
San Diego is California’s second largest city and strikes the perfect balance between laid-back cool and city sophistication. A layered mix of communities make up the vibrant and eclectic neighbourhoods of San Diego, from the ‘jewel’ of La Jolla to the buzzing bars of the Gaslamp Quarter, to the glimmering Pacific Beach and hipsters of North Park. Often referred to as the ‘capital of craft’ San Diego thrives as a centre of innovation, creativity and culture, discovering the newest food trends first and experimenting with flavours. Only 30 minutes from the Mexican border, Hispanic influence is evident across the city. San Diego also boasts world-famous family attractions, including the San Diego Zoo and SeaWorld as well as 70 miles of coastline to enjoy. San Diego is a destination for everyone with exciting activity and enviable climate all year round.
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07 Apr 23
NEWS
San Diego Tourism launches immersive mural art experienceThe San Diego Tourism Authority (SDTA) has joined hands with Tripadvisor to attract art-loving visitors to San Diego. ...Read moreSan Diego Tourism launches immersive mural art experience - News & announcementsThe San Diego Tourism Authority (SDTA) has joined hands with Tripadvisor to attract art-loving visitors to San Diego. The innovative art installation and augmented reality filter runs through April 30, "The Sunny Side of Things," a first-of-its-kind immersive mural art campaign. Created by Tripadvisor's in-house content studio Wanderlab for the SDTA, the street murals were hand-painted/ There are the work of San Diego artists Channin Fulton (New York Mural), Hanna Gundrum (Los Angeles Mural) and Phoebe Cornog (Chicago Mural). Each of the murals provide a unique view into culture, beaches, attractions and outdoor activities. By scanning QR codes, viewers can unlock different experiences of San Diego. Through the QR codes, visitors are invited to enter to win the San Diego Sunshine Kit Sweepstakes. The San Diego Sunshine Kit showcases local companies with SoCal flair and sustainable practices. It also includes tickets to experience San Diego’s attractions with admission to the San Diego Zoo, LEGOLAND California and Petco Park. -
06 Apr 23
Partner News
San Diego Tourism Authority and Tripadvisor Launch First-of-its-Kind Immersive Mural Art ExperienceSDTA and Tripadvisor to deliver an innovative art campaign "The Sunny Side of Things" to ...Read moreSan Diego Tourism Authority and Tripadvisor Launch First-of-its-Kind Immersive Mural Art Experience - News & announcementsSDTA and Tripadvisor to deliver an innovative art campaign "The Sunny Side of Things" to entice travel to San Diego As wanderlust travelers begin to plan their spring and summer getaways, the San Diego Tourism Authority (SDTA) has partnered with Tripadvisor to attract visitors to San Diego through an innovative art installation and augmented reality filter that captures the destination's sunny optimism and positivity. Running now through April 30, "The Sunny Side of Things," a first-of-its-kind immersive mural art campaign will appear in three of the largest U.S. cities: New York, Los Angeles and Chicago. Created by Wanderlab, Tripadvisor's in-house creative and content studio for the SDTA, the street murals were hand-painted by local San Diego artists Channin Fulton (New York Mural), Hanna Gundrum (Los Angeles Mural) and Phoebe Cornog (Chicago Mural). Each of the murals provide a unique view into the vibrant culture, beaches, attractions and outdoor activities that await visitors in America's Finest City. Complementing the artfully created masterpieces are augmented reality filters that capture the city’s optimistic outlook on life. By scanning QR codes, viewers can unlock an array of experiences that will entice them to discover all the incredible attractions and experiences San Diego offers and book a trip. Not only will mesmerizing visuals reveal the experience that awaits travelers, but through the QR codes, visitors are invited to enter and have a chance to win the San Diego Sunshine Kit Sweepstakes. Showcasing San Diego's iconic sights, products and brands, the San Diego Sunshine Kit offer a delightful collection of local companies that are making their mark with their own SoCal flair and sustainable practices. The kit will inspire visitation to San Diego with a variety of products from Vuori, Coola, Chuoac Chocolatier, ALOHA Collection, 1502 Candle Company and tickets to experience San Diego’s attractions with admission to the San Diego Zoo, LEGOLAND California and Petco Park. "We are excited to join forces with Tripadvisor and bring the San Diego brand to life through beautiful visuals, creative expression and cutting-edge technology," said SDTA COO Kerri Verbeke Kapich. "Our partnership with Tripadvisor empowers the San Diego Tourism Authority to propel our beloved destination towards greater heights