google review
Overview: Seaport Village is a perennial favorite among locals and a must-visit spot for anyone exploring the area. Whether you're a tourist or a resident, this charming waterfront destination has something to offer for all.
Diverse Shopping Experience: While it's true that some of the shops cater to tourists, Seaport Village is more than just a tourist trap. Among the myriad of boutiques, you'll discover hidden gems that offer unique, locally crafted treasures. It's a shopping experience that invites exploration and surprises.
Saturday Fish Market: If you're a seafood lover, Saturdays at Seaport Village are a treat. The fish market boasts a wide selection of the freshest catches, making it a seafood lover's paradise. Don't miss the chance to savor the ocean's bounty in this picturesque setting.
Festive Spirit Year-Round: One of the standout features of Seaport Village is its festive atmosphere. From lively summer celebrations to enchanting Christmas events, there's always something happening here. It's the perfect place to create lasting memories with family and friends.
Conclusion: Seaport Village isn't just a place; it's an experience. Whether you're strolling through the diverse shops, indulging in fresh seafood, or immersing yourself in the festive spirit, there's a little something here for everyone. It's no wonder that it's a go-to spot when showcasing the best of the area to visitors. Seaport Village truly captures the essence of the waterfront lifestyle and is a place where memories are made.
The USS Midway Museum preserves the historic aircraft carrier, which served America for more than 25 years. The museum features areas not open to the public, such as the sleeping quarters and engine room. Sailors narrate self-guided audio tours, and you can learn even more by engaging volunteer docents.
This place was absolutely awesome! It has dummies instead if people all around the ship as you walk through (see pictures). It has beds, kitchens, bathroom, everything! It has a place where the planes land and the best part is l, you get a free audio tour thingy. There is also a little movie you can watch about the Midway battle and about the soldiers🍿. Everything is so realistic and it has cool props and all. Keep in mind, this used to be an operating ship! As you walk through, the history of the ship is slowly uncovered and you start to get a glance at the life of those soldiers that lived on the ship, away from their families. This place is really cool and you should definitely visit!
Vasily Tregubov — Google review
Well worth the six hours we invested. An amazing piece of history. Liked the self guided audio device you use to scan the displays you want information about. They have a kid's information scavenger hunt that once completed they get wings in an award ceremony. They loved it. Several speakers explained operations on the Midway; very interesting and given by prior Midway servicemen. Learn from their experiences while they are still around, a piece of living history. The Cafe 41 has a good selection of lunch items. A good place to take a break and have a snack or lunch. Don't forget there are several flight simulators you can operate for a fee, but several cockpits that are free to set in and take pictures. Video presentations everywhere you look. A great day of history and the kids won't even know they are learning about history. Win, Win
Thunder — Google review
I had an excellent time aboard the USS Midway! The ship is a very well preserved and document piece of history that you could easily spend a whole day on just learning about all the ways this ship used to support our country and how the brave men and women used to run the ship. The museum also features many modern tourist attractions such as full motion flight simulators and a VR exhibit. I also really appreciated the many veterans working on the ship that are happy to answer questions and provide more details. Definitely check out the gift shop before you leave for some nice souvenirs that support preservation efforts of the midway and support veterans. Overall, this is a great piece of military history that’s not to be missed if you are in the San Diego area.
Beck Orion — Google review
Great experience! Spent 3 hours walking around. Could easily spend more or less time based on your plans. Audio tour is included. You get to go through so many areas. The staff are so friendly and a wealth of knowledge and willing to share personal experiences. Make sure you bring your walking shoes as there are small stairs to go up and down on a well. Only caution is if you're over 6 feet tall, you'll be ducking often!
Daniel — Google review
Went with friends and we really enjoyed our walking tour. Didn't seem to have enough time in the day to completely enjoy all they had to offer. It was very nice to explore the history involved with this war ship and all the men involved in keeping this ship operational. Thanks to all who served on her protecting our freedom 🙏. Veterans and active duty get a discounted entry.
Kino J — Google review
I have 0 interest in the military or military history, but this was a fascinating place to explore and learn! I love that you can explore the ins and outs of the ship and really get a feel for how big it is. If you are tall, be careful - I hit my head many many times even while paying attention. Parking is pretty limited so we ended up using ride share to get there. This would be very difficult to experience fully if you have any type of mobility challenge so keep that in mind. There is a decent food/snack bar and a big gift shop. Don’t miss the intro movie.
Reed B — Google review
Went to a company party here with 1,100 coworkers. We loved looking at the planes and taking small group tours. It appears they are doing work as a section of the tower was covered. The planes and deck were lit up well and provided a nice backdrop for our event. The catering was excellent as was the band. This ship makes a great place to hold a large event!
Tye Bratton — Google review
Note, I was not here for the tour and museum, but for a private event. I was able to view all of the displays that the museum has to offer. Being able to wander around the upper and lower deck, there is a lot to see ranging from all manner of helicopters to planes. The upper deck boasts a gorgeous view of the San Diego Bay.
Remington Greer — Google review
Fabulous !
Went with high expectations, they proceeded to far exceed them! great job presenting 50 years of military history during the ships service life, loved every second. The equipment was super interesting, but the huge corps of spirited knowledgeable volunteer docents made this museum unforgettable, oh the stories they told. So much to see, minimum 2 hours but easily spend 4.
Suggestions, go EARLY, do the island tour first and make use of the simple audio guides.
Bonix Sunday — Google review
We loved the experience! Hubby loves airplanes and we were so thrilled to go in and stroll around the museum. It was soo tiring because a lot of walking but it was so worth it! we really go in every single part of the ship😂
Love to be i. the deck.. took a lot of pictures and post in social media. love it so much.. well be back !
Jade Cojena — Google review
This place is amazing! I got to see the maritime! This is very interesting and educational for everything that it offers to learn more about what happened. I found that the simulating rides were pretty amazing. And I love that the volunteers are most of them are veterans. Highly recommend this for everybody stopping by the harbor and enjoying learning about our history. Thank you for giving me an experience of a lifetime!
Shirley Mendaros — Google review
Such a cool idea for a museum, a historical aircraft carrier. Been here multiple times and still enjoy coming here when family is visiting. You get to actually explore the interior of the carrier, with different rooms staged as it would have been when out at sea. The flight deck is also a must see as you can go inside planes and helicopters. It's a great way to spend a few hours with the whole family And even learn a few things. I recommend the audio tour. They also do events like during the Big Bay Boom.
