7 of 14

Write now Article Tools

Living in the desert can get to feel oppressive in the summer months and forces one to seek the refuge of fairer climates. For the past 33 years, San Diego has been our family's favorite yearly vacation destination. As a child, my favorite points of interest were primarily limited to the beach and the theme parks. As I get older, I look a little harder for amusement by digging through the detritus of dancing whales and Lego shape carnie rides. I have found solace in the hidden gems that San Diego has to offer. My only requirements: that they be inexpensive, relatively free from congested crowds, and most importantly, fun. The following destinations are a few that I would recommend to anyone who wants rediscover San Diego.

The Gaslight District
One of the oldest, new attractions, the gaslight area was long considered to be the seedy part of San Diego. In the late 90's, the city enjoyed a much needed facelift of its down town district. Get a real taste of the city's flavor by taking a walking tour of the eateries, coffee houses, shopping, and entertainment venues. Guided tours are available through the William Heath Davis Historic Foundation every Saturday at 11am. Admission fees are $10.00 for regular admission and $8.00 for seniors, children, and military. The address for the William Health Davis Historic Foundation is 410 Island Avenue in San Diego.

The Mission Basilica San Diego de Alcala
Hidden within a business community north of Downtown San Diego is the Mission Basilica San Diego de Alcala. Founded on July 16, 1769, it is the first of a historic network of missions found throughout California. Known as the Mother of Missions, it was designated a Basilica by Pope John Paul the VI in 1976. Located at 10818 San Diego Mission Road, this establishment is open from 9:00 a.m.-4:45 p.m. daily and admission is merely a donation.

Birch Aquarium at Scripps
As a child, I could have lived at Sea World, but luckily my father had found an even better replacement in the Birch Aquarium at Scripps. This is a part of the UC San Diego campus and now boasts some truly amazing exhibits and 60 habitats. Sorry, no dancing dolphins, but they do have a stunning 16,000 gallon shark exhibit with stadium seating allowing you to sit back and enjoy a more realistic show of local Pacific shark species. Since 1903, the Scripps Institute of Oceanography has offered this living museum to the public for education and awareness of oceanic studies. Located at 2300 Expedition Way in La Jolla, they

• 1
• 2
• next page >>

Add your voice

Know something about San Diego, California: Hidden attractions?
We want to hear your view. Write now!