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Things to Do in North County San Diego, California
Travel outside of popular areas of San Diego County such as downtown, La Jolla, & Balboa Park. They're fantastic & iconic & certainly worth a visit, but this post is all about visiting the north part of the county.
Your family will have the best time in North County! What is there to do in North County San Diego? Quite a lot! If you get an opportunity to travel to this area in Southern California, you'll find shopping, music, events, & more! You'll find that it's the life of the part.
Related reading: Coffee Shops in Carlsbad, California
Remember this post is more for future reference as travel starts to open up again. Please be safe. Socially distance yourself from others whenever possible. Wear your mask. I went on a hike & nearly everyone wore a mask. There weren't many people on the trail, but each person put their mask on as they passed by, especially in narrow areas of the trail where you can't distance yourself. It's like sunscreen, hat, water, it's protection! Why wouldn't I protect myself?
What is Considered North County in San Diego? What Towns are North of San Diego?
North County San Diego consists of coastal regions as well as inland regions. The coastal cities include Carlsbad, Del Mar, Encinitas, Oceanside, Solana Beach, and Vista. The inland cities include Escondido, Poway, San Marcos, and the northern part of the City of San Diego. The mountain cities include Ramona & Valley Center. There's room to explore the lifestyle as you travel through the coastal & inland cities.
Things to do: What is There to Do in North County San Diego?
Beaches
You'll find numerous beaches to choose from in the Southern California area. Del Mar, Encinitas, Carlsbad, & Oceanside are all beach towns in North County. Each city has its own range of beaches to pick from. You could travel from beach to beach if you really wanted to. South Carlsbad State Beach, Tamarack Surf Beach, South Oceanside Beach, South Ponto Beach, Moonlight State Beach, Buccaneer Beach Park, Oceanside Harbor Beach, & many more!
Hikes
Spend the day doing outdoor activities. While people aren't raving about the stunning views, I'd consider nature one of the best things to do in North County San Diego! Discover miles of hidden hills in Escondido's Way Up Trail, Harmony Grove Overlook, and Equine Incline Loop at Elfin Forest Recreational Reserve. Del Dios Gorge Trail at Lake Hodges in Escondido looks like a relaxing beachfront vacation instead.
People spend their day at the lake fishing & simmering in the sun like a turkey roasting in an oven. Walk around the Encinitas lagoon. Don't miss Annies Canyon Trail via North Rios Trailhead Loop, part of the San Elijo Lagoon Ecological Reserve. I went with a couple friends & it was a beautiful experience.
Hike Batiquitos Lagoon in Carlsbad for an incredible view of the lagoon near the Pacific Ocean. Potato Chip Rock, Double Peak Trail, Way Up Trail, Lake Calavera Loop Trail. There are soooo many hikes & trails, do a little bit of Googling or use AllTrails!
Water Activities
Once you get up to North County you'll find lots of fun options such as shopping, travel, heading to a museum, or to the sea. Surf at the ocean. Rent a paddleboard or pedal boat at Lake San Marcos Marina. The area offers plenty of water activities whether you want to just hang out at the beach or lake, or if you want to kayak, surf, etc. There's the Wave Water Park in Vista.
Gardens
We already know the abundance of opportunities & activities in San Diego (like kicking in in La Jolla or spending the afternoon at Torrey Pines), but there are literally hundreds of things to do in North County San Diego. There's the Alta Vista Botanical Gardens in Vista, California. Stroll around the San Diego Botanic Garden in Encinitas. Go shopping for plants at Buena Creek Gardens in San Marcos.
Grab coffee or tea at one of the many coffee shops in Carlsbad, Oceanside, etc! |
Coffee & Tea
Old California Coffee House and Eatery, Peet's Coffee, Leap Coffee, Baba Coffee, Bird Rock Coffee Roasters. There's really no shortage of coffee options. You can support small, locally owned businesses rather than big chains like Starbucks.
Breweries in Vista
San Diego is known for its craft beer, it's kind of San Diego's thing. There are actually a lot of breweries in North County. In Vista, you'll find Bear Roots Brewing Co., Wavelength Brewing Company, Backstreet Brewery, Mother Earth Brewing Company, Ebullition Brew Works, Barrel Harbor Brewing, Booze Brothers Brewing Co., BattleMage Brewing Company, Belching Beaver Pub 980, Latitude 33 Brewing Company, Helia Brewing Company. Downtown Vista is popping in general!