Ronald Dolsky — Google review
Perfect experience coupled with the gocity pass. Very perfect execution from storytelling to hands on to living quarters. I took a whole day to finish this place.
Go straight to the theatre near the entrance and the tour at the top deck in the morning. It gets overly crowded later leading to long waits.
And take the two talks too. The speakers are very knowledgeable and definitely gave a good understanding on how the top platform works.
There's lots to see on the sides of the top deck, additional rooms and a basement. But go for the talks first to have a better understanding of operations before walking around.
Food is definitely decent too. Took the chicken strips and they were good although salty.
And if you have kids or have a kid inside you, take the 4d rides at a price (I didn't).
Recommendation: You should also visit the nearby peace monument too.
Jason Foo — Google review
Amazing experience, kids and whole family loves it. The veterans volunteers on board talking about their service was just amazing to hear. Come early before it gets hit out on the deck. They have vending machines and is very accessible even for stroller and all. Amazing view of downtown San Diego to boot.
Kaushal Patel — Google review
We decided to check out the USS Midway as my partner is currently active in the Navy and he was interested in seeing how an aircraft carrier compared in size to his current ship.
The history of the Midway is interesting to say the least! The volunteers on board are all very welcoming and informative. They give a great tour of the island (must do) which will give you lots of information on the history of the ship, and why it will likely be the last of it's kind to become a museum.
Leave ample time to see everything. We arrived around 2:30, they closed at 5pm and we still didn't get enough time to see everything. So we had to rush down to the lower level to see the bunks as I wanted to see what my partners life is like underway.
Thank you to the veterans and everyone else there. We really enjoyed our experience.
Selina (Sphynxee) — Google review
An incredible piece of American naval history. It's crewed by a friendly bunch of very knowledgeable helpful people. Who were more than happy to answer any questions you may have. There is restroom facilities on board and a cafe. There are some interactive activities to do. A great range of merchandise is also available. I rate a visit to this ship as a must do if visiting the area.
David Smith — Google review
Great experience! After walking the ship for a couple of hours, I have a new appreciation for our men and women serving all around the world on these ships. It is such a unique experience to see all the inner workings and the size of these ships usually only see from a screen. Great displays of historic aircraft. Opportunities to sit inside some of the cockpits and even interactive experiences available. It's worth every penny to see a part of history and the inner workings. Many veteran volunteers sharing their experience in stories and informative talks. Plan to wear comfortable shoes, be prepared to walk and do plenty of stairs!
Highly recommend!!
Looking To Get Lost — Google review
Jingle lights was amazing. Taking two ladies to the museum for the first time, discussing the planes, WW2, how the US was drawn into a war we didn't want to be a part of, geographic isolation and the need for the island of Midway, writing a letter to our troops for the holidays, I forgot how much of the history I knew! The docents were incredible, customer service fantastic, and the lights on the flight deck were amazing. Definitely an experience to enjoy. Easily takes the three hours we allowed... I wish we had more time. Just go, it's part of our nation's great history with several connections to San Diego history. Enjoy!
Lance C. — Google review
The bridge area is currently closed off and under renovation as of Feb 2024, but other than that it was really neat! Definitely a good time. Be aware some of the inner stairs and hatch ways will be difficult for toddlers or older folks, but there’s also plenty to do and see on the top two decks. Enjoy!
Mitch Jordan — Google review
This was a fun day trip while on vacation in San Diego, CA. It was about $32/person which is a bit pricey but it’s worth it to see the historic aircraft carrier. Very cool to see the old planes and some more modern ones as well. We visited on a Saturday around 2:30pm and it was very crowded, as to be expected. Spent about 2.5 hours. Very short line to get in the door since we bought tickets there and then they funnel everyone in the same way and then immediately have a photo op which slows things down.
Christopher Cunniffe — Google review
Definitely worth a couple of hours if you are into US military history.
Lots of WWII to modern planes on display and an audio tour is available. Friendly docents we're all over the carrier to answer questions.
Book your tickets online to save a couple of $s and to avoid one of the lines.
Visit time is probably around 2-3 hours unless you are in a hurry, or if you want to take your time.
A fair bit of walking and climbing if you want to see the whole boat.
Zinger Learns — Google review
What an amazing place. We spend about 5 hours touring the ship and had a great time. We even had a late lunch while there. Was a bit expensive, but was still good. We enjoyed seeing all the different places on the ship. There were even a few places where the staff or maybe volunteers explained how things worked. We really enjoyed listening to them and the different stories they had. I would highly recommend visiting this amazing museum. You won't be disappointed.
A B — Google review
This is an amazing tour, make sure to take the audio device (free.) Also, be aware you will have to walk a lot. If you want to see all the areas, is around a 3.5 to a 4 hour walk depending on how detailed you are and how much of the history of the vessel you want to learn.
Sergio Ochoa — Google review
Touring the USS Midway is one of the coolest things I have ever done... If you are at all interested in history and or the military I would highly recommend you stop by. I spent 5 hours here and could easily spend another 5-10 hours. Thank you to all the men and women who served on this wonderful ship!
William Weitz — Google review
My first ever aircraft carrier experience, and it was very awesome. The amount of volunteers and people available to explain or give demonstrations of things was so cool, and there was so many of them. I was able to learn so much by people that were actually on the ship before it was retired and to me that is a little piece of history and firsthand experience that you can’t buy and it is precious. Would definitely recommend.
ESlice — Google review
This was one of the most impressive museums that we have visited. As impressive as the aircraft carrier is, the staff and volunteers are even more exceptional - everyone we interacted with was amazing..!
There are bottled water refill stations and WiFi available. It may be advantageous to start up top on the flight deck to include the recommended bridge tour that stops about an hour before closing. Make sure you wander through the 'below decks' compartments, too - so much to see...!
I would recommend 3 hours minimum to fully experience the museum.
Ryan Smith — Google review
Had a great time here! So much history! We ended up taking a few hours there but could have easily spent more time. I suggest getting the self-guided audio tour. Definitely a place to take your time at and see everything. All the staff and volunteers were nice and informational. Loved the views from the flight deck.
Janelle Rhodes — Google review
Fascinating visit to the USS Midway. We easily spent 4 hours exploring the ship. That included the Voices of Midway film (which you must see), but none of the docent talks so easily could have been longer. We walked nearly 5 miles so make sure you come prepared, there is a lot to see, and a lot of steps! The audio tour is an excellent addition, contrary to what the website said, we did not need headphones to listen. Learning about the history and operation of the ship was eye opening. We visited on a week day in February and it was busy, so can only imagine would be pretty busy weekend and school holidays. Well worth the admission.
