A pond with flamingos and ducks.

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1 Sep - 2 Sep
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2 Sep - 3 Sep
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4 Sep - 6 Sep
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Our top choices for San Diego Zoo hotels

1. City24 Hotel Little Italy Mission Hills

City24 Hotel Little Italy Mission Hills
2 km from San Diego Zoo
United States
omokayode
SAR 501
SAR 693 total
includes taxes & fees
8 Sep - 9 Sep
City24 Hotel Little Italy Mission Hills

2. Keating Hotel By At Mine Hospitality

Keating Hotel By At Mine Hospitality
East Village, 2.6 km from San Diego Zoo
United States
Khoi
SAR 138
SAR 452 total
includes taxes & fees
2 Sep - 3 Sep
Keating Hotel By At Mine Hospitality

3. Stay Classy Hostel

Stay Classy Hostel
East Village, 2.7 km from San Diego Zoo
Canada
Wai Kit
SAR 243
SAR 277 total
includes taxes & fees
16 Sep - 17 Sep
Stay Classy Hostel

4. Lafayette Hotel & Club

Lafayette Hotel & Club
2.3 km from San Diego Zoo
United States
Edgar
SAR 701
SAR 806 total
includes taxes & fees
8 Sep - 9 Sep
Lafayette Hotel & Club

5. Kasa Little Italy San Diego

Kasa Little Italy San Diego
2.4 km from San Diego Zoo
United States
Victor
SAR 819
SAR 1,263 total
includes taxes & fees
13 Sep - 14 Sep
Kasa Little Italy San Diego

6. Westgate Hotel

Westgate Hotel
2.4 km from San Diego Zoo
United States
Chris
SAR 632
SAR 863 total
includes taxes & fees
8 Sep - 9 Sep
Westgate Hotel

7. Legacy Resort Hotel & Spa

Legacy Resort Hotel & Spa
3.1 km from San Diego Zoo
United States
amy
SAR 693
SAR 796 total
includes taxes & fees
13 Sep - 14 Sep
Legacy Resort Hotel & Spa

8. The Horton Grand, Downtown/Gaslamp Quarter

The Horton Grand, Downtown/Gaslamp Quarter
3 km from San Diego Zoo
United States
Nathaniel
SAR 521
SAR 709 total
includes taxes & fees
7 Sep - 8 Sep
The Horton Grand, Downtown/Gaslamp Quarter

9. Gaslamp Hostel

Gaslamp Hostel
Gaslamp Quarter, 2.7 km from San Diego Zoo
United States
Karin
SAR 405
SAR 460 total
includes taxes & fees
3 Sep - 4 Sep
Gaslamp Hostel

10. Springhill Suites San Diego Downtown/Bayfront

Springhill Suites San Diego Downtown/Bayfront
2.8 km from San Diego Zoo
United States
Bonnie
SAR 807
SAR 937 total
includes taxes & fees
27 Sep - 28 Sep
Springhill Suites San Diego Downtown/Bayfront

11. The Artifact Inn

The Artifact Inn
East Village, 2.6 km from San Diego Zoo
United States
Chris
SAR 330
SAR 859 total
includes taxes & fees
2 Sep - 3 Sep
The Artifact Inn

12. Gaslamp Plaza Suites

Gaslamp Plaza Suites
Gaslamp Quarter, 2.5 km from San Diego Zoo
United States
Kathryn
SAR 477
SAR 542 total
includes taxes & fees
2 Sep - 3 Sep
Gaslamp Plaza Suites

13. The Margot Hotel San Diego Gaslamp Quarter, Outset by Hilton

The Margot Hotel San Diego Gaslamp Quarter, Outset by Hilton
East Village, 2.8 km from San Diego Zoo
United States
Heather
SAR 520
SAR 734 total
includes taxes & fees
7 Sep - 8 Sep
The Margot Hotel San Diego Gaslamp Quarter, Outset by Hilton

