We’ve divided the attractions below into “Places to Visit” and “Places to Eat” (places to eat coming soon). If you have questions about anything listed here don’t hesitate to get in touch with us and ask.
Places to Visit:
Downtown La Jolla
The Darlington House is about a 1/2 mile south of downtown La Jolla, where you’ll find a plethora of boutique shops, restaurants and a few bars. If you head over to the beach bordering downtown La Jolla you can check out the view from The Cove or watch the seals play in what used to be known as the Children’s Pool.
Windansea Beach
This is one of Evan’s favorite beaches in San Diego (and the entire world for that matter). It’s located just a few blocks south-west of the Darlington House where we will be getting married. The water in late October will probably be a little chilly, but it’s worth driving by just for a look and to check out the surfers. It’s one of the most legendary surf breaks in California.
Google Maps Link to Windansea Beach
Mission Beach
If you’re looking for that classic beach boardwalk experience head on over to Mission Beach. It has a fully-restored and operational wooden roller coaster from the early days, and more than it’s fair share of interesting characters. It’s located about 5 miles south of the Darlington House.
Google Maps Link to Mission Beach
Sea World
Sea World is litlerally in our backyard. They do fireworks every night during the summer and we can watch them from our bedroom window. Daniealla and I went there last August (my first time in about 12 years) and we had a great time. It’s great for kids, but expect a lot of walking and a considerable time investment. It’s definitely a full-day or at least half-day kind of activity.
Google Map Link to Sea World
500 Sea World Dr
San Diego, California 92109
(619) 226-3900
seaworld.com
San Diego Zoo
The world-famous San Diego Zoo is always a great option, and it’s reasonably close to the Darlington House. It is also very kid-friendly but again expect a lot of walking. Even an entire day won’t be enough to cover everything here, so make sure to visit the animals you want to see the most first.
Insider tip for the zoo: If you plan on bringing a group of people, it may wind up being cheaper to buy a couple of annual passes. Often time the annual passes come be 1 or 2 coupons for free guest admission.
Google Map Link to the San Diego Zoo
2920 Zoo Dr
San Diego, CA 92101
Wild Animal Park
The Wild Animal Park is owned and operated by the San Diego Zoo. It’s a bit of a drive to get to but it’s well-worth it. Unlike the Zoo which features animals in cages and confined spaces, the Wild Animal Park has a monorail tour which loops through acres of open space in which the animals are free to roam. It’s a lot of fun, but definitely another full-day activity.
Google Maps Link to the Wild Animal Park
15500 San Pasqual Valley Road
Escondido, CA 92027-7017
http://www.sandiegozoo.org/park/
Legoland
Neither one of us have ever been to Legoland but we hear it’s pretty cool and even fun for adults. It’s convienently located right off the 5 freeway in Carlsbad, which is about 20 miles north of us.
Google Maps Link to Legoland
1 Legoland Drive
Carlsbad, CA 92008-4610
http://www.legoland.com/California.htm
Balboa Park
San Diego’s historic Balboa Park is a jewel in the middle of the city. It features museums, playhouses, gardens, ampitheatres and even a few restaurants. The architecture is amazing and it’s a great cultural experience. It’s so big it even houses the San Diego Zoo.
Google Maps Link to Balboa Park
More info: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Balboa_Park,_San_Diego,_California
Downtown San Diego
San Diego’s downtown district has made quite a name for itself over the past 10 years. The “Gaslamp District” features boutique shops, bars, restaurants and hotels. Have a stroll down 5th Ave. to see what all the excitment is about. It’s one of the go-to places for a night out. If shopping is your thing, check out Horton Plaza. It’s a full mapp right in the middle of the city.
Google Maps Link to the Heart of the Gaslamp