Amy W — Google review
Lives up to and beyond the hype.
Had tons of recommendations from local friends to check this out and wow were we not disappointed.
Between the nice self guided audio tour (free) option that gets you more information from the pilots on the aircraft that actually flew them, to the aircraft themselves and then under deck, you will be blown away. It truly is a floating city and the sheer size and scale will amaze.
I could have easily spent 6+ hours here but my friends capped out at 5 hours of adventuring below deck and the flight simulator (extra cost but awesome).
If you are in San Diego and could only see one attraction, make it this one.
Matthew schmitt — Google review
So much to see! The vets were so helpful, friendly and informative! Talking to them was a real honor and pleasure! The most interesting was the flight take off and landings they did up in the flight deck. They had video and several former pilots explained the process. So interesting! Large souvenir shop where I found t shirts for everyone! The soup was great and the other food looked good!
Jeri Cherkas — Google review
The USS Midway Museum in San Diego isn't just a museum; it's a time machine. Stepping aboard this legendary aircraft carrier is like stepping into the heart of American naval history. From the moment you set foot on the massive deck, you're surrounded by artifacts, exhibits, and most importantly, the incredible stories of the sailors who called this ship home. What truly elevates the Midway Museum experience are the docents. These passionate volunteers, many of whom served on the Midway themselves, are walking repositories of the ship's history. They answer questions with enthusiasm and detail, bringing the exhibits to life with personal anecdotes and firsthand accounts of life aboard the carrier. Whether you're a history buff or simply curious, these docents ensure you leave with a deeper understanding and appreciation for this incredible ship and the sailors who served on it.
Lukasz Zbylut — Google review
Was a fun day trip at the USS Midway Museum! The Midway was the Flagship of the air operations during Operation Desert Storm in 1991 and since its decommissioning, its been turned into a museum. You might need a minimum of 2.5 hours to do a quick survey of all the exhibits, but plan for longer if you want to be more thorough. The flight deck exhibits have beautifully restored jets - many of them were featured in the Top Gun movies. There is a self-guided tour option that takes you to the decks below and it can be a little challenging if you have kids or pregnant as it involves climbing down some steep stairs. Audio devices are offered free of charge once you’re inside for more information on each exhibit. We bought tickets online and saved $2 each. Paid parking is available (3 hours at a time) but it can be difficult to find free spots right away unless you’re lucky.
Helen J — Google review
What an amazing experience and a fantastic museum!
This was immediately on my list of places to visit in San Diego and it did not disappoint at all! While I'm sure there was a lot of the shop we didn't get to see, it really felt like you could see the majority of the interior. As you enter the hangar deck, you get to experience the enormity of the ship and see many different aircraft on display. From that level, there are a few loops that take you through the innards of the ship itself.
I think what surprised me the most is knowing that the carrier was built in the mid 1940's and retrofitted more than once, and it's amazing to me that they were able to do this and keep this ship in service for as long as they did.
Being up on the fight deck was a great experience. There are many more aircraft up there and you get some amazing views of the bay! There are also volunteers all over the ship and if you have any questions, they are happy to answer them for you!
I consider this a must-see if you're in the San Diego area!
Mike W — Google review
5/5 stars! Absolutely awesome experience! You pay the entrance fee and get access to a significant portion of the ship, even with ongoing restoration work. The volunteers are incredibly knowledgeable and friendly - LCDR Sidney went out of his way to ensure we didn't miss a thing! The audio tour provides detailed information, and the exhibits feature actual uniforms and planes used on the ship. We even got to see areas normally off-limits to civilians! The gift shop and cafe are great places to relax and learn more. I'd highly recommend this attraction and would definitely return, either on my own or with my husband. Don't miss the audio tour …. Fossil…. Fossil… Fossil (Phineas & Ferb reference g
Shannon Margaret Brott — Google review
The **USS Midway Museum** is an absolute must-visit when you're in San Diego. As a retired aircraft carrier commissioned in 1945, it offers an immersive experience that combines history, awe-inspiring exhibits, and breathtaking views.
1. **Hours of Operation and Tickets**:
- Open daily from **10:00 am to 5:00 pm** (last admission at 4:00 pm).
- Free entry for active duty military and reservist. Veterans ticket is $24 at window and $22 online. No senior citizen discount.
- You will need minimum 3 hours to explore the ship at decent pace. If you want to enjoy all the amenities, take pictures, have food and listen to audio tour, I’d say plan for 5-6 hours to thoroughly enjoy your visit.
2. **Parking**:
- Adjacent to the museum, there's a metered parking area wherein you can park for a maximum of 3 hours for $7.5.
- Parking is a pain whether rain or shine. Get in earliest possible to find a spot.
3. **Disability Access**:
- The Midway has made significant modifications to enhance accessibility.
- Elevators connect Navy Pier to the ship entrance, from the Hangar Deck down to the second deck, and from the Flight Deck to the Hangar Deck.
- Wheelchair-accessible restrooms are available on both the Hangar and Flight Decks.
- ASL (American Sign Language) tours and audio descriptive tours are provided for guests with hearing impairment or visual challenges.
- Service animals are welcome, but check restrictions due to the ship's layout.
4. **Things to Do**:
- Explore the enormous flight deck with 29 restored aircraft.
- Experience flight simulators (additional $20 for two).
- Attend the Battle of Midway Theater.
- Take the self-guided audio tour narrated in multiple languages.
- Don't miss the Junior Pilot Program and overnight adventures.
5. **Views and Amenities**:
- The views from the Flight Deck are spectacular—ocean vistas, downtown San Diego, and the harbor.
- Enjoy the sea breeze and imagine life at sea.
- The ship houses an extensive collection of aircraft, many built in Southern California.
- The ship also houses a full fledged dining area.
6. **Displays**:
- Dive into naval history through interactive exhibits.
- Learn about the brave servicemen who served aboard the Midway.
- Discover the stories behind each corner of this massive ship.
In summary, the USS Midway Museum is an unforgettable journey through time, honoring the sacrifices of our servicemen. Whether you spend hours or days exploring, you'll be captivated by its sheer magnitude and the tales it holds. Be prepared for an enriching experience that will leave you in awe.
Remember, this floating city at sea is not just a museum—it's a living testament to courage, innovation, and the indomitable spirit of those who served. Enjoy your visit! 🇺🇸🚢🌊
Vijay Thakkar — Google review
As a documentary historic site, this infamous warship was once the very best and largest of aircraft carriers in the American Navy. Any boy at any age will be amazed at the ship, the exhibited airplanes, and that everything functions perfectly! You get to meet and talk to fellow crew members in former active service who can tell and show and answer all questions you may have. Americans are very proud of their joint forces, and this is a great opportunity to learn more about them. This is the best navy display on the entire US west coast! It's a must-see for all men and boys.