and engage travelers to plan a visit to San Diego through experiential activations." The San Diego artists chosen for this campaign convey diverse, yet complementary styles that connect to one another through joyous exuberance in their portfolios. New York Mural (102 Ludlow, Lower East Side, New York City) Channin Fulton (@channinfulton) is a San Diego-based illustrator with a knack for mural painting, lettering, and other playful curiosities. Her methods, aesthetics, and conceptual motivations and inspiration are driven by the California beach and Mexican street culture that surrounds her. She brings a “California vibe” into her work through bold shape and vibrant color. Los Angeles Mural (600 N La Brea Avenue, Los Angeles) Hanna Gundrum (@littlehouseink) is a bold commercial artist with 15 years of experience painting murals in a variety of styles. Her work brings the share-worthy “funshine” as the quintessential photo opp – it is playful, memorable, and interactive. About her art, “There’s something about arranging visual information that’s always soothed my anxious soul. The thread that ties all of my work together is color. Bright, bold “pay attention to me!” color and juicy black lines.” Chicago Mural (740 W Randolph, West Loop, Chicago) Phoebe Cornog (@phoebecornog) is a San Diego-based artist known for her intricate letters, funky color palettes, bold statement pieces and interesting sense of humor. She believes that “it’s not work if it’s fun,” and she strives to breathe that motto into all of her projects. When not painting murals or creating art installations, Phoebe likes to try the new restaurants in town (especially if they have oysters) and spend time at the beach. To help share the joy of San Diego, a collection of animated GIFS were created from elements of murals and made them available as "stickers" for social media posts on Instagram and Facebook. -
01 Feb 23
NEWS
San Diego Museum Month beginsThe San Diego Museum Council announced the return of San Diego Museum Month this month. The program, which ...Read moreSan Diego Museum Month begins - News & announcementsThe San Diego Museum Council announced the return of San Diego Museum Month this month. The program, which promotes San Diego as a vibrant cultural destination, will be the largest ever – with more than 60 participating museums. It is now in its 34th year. Balboa Park is home to 18 museums and is a popular hotspot for travelers to the region. The park drew 1.8 million visitors in 2019. “Visitors to Balboa Park are cultural travelers,” SDTA CEO Julie Coker. More than 60% of visitors also explore other cultural attractions, and more than 80% visit at least two venues. “Museum Month will encourage visitors to see and do even more.” Museum Month 2023 is supported by First 5 San Diego, following a successful collaboration on Kids Free San Diego. Additional funding is provided by the California Arts Council, San Diego Commission for Arts and Culture, County of San Diego and The Pecus Group. During San Diego Museum Month, visitors enjoy half-off admission at museums, historic sites, and gardens. It includes visual art and design, children’s venues, science and nature, history, wildlife, and cultural heritage. The Museum Month pass is available for free at local libraries (with additional pick-up locations to be announced). Each Museum Month pass can be used for up to four half-priced admissions at any participating museums. -
10 Feb 22
NEWS
San Diego Museum Month is backSan Diego's Museum Month is returning and offering half-price admission and in-person experiences at 45+ ...Read moreSan Diego Museum Month is back - News & announcementsSan Diego's Museum Month is returning and offering half-price admission and in-person experiences at 45+ local museums and cultural attractions. Following a scaled-back and largely virtual version in 2021 due to COVovidID-19 closures, this popular program, which the San Diego Museum Council oversees, will offer in-person visitation again as it celebrates its 33rd year promoting San Diego. Long-time partner Macy's has returned as the event's community engagement program sponsor. Major funding is also provided by the California Arts Council, the San Diego Commission for Arts and Culture, and the County of San Diego. "Museum Month is the perfect time to get out and discover something new in San Diego," said San Diego Museum Council Executive Director Bob Lehman. Julie Coker, president and CEO of the San Diego Tourism Authority, said Museum Month provides another reason for visitors to come to San Diego, especially during what is traditionally a slower time for the local tourism industry. "San Diego Museum Month highlights our destination's rich and diverse cultural offerings and gives travelers another reason to come here." During San Diego Museum Month, residents and visitors enjoy special half-off admission at over 45 local museums, historic sites, gardens, aquariums and other cultural destinations throughout San Diego County. It covers every age and interest, including visual art and design, children and families, science and nature, history, music and cultural heritage. The Museum Month pass is available for free at all Macy's store locations in San Diego County. Each Museum Month pass can be used for up to four half-priced admissions at any of the participating museums. Museum Month pass can be used at all eligible museums through February 28, 2022. A full list of participating museums, upcoming exhibitions and special events, can be found at www.sandiegomuseumcouncil.org. -
