Top Rated Parks to Visit in Rancho San Diego

"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."

"Day 1: Balboa Park, San Diego Zoo, Downtown & The Gaslamp District [Skip to Page] Day 2: Old Town, The Midway & Coronado [Skip to Page]"

"3146 Mission Boulevard San Diego, CA 92109 858-488-1549 Ride Hours: Monday: 11:00 AM - 9:00 PM Tuesday-Thursday: 11:00am-8:00pm Ride Hours: Friday & Saturday: 11:00 AM - 10:00 PM Sunday: 11:00am-9:00pm Store hours vary 5 Stores plus multiple kiosks Major Attractions: Roller Coaster, Beach Blaster, Wave House and Specialty Shops"

"This is a seaside amusement park in Mission Beach that you can count as free entertainment. A historic roller coaster, an arcade, a zip line and laser tag are just where the fun begins. Belmont Park is ranked as one of the best activities for teens."

"For some old-fashioned oceanfront fun, wrap up your San Diego Day at Belmont Park. It is like an old fashioned fair and arcade, plus is located directly on Mission Beach. It’s the perfect spot to catch an amazing sunset."

"Trek through the history of California’s birthplace at Old Town, San Diego’s first downtown. There is a distinct feeling of Old Mexico within this 6-block, 12-acre park, with historical sites covering shops, restaurants, museums, preserved adobe buildings and more. It’s easily one of the most authentic free things to do in San Diego."

"Spend a long morning in Old Town State Historic Park, exploring the adobe buildings and browsing the many gift shops. You’ll be tempted to sit down for a Mexican lunch at one of the tourist restaurants, but save your appetite for a more genuine experience at El Indio, just up the street in Mission Hills."

"Looking for historic places to visit in San Diego with kids?. Old Town is one of the top San Diego points of interest. San Diego County is not just about the amazing beaches and delicious food."

"Romantics will appreciate the awe-inspiring experience of a Southern California sunset. One of the best places to visit is Sunset Cliffs Natural Park, which stretches for 68 acres along coastal bluffs above the Pacific Ocean. The location provides an incomparable viewpoint to take in the ocean panoramas as the sun transforms the horizon from blue to glorious rosy-toned hues."

"Or, make your way up to Sunset Cliffs Natural Park to stroll the cliffs and experience the panoramic pink, purple, and bright-orange majesty as the sun goes down. Finish off the day over the hill at Officine Buona Forchetta, where some of the city’s best Italian dishes include handmade pasta and authentic, wood-fired Neapolitan pizza."

"With both a playground and splash pad (for free!) your littles will have a blast. Also, there are plenty of hiking trails, a beautiful view and a gazebo to host a picnic. A great find if you're looking for something new!"

"You’ll find there’s something for everyone at Ferry Landing on Coronado. Whether you’re just relaxing while you wait for the ferry or spending an afternoon sightseeing, there’s no shortage of fun here!. Take a peaceful beachside stroll along the bike path and delight in the white sand and peaceful waves while taking in the skyline of downtown San Diego in the distance."

"Los Peñasquitos (“little cliffs”) is a great beginners’ trail for those who want to enjoy mountain-feel views without having to hire an expedition crew. There are two approaches (east and west), and the trailheads offer a trek of either 6.5, or 5.5 miles, respectively. The terrain is gradual and level, but the trails are surrounded by the sort of views that gave the area its name: scenic rocky outcroppings, and stony formations that ripple with rubble."

"Hike to the top of Cowles Mountain for prime panoramic views of San Diego County. At 1,593-feet, the summit is the highest peak in all of San Diego, California. The three-mile hike is a rather strenuous switchback-style uphill trek, but the incredible views are worth the effort."

"A post shared by The Old Spaghetti Factory (@oldspaghettifactory) on Jul 20, 2018 at 7:56am PDT. This unique Italian restaurant features antique lighting, exquisitely stained glass displays, big, colorful booths and a trolley car to dine in. Their three-course meals are not just for adults, kids 12 and under get to enjoy it too."

"Ponce's Mexican Restaurant in the Kensington neighborhood is owned and operated by the Meza family for over 40 years. It's loved for fantastic Mexican food but also for overall community spirit as the restaurant supports local organizations and prides itself on being a good to employees. It's tough to isolate just a few items because the entire menu is good, but try the chicken enchiladas, carnitas, green salsa, and flan."

"Jimbo Someck (yes, there really is a real guy behind the name) came to San Diego over 40 years ago. He started in the food business breaking down cardboard boxes. Jimbo opened his first store in 1984 in North Park (now sold) and has opened five San Diego stores since then; four of them here in North County: Carmel Valley, Escondido, Carlsbad, 4S Ranch."