Don't miss the craft beer & brewery scene in North County; Vista has a lot of breweries! |
Breweries in Carlsbad
In Carlsbad, you can find Jacked Up Brewery & Culver Beer Co. There's probably more!
Breweries in Oceanside
In Oceanside, you'll find breweries such as Oceanside Brewing Company, Black Plague Brewing, Belching Beaver Brewery Oceanside, Northern Pine Brewing, Kilowatt Brewing Oceanside Taproom, Legacy Brewing Company, Breakwater Brewing, Bagby Beer Co. As far as things to do in North County San Diego, craft beer is at the top of the list.
Wineries
Although San Diego County isn't a notable wine country, there's still plenty of wine & some rolling hills of wineries hidden away within North County SD. 2Plank Vineyards in Vista, La Fleur's Winery in San Marcos. Escondido is the biggest hub for wine since it's perfectly located for wineries.
Deer Park Winery & Auto Museum, Belle Marie Winery, BK Cellars Urban Winery & Tasting Lounge are all in Escondido.
Twin Oaks Valley Winery in San Marcos. Witch Creek Winery in Carlsbad.
Other Adult Beverages
Prefer mead? Head to Meadiocrity Mead or Twisted Horn Mead and Cider in Vista.
Lots of hiking & nature in North County SD, such as in Escondido! |
Parks
Grape Day Park & Kit Carson Park in Escondido are popular amongst locals. Kit Carson Park has hiking trails, tennis courts, soccer fields, & other convenient amenities. There's Brengle Terrace Park and Buena Vista Park (also called Alta Vista Gardens) in Vista.
Oak Riparian Park in Oceanside has a playground, nature trails for hiking, as well as a picnic area. There's also Buddy Todd Park, Capistrano Park, Guajome Regional Park, Mance Buchanon Park in Oceanside, California.
Don't worry - Carlsbad has parks too, including Aviara Community Park, Alga Norte Community Park, Hidden Canyon Community Park, Cannon Park. Holiday Park, Magee Park, & more.
You'll find San Marcos Brandley Park packed with what seems like the entire county for the 4th of July fireworks. Del Mar has Seagrove Park, Powerhouse Park & Beach, Del Mar Shores Park, North Bluff Preserve, San Dieguito County Park. Parks are free, so your bank account will be appreciative.
San Diego Zoo
The San Diego Zoo Safari Park is located in Escondido, California. Fun story: I used to work there, but that's a story for another day. The Safari Park is different than the San Diego Zoo location in Balboa Park. People travel from all over the globe to go to the zoo & Safari Park.
LEGOLAND California
Located in Carlsbad, LEGOLAND California is a popular & fun destination for families & children. If your kiddos like Legos, this is the spot for them. They even have a hotel so you can stay on the property without having to navigate to & from the theme park every day. Take a look at the Legoland website for tickets, dining menu options, park maps, & more.
Shopping at Westfield North County
You'll find lots of shopping options throughout Northern San Diego County. Westfield North County in Escondido has stores, food court, & other dining options. Take the family& kids shopping, run a couple errands, grab some food, you could stay there for hours. Check out the Westfield North County website for updates.
Schools
If you want to get an education, you can do it smack dab in North County. Cal state? We got you! California State University, San Marcos (CSUSM) is a four-year university in San Marcos. Community colleges? You can find Palomar College in San Marcos, with six other education sites in North San Diego County as well as MiraCosta College, a community college in Oceanside.
Outdoors and Other Things
The Queen Califia's Magical Circle sculpture garden in Escondido is cute, especially with kids.
Oceanside, California
Read my full blog post of things to do in Oceanside, California: restaurants, coffee shops, what to see, & more! If you're in Oceanside, you can't miss the Oceanside Pier, Mission San Luis Rey, Oceanside Sunset Market, Oceanside Harbor Village, spending an afternoon at the beach or munching at restaurants or breweries.
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Encinitas, California
Like strolling by the beach? There are plenty of things to do in Encinitas, California. Walk down Main Street Encinitas. Read my blog post about things to do in Encinitas, California. Whether you're a local to North County San Diego or an out-of-town visitor, you'll find sun, fun, food, & drinks in Encinitas. Moonlight Beach, Cardiff State Beach, San Elijo State Beach, & Swami's State Beach are some of the popular beaches in town.