29 Jan 22
NEWS
Seven ways to experience San DiegoHolidays always seems to be about trade-offs and choices. The beach or the mountains? Or ...Read moreSeven ways to experience San Diego - News & announcementsHolidays always seems to be about trade-offs and choices. The beach or the mountains? Or the desert instead? Small town ambiance or big city vibes? Family friendly or action-packed nightlife? When it comes to San Diego, travellers don't have to choose only one option because it's all right here. As a biodiverse region, San Diego has the beaches, bays, mountains, lakes and deserts within a short drive. But it is not just about the landscape, San Diego can deliver a variety of experiences. Here is how to have a have the perfect multi-faceted holiday. 1. Beaches and Bays Even along its 70-miles of coastline, San Diego delivers diversity. For those looking for high-end accommodations and fashionable restaurants coupled with pristine sandy beaches, La Jolla is the place to go. Just south of La Jolla is Pacific Beach, which offers expansive beaches and a boardwalk along with a nightlife that will appeal to those who want a plethora of party options. For a more laidback, classic beach town vibe, visitors can head a little farther south to Ocean Beach to enjoy funky bars, surf and antique shops. 2. Lakes While San Diego's beaches and bays often get the attention, the region is also a land of lakes, with 20 freshwater lakes and reservoirs. One local favourite is Lake Murray in the centrally located Mission Trails Regional Park. There are options to fish, motorboat, rowboat, kayak or pedal boat. Located just 25 minutes northeast from downtown San Diego is the San Vicente Reservoir, the city's largest. There are places to picnic and barbecue, but the real draw is fishing as the clearwater reservoir. It is also a great spot for boating, kayaking, waterskiing and wakeboarding. 3. Mountains For the rustic feel of a mountain retreat, San Diego's East County provides majestic ranges to explore. Located less than an hour from downtown San Diego is the Cuyamaca Rancho State Park, which is home to more than 100 miles of hiking trails, many open to horseback riders, as well as campgrounds and picnic sites. On a clear day, the park's highest viewpoint, Cuyamaca Peak (6,512 feet), reveals views of Mexico, mountain ranges near Los Angeles and wide expanses of desert. A little farther east is the pine-studded Laguna Mountains, located within the Cleveland National Forest's 8,600-acre spread. It offers opportunities for hiking, biking, camping, fishing, and mountain climbing during the summer months and sledding and tobogganing in the winter. 4. Deserts The San Diego region also offers up the dramatic beauty of the desert for visitors to explore. To the east is the 600,000-acre Anza-Borrego Desert State Park, California's largest state park. Filled with sweeping landscapes of cacti and other unique desert vegetation, the park is also home to roadrunners, golden eagles, kit foxes, desert iguanas and lizards. For those looking for more pampering, the nearby desert community of Borrego Springs is home a number of hotels and resorts. 5. Small town San Diego might be the country's eighth largest city, but the region boasts a number of small towns for those looking to escape the hectic pace. To the east there is the historic town of Julian, which dates back more than a century and was home to the only gold rush in Southern California. The town is known for its apple pies, quaint shops, art galleries, wine tasting rooms, and charming hotels and inns. For those looking for small town beach feel, Encinitas to the north is worth checking out as it harkens back to the historic Highway 101 beach culture of yesteryear.. 6. Urban For the more metropolitan-type traveller, downtown San Diego offers all the hustle, bustle and culture. The historic Gaslamp Quarter is home to a diverse line-up of restaurants, shops and entertainment venues as well as spas, art galleries and artisan shops. Nearby Little Italy has a lively neighbourhood feel fuelled by outdoor cafés, international restaurants, craft breweries, art galleries, and the festive Piazza della Famiglia. 