Old Town San Diego State Historic Park is an open-air museum that offers a glimpse into the local life of the 1800s. This state park recreates the Mexican and Rancho California periods from 1821 to 1872 with adobe buildings and interpretive performances. The complex includes original adobes, as well as historic structures like a schoolhouse, stable with carriage collection, first newspaper office, and blacksmith shop.
Definitely an educational site of San Diego history including the first school building and a courthouse. Many vendors with unique local items such as Mexican decor and lawn outdoor ornaments, a really unusual cigar shop that if I were an aficionado would be a frequent patron, and legitimate Mexican restaurants. A lot of history and arts/crafts. A must see for tourists and locals. Also just outside the immediate area are many other restaurants and retail merchants.
H. Yee — Google review
Such an awesome way to spend the day. The restored buildings, repurposed as store fronts, museums or restored to their original glory. So much information stepping back in time. Wide variety of shopping and all of the employees are so friendly. Plenty of shaded areas and wide open spaces to sit and enjoy munching on the endless amount of goodies you can purchase. Love to see the history preserved in such a way.
Jeanette — Google review
Old Town is the perfect place to visit. So many amazing shops, everyone there is always so happy! The restaurants are wonderful and really cool history behind it all! It's a must see!
Ceceilia Castro — Google review
There are some nice places within Old Town, but it's a little bit hit and miss. Some of the places are a touristy and have the same stuff over and over again from store to store. It reminds me of being on a touristy boardwalk in a way.
But, some of the shops are quite nice and have original things. I particularly appreciated the shops that have a historical theme to them. I do love the Leather Depot store the most. They have some great leather items that are very reasonably priced.
There is a free parking lot if you get there early enough you should be able to find a spot. The spots are quite tight so don't bring the big car if you can help it.
There are plenty of restrooms, although they are not very clean. The floors are rather gross.
Some of the eateries are very lively with music, while others are fairly boring with a kind of quiet vibe. I feel the whole area could have been more fun with the addition of at least a quiet music background.
Gina Marie Acker — Google review
Had a great time walking around and checking out the cute shops! We were there when they had a history talk about bloomers. It was so interesting! Stores were over priced, but it's a tourist place.
If you like root beer, or even just different kinds of soda, you need to check out the store with the sign "buy 1 get 1 root beer floats". There are so many different kinds of sodas and root beers.
A lot of the stores have so much interesting stuff in them too! I didn't think the cigar store would have anything but cigars in it, but it had displays of pipes going back to the B.C. and other old collectables. So glad I went in, and I don't even smoke! My friend bargained for a great price on jewelry with gems in it.
Erika Enn — Google review
A really interesting depiction of the life in the Old West, with many different options for crafts and dining. Parking was easily available and it was just a short detour from the highway. Plan on spending about 45 minutes just walking around and checking the different shops. Add about one hour to have a meal in one of the many restaurants (some of them a bit more expensive than what we could find elsewhere for the same type of food but not prohibitively so). A good place to stop by in a visit to San Diego.
Alex Lopes — Google review
Cool area to check out if you're in San Diego, even though a bit touristy side. Lots of little shops and museums to walk into. It's a mix of Santa Fe and wild west saloon vibes.
Parking is a bit difficult. I'd suggest coming in before high noon to avoid the crowd. 🤠
Angela Chen — Google review
Very nice place to visit. Lots of shops to pick out your favorite souvenirs. Also lots of nice restaurants to visit and eat at. Have a stil by the Whaley house and take a tour, which is very interesting and entertaining.
Thad Beckman — Google review
Love coming to San Diego state park and seeing all the history and beauty!!! Can’t forget about the shopping!!!!
All so fun!!! We were there in October so it was all themed out!!
A lot of fun! Definitely check it out
Stacey Burns — Google review
Only visit briefly but had a wonderful time. It was just before the end of Oct so before their 'Day of the Dead' celebrations. While the skeletons were a bit confronting I could see their beauty. Food was fantastic. I would love to come back and spend more time here.
Liz Ganser — Google review
Lovely walkable historic town with lots of shops and food options.
Lots of culture...architecture, clothes, candy, trinkets and food. I believe there are also some tours available.
Very crowded and tourist-driven...particularly on the weekends.
Parking can be a bit tough in the immediate area and main lots...but there is a large lot near the Hilton Garden Inn on Rosecrans and Sunset streets where you can park on weekdays after 5pm and on weekends for free.
Stroller-friendly.
Jason Persaud — Google review
Love, love, love this park. I felt like I was in another country. Highly recommend to anyone traveling through San Diego. We were only there for a day and spent the morning walking around the park. Hopefully will return one day and visit more of the museums.
Ashley Moose — Google review
Great place to spend the evening! Friday evenings are very happening with live music and lots of tourists crowd! Parking is very limited though! Tacos are great from street tacos place! There are tons of souvenirs you can pick up from the many stores here! Must place to visit!
Hinduja Kumar — Google review
Love visiting and showing my friends when they are visiting me in SD, its one of the go to place to show around and also to eat Mexican food and do little shopping if interested in Mexican style of clothing, pottery, skeletons, toys and so on. Little stores are very cute around and that big tree is something
Mariami Betsu — Google review
I've been in SD for 40 years and never visited Fred's. Best food I've ever had in Old Town. They have a 2 taco special with rice and pinto or black beans for like 16 bucks. The rice and black beans were very tasty, unlike the other restaurants. I'm definitely going back. Love the decor.
Roxane Blank — Google review
Old Town San Diego State Historic Park is a captivating destination that transports visitors to California's mid-1800s history. With its authentic atmosphere, well-preserved buildings, and interactive exhibits, the park effectively showcases the lives of early settlers. The museums, reenactments, and events provide an educational and immersive experience. Whether you're intrigued by history or seeking a unique outing, the park offers a rich blend of culture, dining, shopping, and historical significance. It's a worthwhile stop for anyone exploring San Diego's past.
Normand Stoycheff — Google review
Beautiful old town of San Diego. It offers you so many chances to look back in history and what its past was. I can say it's one of the most beautiful destinations for anyone who's into history, souvenir, coziness and scenery. You can walk with your loved ones and enjoy the moments together!