A Guide on what to do in Encinitas: Things to do in Encinitas, California
Del Mar, California
Del Mar is closer to San Diego than other North County cities, but still far enough to have its own personality. Del Mar is a cute beachy town with local shopping, food, & views of the Pacific Ocean. It's home to the Del Mar Fairgrounds. Read my blog post about the Del Mar Fair, now called the San Diego County Fair. You can travel up the coast of Encinitas into Oceanside & beyond.
Related reading: Encinitas Coffee Shops: Searching for the Best Coffee in Town
No matter what your interests are - hiking, travel, shopping, fun, food, coffee, tea, craft beer, cocktails, beach days, mountains, lakes, lagoons, fishing, surfing, you'll find hundreds of things that you can do in the North County area. The area has historic value, fantastic food, and it's worth sharing all the things you may do in the area. The question is: what do you WANT to do? What do you like? You'll find something that you love!
Rainbow in San Marcos, California. |
Travel outside of La Jolla & the most well-known parts of San diego & really visit up north. There are literally so many things to do. Adults, teens, & kids alike can find several great opportunities in North County San Diego. From shopping local boutiques on a weekend to heading to a dive bar with friends at night, there's always something to do. You'll have a good time. What is there to do in San Diego today? See for yourself! I hope you get a chance to travel to North County. Do you have any new information? Leave a comment or email.
El Cielo Winery Resort on Ruta del Vino Valle de Guadalupe, Ensenada, Mexico
El Cielo winery resort on Ruta del Vino Valle de Guadalupe in Ensenada, Mexico looks like the scene from a movie. Green grass & flat terrain surround viñedo El Cielo with rolling mountains in the background. Kids run around the vineyard playing tag & laughing, their parents watching from a distance. A bachelor party sits around a table at restaurante El Cielo, Latitud32, sipping Mexican wine. Peacocks strut their stuff. The world feels happy, the evening air feels cool. This is a fraction of Ruta del Vino Valle de Guadalupe. It's not a far drive from the United States or San Diego.
If you're interested in tasting Mexican wine, make your way down the Ruta del Vino Valle de Guadalupe. What to do? Que hacer en Valle de Guadalupe? It's a splendid spot to explore a piece of Mexico. The Valle de Guadalupe wineries offer plenty of grape varietals. Get ready to learn more about vinos Baja California from El Cielo winery resort by Karisma. Searching for Valle de Guadalupe hotels? Check out this page of all the properties in the area!
Address: Carretera El Tigre-El Porvenir KM 7.5 Parcela 117 El Porvenir, 22755 Valle de Guadalupe, B.C., Mexico.
Read my other blog posts about Mexico:
A Mini Guide to Tijuana's Breweries, Craft Beer, & Tasting Rooms
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El Cielo Winery Resort by Karisma
We ventured to El Cielo Winery on Ruta del Vino Valle de Guadalupe, a hot spot for Mexican wine & definitely one of the popular Baja California wineries. We only stayed for the afternoon but you could make a week-long trip on Valle de Guadalupe wine tours & eating all the delicious fresh food & goods sold in the area. Restaurante El Cielo has fresh seafood & other unique dishes to keep your mouth watering.El Cielo Winery & Resort feels like a sanctuary with rolling views & peacocks strutting around. The property even has two lakes. Viñedo El Cielo Valle de Guadalupe buzzes with people young & old. We visited in February & it was totally popping. People sipped wine, ate food, & enjoyed everything the resort has to offer. You can even shop for El Cielo vinos online! It's the perfect spot to stay if you want to go on a wine tasting.
Exploring El Cielo Winery on Ruta del Vino Valle de Guadalupe. |
Hotel El Cielo Valle de Guadalupe / Hoteles en Valle de Guadalupe Ensenada
El Cielo winery resort has more than wines & wine tasting. Located on the Wine Route of Ensenada, Mexico, the resort has a range of cool rooms such as the Junior Suite, Master Suite, Owners Suite, & the Residence Master Suite which is 2,669 sq. feet / 248 sq. meters. Smaller suites usually come either with a king-sized or two queen beds. Enjoy room service or head down to the restaurant.
Bigger suites have king-sized beds, maybe even a dining room, fireplace, terrace, & kitchen. Go to their website to check the latest price & availability. Wake up & take in the stunning views from your room, then get ready to explore more of what Ruta del Vino Valle de Guadalupe & restaurante El Cielo has to offer. I didn't get the chance to stay their or even see the rooms but the photos online look blissful. Stay in a remarkable room with cool architecture & awesome views paired with a Baja California wineries right at your doorstep. Take a look at the Karisma Hotels website for more information. Are you a room service fan or would you go outside to eat?