7. International The most distinctive destination that the region has to offer is that of Baja California, Mexico — allowing visitors the chance for a two-nation holiday. A short drive or trolley ride from downtown San Diego is the US-Mexico border providing access to Tijuana, Rosarito, Ensenada and Guadalupe Valley, a cluster of cities known for their rich artistic and culinary offerings. Tijuana is an energetic hub of activity day and night with duty-free shopping, Mexican cuisine and a tremendous arts and culture scene. Rosarito is a resort community known for its beaches, oceanfront hotels, aquatic adventures, shopping, seafood dining and nightlife. Ensenada, which is a 90-minute drive from San Diego, offers ocean vistas as well as taco shops, seafood carts, craft breweries and mescal and margarita bars. Just outside Ensenada is the Valle De Guadalupe, considered the Napa Valley of Mexico as it produces 90% of the country's wine and features over 100 wineries. -
27 Jan 22
Partner News
San Diego Launches New “Happy and You Know It” Brand CampaignTo stimulate demand during the upcoming spring and summer season, the San Diego Tourism ...Read moreSan Diego Launches New “Happy and You Know It” Brand Campaign - News & announcementsTo stimulate demand during the upcoming spring and summer season, the San Diego Tourism Authority (SDTA) is launching a new brand advertising campaign – “Happy and You Know It” – with the TV commercial debuting on national TV on Jan. 29 during the Farmers Insurance Open. The SDTA plans to spend $8 million promoting San Diego through the end of June, with $6.27 million dedicated to “Happy and You Know It.” The SDTA designed the multi-layered campaign to inspire visitation by reinforcing that happiness comes naturally in San Diego with everyone able to express that joy in their own unique way. Using new music from Michael Franti & Spearhead, the theme song for the campaign modernizes the catchy nursey rhyme song with upbeat sounds to evoke the fun, vibrant and inviting characteristics of the destination. Julie Coker, SDTA’s president and CEO, said the new campaign builds on the “Sunny Outlook” brand that the organization has been cultivating for more than a decade and which has helped make San Diego one of the country’s top destinations. “Now more than ever travelers are looking for places with diverse communities and people where they can escape and explore, and San Diego fits the bill for so many would-be travelers,” Coker said. “Our natural beauty, our outdoor offerings, world class arts and cultural attractions, and our near-perfect weather makes for a vacation that is both happy and healthy.” She pointed to recent findings from Destination Analysts, a market research firm that surveys U.S. travel attitudes and behaviors, that showed over the next 12 months, Americans are most interested in enjoying scenic beauty, warm weather outdoor activities, road trips, dining in regional restaurants, visiting historical sites and enjoying street food during their travels. “Those type of experiences is exactly what San Diego has to offer, and this campaign will be key in getting that message out to potential visitors to ensure San Diego has strong visitation throughout the busy spring and summer months so our tourism industry can continue its ongoing recovery,” Coker said. The spring media buy for “Happy and You Know It” will focus on sports programming as it aligns with San Diego’s outdoor and wellness attributes. Aside from the Farmers Insurance Open golf tournament held at Torrey Pines, TV programming highlights will include two spots in the Super Bowl’s pre-game coverage, the Beijing 2022 Winter Olympics, NCAA March Madness, NBA regular season as well as other primetime programming in select markets. The “Happy and You Know It” campaign will use a multi-media approach including television, digital, radio, and billboards that will reach western regional and national audiences with a focus on the key markets of Los Angeles, Phoenix, San Francisco and Sacramento. The SDTA expects the campaign to deliver 250.4 million impressions over the course of the next five months. The development of the new “Happy and You Know It” campaign is the product of extensive brand research that the SDTA and its advertising agency, The Shipyard, conducted over the last year. Focus groups consisting of leisure travelers in California, the West, Northeast, Southeast and Midwest were interviewed to determine how attitudes and perceptions of the San Diego brand have evolved throughout the pandemic. The clear findings were that San Diego has a well-defined brand with focus group participants describing the destination as a “feel-good, friendly, vibrant place that is both laidback and lively,” said Kerri Kapich, SDTA’s chief operating officer who oversees its marketing efforts. “The vibe and the product are in complete alignment with consumers sentiment, travel motivators and what is emotionally connecting them with a destination,” Kapich said. “San Diego’s brand has emerged stronger than it was before the pandemic, which means we have an opportunity to attract more visitors with our sunny skies and positive outlook.” The below links can be used to view the “Happy and You Know It” campaign assets: -
