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 Mission Bay or Fashion Valley Mall, 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.
DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel San Diego - Mission Valley
The staff was kind and courteous , the rooms were clean, well and supplied with necessities. We received free cookies upon entry, the gym, indoor pool and jacuzzi were amazing. The only surprise that was quite significant and is not mentioned in the Expedia or hotel site description is that doubletree ...
Reviewed on 5 Jan 2026
Best Western Seven Seas
Needs more grounds keep
Reviewed on 5 Jan 2026
Lafayette Hotel & Club
Beautiful place. Not sure the Holidays are the best time to stay here as it was so crowded. Long lines...
Reviewed on 5 Jan 2026
City24 Hotel Little Italy Mission Hills
Undervalued property in such a good location as long as you don’t mind the freeway and place noise but to me the pros of the property easily outweigh it.
Reviewed on 24 Dec 2025
Uptown Inn by Vantaggio - Limited Service Apart-Hotel
Rooms are really small, but provide most amenities. You have to ask for cleaning service and new towels. They charge for parking but you can find free parking on the streets. Decent place for price.
Reviewed on 3 Jan 2026
Avalon II by Avantstay Chic & Stylish San Diego Condo w/ Vibrant Interiors
Popular places to visit
San Diego Zoo
See nature up-close and personal at one of the country’s largest and most educational zoos.
Balboa Park
Culture and nature converge in this diverse park located in the heart of the city.
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.
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
City Cruises San Diego: Signature Dinner Cruise
San Diego Whale Watching & Dolphin Cruise
San Diego Explorer Pass: Save up to 50 Percent - Includes USS Midway
