Central San Diego Travel Guide
Tourist Guide
Visit Central San Diego
Where to stay in Central San Diego
Mission Valley
Known for its stunning beaches and popular shops, there's plenty to explore in Mission Valley. Check out top attractions like Mission Valley Mall and Fashion Valley Mall, and jump on the metro at Hazard Center Station or Mission Valley Center Station to see more of the city.
Old Town San Diego
The abundant dining options and seaside views are top of the list for many visitors to Old Town San Diego. A stop by Old Town San Diego State Park or Whaley House Museum might round out your trip.
North Park
North Park is well liked for its restaurants, and you can visit sights like San Diego Zoo and San Diego Natural History Museum if you have time to explore the area.
Hillcrest
Visitors to Hillcrest enjoy its restaurants, and if you want to do some exploring, Marston House is worth a stop.
Clairemont
Clairemont is well liked for many features, particularly its restaurants, beaches and shopping. Though there may not be top sights in Clairemont, consider stopping by Clairemont Village Shopping Center or Mission Bay, located nearby.
Bankers Hill
While visiting Bankers Hill, you might make a stop by sights like Mo'olelo Performing Arts Company and Inez Grant Parker Memorial Rose Garden.
Lafayette Hotel & Club
My favorite hotel in San Diego. Staff is always helpful, kind and professional. The rooms are comfortable, clean, eclectic and possibly the best minibar selection of top shelf products anywhere. The property invites you to discover and play and socialize. The bar and food programs are superb.
Reviewed on 17 Dec 2025
San Diego Marriott La Jolla
I did not use the bar or restaurant but the hotel was clean and all of the staff was wonderful.
Reviewed on 20 Dec 2025
DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel San Diego - Mission Valley
Plumbing was very loud.
Reviewed on 16 Dec 2025
City24 Hotel Little Italy Mission Hills
would definitely go back and stay there again
Reviewed on 1 Dec 2025
Uptown Inn by Vantaggio - Limited Service Apart-Hotel
Overall good place.
Reviewed on 18 Nov 2025
Inn at the Park by WorldMark
Check Central San Diego hotel availability
Popular places to visit
San Diego Zoo
See nature up-close and personal at one of the country’s largest and most educational zoos.
Hotel Circle
Hotel Circle is just one of the places to see in San Diego, so why not enjoy the other things to explore during your travels? Visit the shops and top-notch restaurants in this family-friendly area.
Balboa Park
Culture and nature converge in this diverse park located in the heart of the city.
Snapdragon Stadium
Catch an event at Snapdragon Stadium during your trip to San Diego. Attend a sporting event or simply enjoy the top-notch restaurants while you're in the area.
Fashion Valley Mall
You can find the perfect gifts to bring home at Fashion Valley Mall during your trip to San Diego. Take in the fascinating museums and beautiful sunsets in this walkable area.
Westfield UTC
You can do some window-shopping at Westfield UTC during your trip to San Diego. Discover the beautiful sunsets and top-notch restaurants in this walkable area.
Things to do
USS Midway Museum with Direct-to-Gate
LEGOLAND® California Resort
San Diego Whale Watching & Dolphin Cruise
San Diego Explorer Pass: Save up to 50 Percent - Includes USS Midway
San Diego Botanical Garden Entry Ticket and Transportation
