Tell me what to visit during my visit in the summer (San Diego: fit in, renting)

[Statz2k10]

Looking into taking a trip to San Diego this summer for a couple days. Still in the planning process but looking into flying in on a Friday from VA. Spending all Friday night, all day Saturday and driving up to LA on Sunday morning.

The trip is based around going to see Dodgers games but wanted to expand it since I've heard so many nice things about San Diego.

Right now I'm looking into flying in on Friday, spending the entire day in SD on Saturday and leaving for LA on Sunday morning to catch a day game at Dodger stadium. I'd like to see a day game and Sunday is the most likely time to see a day game since the majority of their games are at night (7ish).

But I am willing to leave a day early and fly in on Thursday so that I can get 2 full days in SD if it's worth the extra day.

I'd be with my dad who will be in his mid 60's so can't do to much walking and would be renting a car to get around in.

1. Recommendations on the can't miss attractions?
2. Is the zoo worth it? Only downfall I see to it is I'm sure it could turn into an all day event which might keep us from doing other things.
3. Good area with reasonable hotels? I usually stay at a Holiday Inn.
4. Anything else please feel free to mention

Thanks

[lrmsd]

Don't do the zoo if walking is an issue. There is a bus that takes you around the zoo [you usually have to pay extra for it, on top of the steep ticket], but between areas you'd be doing some walking, no doubt. Yes, I agree, zoo is also probably an all day investment.

Hotel Circle in Mission Valley has many middle of the road and a few not so great choices. It's centrally located.
Depending on your budget (and the prices may not be high, anyway-i'm not sure), also check Del Mar/Carmel Valley-there's a Hampton Inn, Hilton Garden Inn and Homewood Suites in the 92130 zip code. You'll be close to Torrey Pines state beach, and right off the 5 freeway. TP is a lovely spot to stop and take in the view.

Otherwise, it depends what you guys like to do. Balboa Park [next to the zoo] is very popular, beautiful and full of museums. There's a sports history museum that you might be interested in, since you mentioend baseball?

If you like history, Old Town is a cute stop with some nice restaurants.

I'm sure others will have more/better ideas for you. Enjoy your trip!

[Statz2k10]

Thanks! Yea my dad and I are big sports fans. Any idea on beach access? I feel I should go into the Pacific Ocean once. I live right by Atlantic Ocean. Also how is the drive from sd to la. Good views from the highway?

[sav858]

If either of you like horse racing, the Del Mar Races are one of the best summer events to check out imo. Really nice thoroughbred track across the street from the beach.

[bloom]

Originally Posted by Statz2k10

Thanks! Yea my dad and I are big sports fans. Any idea on beach access? I feel I should go into the Pacific Ocean once. I live right by Atlantic Ocean. Also how is the drive from sd to la. Good views from the highway?

Beach is accessible in CA, free vs lot of east coast.
I like flora landscaping at SD Zoo - it is a good walking zoo. Though, my fave zoo is Franklin Park in Boston as not touristed much.
SD to LA is about 3 hours with significant traffic in LA area. Views are good only from SD to mid-Orange County.

[sdurbanite]

Originally Posted by Statz2k10

The trip is based around going to see Dodgers games but wanted to expand it since I've heard so many nice things about San Diego.

Right now I'm looking into flying in on Friday, spending the entire day in SD on Saturday and leaving for LA on Sunday morning to catch a day game at Dodger stadium. I'd like to see a day game and Sunday is the most likely time to see a day game since the majority of their games are at night (7ish).

But I am willing to leave a day early and fly in on Thursday so that I can get 2 full days in SD if it's worth the extra day.

Why not see if the Padres are in town so you can check out Petco Park? That might be incentive enough to fly in a day earlier. Not long ago, I did a ballpark tour and went to 4 games in 4 different cities and had a blast! If everything lines up, you might even catch an Angels game in Anaheim on your way up to LA. Although it does sound like plenty to fit in during the short time you will be here.

[Statz2k10]

Originally Posted by sdurbanite

Why not see if the Padres are in town so you can check out Petco Park? That might be incentive enough to fly in a day earlier. Not long ago, I did a ballpark tour and went to 4 games in 4 different cities and had a blast! If everything lines up, you might even catch an Angels game in Anaheim on your way up to LA. Although it does sound like plenty to fit in during the short time you will be here.

Good point about Petco. I'd def go to a game there since this might be my only chance to visit stadiums on the west coast.

I plan staying out on the west coast for about 5 full days, maybe 6. But I know I want to go to at least 2, probably 3 Dodger games at Dodger Stadium. So because of that I'd have to spend the majority of my trip in and around LA.