14. Granger Hotel Gaslamp Quarter, A Member Of Design Hotels

Granger Hotel Gaslamp Quarter, A Member Of Design Hotels
Gaslamp Quarter, 2.4 km from San Diego Zoo
United States
Aaron
SAR 635
SAR 736 total
includes taxes & fees
7 Sep - 8 Sep
Granger Hotel Gaslamp Quarter, A Member Of Design Hotels

15. InterContinental San Diego by IHG

InterContinental San Diego by IHG
2.9 km from San Diego Zoo
Canada
Eric Michael
SAR 939
SAR 1,341 total
includes taxes & fees
7 Sep - 8 Sep
InterContinental San Diego by IHG

16. Courtyard by Marriott San Diego Downtown Little Italy

Courtyard by Marriott San Diego Downtown Little Italy
Little Italy, 2 km from San Diego Zoo
United States
Steven
SAR 605
SAR 701 total
includes taxes & fees
7 Sep - 8 Sep
Courtyard by Marriott San Diego Downtown Little Italy

17. Residence Inn by Marriott San Diego Downtown/Gaslamp Quarter

Residence Inn by Marriott San Diego Downtown/Gaslamp Quarter
Gaslamp Quarter, 3.1 km from San Diego Zoo
United States
Linda
SAR 458
SAR 532 total
includes taxes & fees
2 Sep - 3 Sep
Residence Inn by Marriott San Diego Downtown/Gaslamp Quarter

18. Best Western Plus Bayside Inn

Best Western Plus Bayside Inn
2.4 km from San Diego Zoo
United States
Ricardo
SAR 545
SAR 631 total
includes taxes & fees
7 Sep - 8 Sep
Best Western Plus Bayside Inn

19. The DEXTRO Little Italy, BW Premier Collection

The DEXTRO Little Italy, BW Premier Collection
1.9 km from San Diego Zoo
Mexico
Patricia
SAR 523
SAR 607 total
includes taxes & fees
9 Sep - 10 Sep
The DEXTRO Little Italy, BW Premier Collection

20. Hilton San Diego Mission Valley

Hilton San Diego Mission Valley
3.2 km from San Diego Zoo
United States
Maria
SAR 515
SAR 592 total
includes taxes & fees
9 Sep - 10 Sep
Hilton San Diego Mission Valley
View all properties

Compare popular hotels close to San Diego Zoo

Property
Property class
Guest rating
Breakfast included
Pool
Spa
Pet friendly
WiFi included
Deluxe 2 King Bedrooms, Multiple Beds, Sleeps 11ppl | Terrace/patio
City24 Hotel Little Italy Mission Hills
9.6
Exceptional
194 reviews
View
Memory foam beds, blackout drapes, iron/ironing board (on request)
Stay Classy Hostel
9.6
Exceptional
941 reviews
View
Superior Room, 1 King Bed, Private Bathroom, City View (Self check-in) | Desk, laptop workspace, blackout drapes, iron/ironing board
Keating Hotel By At Mine Hospitality
9.4
Exceptional
151 reviews
View
3 bars/lounges, lobby lounge, cocktail bar, cocktail bar
Lafayette Hotel & Club
9.4
Exceptional
1,946 reviews
View
Outdoor pool
Kasa Little Italy San Diego
9.6
Exceptional
515 reviews
View

Top San Diego Zoo Hotel Reviews

Days Inn by Wyndham San Diego Hotel Circle

Days Inn by Wyndham San Diego Hotel Circle

8/10 Good
"Front desk was very helpful we were visiting from the east coast and they told us all of the great places and how to get around. Always had a smile on their face."
Katlyn 3-night trip
Posted less than an hour ago
Days Inn by Wyndham San Diego Hotel Circle
Best Western Seven Seas

Best Western Seven Seas

8/10 Good
"Bathroom needs an update. Required a second deposit when I extended my stay. Restaurant was excellent"
Tobie 4-night trip
Posted 1 hour ago
Best Western Seven Seas
Ash&9th

Ash&9th

10/10 Excellent
"parking is $25 to park in the lot but street parking is usually available but is only free after 8pm."
Michelle 1-night trip
Posted 2 hours ago
Ash&9th
Uptown Inn by Vantaggio - Limited Service Apart-Hotel