Bigger suites have king-sized beds, maybe even a dining room, fireplace, terrace, & kitchen. Go to their website to check the latest price & availability. Wake up & take in the stunning views from your room, then get ready to explore more of what Ruta del Vino Valle de Guadalupe & restaurante El Cielo has to offer. I didn't get the chance to stay their or even see the rooms but the photos online look blissful. Stay in a remarkable room with cool architecture & awesome views paired with a Baja California wineries right at your doorstep. Take a look at the Karisma Hotels website for more information. Are you a room service fan or would you go outside to eat?
The tour was in Spanish so I didn't understand much - I'm studying Spanish but it's not the level of complexity where I can understand wine terminology. That said, you can do a tour of El Cielo winery Valle de Guadelupe. Learn all about the El Cielo vinos Mexican wine so you can figure out if you want to buy a bottle to go. The wine cellar is underground with minimal lighting, so keep that in mind if you have any sensitivities. The wine tasting is a unique experience!
Restaurante El Cielo Valle de Guadalupe: Latitud32 & Polaris
Ruta del Vino Valle de Guadalupe is known for its food, so whilst at El Cielo, eat at Latitud32, a fusion of Baja-Yucatán cuisine & Polaris, which they call baja-avantgarde cuisine. At Latitud32, you try their regional seafood dishes such as the Grilled Octopus or Black Mayan Ceviche. Don't eat seafood? They have vegan options as well.We hung out at Latitud32 outside by the fire pits. Order a beer, wine, or beverage from restaurante El Cielo. We had some kids with us too so you can get juice, soda, water. Perfect place to get some grub after checking out El Cielo winery/viñedo El Cielo.
Gift Shop for El Cielo Vinos, Mexican wine
The gift shop has plenty of gift options. You can buy El Cielo vinos, handcrafted jewelry shaped like grapes, t-shirts, bottle openers, & other goodies. The gift shop is quite large with an assortment of options depending on your style. I was debating buying one of the grape shaped pieces of jewelry (there were bracelets, earrings, necklaces) & couldn't decide on anything, but wish I had bought one!
I tried the El Cielo vinos, browsed the gift shop, awed at the peacocks, & thoroughly enjoyed my brief encounter at El Cielo Valle de Guadalupe. It topics such a fresh experience. I've explored multiple cities in Mexico from the Tijuana craft beer taprooms to Queretaro in Central Mexico, & I always find something new-to-me to appreciate about the beautiful country of Mexico.
I tried the El Cielo vinos, browsed the gift shop, awed at the peacocks, & thoroughly enjoyed my brief encounter at El Cielo Valle de Guadalupe. It topics such a fresh experience. I've explored multiple cities in Mexico from the Tijuana craft beer taprooms to Queretaro in Central Mexico, & I always find something new-to-me to appreciate about the beautiful country of Mexico.
Valle de Guadalupe Wineries
El Cielo Ruto del Vino is a must-visit but what else can you do while you're there? Que hacer en Valle de Guadalupe? All wine fans should consider a tour of the Mexican wine varieties at Valle de Guadalupe wineries. I mentioned El Cielo vinos but you can check out the other wineries in the area. Might as well, you're already there! There are plenty of spots to sip a glass of wine. Guadalupe Baja California has a lot of wine options.Valle de Guadalupe Hotels
Some of the top Valle de Guadalupe hotels include Hacienda Guadalupe Hotel, Encuentro Guadalupe, Hotel Boutique Valle de Guadalupe, Oeno Wine Resort. Are you traveling with family, for a large bachelorette party, or just on a romantic weekend trip in Ensenada? Do a bit of research to find Valle de Guadalupe hotels that suit your needs. Savor boutique hotels with excellent vistas & amenities. Click here to take a look at the hotels in the area. If you prefer Airbnb, you can get up to $55 off your Airbnb stay if you sign up with this link.Viñedo El Cielo Valle de Guadalupe: Mexican Wine, Food, & Good Views
When you picture top wine destinations did you picture Mexican wine? If not, add vinos Baja California to your list. El Cielo Valle de Guadalupe has everything you need for a vacation. Eat at restaurante El Cielo. Where do you see yourself visiting along Ensenada, Mexico's Ruta del Vino Valle de Guadalupe? Que hacer en Valle de Guadalupe? Would you order room service?Head outside of the United States to enjoy a glass of wine at El Cielo Winery Valle de Guadelupe. Add Guadalupe Baja California to your list.
