Top 10 Free Things To Do and Attractions in San Elijo State Beach

"Comprising 1,200 acres in San Diego, Balboa Park is the largest urban cultural park in the United States, and also one of the oldest. It features over 15 museums, meandering paths, overflowing gardens, green belts, several theaters, gift shops, restaurants, a carousel, mini railroad, and San Diego Zoo. Admittance to the park is free, as is access to the luscious gardens, trails, The Botanical Building, and Timken Art Museum."

"For a complete change of scenery, Balboa Park is an unusual park right in the city center. It was actually built for one of those old-timey expositions but the city loved it so much they made it permanent. In addition to the museums, there’s also a Botanical Garden and several beautiful gardens, like this moorish styled one below."

"One of San Diego’s gems, Balboa Park, is teeming with free things to do in San Diego. There are over 65 miles of walking trails at Balboa Park, the largest urban cultural park in America. In addition, there are gorgeous gardens, botanical gardens and spectacular Spanish Colonial Revival architecture to see."

"Let your little one splash around this pirate-themed spray park on a hot summer day. The park has a large open space and grass, which is perfect for the crew. Even more, the large playground nearby has tons of swings."

"Study humankind at the San Diego Museum of Man, marvel at aeronautic engineering in the San Diego Air and Space Museum, then catch your breath in the Botanical Building. Head up to North Park for happy hour at Polite Provisions; its beautiful cocktail lounge may hook you up with some small plates if you’re hungry. Save the appetite, though—North Park’s Restaurant Row is nearby."

"The Botanical Building houses more than 2,000 tropical plants. Capturing the wood structure with the lily pond in front is one of the most photographed sections of Balboa Park."

"The San Diego Union Museum enables visitors to see where the San Diego Union, the first newspaper in the city, got its start. Visitors can tour the recreated editor’s office and the original print room to see how they looked in 1868. The prefabricated wooden building was manufactured on the East Coast, shipped to California and reassembled in 1851."

"The museum showcases the region’s unique, colorful, and diverse history exhibiting artifacts, costumes, textiles, art, and photographs detailing life and development of the local area."

"Another great brunch spot that I used to go to all the time when I lived in North County. It has a Mexican food twist to all the dishes, but super CLEAN & fresh. I get the yin & yang breakfast which is rosemary potatoes, jalapeños, onions, tomatoes, red bean, avocado, cheese, sour cream, salsa, & a tortilla (I add poached eggs on top) & their golden fairy dust latte which is chai tea, ginger, cinnamon, sub the soy milk for almond milk… to die for!!!"

"First, choose between a basic buttermilk or organic whole grain gluten-free batter for your pancakes. Then, add the toppings of your choice from wild blueberry to toasted coconut and mango. Moreover, there are vegan pancakes too."

"This cute little place has been around for over 45 years and is a local favorite!. Known for their in-house roasted meats and house-made cookies, it’s a great spot to grab some lunch!. Their sandwiches are all made fresh to order, and they have a good assortment of salads and a homemade soup-of-the-day."

"Located in the heart of La Jolla Shores, this is a great place to grab a quick lunch or picnic provisions. The sandwiches are excellent, and...Read More"

"Trendsetters and tastemakers have flocked to Miso Harney Sushi since the day it opened without slowing down. The ultra-cool vibe inside is set off by the rich red walls and marble counter tops.[Learn more]"

"Harney Sushi’s funky, experimental vibe puts it at the top of any list of best sushi in San Deigo. The creative, exciting menu features some riffs on classic favorites and new takes on what sushi can be."