Uptown Inn by Vantaggio - Limited Service Apart-Hotel

10/10 Excellent
"My wife and I stayed for three days. The room reminded me after a Scandinavian style hotel - smaller than a typical American hotel but clean and efficiently layed out. The staff was very nice. Check-in and check-out was extremely quick. The location was just under a mile from Balboa Park, so we could walk or take a cheap Uber with ease. The hotel is in a central area of the city that makes everything we had time to see not very far away. The Hillcrest area has lots of great food choices all within a few blocks. If I make it back to San Diego (which I hope to do) this would be a great place to stay again."
Steven 3-night trip
Posted 2 hours ago
Uptown Inn by Vantaggio - Limited Service Apart-Hotel
The DEXTRO Little Italy, BW Premier Collection

The DEXTRO Little Italy, BW Premier Collection

10/10 Excellent
"The staff were really helpful and accommodating, it was a pleasure to stay there."
Grace 3-night trip
Posted 3 hours ago
The DEXTRO Little Italy, BW Premier Collection
Wyndham San Diego Bayside

Wyndham San Diego Bayside

10/10 Excellent
"Amazing cozy stay on the skyline side. Bed and pillows were cozy and comfy. The staff were good natured and helpful. Location was great, next to many restaurants and walkable to attractions. 5 mjnutes walk to the train station. Water dispenser in the lobby. Parking was expensive so I'm glad we didn't have a car. Can't to stay another time!"
ELIZA L 1-night trip
Posted 3 hours ago
Wyndham San Diego Bayside
Courtyard by Marriott San Diego Downtown Little Italy

Courtyard by Marriott San Diego Downtown Little Italy

10/10 Excellent
"The area surrounding this hotel was amazing. Saturday farmers market was really nice and the amount of places for eating and shopping within walking distance was great!! The only thing I would warn other about is the parking garage is made for compact cars and the cost was a little much but they have cheaper parking across the street that was much easier for us with a larger vehicle. All in all we had a beautiful trip and the stay was fantastic!!!!"
Amy 3-night trip
Posted 4 hours ago
Courtyard by Marriott San Diego Downtown Little Italy
The Neon Elm Hotel

The Neon Elm Hotel

10/10 Excellent
"Good for my stay definitely close to some areas of you really want to walk but probably would be better off lyfting or using uber"
Kobe 3-night trip
Posted 19 hours ago
The Neon Elm Hotel
Manchester Grand Hyatt San Diego

Manchester Grand Hyatt San Diego

10/10 Excellent
"The room appeared to be newly refurbished and the bathroom was nice. The main lobby looks amazing."
DANIEL 2-night trip
Posted 19 hours ago
Manchester Grand Hyatt San Diego

Other attractions near San Diego Zoo

A theater with a brown roof and a sign for Grinch Stole Christmas.

Old Globe Theater

You can enjoy a show at Old Globe Theater on your trip to San Diego. Discover the area's top-notch restaurants and its fascinating museums.
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The San Diego Museum of Art with ornate architecture and banners advertising exhibitions.

San Diego Museum of Art

8.4/10 (7 reviews)
You can spend time browsing the exhibits at San Diego Museum of Art during your travels in San Diego. Wander the area's seaside or simply enjoy one of its top-notch restaurants.
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A street with palm trees, a historic building, and a clock tower.

California Tower

Learn about the local history of San Diego when you take a trip to California Tower. Discover the area's top-notch restaurants and its fascinating museums.
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A building with multiple arches and banners advertising the San Diego Museum of Man.

Museum of Us

You can spend an afternoon browsing the exhibits at Museum of Us in San Diego. Stroll along the area's seaside, or simply savor its top-notch restaurants.
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A colorful courtyard with a tiled floor, a bench, and a fountain.

