San Francisco is sublime. LA sizzles with excitement. And San Diego? More than a few native Californians consider it the Golden State’s most naturally beautiful city, and you’re certainly never at a loss for things to do. Consider:
- Let’s start with one of the town’s premier attractions. The San Diego Zoo is sanctuary to more than 4,000 rare and endangered creatures, a place where exotic plants flourish. More than a model for how the rest of the world should plan a zoo, it’s a living classroom. And if you really want to see animals in what best passes for their native environment head 35 miles north of the city and take in the San Diego Zoo’s Safari Park.
- San Diego abounds with critters, and not all of them are terrestrial. SeaWorld San Diego offers up-close encounters with aquatic creatures, animal shows, interactive exhibits and seasonal fireworks. This, like the zoo, is more than a tourist attraction. SeaWorld is one of the West Coast’s top rescue and rehabilitation facilities for sea creatures.
- The United States Navy is woven into the very fabric of San Diego. Come to the harbor and board the U.S.S. Midway, one of this country’s longest-serving aircraft carriers. It’s a tourist attraction now, replete with some 60 exhibits and 25 restored aircraft. Take a self-guided walking tour, one narrated by Midway sailors themselves.
- Balboa Park is billed as this country’s largest urban cultural park. Come see why. It harbors 16 museums, 16 gardens – and the San Diego Zoo. The San Diego Museum of Art is sensational, and the Museum of Photographic Arts is a must-see for anyone who’s serious about creating lasting images.
This reporter’s favorite San Diego ritual begins in the dawning moments of a Coronado Island morning. Brew a cup of tea laced with honey. Stroll along the cool, fog-shrouded beach wrapped in a windbreaker and memories. It’s a good time to remember, and plan for what lies ahead.
(Image: ConspiracyofHappiness)