Their address is: Carretera El Tigre-El Porvenir KM 7.5 Parcela 117 El Porvenir, 22755 Valle de Guadalupe, B.C., Mexico.
Things to Do in Oceanside, California: Restaurants, Coffee Shops, What to See
The City of Oceanside feels relaxed while simultaneously evolving toward a metropolitan city in San Diego County. I remember riding the train into Oceanside on my way down south from Orange County. It was a casual beach town, not quite as pricy as other San Diego County beach towns like Carlsbad, Encinitas, Del Mar, La Jolla, or Pacific Beach. It was known for its laidback, lowkey vibes like the rock n roll hairstylist dude. Have fun in Oceanside CA North County with lots of family-friendly and fun things to do. Go to Oceanside Harbor, Tyson Street Beach, The Oceanside Museum of Art, Harbor Beach, the Surf Museum, Sunset Market on Pier View Way, Heritage Park Village, and Museum. It's a great place year-round.
Oceanside, California has museums, art, biking, and sightseeing spots. Eat breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Take in the great views and many ways to relax, whether you want to watch the sunset or swim at the beach.
Top destinations include Oceanside Harbor, Oceanside Pier, Guajome Regional Park, & more. There's a bit of something for everyone, from surfing & sea lions to live music. You might also want to check out Things to Do in North County San Diego, California as well as 8 Things to Do in Encinitas, Ca. Only an hour from San Diego, Oceanside is an exciting city to visit, full of things to do and fun places to enjoy. Have you visited or lived in Oceanside California? What is your favorite restaurant, surf spots, sandy beach location, nightlife spot, nearby town?
About Carmen
Thanks for finding my blog! I'm a San Diego blogger who has lived in Southern California for most of my life. I write about travel, food, drinks. I've worked with tourism boards such as Visit Long Beach, Visit El Paso, The French Ministry of Agriculture, Visit Reno Tahoe, & Discover Torrance. Read my Press + Media for more campaigns I've been a part of. Click here to learn out more about me & my travel history. Or you can follow me on Instagram. Scroll down for all things Oceanside CA. Southern California has a lot to offer.Related reading: Coffee Shops in Carlsbad, California
History of Oceanside California
O'side has a long history! Its history begins in San Luis Rey Valley, which was rich in agriculture-rich. It was first explored by the Spanish Explorer Portola in 1769. By 1882, they laid a railroad from Los Angeles to San Diego through Colton, Temecula, Fallbrook, and down the coast. Oceanside is about 45 minutes away from Downtown San Diego.
Downtown Oceanside
Oh, Oceanside CA. I used to walk along Downtown Oceanside to the beach from my social media internship office. There was an acupuncture place, a health food store, a burrito shop. They're all still there. Now the city of Oceanside feels as though it's geared to become the next hotspot for tourists and San Diego bloggers to get content. A new oceanview apartment pops up blocking the view of previous apartments. There's a coworking destination. A tequileria replaces a craft beer gastropub that wasn't even 4 years old. Oceanside CA is growing.
Related reading: Lake San Marcos Marina - what to do!
Whether you're looking for Oceanside restaurants, coffee shops, outdoor activities, or a unique activity, you'll find many things to do in Oceanside CA as it becomes a bustling part of North County San Diego.
Other things to do in California: See Central Perk Cafe from Friends on a Warner Bros Studio Tour.
Jalapeno & cauliflower mac & cheese from Local Tap House & Kitchen, Oceanside restaurants to try. |
Visit the Top Gun House
You can learn more about the Top Gun House here!
Downtown Oceanside Restaurants
One of the top things to Do in Oceanside CA is to eat with a view of the shoreline. Take notes for some of my favorite downtown Oceanside restaurants. Oceanside CA has no shortage of food options and wine tasting. Adventures galore await in Oceanside, from day trips to San Diego to craft beers to cultural events. You can find paid parking and free parking, depending on where you're at. This coastal town features stunning views throughout the year, from summer to winter.
Beach Break Cafe (Beach Break Café) - Beach Break Cafe's coffee cake is next level, bonkers delicious.
Masters Kitchen and Cocktail - Spice up your Mondays; Masters Kitchen and Cocktail has happy hour all Monday!
