Warm days, cool nights, cooler things to do! San Diego is one of those US cities that you can find on most “must visit” lists. Even here on Travel Smart Blog, we mention the iconic Southern California city quite often. And with good reason! There’s so much to do and so many great places to stay that you can’t visit just once.

San Diego is rising in popularity among both domestic and foreign travelers. According to the Hotels.com Hotel Price Index (HPI), it rose above Chicago for the first time to the fourth most popular destination among Americans. It also rose above Chicago again as the eighth most preferred city for foreign visitors. Isn’t it time for another visit to San Diego?

On October 1^st, I mentioned that it is “Kids Free” month in San Diego. Hundreds of restaurants and attractions offer free entrance, meals and more to kids 12 and under. Take advantage of the free entrances to Sea World, The San Diego Zoo, and LegoLand through the end of October.

You’ve probably heard of Balboa Park, Sea World, and the Hotel Del Coronado. Here are a few things you may not know about San Diego…but you should!

Get Chocolate While It Lasts

San Diego Natural History Museum has a delicious, new visiting exhibit, Chocolate, which will be on display until March 10, 2013. Developed by The Field Museum in Chicago, the exhibit moves visitors through chocolate’s history beginning with the botanical life of the cacao tree and ending with chocolate’s place in today’s world market.

Go Victorian

Heritage Park Victorian Village is open each day from sunrise to sunset. Situated on a hillside just off Juan Street, Heritage Park takes you back to a more refined time of San Diego. The village is made up of seven classic examples of Victorian architecture, restored to their original glory.

Visit Carlsbad Village

The quaint town of Carlsbad is an easy walk from the beach, offering plenty of dining and shopping options. It has small town charm with tree-lined streets and sidewalks, ideal for walking. The Carlsbad Village Certified Farmers’ Market is held twice a week year-round, every Wednesday and Saturday, from 1-5 PM.

California Camping

With the weather mild all year long, consider a night under the stars at South Carlsbad State Beach. This would be a great spot to test the “car camping” waters, and create some great campfire memories with friends and families! The beach campground has gorgeous views and is somewhat isolated off I-5 on Carlsbad’s south side. The campsite fills up fast and reservations (especially in summer) are recommended. Reserve anytime online through www.parks.ca.gov, or by contacting the ReserveAmerica Call Center at (800) 444-7275 during select hours.

San Diego Suite Deals from Hotels.com

Here’s something else I bet you didn’t know!  Hotels.com is running some sweet last minute deals on San Diego hotels and resorts.

What’s your favorite thing about San Diego?

 

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