Just 3 days in San Diego
 

I will be joining my husband for 3 short days in San Diego at the end of this month. What I'd like to know is 1)What are the top 3 things everyone should do / see while in San Diego? (I think I must go to the zoo...I'm a huge zoo fan, but what else?) and 2) We are celebrating my 30th birthday -- where should we have a really nice romantic dinner that won't set us back more than $100 or so? <BR> <BR>Thanks!!!!

I attended a convention in San Diego last spring. Although I had very little spare time, I did take a "Behind the Scene" tour of the San Diego Zoo. It's very informative and you get to see a lot of things that ordinarily are not open to visitors. Have fun!! <BR>

I would go to the zoo for one day--if you can get on the behind the scenes tour that would be great, but even so it's a wonderful zoo. Be prepared for lots of walking. The second day I would see the gaslamp area and then take the ferry from Broadway to Coronado Island, see the Hotel Del, and have a meal in the wonderful Mexican restaurant there which I have forgotten the name of, Help??? The third day I would drive up to La Jolla and Del Mar to walk and window shop, visit galleries and relax. One suggestion for a dinner, not to expensive would be sunset at Il Fornaio's patio in Del Mar, but reserve ahead to be sure of being outside. Or, just go for a drink and have dinner inside. If you're not from California, these restaurants have pretty authentic Italian food. Pamplemousse in Del Mar is also good with pretty art on the walls and good service. Another favorite in La Jolla is George's at the Cove, but that might run a bit over your budget if you're planning to have wine also. Have fun.and happy birthday! <BR>

Hey Kam, I see that you are now recommending my suggestions on the ferry tour to Coronado and the Mexican Restaurant. Have you done it yourself? It is a great tour. I am not trying to be offensive. I think that it is great that you recommended it. BTW, the name of the Mexican restaurant is Miguel's Cocina and is located more or less across the street from the Hotel Del. It is in the same complex as the Brigantine restaurant which has the same ownership as Miguel's cocina. <BR> <BR>If you really like zoos then I would suggest a visit to the Wild Animal Park in Escondido. It is part of the San Diego zoo and is very interesting. The animals are in their own natural habitant.

<BR>Hi Cari, <BR> <BR>We just got back from a wek's vacation in S.D. I would defintely suggest you visit the Gaslamp District at night. There are street musicians,many restaurants offer live music (often jazz), and the streets are filled with interesting people. If you want something quieter, you can always choose from one of the many, many restaurants and wine bars and just go inside and chill. Do not go to the Bayou Bar & Grill (Cajun food), though. Very disappointing. We found Del Mar itself sort of boring. Basically there are a bunch of shops vying for your dollars: some snazzy, some your basic mall chain type (there was a Victoria's Secret as well as an Express). The beach and views were incredible, though. I wouldn't miss the Hotel del Coranado. <BR> <BR>Have fun!

I would suggest you go to TOP OF THE COVE in La Jolla. You are overlooking the ocean and it is beautiful and romantic... Also, the zoo is a must, I grew up in S.D. and went at least 3 or 4 times a year for 20 years and never got tired of it! Have fun!