26 Jan 22
Partner News
Seven Destinations in OneWhen it comes to San Diego, travelers don’t have to choose. With vacations, it ...Read moreSeven Destinations in One - News & announcementsWhen it comes to San Diego, travelers don’t have to choose.With vacations, it always seems to be about trade-offs and choices. The beach or the mountains? What about the desert instead? Small town feel or big city vibes? Family friendly or action-packed nightlife? Arts and culture offerings or outdoor activities? When it comes to San Diego, travelers don’t have to choose. It’s all right here. As the most biodiverse region in the country, San Diego has the beaches, bays, mountains, lakes and deserts within a short drive. But it is not just about the landscape, San Diego can deliver a variety of experiences. Here is how to have it all in just one vacation. 1. Beaches and Bays Even along its 70-miles of coastline, San Diego delivers diversity. For those looking for high-end accommodations and fashionable restaurants coupled with pristine sandy beaches and to-die-for views, La Jolla is the place to go. Just south of La Jolla is Pacific Beach, which offers expansive beaches and a boardwalk along with a nightlife that will appeal to those who want a plethora of party options along la playa. For a more laidback, classic beach town vibe, visitors can head a little farther south to Ocean Beach to enjoy funky bars while surveying souvenir, surf and antique shops. 2. Lakes While San Diego’s beaches and bays often get the attention, the region is also a land of lakes, with 20 freshwater lakes and reservoirs. One local favorite is Lake Murray in the centrally located Mission Trails Regional Park. Fishing is at its best December through September when black crappie, bass, bluegill and catfish abound. But for those uninterested in catching their own dinner, there are options to motorboat, rowboat, kayak or pedal boat. Located just 25 minutes northeast from downtown San Diego is the San Vicente Reservoir, the city’s largest. There are places to picnic and barbecue, but the real draw is fishing as the clearwater reservoir is home to crappie, sunfish, channel catfish and Florida strain largemouth bass. It is also a great spot for boating, kayaking, waterskiing and wakeboarding. 3. Mountains For those looking for the rustic feel of a mountain retreat, San Diego’s East County provides majestic ranges to explore. Located less than an hour from downtown San Diego is the Cuyamaca Rancho State Park, which is home to more than 100 miles of hiking trails, many open to horseback riders, as well as campgrounds and picnic sites. On a clear day, the park’s highest viewpoint, Cuyamaca Peak (6,512 feet), reveals views of Mexico, mountain ranges near Los Angeles and wide expanses of desert. A little farther east is the pine-studded Laguna Mountains, located within the Cleveland National Forest’s 8,600-acre spread. It offers opportunities for hiking, biking, camping, fishing, and mountain climbing during the summer months and sledding and tobogganing in the winter. 4. Deserts The San Diego region also offers up the stark and dramatic beauty of the desert for visitors to explore. To the east is the 600,000-acre Anza-Borrego Desert State Park, California’s largest state park. Filled with sweeping landscapes of cacti and other unique desert vegetation, the park is also home to roadrunners, golden eagles, kit foxes, desert iguanas and lizards. During the spring, the dry rugged landscape is transformed by winter rains into a kaleidoscope of colorful flowers. For those looking for more pampering, the nearby desert community of Borrego Springs is home a number of hotels and resorts, including La Casa del Zoro, which offers high-end accommodations, swimming pools, a spa, tennis and pickleball courts, and yoga sessions. 5. Small town San Diego might be the country’s eighth largest city, but the region boasts a number of small towns for those looking to escape the hectic pace of city life. To the east there is the historic town of Julian, which dates back more than a century and was home to the only gold rush in Southern California. The town is known for its apple pies, quaint shops, art galleries, wine tasting rooms, and charming hotels and inns. For those looking for small town beach feel, Encinitas to the north is worth checking out as it harkens back to the historic Highway 101 beach culture of yesteryear. Its main street features high-end shops, chic restaurants and coffee shops while its nearby beaches are among some of the most coveted in the region. 