7 non-expo things to do while you’re in San Diego

Invariably, there are people that when you mention you’re going to San Diego on a business trip respond with, “How fun!” or, “I’m so jealous!” While in reality, your agenda includes myriad meetings, educational sessions and a to-do list for the expo hall–if you’re lucky, you can catch a glimpse of the sunset on the way to meet a colleague for dinner.

If that’s all you do, great! You’re an expo pro! But you’re definitely missing out. Take some time (stay an extra day!), and live up to expectations of the folks back home by checking out some of these attractions.

Harbor Cruises

A cruise really is the best way to take in the full beauty of the San Diego shore line, from Point Loma to the Coronado Bridge, as well as get an up-close experience with the ocean life. Make time for a one- or two-hour tour.

San Diego Zoo

Have some time to kill this afternoon? Uber on over to the world-famous San Diego Zoo. Spread across 100 acres, the zoo features more than 3,700 animals, including the rare Giant Pandas. The zoo’s newest exhibit, Africa Rocks, opened in 2017 and features African penguins, vervet monkeys, leopards, lemurs, baboons, mongooses and an aviary filled with African bird species.

Balboa Park

The zoo closes at 6 PM, but there’s still plenty to do in Balboa Park, “where culture, science, and nature collide.”A stroll down El Prado, the park’s main boulevard, showcases the city’s Spanish Colonial Revival architecture and is home to many of the park’s more than a dozen museums. If you’re tired of being inside, take a stroll and enjoy some fresh air in the park’s array of gardens and green spaces.

The Embarcadero

You don’t have to be a military enthusiast to enjoy the sights of this seaside hub, but it certainly helps. Home the USS Midway, a decommissioned aircraft carrier now serving as a museum, as well as the San Diego Aircraft Museum, the pier is also regularly frequented by working Navy ships.

Mission Beach

Want to take a journey back in time? Head to Mission Beach for a stroll along the boardwalk. Enjoy street performers,vendors and some of the greatest people-watching in the country. Pop into Belmont Park for the classic roller coasters–some dating back to the park’s 1925 opening.

Coronado Island

The journey to Coronado Island itself is part of the adventure. Thrill-seekers should opt for the Coronado Bay Bridge, built to accommodate the largest of military ships. Not for you? Head to Ferry Landing and a short ride in the ocean air. Once you’ve landed, make sure to visit the historic Hotel Del Coronado and explore the island’s star-studded history (but watch out for ghosts!).

La Jolla Cove

Staying a few extra days in San Diego? Head out of the city and find out why La Jolla Cove is one of the most-photographed beaches in Southern California. Enjoy soft sand and crystal-clear waters while watching the local sea lion population cavort on Seal Rock. Not the beach type? Head up the coast to Torrey Pines Golf Course.