In my previous blog I told you about a new series I’m starting called “Saving Money on Your Summer Vacation.” With the economy faltering some families are considering giving up their annual family vacations in order to spare the household’s bottom line.
However, as you saw in my last blog with a little planning there are ways you can explore the nation’s top tourist spots without going bankrupt in the process.
This week I am turning the spotlight on San Diego. Now that you know what attractions you can get into for free here’s a list of some of the city’s other spectacular venues that are perfectly suited for families traveling on a budget:
Mission Bay Park. The spectacular man-made park spans more than 4,000 acres and is considered the largest aquatic open area in the United States. The place is teeming with playgrounds and wide-open grassy spaces, which become havens for kite-lovers during the spring and summer months. Mission Bay Park is also the prefect place to have a budget-saving picnic under the palm trees and let your children run off some steam—-for free.
Coronado Island. Some of my fondest memories of San Diego were made on Coronado Island. (It is one of the most ideal places to snap a family portrait.) I would suggest touring the legendary Hotel del Coronado. The hotel was built in 1888 and is a National Historic Landmark. It costs a fortune to stay in the 5-star resort, but walking around the grounds and its adjoining beach is absolutely free. If you decided not to rent a car during your visit consider taking the San Diego-Coronado Ferry to access the isthmus; a one-way fare costs just $3 per person and the views are incredible.
San Diego’s Historic Gaslamp Quarter. Located in downtown, the area is known to locals as the Gaslamp. It covers about 16 square blocks and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The area is home to dozens of picturesque Victorian-style buildings and more than 100 restaurants and shops. I wouldn’t suggest blowing your budget shopping, but there are a number of affordable eateries in the area that cater to patrons from the nearby San Diego Convention Center.
Old Town State Historic Park. If you are looking for an inexpensive place to give your children an amazing learning experience head to Old Town State Historic Park. The area is designed so guests can travel back in time and experience what it was like to live in Mexico and the United States during the 19th century. The area is home to well preserved and restored buildings such as a courthouse, school and stables. You can also participate in living-history demonstrations including blacksmithing, crafts and cooking. There are also a number of informative displays that spotlight the time period of 1821-1872. And the best part—nearly all the park’s activities are free.
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