While this sunny Southern California beach town is notoriously expensive to live in, tourists can find plenty of free things to do in San Diego. Here are six free things to do on your next trip to San Diego.
Stroll through Seaport Village
This quaint village along San Diego’s coast offers open-air shopping along cobblestone streets under the California sun. More than 50 shops and 17 restaurants call Seaport Village home, and you can spend your afternoon window shopping or walking along the boardwalk for views of the harbor. You’ll find free live music in the food court every afternoon, ranging from jazz to the crooning of Ol’ Blue Eyes. Sundays also bring free concerts to Seaport Village.
Head to Old Town San Diego
At the adobe-laced Old Town, you can join a free guided tour of the Old Town Historic State Park and learn about the rich Mexican history of San Diego. The district is also filled with historic buildings that you can admire as you stroll along the haciendas and adobes.
Visit Coronado Island
Soak up the sun from Coronado Island, which you can reach by a scenic drive over the Coronado Bay Bridge. One must-see while on the island is the historic Hotel del Coronado, a Victorian-style resort and National Historic Landmark. Afterward, stroll along the white-sand beaches and experience what the California lifestyle is all about.
Take an art walk
Treat yourself to a night of culture and art at Ray at Night, a free monthly art walk in North Park. Held on the second Saturday of every month, this art walk features 15 local galleries and venues, food trucks and live performances to keep you entertained.
Hang out at Balboa Park
Balboa Park is arguably the most famous of San Diego’s parks, with its historic architecture and lush landscaping. Free tours of Balboa Park are offered daily at the Balboa Park Visitor’s Center, and you can also tour the lily pond, orchids and tropical plants of the Botanical Garden for free.
Have a bonfire on the beach
You’ll find free fire pits on beaches throughout San Diego, offering the perfect way to end your budget-friendly day in San Diego under the California stars. Fire pits can be found on Ocean Beach, Coronado, Mission Beach and Pacific Beach.
(Main image: Port of San Diego)