Spanish Village Art Center

Enjoy an outing to Spanish Village Art Center during your stay in San Diego. Discover the area's top-notch restaurants and its acclaimed theater scene.
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Starlight Bowl

You can get tickets for a performance at Starlight Bowl during your trip to San Diego. Experience the area's fascinating museums and acclaimed theater scene.
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Sculpture Garden

8.6/10 (35 reviews)
You can spend an afternoon studying the exhibits at Sculpture Garden during your travels in San Diego. Discover the top-notch restaurants and fascinating museums in this walkable area.
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Mingei International Museum

You can spend an afternoon exploring the galleries in Mingei International Museum in San Diego. Stroll along the area's beautiful beaches, or simply savor its top-notch restaurants.
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Find out more about San Diego Zoo

Top reasons to visit San Diego Zoo

  • Wildlife Encounters: Experience close-up interactions with diverse animals, including giant pandas in Panda Canyon.
  • Thrilling Rides: Enjoy exciting family adventures and rides that add a fun twist to your visit.
  • Art Installations: Explore captivating art throughout the zoo, enriching your experience with creativity and culture.
  • Balboa Park: Discover nearby Balboa Park, featuring beautiful gardens and cultural landmarks for a full day of exploration.
  • Convenient Accommodations: Stay close to the zoo with a variety of lodging options, perfect for relaxation after your adventures.

Find great hotels near San Diego Zoo

Discover the ideal accommodations for your San Diego Zoo adventure, with a variety of options ranging from resorts to cozy apartments. Whether you're seeking pet-friendly lodging or facilities tailored for business and leisure travelers, you'll find it all nearby. Enjoy the convenience of hotels located just moments from the zoo, allowing you to explore the vibrant attractions of San Diego while having a comfortable retreat to return to after a day of excitement.

  • Wyndham San Diego Bayside: Experience a blend of business and adventure at Wyndham San Diego Bayside, a 4-star hotel located a mere 3.2km from the San Diego Zoo. This property caters to both business travelers and adventure seekers, offering an array of exciting activities such as skydiving, windsurfing, and parasailing nearby. It’s pet-friendly, welcoming dogs and cats with a waived fee for service animals. Guests appreciate the vibrant atmosphere and the chance to enjoy both business amenities and thrilling outdoor pursuits.
  • Days Inn by Wyndham San Diego Hotel Circle: Days Inn by Wyndham San Diego Hotel Circle is a welcoming 3-star hotel that is only 3.2km from the San Diego Zoo. Known for its LGBTQIA-friendly environment, this property is perfect for travelers seeking a comfortable stay with a touch of inclusivity. It allows pets, specifically dogs, and offers amenities like waived fees for service animals. Guests enjoy the cozy accommodations and the convenient location, making it an ideal base for exploring the city while ensuring a friendly atmosphere.
  • Best Western Seven Seas: A family-friendly 3-star hotel, Best Western Seven Seas is situated just 3.2km from the San Diego Zoo. This hotel is ideal for adventure enthusiasts and families alike, offering nearby activities such as surfing, hiking, and waterskiing. It features amenities specifically tailored for children, including free cribs and other family-friendly services. Guests appreciate the relaxed ambiance and the variety of recreational options, making it a great choice for a fun-filled family vacation.

Where to stay near San Diego Zoo

Experience the vibrant charm of San Diego while visiting the renowned San Diego Zoo. Just a stone’s throw away, downtown San Diego offers friendly attractions, rich history, and a lively atmosphere. Don't miss the stunning Balboa Park, home to beautiful gardens and cultural landmarks. For wildlife enthusiasts, the nearby La Jolla Cove presents breathtaking views and diverse marine life, making it a perfect spot for family-friendly adventures and unforgettable memories.

