ART

pottery and an Indian basketry collection.  3525 Seventh Ave., Balboa Park, 619.297.9327

Map O16

MINGEI INTERNATIONAL

MUSEUM Featuring exhibits celebrating folk art, design and cultures around the world, the museum has undergone a $55 million remodel. Enjoy new civic space, a dedicated education center for K-12 students, a theater, library, courtyard, galleries, a gift shop, dining and more.  1439 El Prado, Balboa Park, 619.239.0003 Map O17

MISSION SAN DIEGO DE ALCALÁ Also an active Catholic church, this landmark building is the first of 21 missions stretching north along the California coast. This one was established by Father Junípero Serra in 1769 on Presidio Hill and moved to this site in 1774.  10818 San Diego Mission Road, Mission Valley, 619.281.8449 Map I12

MUSEUM OF CONTEMPORARY ART SAN DIEGO (MCASD) Modern museum features post-1950s art spanning many genres and media. MCASD La Jolla recently underwent an extensive expansion.  1100 Kettner Blvd., downtown, Map Q15; 700 Prospect St., La Jolla, Map W19; 858.454.3541

MUSEUM OF MAKING

MUSIC Check out vintage instruments and interactive audio and visual exhibits that explore the history of American popular music, including how instruments are made, used and sold.

5790 Armada Drive, Carlsbad, 760.438.5996 Map U23

MUSEUM OF PHOTOGRAPHIC ARTS Boundarypushing collection includes contemporary photography, social documentary and photojournalism; plus regularly rotating exhibits and film screenings.  1649 El Prado, Balboa Park, 619.238.7559 Map O17

NEW CHILDREN’S MUSEUM

Modern museum designed by Rob Quigley encourages kids to use their imaginations with interactive exhibits.  200 W. Island Ave., downtown, 619.233.8792 Map Q16

OCEANSIDE MUSEUM OF ART Regional and international artists showcased in exhibits ranging from landscape painting to furniture, neon sculpture, art quilts, architectural glass and more. It’s a North County gem.  704 Pier View Way, Oceanside, 760.435.3720 Map S22

SAN DIEGO AIR & SPACE

MUSEUM The family-friendly venue is a wonderland for kids of all ages—showcasing spacecraft, jets, historical aircraft, science exhibits and more inside the domed, cylinder-shaped former Ford Building.  2001 Pan American Plaza, Balboa Park, 619.234.8291 Map P17

S.D. ARCHAEOLOGICAL CENTER Learn the story of how people have lived in San Diego County for the past 10,000 years at this dynamic curation facility and museum. The fun includes educational programming about local archaeology, rock art, “zoo-archaeology,” and even the prehistoric Otay Mesa landscape.  16666 San Pasqual Valley Road, Escondido, 760.291.0370 Map C4

SAN DIEGO HISTORY

CENTER Peruse a range of exhibitions and memorabilia that chronicle San Diego’s storied and diverse history. The museum also features an extensive research library—home to several million documents and photographs from the city’s past, including portraits of famed San Diegans such as Dr. Seuss.  1649 El Prado, Balboa Park, 619.232.6203 Map O17

SAN DIEGO MODEL RAILROAD MUSEUM Discover a treasure trove of all things locomotive. Learn about the heritage and history of American railroading by way of educational displays and exhibits, scale models of railroads across California, toy trains and more.  1649 El Prado, Balboa Park, 619.696.0199 Map O17

SAN DIEGO MUSEUM OF ART It’s home to more than 20,000 works dating back to 3000 B.C. The collection includes Italian Renaissance and Spanish Baroque-era works, 19th–20th-century American and European paintings and sculptures, and a vast Asian collection. Plus, dozens of new, rotating exhibits on view throughout the year.  1450 El Prado, Balboa Park, 619.232.7931 Map O17

SAN DIEGO MUSEUM OF US This cultural anthropology museum explores cultures from around the world, focusing on the human experience in an effort to inspire deeper human connection and spark meaningful conversations. It’s also home to the landmark California Tower, which offers tours to the top.  1350 El Prado, Balboa Park, 619.239.2001 Map O17

SAN DIEGO NATURAL HISTORY MUSEUM

Founded in 1874, it’s the oldest scientific institution in Southern California. Inside you’ll find dinosaur displays, giant-screen films, photography exhibitions and more.  1788 El Prado, Balboa Park, 619.232.3821 Map O17

