University City Travel Guide
San Diego
Visit University City
Popular places to visit
San Diego Mormon Temple
You can learn about the history of San Diego with a trip to San Diego Mormon Temple. Discover the beautiful sunsets and top-notch restaurants in this walkable area.
San Diego Zoo
See nature up-close and personal at one of the country’s largest and most educational zoos.
Mission Bay
Mingle with eccentric locals at bohemian beaches, soak up the sun on a Jet Ski and fish from marshy islands at San Diego’s premier water park.
San Diego Convention Center
During your trip, find out what's happening in San Diego Convention Center, a top convention centre in San Diego. Experience the area's fascinating museums and acclaimed art galleries.
Mission Beach
A favorite vacation spot for 100 years, this seaside village combines old-fashioned charm with modern amenities.
Balboa Park
Culture and nature converge in this diverse park located in the heart of the city.
Things to do
USS Midway Museum with Direct-to-Gate
City Cruises San Diego: Premier Bottomless Mimosa Brunch Cruise
LEGOLAND® California Resort
San Diego's City Harbor Sightseeing Cruise
San Diego Old Town Trolley Hop-On Hop-Off Tour
Top hotels in University City
San Diego Marriott La Jolla
Happy with our stay! Would come back.
Reviewed on 13 Apr 2026
Embassy Suites by Hilton San Diego La Jolla
The room smelled almost like smoke, the roof had water stains and the bathroom wasn’t ideal. Definitely an older hotel but has a slight charm. The center communal space is great an is what makes this hotel alright.
Reviewed on 13 Apr 2026
Paradise Point Resort & Spa
Overall a nice place but the room could have been cleaner. Probably would not recommend with babies and toddlers
Reviewed on 13 Apr 2026
Best Western Seven Seas
The staff doesn’t let you check in early, after a long drive I needed to rest but literally got there 3:45 and rudely they said check in is at 4:00 pm. So if you plan to get early there is not the choice and if you want to be treated bad for getting there early.
Reviewed on 14 Apr 2026
Hard Rock Hotel San Diego
The hotel was very nice. The only negative, is that the hotel is starting to show it's age.
Reviewed on 13 Apr 2026
Handlery Hotel
Very disappointed with our stay at Handlery Hotel (4/9–4/12). It was nothing like advertised and far from the relaxing getaway we booked. Our room was placed directly by a housekeeping closet. Every morning around 6:30–7:00 AM staff gathered there talking loudly, using phones, and slamming doors, ...
Reviewed on 13 Apr 2026
Other neighbourhoods around University City
North Pacific Beach
If you're spending some time in North Pacific Beach, Pacific Beach and Tourmaline Surfing Park are top sights worth seeing.
Carmel Valley
The beaches and abundant dining options are top of the list for many visitors to Carmel Valley. A stop by Meadows Del Mar Golf Club or The Grand Golf Club might round out your trip.
Pacific Beach
The stunning beaches and fantastic nightlife are just a few highlights of Pacific Beach. Make a stop by Mission Bay or Pacific Beach while you're exploring the area.
Bay Park
If you're looking for beaches and seaside views, Bay Park might be a great stop. Notable sights like Clairemont Village Shopping Center are also worth visiting, and you might jump aboard the metro at Clairemont Drive Station or Balboa Avenue Transit Center Station to get around town.
Linda Vista
When in Linda Vista and the surrounding area, you'll want to check out sights like Fashion Valley Mall or Mission Valley Mall and hop on the metro to see more of the city at Morena - Linda Vista Station or Tecolote Road Station.
Mission Beach
If you're spending some time in Mission Beach, Mission Bay and Mission Beach are top sights worth seeing.
