8 (Non-Beach) Reasons San Diego Is Awesome
During the colder months, the coast can lose some of its appeal. Here are eight reasons to love San Diego that have nothing to do with the water:
1) San Diego Museum of Art –
The San Diego Museum of Art, established in 1926, houses rotating and permanent collections that will appeal to visitors of all ages. The museum's impressive external façade is a work of art in itself.
2) Nightlife –
The nightlife of San Diego is perfect for high-energy nights, whether you're headed to rooftop clubs, swanky cocktail lounges, or even country-dance bars.
3) Los Pensaquitos Canyon Trail –
Outdoorsy types who might prefer to tackle coastal hikes in the summer will love this inland trail, just a half-hour drive north of downtown San Diego. It features plenty of amazing views, climbing opportunities for the buffest among us, and opportunities to spot wildlife, like deer.
4) The San Diego Zoo –
For a more curated adventure, check out the San Diego Zoo. The giant panda exhibit is one of only four in the U.S., and the sheer size of the zoo virtually guarantees the most picky visitor will find something to enjoy.
5) Food –
San Diego's food and beverage culture is geared towards enjoyment, not snobbery. It's a prime destination for Mexican food in America, and an excellent meal of just about any cuisine you can imagine can be found within city limits.
6) Drink –
Brewery tourism is alive and well in San Diego, too—overwhelmed beer aficionados can sign up for one of the daily tours run by Brewery Tours of San Diego.
7) Live Acts–
Venues like the Belly Up Tavern and the House of Blues San Diego cater to San Diego's thriving music scene. For big-name comedy acts, it's hard to beat the Balboa Theater.
8) Sports –
San Diego is home to MLB's Padres and the NFL's Chargers, as well as the American Hockey League's San Diego Gulls. Fans of more offbeat organized sports can check out San Diego's World TeamTennis team, the San Diego Aviators.