Richard Hasiholan — Google review
Very cool place to go see because of the history involved in this building. It says it's the most haunted house in the U.S. but I'm not sure. It's a very cool place to walk thru. The arch in the house has an interesting story also. Go see it for yourself.
Aunt Net — Google review
One of my favorite places to hangout at. Good ambiance, great food, good people. And i love how the little ladies make the corn and flour tortillas right on the spot! With some butter, roll them up...... delicious! Highly recommend!
Andre Eusebio — Google review
Great place to spend an afternoon, especially on a cooler, wetter day like we did. Awesome arts and crafts shops. Be sure to sample a free (!) freshly made tortilla and buy yourself a fresh churro.
Kersi Vakil — Google review
Old Town San Diego is a must see place when you visit San Diego, California. It is a mix of many shops, eatery places, new and old. You will enjoy the old style of the area while enjoying a mix and many different varieties of food/places to fit everyone's taste. If you can stay at one of the local hotels, this will be a plus so you can wake up in the morning and roam around this awesome place.
Kamal Istaphanous — Google review
It's definitely one of my favorite attractions in San Diego California It tells the story of how California was born and I really love the atmosphere and shops and restaurants they have and mexican Art too
Jeffrey Debuque — Google review
Kitschy and cute shoos and stores, Mexican, Sicilian,and seafood restaurants with casual atmospheres, outdoor booths and stalls, historic museums with people dressed up in historic costumes, beautiful plants and the old town theatre... Top it off with the Whaley ghost house and museum and you’ve got an amazing Saturday in old town. I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again – it’s incredible how much San Diego values its history. I hope the city continues to share these treasures and experiences with visitors and residence… for free. ❤️👍🏼👏🏽
Inda Reid — Google review
I did not get to see all of Old Town San Diego, but put it on your list to see if you are visiting San Diego. Love the nostalgia of the town. There are lots of nice shops to visit and good food to eat.
James Williams — Google review
Nice park close to our hotel. Only a 5 min walk. Although a lot of tourists of course, but worth a visit. We've also been there for a Mexican dinner in a very nice Mexican restaurant. All thumbs up.
uwe kriks — Google review
Truly a hidden gem of a place. Lots of character, plenty of delicious food to try, lovely people and music and culture. As a bonus, very walkable and plenty of interesting things to see and do and taste. Tram rides also worth it.
SeaWorld is a popular theme park with attractions featuring marine life, such as dolphins, killer whales and penguins. The park has undergone changes in recent years to focus on education over entertainment, including the retirement of Shamu the orca.
SeaWorld San Diego is a top place to visit when you’re in Southern California. I’ve been several times when I was younger, and we have been going once a month since we got passes back in September. The passes were a great deal price wise, and they don’t require reservations to enter. The biggest draw is the opportunity to create great family memories while learning about sea life, and potentially sparking an interest in our kids. I recommend getting there at least a half an hour early, so you can be a head of the crowds, especially if you want to hit one of the most popular rides. Though choosing to go off season, not the summertime, the park doesn’t see to be overly crowded, and even better on a weekday. We found navigating the park to be a little confusing, so download a map ahead of time, and check out where some of the most popular attractions are (Electric Eel, Journey to Atlantis, Manta). The list the attractions that are closed at the entrances to the parking lot, so check that out as you enter. The shows play a few times each day, so check the website for that, or you can ask an employee. I’m not a fan of the food. It seems like overpriced cafeteria food. We’ve started to leave the park to eat, but that might not be an option for a day visit, where you can easily loose an hour or more. I do appreciate the opportunity to see unique animals, and respect their conservation efforts.
John Hatch — Google review
As far as concept of theme park goes it is one of the good ones that I have visited. They have lots of aquatic animals including killer whale, dolphins, turtles, sharks, penguins sea lions etc etc. You can have interactions with the animals if you pay or can watch the presentation shows that are free with your entry ticket. There are lots of water rides too. Restrooms and eating stalls are packed throughout the campus. It's a perfect one day get away for kids and adults alike.
Rama Kaalia — Google review
I went here by half day entrance. I arrived here at 12:45. I bought the half day ticket. Because the ticket entrance can be from 1:00 p.m. If you want to go on a many ride, I recommend you first stand the popular ride line. Because Seeing sea animal don't need stand a line. I didn't want any ride, I just have fun with sea animal show and other things. Daily animal show time will be changed. So you need to check ther show time at bill board near entrance before go around here.
양슬기 — Google review
I love this place! There's something for everyone here - educational and fun shows, rides for the adventurous and the not so adventurous, a huge playground, the smokehouse which is delicious BBQ food, and some areas to touch fish, sharks, etc. The park stays open from 10am to 8pm, which allows enough time to do everything. The other thing that I appreciate is the fact that there are no fast passes like other amusement parks. So when you get to the front of the line, you're guaranteed the front of the line rather than 15 people all of a sudden going before you. Thank you Sea World!!
Ames T — Google review
We had an amazing day! Everything was so much fun. The dolphin and orca whale displays were fascinating and the rides were exhilarating. Highly recommended! And because it was January, the lines were pretty quick. The only points of improvement for me would be the cleanliness of the bathrooms and the cost of the food. For 4 people's lunch we paid just over $100.
April — Google review
We loved coming here! Just wish the food could be cheaper! The bathrooms are nice and big, the stadiums are nice and big. The shows are great... make sure to go to those. My son enjoyed the huge rides. One of them was closed down when we were there though. There are lockers to store items if needed. There was lots of parking. We got cheaper tickets online through a website that had a deal. We paid to feed the sea lions and felt like that was worth the experience! Hope to go back someday soon!
Tamilisa Miner — Google review
My family and I visited for the first time. I was actually impressed. SeaWorld not only has sea creatures, but it also has coaster rides that will challenge other parks. It is along the sea so you get a nice sea breeze. We were delighted with the whale shows, the dolphins, seals, etc... You will see trees and plants that are beautiful. Explore the area and I guarantee you will find something special to you or your loved ones. For the price, my family and I had a wonderful time and would recommend to anyone trying to have a relaxing and enjoyable time. The only negative thing I can say is that parking was $30. For a regular car, but I felt a little better when I heard that proceedings go to protecting the sea mammals and rescues. Bless you all and wish you a happy time with your family.❤️❤️❤️
Isrrael Espin — Google review
We always have fun at Sea World! Specially because of the kids. Every show is amazing, the performers are great at their job. They are always giving it their all so guest leave satisfied. The only thing I dis not like was that ai bought annual passes but I can’t use all my 4 free friends guest passes at the same time. Overall it was a great experience.