  • San Diego: As a vibrant city and home to the renowned San Diego Zoo, San Diego offers a diverse travel experience for families and outdoor enthusiasts alike. With visitor numbers peaking in spring and summer, the city boasts beautiful beaches, parks, and a plethora of family-friendly activities. Travelers can enjoy shopping at local centers or relaxing at the beach. Highlights include the stunning coastline, Balboa Park, and various educational attractions that make it a perfect destination for all ages.
  • Downtown San Diego: Located 3.2km from the San Diego Zoo, Downtown San Diego is a bustling neighborhood known for its blend of business and leisure. With peak visitor seasons in spring and summer, this area offers a vibrant urban experience with a wide range of shopping options and educational venues. Highlights include the convention center, lively nightlife, and easy access to events, making it an ideal spot for both tourists and business travelers. The waterfront area also provides scenic views and outdoor activities.
  • Gaslamp Quarter: Just 3.2km from the San Diego Zoo, the Gaslamp Quarter is a historic neighborhood renowned for its Victorian architecture and lively atmosphere. This area attracts visitors year-round, with peaks in spring and summer, offering a mix of family-friendly and business-themed experiences. The Gaslamp Quarter is famous for its shopping, theaters, and vibrant nightlife. Local attractions include event venues and sports facilities, making it a hotspot for entertainment and culture.

Things to do near San Diego Zoo

At San Diego Zoo, you can enjoy a variety of activities, including wildlife encounters, birdwatching, and exploring art installations. Don't miss outdoor experiences like Panda Canyon, where you can see giant pandas up close. The zoo also offers exciting family adventures and thrilling rides, making it a perfect destination for visitors of all ages seeking both nature and fun in the heart of the city.

Shopping

At San Diego Zoo, enjoy shopping at nearby Fashion Valley Mall, just 3.2km away, featuring a mix of business and entertainment vibes. You can also visit Coronado Ferry Landing, located 4.8km away, offering a family-friendly atmosphere. If you're up for a drive, check out Little Saigon, 6.4km from the zoo.

Recreation

Petco Park offers an energetic atmosphere for sports enthusiasts, just two miles from the zoo. Experience live music at The Rady Shell at Jacobs Park, also two miles away, where entertainment flourishes. For outdoor recreation, enjoy the scenic Riverwalk Golf Club, located two miles from the zoo.

Adventure

Explore the Bayshore Bikeway, a scenic outdoor path located 4.8km from San Diego Zoo, perfect for biking and enjoying waterfront views. For a thrilling match, head to the Coronado Tennis Center, 6.4km away, or the Urban Village Tennis Center, 4.8km away, both offering great adventure vibes.

Nightlife

Experience the enchanting nightlife near San Diego Zoo. Catch a captivating performance at the Old Globe Theater, just 322m away, or enjoy a romantic evening at the San Diego Civic Theatre, located 1.6km away. Don't miss the whimsical outdoor vibes at the Balboa Park Carousel, 483m away.

*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for San Diego Zoo

To save money on your trip to San Diego Zoo, consider visiting between November and January when prices are lower, particularly on Tuesdays. Avoid Saturdays for lodging as they tend to be pricier. Use Expedia's search tool to filter hotels by budget and eco-friendly options. Look for package deals that combine flights, hotel stays, and zoo tickets for additional savings. Take advantage of public transportation to get around, as San Diego offers affordable bus services. Also, keep an eye out for special pricing on zoo tickets and last-minute deals to maximize your savings.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around San Diego Zoo are November to January, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to June to August, where prices are slightly higher.
  • The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around San Diego Zoo is Tuesday. The most expensive day to stay around San Diego Zoo is Saturday.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Expedia's search tool enables you to set your budget and choose your ideal location, among other preferences. You can organize your search results to display prices from lowest to highest, making it easy to find the most affordable hotels first. Additionally, you can refine your choices by hotel type; for instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally friendly hotels that you can book.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your hotel stay near the San Diego Zoo with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.

Find the best attractions near San Diego Zoo

When visiting the San Diego Zoo, you'll find a variety of attractions nearby, including urban parks and private gardens perfect for families and outdoor enthusiasts. Don’t miss exploring nearby attractions and the famous Safari Park for an unforgettable experience. Whether you're interested in cultural events or simply enjoying nature, there's something for everyone in this vibrant area surrounding the zoo.

  • San Diego Convention Center: Located 3.2km from the San Diego Zoo, this dynamic event venue buzzes with business vibes. It's renowned for hosting conventions and major events, making it a hub of activity and innovation.
  • Balboa Park: Just 805m away from the zoo, this stunning park features beautiful gardens, walking trails, and museums. It's a perfect spot for relaxation and enjoying nature in a vibrant cultural setting.
  • Hotel Circle: Situated 3.2km from the zoo, this lively street offers a mix of accommodations and dining options. Experience the city vibes as you explore nearby attractions and enjoy the convenience of urban amenities.

