Must-Visit Parks in San Diego

Mission Bay Park

As you make your way through Mission Bay, you’re sure to find one of the best parks in San Diego: Mission Bay Park. With over 4,200 acres of land and sea, it’s one of the most popular San Diego parks and the largest man-made aquatic park in the United States. The water park welcomes 15 million visitors each year.

Outdoorsy travelers love the activities they can get into on and off the water at Mission Bay Park. Ride the Giant Dipper Roller Coaster at the amusement park, take a stroll on a walking trail, plan a beachside bonfire, play a water sport or take a sunset cruise.

Waterfront Park

The best parks in San Diego come complete with all-day fun for the entire family. The splash pad is designed to bring water fun to little ones aged two and up, while the other water features and rock-climbing wall will keep older kids on their feet.

If you’re traveling with friends or your significant other, you can surprise them with a pretty little picnic in the grassy area or attend one of the live music events. And because every great San Diego park comes with a view, Waterfront Park is one of the best places to catch the sunset over the city.

Balboa Park

Trust us — you could spend your entire San Diego stay discovering all that is Balboa Park, one of the best parks in San Diego. The stunning space occupies over 1,200 acres and delivers a special experience for each and every guest no matter their interests. Take your pick from walking trails, art venues, gardens, over 16 museums and more recreational attractions and events that take place on the grounds each week.

Other attractions and San Diego parks call Balboa Park home, including the San Diego Museum of Art, San Diego Air & Space Museum and the California Tower.

Kate Sessions Park

Kate Sessions’ outstanding leadership and community work in the horticulture field was her claim to fame in San Diego. So much so, Kate Sessions Park on Soledad Road in San Diego was named in her honor. Some say it’s one of the most peaceful San Diego parks.

Plan to visit Kate Sessions if you’re hungry for a view and lounge day at one of the best parks in San Diego. Residents and tourists delight in the inspiring sight of Mission Bay that you can’t get anywhere else but atop the park’s hill. If you’re traveling with precious pet cargo, they too can enjoy a day at the park as long as you keep them close by on a leash.

Sunset Cliffs Natural Park

Many of the San Diego parks you’ll see during your time with Old Town Trolley – San Diego are nestled along the coast. Among that group of coastal sanctuaries is Sunset Cliffs Natural Park. The 68-acre park is in the backyard of Point Loma, with its cliffs overlooking the Pacific for unmatched romantic sunsets.

Caves, cliffs and captivating views make the park one of the best in San Diego to see the sights and explore the unique environment. You’ll see surfers, cruisers and thrill seekers out and about amongst the crowd during your visit. Feel closer to nature with a leisurely walk along the park’s paths, or leave footprints dotting the sandy shore.

Old Town San Diego State Historic Park

Old Town San Diego State Historic Park, one of the best parks in San Diego, was established in 1968 to preserve and commemorate San Diego’s oldest stories. It’s one of Old Town Trolley – San Diego riders’ favorite stops and is home to some of the city’s most celebrated historic buildings. Travel back in time to one of the most storied San Diego parks, surrounded by specialty boutique shops, museums, and even an Old West-style saloon.

The park prides itself on being one of the more historic San Diego parks. With its vibrant streets that capture the essence of San Diego between the 1820s and 1870s, it’s a worthy addition to any San Diego getaway.

Cabrillo National Monument

Closing out our collection of the best parks in San Diego is a charming piece of California history: the Cabrillo National Monument. At the tip of the Point Loma peninsula sits the iconic lighthouse and national monument, high above sea level.

You’ll be in awe of the monument’s presence as the storied past of Juan Rodriguez Cabrillo stands before you. The nationally recognized site honors his voyage as the first European to journey to what is now the west coast of the country. With the vantage point’s lookout spanning all the way to Mexico, there’s oceanic beauty as far as the eye can see, making it one of the most gorgeous San Diego parks.