Stephanie Marin — Google review
We had a great time! Our tickets were free (military), but we did pay $30 for parking and $3 for a locker. We enjoyed watching the orca and dolphin shows, viewing the penguin, shark, and turtle exhibits, and riding Emperor
We were lightly splashed by the orcas and got soaked by the dolphins, but it’s pretty easy to avoid getting wet if you’d rather stay dry. Park was fairly crowded, it was quite hot/humid, and the walk from parking was longer than expected. Still, we enjoyed ourselves and would probably go again
David Crow — Google review
Good place to take the kids for the day, and we enjoyed that the kids were free. So I only paid for me and my girlfriend. The wait time to get in was roughly 30 to 40 mins. After that, it went smoothly. Just the rides took about the same time as getting in. If you got the money for the quick pass, get it, you'll save time and enjoy more or the park. Great experience for us.
Jesus Gaytan — Google review
Really enjoyed our experience at SeaWorld. The park itself isn’t crazy big and that makes walking easy. Animal shows were fantastic!The thrill rides had a great balance, as in, it didn’t feel crazy aggressive like the ones at Cedar point. Crowd wasn’t crazy for a Sunday, and the staff were friendly! Food taste could be improved but nonetheless I’ll rate my overall experience a 5 star.
Adithya R. Kumar — Google review
Definitely wonderful experience with kiddos. Theme park is unique with several kinds of shows with Sea life and thrilling rollercoasters. I would recommend to go early, park is less crowded in the morning so you will get opportunity to go for most of rides with less wait time, it got busy by afternoon. If you have toddler, you should spend some time at Rescue Jr. specifically targeted for young kids.
For holiday period they have Christmas themed decorations all over, Photo booths with Santa Clause, Christmas Lighting and Parade, Laser show at closing time.
Only issue I see is parking is very expensive $30 per vehicle.
Chetan Motamarri — Google review
Amazing. My family and I really had an amazing time at Sea World. Everyone working there was so nice, friendly, and helpful. I would recommend 2 days if you can afford it. We were there at open to close and were not able to see everything. Not a bad thing just means there is a lot to see and do. The ticket price is getting very expensive so 2 days may be kind of expensive. I do highly recommend a visit to Sea World San Diego....
Patrick Elmore — Google review
Beautiful place, lot of attractions for kids and no queues, dolphin show was great. They are beautiful animals and have been taken care very well inside. ORCA - whale show was amazing. Beautiful creature and showed all skills. They performed very well to a new skills about shapes and they did amazing job. It was great. Less crowded.
K S — Google review
Went here a couple years ago without kids and enjoyed their shows, animals, rides and amenities. Fast forward a couple years and now I have two little girls. We went during the Sesame Street event and it was such perfect timing. They had a good amount of rides for the little ones that my husband and I were able to get on also. My girls had such a blast!
Their shows are still pretty amazing. But a couple years ago I remember them being a bit more impressive because during the dolphin show, performers were diving way up high and it was just more entertaining.
All the animals seem very happy to me. You can tell by the way they interact with their trainers. They seem healthy, active, and stimulated. Although, they can take the time to clean the glass of their tanks. There’s some algae growing on them.
There are a lot of rides for children and adults. A lot of food stops and carts. Lots of gift shops. They have more events now than back then. All in all, this place is worth checking out when you’re in the San Diego area!
MLRoseAnn B — Google review
First time visiting this location. My daughter and I had lots of fun, from the rides to the shows. I did think that some stuff was overpriced, and the fact that you have to pay for lockers before each ride was crazy. My daughter desperately wanted to get in the tank with dolphins, but for $250, a person that's ridiculous. Won't be visiting again. At least when we go to Silver Dollar City, they allow for you to put your bag away in a cubby and pick it up once your ride is over.
EpicGamingMom2021 — Google review
seaWorld is the best place to visit with your family, friends and child if you are in San Diego.
Animal experiences, Presentations, Rides & attractions, and multiple Seasonal events are available.
On arrival and online tickets are available, you can also download app to get all the details and tickets.
Parking spaces available with both VIP and general mode.
you can also check the details on their official website.
Pawan Rajput — Google review
It was good experience. I bought annual pass as I expect to visit this place more often. Lot many new rides are added. This is my 4th visit to Sea world in past 10 years and I see there are many changes to shows now. Mainly I see show timings are reduced as well as some stunts performed by animals are reduced too. But still it is good to watch for anyone who is new. It is entertaining and very informative as well. Every age group can enjoy here and spend good time.
Shailesh Shahane — Google review
Completely worth of money and time. We have spent full day by visit all the sea creatures and shows. They have an all-day dining pass, and I will highly recommend that. This pass will save lots of money and hassle free checkout. Also, they have amazing ride for adult and young kids. This park is full of excitement and fun.
Utsav Maniyar — Google review
Wonderful park for people of all ages! Went on Thanksgiving and it was busy but not packed. Wonderful rides and the animal exhibits and shows were astounding. The trainers have such special bonds with their animals and the care for them is astounding. Love the core mission that Sea World was founded on.
Tyler Winkey — Google review
Sea World in San Diego is a large park with rides, a nice area to see the whales, and whale and dolphin shows. They also have penguins and other fish that you can touch. I was not impressed with any of it and we will not be back. The only reason I am giving 3 stars and not 2 is because the staff is super nice and know the area well.
Parking is for a fee and get ready to walk to the gate. The day we were there it was so hot and there is no escape from it. They don't have enough places to sit and when you find one you might very well be in the sun. It was miserable.
Getting in took about 20 minutes, so they should staff up.
The food selection is very poor. They have sandwiches, burgers etc., but none of it is good and we had to wait until we left to have a real meal.
The rides are fun for kids, but the lines are long so get ready to wait, in the heat.
They have dolphin and whale shows. We wanted to see one and they were all cancelled for the time we picked. No notice, nothing. I really felt ripped off.
They have a fish petting area that is not supervised and kids just grab star fish etc. and this is cruel. Can they at least have someone that says no, don't put the starfish in your pocket.
They also have an area where you can put your hand in and the wrasse will nibble on your hand. At least they enjoy that, but again, not one attendant to deal with kids that are not being raised with any manners by parents.
The place is pretty clean.
Overall, it was very disappointing and even my grandkid does not want to come back. Bye Sea World.
Elizabeth Lascheid — Google review
Good set of carnival style rides and activities for small children 2-6 years old, then there is a gap for older taller kids around 8+ because a few rides have minimum height requirements at 42 and 48 inches each rider.