STUART COLLECTION

Scattered across the UC San Diego campus, the outdoor art collection—created in 1981 and comprising more than 20 sculptures— includes talking and singing trees, a “Sun God” and more. Free.  Gilman and La Jolla Village drives, La Jolla, 858.534.2230. Map T20

USS MIDWAY Now a retired aircraft carrier, the world’s largest floating naval-aviation museum is home to more than 30 restored airplanes and interactive exhibits inside; a massive flight deck overlooking San Diego Bay (a perfect spot for family photos); plus military veterans giving personal tours.  910 N. Harbor Drive, Embarcadero, 619.544.9600, Map Q14

Destination Shopping

BAZAAR DEL MUNDO

This colorful collection of shops has been an Old Town treasure for 50 years—featuring a dazzling array of Mexican decor, authentic folk art, clothing, jewelry, accessories, unique artwork, housewares, gifts and much more—all next to the festive Casa Guadalajara Mexican restaurant.  4133 Taylor St., Old Town, 619.296.3161 Map M14

CARLSBAD PREMIUM

OUTLETS Shop among 90 outlet stores (including Barneys New York, Polo Ralph Lauren, Tory Burch, Kate Spade New York, Coach, Theory and Michael Kors) in a pleasant outdoor setting.  5620 Paseo del Norte, Carlsbad, 760.804.9000 Map U22

DEL MAR HIGHLANDS

TOWN CENTER This exclusive pocket of dining, shopping and entertainment comprises restaurants patios; plus a theater.

Whether you need an activity for your company outing —or just a romantic charter for two, our spacious catamaran holds up to 48 passengers and will let you experience the bay like you’ve never seen it before... from the water! Aloha! We look forward to sailing with you!

12925 El Camino Real, Del Mar, Map X22

With more shops, services gorgeous shopping town overOcean and main drag.

1555 Camino Del Mar, Del Map X22

Located border, 14,000-square-foot center shopping: luxury products, confectionary, tobacco.  601 E. San Ysidro Blvd., San Ysidro, Bilevel 200 shops exclusive Rolex restaurants Kitchen and court; and an theater. 7007 Friars Road, Mission Valley, 619.688.9113 Map J10

FLOWER HILL PROMENADE

Del Mar’s popular lifestyle center is home to refined restaurants, casual cafes and high-end specialty boutiques, such as trendy women’s clothier Van de Vort.  2720 Via de la Valle, Del Mar, 858.481.7131 Map X22

THE FORUM CARLSBAD

Elegant, tree-lined outdoor center with dozens of shops and restaurants, including Anthropologie and Sur La Table.  1905 Calle Barcelona, Carlsbad, 760.479.0166 Map U23

THE HEADQUARTERS AT SEAPORT Open-air center in a historical setting is home to specialty shops, designer boutiques and restaurants.  789 W. Harbor Drive, Embarcadero, 619.235.4014 Map K11

LAS AMERICAS PREMIUM

OUTLETS The Spanish Colonialstyle outlet mall has 125-plus shops, as well as eateries.  4211 Camino de la Plaza, San Ysidro, 619.934.8400 Map F3

ONE PASEO This community hub and lifestyle center with a country-coastal vibe boasts 96,000 square feet of upscale

Explore

boutiques and stores, services and restaurants. Tenants include Salt & Straw, Whiskey x Leather, jeweler Marrow Fine, Urban Beach House and Shop Good.  3745 Paseo Place, Del Mar, 858.523.2298 Map X22

OTAY RANCH TOWN

CENTER Shops at this airy, stylish South County mall include Apple, Sephora and many fashion boutiques. Enjoy outdoor fire pits, a dog park and a movie theater.  2015 Birch Road, Chula Vista, 619.656.9100 Map F3

SEAPORT VILLAGE This picturesque and charming outdoor plaza on the waterfront features 45 one-of-a-kind shops, galleries and restaurants.  849 W. Harbor Drive, Embarcadero, 619.235.4014 Map R15

THE SHOPPES AT CARLSBAD

Indoor shopping center features dozens of retail, dining (including The Cheesecake Factory) and entertainment; plus a kid-friendly, water-inspired play area.  2525 El Camino Real, Carlsbad, 760.729.6183 Map U23

WESTFIELD UTC Beautiful outdoor shopping center with 150-plus upmarket chain retailers and shops, including Hermes and Louis Vuitton; plus stores like the flagship Nordstrom; myriad restaurants; a movie theater; and alfresco lounges.  4545 La Jolla Village Drive, Golden Triangle, 858.546.8858 Map T21

