• Trek through the San Diego Zoo, the most visited zoo in the United States. The zoo was a pioneer in open-air, cageless exhibits that recreate natural animal habitats, and it is also one of the few zoos in the world that successfully bred the giant panda. See more than 3,500 animals on a guided bus tour of the zoo or from the Skyfari gondola lift overhead.

• Explore Balboa Park, a 1,200-acre urban cultural park in San Diego that is a National Historic Landmark. Balboa Park hosted the Panama–California Exposition in 1915 and the California Pacific International Exposition in 1935, so be sure to see the historic Exposition buildings. Explore the open space areas, natural vegetation zones, green belts, gardens, and walking paths, as well as the museums, several theaters, and the world famous San Diego Zoo in the park.

• Wander the historic Gaslamp Quarter, which is the historic heart of San Diego. This historic district features cultural offerings including festivals and other events, theaters, art galleries, symphony halls, concert venues, and museums, in addition to its Victorian architecture. Browse the boutiques, and take in the historic district from a rooftop bar or dining al fresco on the sidewalk.