6. Urban For the more metropolitan-type traveler, downtown San Diego offers all the hustle, bustle and culture they could desire. The historic Gaslamp Quarter is home to a diverse line up of restaurants, shops and entertainment venues as well as spas, art galleries and artisan shops. Nearby Little Italy is perfect for any urban enthusiast with its lively neighborhood feel fueled by outdoor cafés, international restaurants, craft breweries, wineries, art galleries, unique shops, boutique hotels, and the festive Piazza della Famiglia. 7. International But the most distinctive destination that the region has to offer is that of Baja California, Mexico — allowing visitors the chance for a two-nation vacation. A short drive or trolley ride from downtown San Diego is the U.S.-Mexico border providing access to Tijuana, Rosarito, Ensenada and Guadalupe Valley, a cluster of cities known for their rich artistic and culinary offerings. Tijuana is an energetic hub of activity day and night with duty-free shopping, Mexican cuisine, a tremendous arts and culture scene — highlighted by the Tijuana Cultural Center. Rosarito is a resort community known for its beaches, oceanfront hotels, aquatic adventures, shopping, seafood dining and nightlife. Ensenada, which is a 90-minute drive from San Diego, offers breathtaking ocean vistas as well as taco shops, seafood carts, craft breweries, and mescal and margarita bars. Just outside Ensenada is the Valle De Guadalupe, considered the Napa Valley of Mexico as it produces 90% of the country’s wine and features over 100 wineries. It also home to outstanding restaurants, serving gourmet farm-fresh cuisine and local seafood. -
15 Jan 22
NEWS
San Diego: What’s new in 2022Here's a quick look at new happenings, attractions, food, art and more in San Diego ...Read moreSan Diego: What’s new in 2022 - News & announcementsHere's a quick look at new happenings, attractions, food, art and more in San Diego this year. Attractions and Events The 3.2-acre Denny Sanford Wildlife Explorers Basecamp at the San Diego Zoo, which opens February 2022 on the former Children's Zoo site, will blend innovation with opportunities to explore a variety of species, ranging from leafcutter ants and orb weaver spiders to prairie dogs and sloths. Opening March 2022, Sesame Place San Diego will feature seven Sesame Street-themed rides, an interactive musical play area and 11 water attractions, including a 500,000-gallon wave pool—one of the largest in Southern California. The park will also have an interactive Sesame Street Neighbourhood complete with the iconic 123 Stoop, live character shows, daily parades, photo opportunities, and, of course, everyone's favorite Muppet characters. Arts and Culture Now its 33rd year, San Diego Museum Month is returning from February 1 to February 28, 2022, with half-off admission and in-person museum experiences at 45+ local museums and cultural attractions. The Museum Month pass is available for free at all Macy's store locations in San Diego County. Visitors can use each Museum Month pass all month long for up to four half-priced admissions at any of the participating museums. Reopening April 2022, the Museum of Contemporary Art San Diego will be expanding its La Jolla campus, allowing for the dedicated display of the permanent collection alongside the presentation of temporary exhibitions. The expansion includes clarifying the entry sequence to the building and expanding gallery space. A large, flexible multipurpose gallery on the lower level will provide capacity for public programs, artist talks, performance art, music and other educational activities. Restaurants and Bars Opened December 2021 in University Heights, San Diego's first absinthe bar and bistro Wormwood showcases more than 30 absinthes sourced from Europe and the United States, which are served in slow-drip fountains with a cube of sugar. The bistro's French-influenced fare revisits classic dishes and features small plates and shareable entrees prepared with local ingredients. Coco Maya, by Miss B's Coconut Club, set to open on Little Italy's buzzing India Street in March of 2022, will offer an open-air aesthetic designed to reflect the boho chic vibes of Tulum, Mexico. Its main cocktail bar will sit under a massive skylight and the roof will be removed to create a 900 square foot deck. The restaurant's Caribbean-inspired menus will feature tequila drinks and modern takes on Jamaican coal pot cooking from a Josper Charcoal oven-powered kitchen. Getting Around In November 2021, the San Diego Trolley opened its expanded UC San Diego Blue Line that now runs all the way from the U.S.-Mexico border to UC San Diego in La Jolla to the UTC Transit Center, adding nine new Trolley stations. The Trolley has on three color-coded lines connecting San Diego's east, south and north county communities with downtown San Diego. San Diego International Airport (SAN) launched the 'San Diego Flyer,' a free electric shuttle bus service between the airport and Old Town Transit Center in November 2021. The shuttle operates seven days a week, with an average arrival every 20 to 30 minutes. For more information on San Diego's offerings, travel packages and coupons for attractions, restaurants and more, visit the San Diego Tourism Authority's website at www.sandiego.org -