Explore

AOLANI Family-owned charter company offers all-inclusive, private San Diego sailing cruises aboard its 58-foot catamaran yacht, accommodating up to 48 passengers. 1380 Harbor Island Drive, Harbor Island, 619.807.8000 Map K10

BALBOA PARK Free tours about the 1,200-acre urban cultural park’s history, architecture, horticulture, botanical gardens and other fun facts. Visitors Center, 1549 El Prado, Balboa Park, 619.239.0512 Map P17

BREWERY TOURS OF SAN DIEGO This local tour company provides transportation (aka a festive beer bus) to the area’s top craft breweries, beer festivals and beer-related events; plus public and private San Diego beer tours.  619.961.7999, brewerytoursofsd.com

CITY CRUISES BY HORNBLOWER Daily narrated tours of San Diego Bay; plus dinner cruises, yacht charters, whale watching (seasonal) and special events. 970 N. Harbor Drive, Broadway Pier, Embarcadero, 619.686.8715 Map Q14

CITYPASS Discount combo packages for the San Diego Zoo, Safari Park, SeaWorld, Universal Studios Hollywood, Disneyland and Disney California Adventure.  888.330.5008, citypass.com

COASTER Commuter train offers coastal scenery as it runs north and south through San Diego County, serving eight different stations between Oceanside and downtown San Diego.  gonctd.com/coaster

CORONADO HISTORICAL ASSOCIATION TOURS

Educational and fun walking tours, including local history, architecture and gardens. Reservations required.  1100 Orange Ave., Coronado, 619.435.7242 Map L11

FLAGSHIP CRUISES AND EVENTS Offering daily tours of San Diego Bay; plus brunch and dinner cruises, water-taxis, weddings, celebrations, private parties, modern amenities and more.  990 N. Harbor Drive, Embarcadero, 800.442.7847 Map Q14

GASLAMP QUARTER HISTORICAL FOUNDATION

Two-hour walking tour of the Gaslamp on Saturdays. 410 Island Ave., Gaslamp, 619.233.4692 Map R16

GOCAR TOURS Explore the city in an adorable, GPS-guided, storytelling car. (Yes, they’re those tiny convertibles you see tooling around town.) Company also offers scooter tours. Helmets required. 3918 Maison St., Old Town, 800.914.6227 Map M13

HIKE BIKE KAYAK ADVENTURE TOURS Enjoy daily guided kayak tours and rentals; biking and hiking tours; and team-building experiences in La Jolla, Mission Bay, Coronado and other areas—plus surfboard and snorkel gear rentals. 2222 Avenida de la Playa, La Jolla, 858.551.9510 Map V20

LA JOLLA KAYAK Guided snorkeling/kayak tours of the cove and caves; SUP; single/ double kayak and snorkeling gear rentals; whale watching; and e-bike tours. 2199 Avenida de la Playa, La Jolla Shores, 858.459.1114 Map V20

OLD TOWN TROLLEY TOURS

OF SAN DIEGO Narrated sightseeing tour explores San Diego and Coronado via trolley or “SEAL” (sea and land vehicle). Call for nearest pickup point and reservations. 619.298.8687

SAN DIEGO CHINESE

HISTORICAL SOCIETY

Embark on a unique walking tour of downtown San Diego’s Asian-Pacific Historic District, learning little-known fun facts. Reservations required (visit website for details and tickets).  Chinese Historical Museum, 404 Third Ave., downtown, sdchm.org Map R16

SAN DIEGO SAILING

TOURS Book a tour of San Diego Bay aboard a classic luxury sailing yacht. Packages range from a two-hour daytime sail; to a catered sunset cruise for two; to a private charter with full amenities for up to six guests. Cabrillo Isle Marina, 1450 Harbor Island Drive, Harbor Island, 619.786.0173 Map K10

SAN DIEGO SCENIC

TOURS The local outfit specializes in daily scheduled, professionally narrated, sightseeing tours of San Diego County and Tijuana, Mexico (including the famous Agua Caliente Racetrack); along with bus transportation for private group charters. 858.273.8687

SAN DIEGO SEAL TOURS

This unique, 90-minute tour aboard the company’s unmistakable, bright-blue Hydra-Terra— an amphibious vehicle that drives passengers from land right into the water—explores San Diego Bay and its environs. 500 Kettner Blvd., Marina District, 619.298.8687 Map Q15

SAN DIEGO SPEED BOAT

ADVENTURES Be the captain of your own speed boat! Trained guides help you navigate the seas via two-way radio and provide a narrated tour during this 13-mile trek along beautiful San Diego Bay.  1450 Harbor Island Drive, #205, Harbor Island, 619.294.5852 Map K10