Best time to go to San Diego Zoo

The best time to visit San Diego Zoo can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature around San Diego Zoo falls in August, when visitor numbers are average and weather is sunny with no rain. The coolest average temperature around San Diego Zoo falls in February, visitor numbers are average and weather is sunny with light rain.

calendarCalendar MonthtemperatureTemperaturerainPrecipitationmostlyCloudinessoccupationOccupancypricePricing
January57.4°F (14.1°C)Light RainSunnySlightly LowSlightly Low
February56.8°F (13.8°C)Light RainSunnyAverageAverage
March58.1°F (14.5°C)No RainMostly SunnySlightly HighAverage
April60.6°F (15.9°C)No RainSunnySlightly HighAverage
May62.6°F (17.0°C)No RainSunnyAverageAverage
June66.4°F (19.1°C)No RainSunnyAverageSlightly High
July70.5°F (21.4°C)No RainSunnySlightly HighSlightly High
August72.3°F (22.4°C)No RainSunnyAverageSlightly High
September72.0°F (22.2°C)No RainSunnyAverageAverage
October68.2°F (20.1°C)No RainSunnySlightly LowAverage
November62.6°F (17.0°C)No RainSunnySlightly LowSlightly Low
December57.4°F (14.1°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly Low

The nearest major airports for your trip to San Diego Zoo

If you're visiting SAN Diego Zoo, the primary airport is San Diego International Airport (SAN), located 4.8km away. Nearby, you can find luxurious accommodations like the 5-star Pendry San Diego and The US Grant, both within 4.8km of the airport, offering convenient access. For a more serene stay, consider the 5-star Lodge at Torrey Pines, situated 19.3km from SAN. Alternatively, TIJuana International Airport (TIJ) is 27.4km away, with options like Real Inn Tijuana and Hotel Lucerna Tijuana, both 4.8km from the airport. Lastly, McClellan-Palomar Airport (CLD) is 45.1km away, with the Park Hyatt Aviara Resort just 3.2km from there.

Frequently asked questions

What's the area like around San Diego Zoo?
San Diego Zoo is located in an area of San Diego known for its array of dining options, bird watching, and popular zoo. If you're looking for a convenient place to stay, check out the 129 hotels and other accommodations you'll find within a mile.
What's the best hotel to stay near San Diego Zoo?
Uptown Inn by Vantaggio - Limited Service Apart-Hotel is one of the top choices for your stay based on our traveler data, and this aparthotel offers a 24-hour fitness center and free WiFi. It's located just a short 0.9 mi (1.4 km) from San Diego Zoo. Other good choices within a few miles include Wyndham San Diego Bayside and Manchester Grand Hyatt San Diego.
How many hotels will I find near San Diego Zoo?
Expedia has 129 hotels and other accommodations within a mile from San Diego Zoo.
If I need to cancel the hotel reservation for my stay near San Diego Zoo, will I receive a refund?
Yes, the majority of hotel bookings are fully refundable if cancelled before the hotel's cancellation deadline, which is often 24 or 48 hours before check in. If you booked a non-refundable reservation, it might still be possible to cancel it and get a refund within 24 hours of booking. Enter dates in and click on "Search", then you can filter by "fully refundable" to view top deals close to San Diego Zoo.
Where can I learn more about changing or cancelling my trip in the area near San Diego Zoo?
For more details about rescheduling or cancelling your stay near San Diego Zoo, head over to our customer service page.
What can I see and do near San Diego Zoo?
San Diego Museum of Art, San Diego Air and Space Museum, and Maritime Museum of San Diego feature captivating exhibits. Hotel del Coronado, Mission Basilica San Diego de Alcala, and California Tower are landmarks that you won't want to miss. You can watch performances at San Diego Civic Theatre, The Rady Shell at Jacobs Park, and Humphreys Concerts by the Bay if you're interested in local theater.