07 Jan 22
NEWS
Taco tasting by San Diego TrolleySan Diego recently extended its Trolley system so that the Blue Line now runs all ...Read moreTaco tasting by San Diego Trolley - News & announcementsSan Diego recently extended its Trolley system so that the Blue Line now runs all the way from the U.S.-Mexico border to La Jolla in the north. This $2.2 billion expansion also opens up opportunities for sight-seeing, shopping and taco tasting—a favorite local pastime. San Diego's proximity to Mexico, plus abundance of fresh ingredients, have made the region a must-visit destination for foodies and taco lovers everywhere. With an adult day pass costing as little as $6, the Trolley also provides a low-cost way to see the sights and taste the bites that make San Diego such a unique destination. Every day can be a Taco Trolley day: A perfect place to start is at the new UTC Trolley station, which not only offers easy access to some of the region's best shopping at the Westfield UTC but is also home to Tocaya Modern Mexican, a casual eatery known for its healthy fare that offers up plenty of vegan options. The pina pastor is a standout with its inventive mix of adobo tofu, vegan chipotle jack cheese, grilled pineapple salsa, red peppers, onions and arbol salsa. Eight stops down is the Clairmont Drive Trolley station where a short walk leads to Mike's Red Tacos food truck. This new addition to Bay Park neighborhood, serves up its acclaimed birria tacos featuring locally sourced, fresh tortillas dipped in chili oil and crisped up for their signature red color. A few stops further south is the Old Town Trolley station, so named for the nearby Old Town San Diego State Historic Park, which features preserved buildings and museums. It also has more than 30 neighboring restaurants that offer a wide range of cuisines, including traditional and contemporary Mexican dishes. The new Old Town Urban Market, an outdoor dining and entertainment complex six blocks from the station, is home to the Michelin-recognized Tuetano Taqueria, which specializes in slow-cooked, Tijuana-style beef birria tacos. The very next trolley station is the Washington Street stop, where just up the hill sits Lucha Libre Taco Shop. The restaurant's decor is inspired by the bright colors and distinctive masks of Mexican wrestling and the menu features dishes like the "undefeated seafood taco" and the "birria quesa taco" with beef birria, melted cheese, onions, cilantro and salsa muerta. A couple stops south on the Blue Line is the County Center/Little Italy station where visitors can easily walk to King and Queen Cantina, a hip, art-filled eatery in the heart of San Diego's lively Little Italy district. The eclectic menu features all kinds of specialty tacos, including a Hot Cheetos asada taco, which comes with melted cheese, Flamin' Hot Cheetos, chipotle aioli, lime crema, green cabbage, and topped with serrano sauce, red radish and cilantro. This is just the tip of the taco tastings available in San Diego. For more information on San Diego's offerings, including exciting vacation packages, visit the San Diego Tourism Authority's website at www.sandiego.org. -
24 Dec 21
NEWS
HAL’s Zuiderdam returns to service in San DiegoHolland America Line's Zuiderdam is back in service in San Diego The ship joins Koningsdam, ...Read moreHAL’s Zuiderdam returns to service in San Diego - News & announcementsHolland America Line's Zuiderdam is back in service in San Diego The ship joins Koningsdam, which resumed service in San Diego in October. "San Diego is an important homeport for us, and we are excited to have two ships back in full-time operation here," said Gus Antorcha, president of Holland America Line. Holland America Line now has six ships cruising again in the Caribbean, Mexico and along the Pacific Coast of the United States. Zuiderdam's first cruise is a 10-day "Mexico and Sea of Cortez" sailing that is followed by Panama Canal departures and a grand 35-day South Pacific and Pacific cruise. Holland America Line has been homeporting from the Port of San Diego since the 1990s. For the upcoming 2021-22 season, the cruise line will bring more than 81,000 guests to the city. -
27 Nov 21
NEWS
