SAN DIEGO — San Diego, known as America's Finest City, is not just a beautiful place to live with its year-round pleasant weather and diverse landscapes. It also offers numerous free activities for residents and visitors alike, making it possible to enjoy the city without breaking the bank. We did the work for you and compiled a list of several fun and free things to do in San Diego. Enjoy!
Free Museum Days in Balboa Park
Balboa Park, a cultural hub of San Diego, offers free admission to various museums on different Tuesdays of each month for city and county residents. Don't forget to bring your ID to prove residency.
First Tuesday:
• Fleet Science Center
• San Diego Natural History Museum
• San Diego Model Railroad Museum
Second Tuesday:
• San Diego Air and Space Museum
• Veterans Museum
• Comic-Con Museum
Third Tuesday:
• Japanese Friendship Garden
• Mingei International Museum
• Old Globe Theatre (behind-the-scenes tour at 10:30 AM)
Fourth Tuesday:
• San Diego Automotive Museum
• Museum of Us
If you can’t make it to Balboa Park on a Tuesday, the Timken Museum of Art, showcasing European and American masterpieces, is always free to visit.
There are many exceptions throughout the year, especially in December for special events, including December Nights, so always check the Balboa Park website before planning your trip.
Outdoor Activities in San Diego
- Annie's Canyon Trail: A hidden gem in Cardiff, this two-mile hike features interesting slot canyons, sandstone caves, and ladders.
- Tijuana Estuary: Bird lovers can enjoy free guided bird walks on the 1st, 3rd, and 5th Sundays of each month at 10 AM, with free binocular rentals available.
- Chula Vista Elite Athlete Training Center: Take a free self-guided tour of this US Olympic and Paralympic training site.
Art and Culture in San Diego
Walk in Art in Hillcrest: Explore Mural Alley on the first Thursday of every month from 5 to 10 p.m.
Arts District Liberty Station: On the first Friday of each month, wander through this district to meet artists and discover public art installations.
Old Town San Diego: Visit the birthplace of California with free entry to the historic state park. Free walking tours are available on Wednesdays and Saturdays at 11 a.m. and 2 p.m.
Music and Entertainment in San Diego
The Rady Shell at Jacobs Park: Enjoy free yoga sessions once a month, but plan ahead because reservations are required.
San Diego Symphony Rehearsals: Some rehearsals at The Shell are free to attend. Check the website for spring schedules.
Spreckels Organ Pavilion: Every Sunday at 2 p.m., listen to a free one-hour concert on the world's largest outdoor pipe organ. On December 15th, you can join in a festive Carols Sing Along.
Nature and Education in San Diego
Water Conservation Garden: Free tours are available on the second Friday of each month at 10 AM at Cuyamaca College.
Once again, before visiting any of these attractions, please be sure to check their respective websites for the most up-to-date information on schedules and any potential changes or special events. Have fun exploring these free things in San Diego!