You can search the requirements in the free app and some rides allow smaller riders to be accompanied by an older guardian or parent such as tentacle twirl, the large swing carousel.
All day dining is worth it for the cost after 2 meals but wait times can be long. You can redeem a meal every 2 hours with the pass. Food quality is consistent and good at most places especially the bbq.
Many more shows and activities are scheduled daily and listed on the app. Loved the seal show and if you want to stay dry at the dolphins show get a seat above the middle row.
Robert Shin — Google review
This was definitely the highlight of the trip for my children. We didn't ride any rides. We came for the shows and the zoo experience. It is so neat to see such amazing animals up close. Do note... If you sit in the splash though you will get wet and it's not a little bit of water!!!
Jeremy Drost — Google review
This is an amazing place! The dolphin and orca shows are so fun and the penguin area is incredible, too. I'm blown away at how many different types of penguins they have in one habitat. The beluga whales were so friendly to our family and we also loved getting to see the sea turtles and puffins. The rides are fun too, but the exhibits definitely shine and we'd love to come back again someday to experience the sea creatures' behaviors and glorious beauty.
Jenny Ma — Google review
I have been to San Diego many times, but never to Sea World. There is a lot to see, but I believe the experience would probably have been better in the summer. The shows were great. The orca show was my favorite. It's a bummer that a couple big rides were closed, but water rides are better when the weather warms up. Overall it was a good experience. Had a nice day.
Michael Gonzales — Google review
I last went to Sea World about 30+ years ago. So happy we decided to come. The park has changed!! They added 4 awesome roller coasters that were so fun to ride!! They have made many mini aquariums throughout the park giving the public access to many different types of marine life. They still have shows for the dolphins and Orcas, fun to watch them purposely wet people!! There were a lot of visitors but the lines to ride the coasters went fast. Have to come back again soon!!
Mayis Rocha — Google review
I had never been to sea world before but I was happy to go. All the aquatic animals you grew up to love and lots you have never seen. Lots of shows to see animals ilyp close and personal as well as getting detailed information on them. Exactly what it seems like. Also some rides and roller coaster. Family place, great for kids!
Chase — Google review
It was great overall. Rides for everyone. Shows were great. Kids enjoyed all 3 shows. My daughter is a huge fan of dolphins. So we booked a close encounter with Dolphins and she did enjoy it. It was a great experience but felt like it was bit expensive for that short amount of time with the dolphins. We got the All day dining pass. Some decent options but there is a lot of wait times to get the food.
Sundeep Sakineni — Google review
Went in mid February so it was off season and cool. The lines were not long and we got into everything. Some of the shows were great, but not over the top, just great. The animals seem happy there. Lots of great exhibits and the roller coasters were great too. The food is just not great, but is expensive.
Michael St. Denis — Google review
My family had a great time at Sea World. We purchased the food pass which is highly recommended. This is an all day activity with shows. Our kids loved watching the Dolphins and Orcas. With the variety of options between seeing the animals, shows, shops, and theme park, there is no shortage of entertainment. This place will create lasting memories for your family.
Zachary Walz — Google review
Great place for family fun and shows were great!
Like all amusement parks food has lines and not cheap. Parking is expensive and you need to search for a decent deal on tickets. It gets expensive when you have 6 in the family and 3+ years are counted as an adult ticket.
Use the SeaWorld app to track yourself via GPS as well as show times and exhibits so you don't miss anything!
Rob Daman — Google review
Fabulous shows with beautiful sea creatures and enthusiastic and knowledgeable staff. The pre show entertainment was good fun and engaging both the knowledge tests and entertainers.
Poorly sign posted, no paper maps for those who don't always want to use their phones.
Very limited food choices despite there was supposed to be a food festival.
It was an expensive day out, especially as we purchased tickets at the gate and had no option but to buy a pass for the year.
Leo Carrillo Ranch Historic Park is a sprawling, 27-acre park located in Carlsbad, California that is home to peacocks, birds of paradise, and more. The park spans over years of Leo Carrillo's legacy as a rancher and actor, and is now open to the public for day trips and relaxation.
Always enjoyed our visit here at the ranch! We started visiting in 2020 when the pandemic started.
The ranch is spacious and open. This provides ample of distance between our family and others. There are many benches and tables for people to have a picnic and kids to run around. It was fun and educational to walk around and see the architecture of the houses.
The best time to visit is March to June. One can hear and see wild peacocks in the ranch. Local residents may not like to hear them because the peacocks are really loud during mating season but it is a joy to many to see the beautiful birds. Did I say that these are wild birds? Please don’t feed the birds and respect their space!!!
teadrinkerxyz — Google review
Do not miss this beautiful, well preserved ranch! You could easily spend 2+ hours here. Very popular for class field trips. Since there is a dirt parking lot (with at least 4 handicap spaces) they do close after heavy rains. Best to call ahead to see if they are open. Numerous clean, modern restrooms. Paths for wheelchairs are clearly marked. Areas for picnics are available to reserve, too. There are some elevation changes but manageable for most. Don't miss!
James Bray — Google review
Wow! So much history. The architecture and landscaping is exquisite 👌. They even have orange, lemon, and lime trees. The aroma fills the air! Peacocks are walking around free. This place was everything!!! I got to see where actor extrodonaire Clarke Gable laid his head. Just wonderful!
REALtalk Renata TV — Google review
We like this place. It's not a super long visit, bit the grounds are fun and there are plenty unique things to explore and see. Lots of neat plants, buildings, and some light walking. The attendants are friendly. Short video to familiarize yourself with what it was about. Might be a nice place to visit with a picnic :)
David Borough — Google review
Peaceful historic ranch located just a tad west of San Marcos, south of Vista. Visited here for my first time attending friend’s wedding so the review is heavily tilted towards the set up of the wedding. Set up of the outdoor ceremony was wonderful and well organized and all of the staffs were very kind. The place had a lot of sign boards explaining the history of the ranch, animals & plants on the property etc. It’s a surprising find tucked away in Carlsbad residential area.
Masa Guchi — Google review
Amazing stop! Worth the drive up from San Diego! My family and I love history, and all the employees and volunteers were lovely and knowledgeable! The short film in the Visitors Center was a nice surprise as well! Beautiful place to explore with lots of history.