SUNSET CLIFFS TRAIL

WALK This 3.7-mile hike is a twisting, turning jaunt that takes you directly along the coast down to Sunset Cliffs Natural Park near Point Loma Nazarene University. Depending on the tides, there can be lots of fun caves to explore.  Start at Ocean Beach Pier at 1950 Abbott St. and walk south. Map J8

SUP CORONADO Enjoy both group and private lessons on the bay in the popular sport of stand-up paddleboarding; plus ocean and bay tours; and canoe and kayak rentals.619.888.7686

TORREY PINES GLIDERPORT

Glide like a bird above the majestic bluffs overlooking Torrey Pines State Beach aboard a hang glider or parasail glider. With 100 years of flying history, the outfit offers 20- to 25-minute tandem rides with seasoned instructors. Open daily.  2800 Torrey Pines Scenic Drive, La Jolla, 858.452.9858 Map T19

TORREY PINES STATE NATURAL RESERVE Hike along 2,000 acres of coastal scenery across eight different trails, including two that make the steep descent to the beach—varying in length from 100 yards to more than a mile. Rewards include a dip in the ocean and views of 300-foothigh sandstone cliffs.  12600 N. Torrey Pines Road, La Jolla, 858.755.2063 Map T19

TRITON CHARTERS Accommodating 100-plus passengers, the 75-foot, luxurious catamaran is outfitted with a 13-seat bar, a large dance floor, built-in waterslide, advanced sound system, trampoline and more.  2700 Shelter Island Drive, Shelter Island, 844.587.4866 Map K9

WHERE YOU WANT TO BE TOURS

The company offers team-building scavenger hunts that explore downtown San Diego. Walking and biking tours also available; plus culinary food tours and custom hotel property games.  611 K St., East Village, 619.917.6037 Map Q16

XPLORE OFFSHORE

Personalized ocean-rafting on a Navy SEAL-style boat; highspeed sightseeing; snorkeling; and evening cocktails on the waterfront. Plus, whale watching (seasonal) and custom water adventures.  858.361.9494

8

30 Things

We Love This Spring

9 Morning

17 Delicious organic food, fair-trade coffee and natural wines at GOODONYA in Encinitas. p. 13

24 Catching a San Diego Legion pro rugby match at Snapdragon Stadium in Mission Valley.

10 Yoga sessions along the waterfront at The Rady Shell at Jacobs Park. p.12

11 Exploring 20 immersive “art meets technology” exhibits at the new WNDR Museum downtown. p. 8

12 Indulging in the ninecourse chef’s tasting menu at fine-dining outpost Addison, SoCal’s only restaurant with three Michelin stars. p. 7

13 Touring architectural marvel The Salk Institute for Biological Studies campus, overlooking the ocean.

14 Leisurely sunset strolls while watching surfers hang ten off the shores of Cardiff State Beach

15 Shopping and lunching at Westfield UTC. p. 42

16 Buying fresh flowers and spring produce at the Little Italy Mercato

18 Wine tasting, shopping for gifts and exploring the quaint grounds of Bernardo Winery. p. 34

19 Playtime in Mission Beach, complete with a boardwalk stroll and a ride on the vintage Giant Dipper roller coaster.

20 Dancing, beignets and buckets of boiled crawfish at the Gator by the Bay Zydeco, Blues & Crawfish Festival, May 11-14 at Spanish Landing Park.

21 Exploring Coronado along Orange Avenue, home to shops, dining and Lamb’s Players Theatre. p. 18

22 Relaxing at the Spa at Rancho Valencia. p. 11

23 Admiring rare luxury and classic cars at La Jolla Concours d’Elegance, April 21-23 at La Jolla Cove.

25 Spring wildflowers, stargazing and hiking at AnzaBorrego Desert State Park

26 Touring the historical Marston House Museum, an architectural masterpiece designed by Irving Gill. p. 37

27 Perusing works by 250 artists at Mission Federal ArtWalk—the region’s largest urban arts festival, April 29-30 in Little Italy.

28 Running up all 100 stairs of the San Diego Convention Center—taking in city and San Diego Bay views at the top. p. 12

29 Craft margaritas and tacos (try the cilantrolime grilled shrimp taco) at The Blind Burro. p. 26

30 Swimming, sun-bathing, dining and bar-hopping in Pacific Beach for spring break in San Diego!