Sunday’s match at Snapdragon Stadium will be an interesting one, with the Philadelphia Union facing San Diego FC. The home side has scored the most goals at home in the Western Conference, with 32, while interim head coach Ryan Richter’s squad looks to build on its nine-match streak. But that’s another article.
With that said, let’s take a look at a few spots that were recommended to me, along with some of my personal favorites from what seemed like a stretch when I was in San Diego every year.
If you have any additional travel questions, feel free to reach out to me at my travel email: Kyle@madhatteradv.com.
About San Diego
With temperatures often in the 70s throughout the year, San Diego, California, has long been a popular travel destination for people from around the world. From its parks and zoos to its historical architecture, visitors can always find places to explore while in town.
The city also boasts beautiful beaches for relaxing and surfing while offering a vibrant mix of cultures and unique experiences you won’t find in many other places.
Here are a few of my personal favorites.
San Diego Zoo
Located in Balboa Park (not affiliated with Philly’s Rocky Balboa), the San Diego Zoo pioneered open-air, naturalistic habitats and is home to thousands of rare and endangered animals.
With hundreds of species, including zebras, pandas, and many others, it’s my favorite zoo that I’ve ever visited. Just make sure you leave plenty of time to check it out. I spent four hours there and probably could have stayed another two with how much there is to see.
Website: https://zoo.sandiegozoo.org/
Cabrillo National Monument
Cabrillo National Monument is an amazing place to hike and take in views of the Pacific Ocean. The park commemorates the landing of Juan Rodríguez Cabrillo at San Diego Bay on September 28, 1542.
It’s worth the trip and the hike. Just sit there and listen to the waves of the Pacific Ocean crash into the rocks below. It’s peaceful.
Website: https://www.nps.gov/cabr/index.htm
Birch Aquarium
Pairing world-class marine exhibits with ocean science from the renowned Scripps Institution of Oceanography, Birch Aquarium is the place to go if you want to see marine life.
From the giant kelp forest to its seahorse exhibits and overall conservation efforts, the aquarium tops SeaWorld in my opinion if your main goal is to experience and learn about aquatic life.
Website: https://aquarium.ucsd.edu/
La Jolla Cove
While it’s a popular spot for snorkeling and swimming, La Jolla Cove is also a great place to visit if you enjoy beautiful blue water and wildlife. If you’re in the area during your travels, stop by to see the native wildlife and discover what makes this place so special.
Website: https://www.sandiego.gov/lifeguards/beaches/cove
Belmont Park
Located right on Mission Beach, this historic amusement park is still worth the trip if you appreciate history over the pomp and circumstance of modern-day amusement parks. It’s a throwback to the old days of seaside amusement parks and piers, with plenty of fun attractions.
If you’re relaxing at Mission Beach, it’s worth a stop.
Website: https://www.belmontpark.com/
Food and Drink
With a vibrant mix of coastal seafood, bold Mexican flavors, and world-famous craft beer, San Diego has plenty to offer. Whether you’re looking for a great fish taco, huevos rancheros, ramen, or a local IPA, the city has a vibrant food and drink culture.
Here are a few of my recommendations.
AleSmith Brewing Company
Its iconic brews, such as .394 Pale Ale and Speedway Stout, get much of the recognition, but AleSmith has plenty of other craft beers and a great atmosphere that make it worth a visit.
It’s my personal favorite brewery in San Diego.
Modern Times
Years ago, while talking to people at AleSmith Brewing Company, I kept hearing Modern Times mentioned as a place I needed to check out. While I never made it to the brewery itself, I’ve had their beers, and I’ve never been disappointed by one.
Pizza Port
Like Modern Times, I’ve never had a bad IPA from Pizza Port, whether I was there or came across one of their beers during my travels (Kevin Kinkaid would hate me for this).
That said, if you’re near one of their locations, check it out.
Website: https://www.pizzaport.com/
Tajima Ramen
Known for its authentic, from-scratch Japanese ramen and rich, house-made broths, Tajima helped launch San Diego’s ramen scene.
Love this place!
Website: https://tajimaramen.com/tajima-convoy/
Hodad’s
Hodad’s is now in the hands of third-generation family members Shane and Lexi Hardin, the adult children of the famous Burgermeister, Mike “Bossman” Hardin.
Mike was at the helm of this seaside burger joint when it rocketed to stardom. It was Mike’s heart that helped keep the whole team grounded as Hodad’s went from a local favorite to a relentlessly busy destination for burger lovers from around the world.
Website: https://hodadsoceanbeach.com/
Have you been to San Diego before? Leave a comment and let me know some of your recommendations as well, and I will make sure to add them to my list for future articles.
Main article photo: Milan Iloski, who previously played for San Diego FC. Credit: Emily Wallace-Sutton.
The One Team We Agree On 
Leave a comment