A Heal — Google review
A nice peaceful walk around the ranch. It's always nice to come here to visit and remember the history. This year plants look really healthy with the heavy rain 🥰
Cool Desert Breeze — Google review
Historic buildings.The area is beautiful,calm and peaceful.Its great for families to walk around. Beautiful peacocks are a feast to the eyes
Achu Saria Abraham — Google review
A very cute historical park that is not too far from San Diego and along the drive. If you are driving from Los Angeles. The park does not really feature any animals, they do have a fake replica of a horse and some imagery of peacocks so I think there was maybe more animals at times? It looks like it would be a beautiful venue and would be really amazing! The historical aspect is really cool and they do a really amazing job! Go check it out!
Glen Morris — Google review
This is a GEM of Carlsbad history! Very cool! Its a leisurely walk for the most part. Building are spread apart so theres a bit of a walk to see everything. No dogs. Visitors center staff were friendly and informative! We didnt go durring tour times so I cant review on that. Theres (I believe free) historical and botanical tours available. We intend to go back for those. Recommended!
Jesse Grenfell — Google review
Great tour, very quiet the day we were there. The young lady that was the tour guide was very knowledgeable! We had a great time!
Debbie Nielsen — Google review
I didn't see a single peacock here. This place is on tightly-packed dirt, so your shoes and the bottom of your pants will get dirty. You can see the historic home of the original owner, but sadly, you cannot go inside as they are locked and closed. You only see them from the outside. There is nothing to do here other than walk under the sun (hardly any shade), and that's it. They do have nice, clean bathrooms. I wouldn't recommend this place. Definitely not a fun place for kids, either, in my opinion. You can walk through this whole place in 15 minutes. The best part, for me, was seeing the plants.
Alexandra — Google review
Park offers a delightful blend of natural beauty and historical charm, the scenic surroundings and rich cultural heritage make it a must-visit gem along the California coast
Kashyap Parekh — Google review
Beautiful grounds, lovely flora, fruit trees and fauna, many of which have a placard to denote what it is. A few out buildings to explore and staff on site. Picnic areas. Quick and easy walk from parking lot. Handicap and stroller accessible. Clean bathrooms. Recycling/trash bins. Free parking, free entry.
L T — Google review
Nice, quiet, historical area to visit. Tons of interesting historical information throughout the park.
Gary Roehm — Google review
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6200 Flying Leo Carrillo Ln, Carlsbad, CA 92009, USA
This open-air venue for concerts & other events offers 908 permanent seats & lawn seating for 1,092.
Awesome place to watch live theater and music! I attended my first show here, Memphis, which played at the La Jolla Playhouse. This is a gem in Vista and for the whole region to enjoy! Yes it does get chilly (dress accordingly and/or take a blanket) at night but quite comfortable most of the time.
Shayok — Google review
Saw Ragtime. Pretty good and definitely a great value and venue. However, sounds checks and mic checks need to be better. Will be back for the next show kinky boots but hope it's better or I will likely not return. Also multiple actors forgot lines. The orchestra was amazing and the highlight of the show.
LasVegas Food Czar — Google review
The mini Hollywood Biel of San Diego!
Eagles cover band was a sellout!
Different concert every night, summer selection of musicals.
Park below, walk up the hill or drive around the back. Bring your own food or buy there.
Sit in their fixed chairs or on the grass in one of their chairs.
Been going there for ten years and always found the staff and visitors to be polite and respectful.
Anne P — Google review
We went last night for Beauty and the Beast. This was our first time here and we will definitely be back. We've lived in San Diego all our lives and never knew this was here!
If you have kids, seats on the great lawn is great. If you want to pay attention to the show with minimal distractions, I would recommend the lower seats. We sat on the great lawn as we didn't know what to expect. It was fine (no big bites!) but there were a few kids running around which could be distracting.
Take a blanket/sweater - it gets chilly at night.
Bre Coco — Google review
Jingle Terrace at the Moonlight Amphitheatre is worth attending. Free to attend nightly through December 23rd, 2023.
Family friendly.
Stroller friendly.
Food and alcohol available for purchase.
Clean, well stocked restrooms.
Music and light show on stage throughout event.
*Each day there are different activities including Santa visits and Reindeer.
Lia Garcia — Google review
This is a true hidden gem in Vista! The shows are high quality and it is a beautiful venue. Being that Vista is a small city, it has a small town feel. It's not Hollywood but it is a great local venue. You might get some traffic exiting because the locals will pack the more popular shows.
Jonathan Gomez — Google review
A wonderful outdoor Amphitheater. Not a bad seat; great sound system and professional productions. There's a café on site to enjoy a light dinner before the show. Their soecislty is the Grilled Sandwich; the tomato soup is delicious. There's also a bar offering great options to quench your thirst or craving. They offer a great covered seating area with plenty of tables and chairs to enjoy your dinner.
Ruth Jones — Google review
Marshall Charloff and the Purple Experience 💜 are the MOST AWEMAZING 💜 PRINCE TRIBUTE BAND!! This was our 4th time seeing them ... and look forward to seeing them again when they come back to the San Diego area!! They truly keep Prince's music alive ... 💜🕊
PRINCE would be Proud!😘
courtland kusmierz — Google review
We love seeing concerts here. You can get up close or sit and chill. Staff are friendly and the band selection is stellar. One of my favorite things to do in North County! Thank you for creating a wonderful space to listen to our favorite musicians.
Christina Coons — Google review
Fabulous venue! Great seating and sound quality,and the best part is you can bring your own picnic! All the staff was extremely helpful and nice. Super easy to get in and out. Lots of bathrooms and very clean. Absolutely loved it!
Danielle Dendinger — Google review
We have been here several times and no matter where you sit the view is amazing. Love this venue. Best part is you bring your own food. Parking is super simple and a breeze. Everyone is super chill and helpful.
Monique Jones — Google review
My wife and I are returning patrons for multiple shows at this great amphitheater. Latest show we came for was The Wedding Singer. There's seating to choose from when getting tickets, but normally choose one of the lawn seats to enjoy a small picnic before the show. The chairs for the lawn sit really low, so it can be difficult for some to sit down and/or stand up. The chairs are relatively comfortable though. I've seen so patrons bring seat cushions for added comfort. There are concessions for food and drinks (alcoholic and non-alcoholic) that are okay priced. There are mutiple bathrooms, which are fairly clean and maintained. There are two entrances to enter the amphitheater, although the north entrance has the box office if it is needed for services. Free parking throughout the public park area where the amphitheater sits. Parking is in a paved parking lot or grass lot. We will continue to come for the shows.
Gil Corpuz — Google review
This show (Dead Man's Party) was unforgettable and the venue was perfect. The staff were friendly and helpful and the amenities were above and beyond. I'd love to see another event here.