San Diego lays out welcome for UK travellersAfter closing in March 2020, US borders have reopened and San Diego is ready to ...Read moreSan Diego lays out welcome for UK travellers - News & announcementsAfter closing in March 2020, US borders have reopened and San Diego is ready to welcome back UK and Irish travellers again. Its top attractions, distinct dining scene, and 70 miles of coastline are accessible once more. The city has seen a host of new hotel and attraction openings throughout 2021, from new exhibits at San Diego Zoo to the opening of Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott San Diego Pacific Beach. This November will see the first phase opening of the new Comic-Con Museum in Balboa Park, and iconic Hotel Del Coronado is on track to complete the next steps of its $400 million multi-phase renovation. Paired with a thriving events calendar, visitors will find plenty of new discoveries in San Diego this winter and beyond. This month, construction also began on the new Terminal 1 at San Diego International Airport to include 30 gates, new restaurants and retail, and improvements to the airport's roadways system. Terminal 1 is served by domestic carries including JetBlue and Southwest Airlines, making it easier for international travellers to journey onwards in the US. The first 19 gates at T1 are expected to be operational in July 2025 and the project will complete in June 2028. In a boost to the local economy, the project will create between 15,000 - 20,000 new jobs for local workers. Benjamin Eastman, Director of Tourism Development at San Diego Tourism Authority, said: "We're delighted to welcome back travellers from the UK and Ireland to San Diego after so long. There are lots to see across the city - exciting new openings as well as favourite old haunts - and our hotels, restaurants and attractions are waiting for guests with open arms." "The direct British Airways flight from London to San Diego only cements the city's status as an easily accessible destination for UK and Ireland travellers looking to grab a slice of Southern California sunshine." Staying safe To visit San Diego, travellers from the UK and Ireland must be double vaccinated and show proof of a negative Covid-19 test within 72 hours before departure. A mask is required at the airport, on all public transport, and in some restaurants and attractions. at the discretion of the organisation. Getting here British Airways flies direct from London Heathrow Airport (LHR) to San Diego International Airport (SAN) on Wednesdays, Fridays and Sundays. Fares from £384 return. -
09 Oct 21
NEWS
Flavours of San DiegoLast week Michelin Guide announced its newly starred California restaurants and San Diego became the ...Read moreFlavours of San Diego - News & announcementsLast week Michelin Guide announced its newly starred California restaurants and San Diego became the home of four new starred restaurants. Cementing its reputation as the hub of Cali-Baja cuisine, San Diego now has 11 restaurants in this category. San Diego stands in the middle of two powerful influences: the California fare distinguished for its devotion to using fresh local ingredients and constant pursuit of renovating its cooking techniques, and Mexico's Baja Med cuisine, combining traditional Mexican ingredients with those of the Mediterranean. San Diego's culinary landscape blends these two influences into the Cali-Baja experience. Addison (San Diego) two stars, one awarded in 2019 Chef William Bradley continues to flaunt his impressive skills at this iconic dining room, and his talents are more tangible now than ever before. Addison's menu while constantly evolving also retains the chef's signatures. Jeune et Jolie (Carlsbad) one star Partner John Resnick and Executive Chef Eric Bost are behind this well-orchestrated French restaurant. This cooking displays a mature direction, with solid ingredients, unique combinations, and beautiful presentations. Soichi (San Diego) one star Named for Chef Soichi Kadoya, who honed his skills at Old Town's Sushi Tadokoro, this intimate Japanese restaurant has quickly made a name for itself in the University Heights neighbourhood. Sushi Tadokoro (San Diego) one star Chef/owner Takeaki Tadokoro, along with young chef Tatsuro Tsuchiya provides diners with a delightful experience. Attention to detail is a hallmark, as sauces are homemade and the fish of the day rests within a wood box awaiting very special treatment. Cali-Baja cuisine With such close proximity, San Diego and Baja complement each other perfectly. Restaurants such as Puesto in Seaport Village and La Jolla, King & Queen Cantina in Little Italy, and Blind Burro in Downtown's Gaslamp Quarter serve up authentic Baja produce such as lobster, chicharrón (pork rinds) and cotija cheese. Even San Diego's own seafood fast food chain, Rubio's, became famous nationally for bringing Baja fish tacos to this side of the border. Other notable restaurants creating fresh Cali-Baja cuisine include Galaxy Taco in La Jolla, where Trey Foshee, chef of the legendary George's at the Cove, offers gourmet tacos and an impressive selection of mezcal and tequila, and Coasterra on Harbor Island where fresh seafood and Mexican classics are served in a beautiful bay side setting.
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