Local Tap House & Kitchen - The jalapeno & cauliflower mac & cheese from Local Tap House & Kitchen (also known as LTH) tastes incredible.
Panca Peruvian Cuisine & Rotisserie *now closed) - Fred & I went to Panca Peruvian Cuisine & Rotisserie years ago when I worked nearby by during my first social media job.
Other eateries include Hello Betty Fish House, Naegi, and more.
There's no shortage of Oceanside restaurants and dinner options. Browse Yelp, TripAdvisor, or Google if you have specific needs: vegan, vegetarian, gluten-free, keto, etc.
There's no shortage of Oceanside restaurants and dinner options. Browse Yelp, TripAdvisor, or Google if you have specific needs: vegan, vegetarian, gluten-free, keto, etc.
Related reading: What to do at North City San Marcos
Oceanside Coffee Shops
These are some of my personal favorite Oceanside coffee shops but there are even more that I haven't listed.Banana Dang Coffee - Banana Dang Coffee has coffee, a solid smoothie bar, & Wi-Fi so you can sip n work.
Revolution Roasters - Revolution Roasters is one of the most popular of the Oceanside coffee shops; the steady arrival & departure of people feels regular like an airport. Good coffee, tasty pastries, nice space.
Breweries and Craft Beer
A trip to Oceanside wouldn't be complete without a pint of craft beer. There are over 200 breweries in San Diego County. In the city of Oceanside, there's Black Plague Brewing, Belching Beaver Oceanside, Oceanside Brewing Company, Legacy Brewing Company, Craft Coast. If you head to Tijuana, Mexico, read my mini-guide to Tijuana's breweries. What your favorite brewery in Oceanside CA?Oceanside Sunset Market and Oceanside Farmer's Market
Farmer's markets are one of life's simple joys. The Oceanside Sunset Market takes place Thursday evenings from 5 pm - 9 pm. It's the destination to be. You'll find food, shopping, entertainment. The place gets packed. People bring their babies, kids, strollers, dogs. Teens hang out amongst friends. Couples walk around on a date night. It's one of the most quintessential things to do in Oceanside CA. There's also the Oceanside Farmers Market (Oceanside Farmer's Market) which happens in the day time!Oceanside Fishing Pier
You can't visit the city of Oceanside, California without walking near the historic Oceanside pier. This is one of the most classic things to do in Oceanside. You used to be able to eat at Ruby's Diner at the end of the pier; Ruby's was a 40s-style diner with American classics like fries, burgers, & milkshakes. So sad to see it close, it was such a great destination. Oceanside Pier is iconic. The Oceanside Pier is extremely popular amongst both locals & tourists. Once it opened back up after COVID, people enjoy walking & fishing on the wooden pier. The surrounding beach area also has lifeguard tower, picnic tables, and vendors like hot food booths to grab a bite.
Mission San Luis Rey
The Mission San Luis Rey has self-guided museum tours, and the San Luis Mission Rey mission gift shop. They even host workshops & retreats. The historic Mission Church is a National Historic Landmark, built in 1815. If you like missions, check out La Purisima Mission State Historic Park in Lompoc, California. Have you been to San Luis Rey Mission? You could visit the National Audubon Society as well.Ride the Coaster or Amtrak
You can take public transportation from or to the city of Oceanside; you can also ride it down to San Diego. These are excellent modes of transportation near the pier if you don't have a car. As I mentioned earlier, I used to take the train up & down quite frequently. You can take Amtrak all the way up to San Francisco if you're looking for a trip idea.City of Oceanside Street Art, Murals, & Graffiti
Both downtown & the City of Oceanside have street art, murals, & graffiti to view. While you're near town, be sure to check out Artist Alley to support local San Diego businesses & artists. Learn more Artist Alley Oceanside on their Facebook page. Pictured above is a mural by BB Bastidas at the Pour House Oceanside; there's a different mural there now. Experience some Oceanside street art, click here.Go to the Beach
It should go without saying, but you should check out the beach & ocean views whilst visiting a city literally named Oceanside. Popular Oceanside beaches include Oceanside City Beach, Tyson Street Beach, Oceanside Harbor Beach, South Oceanside Beach. I could spend the day by Oceanside Pier, soaking in the melodic sound of the waves, reading a good book, & sticking my feet in the sand. Tyson Street Beach, also known as Tyson Street Park, is within walking distance of the Oceanside Pier. Enjoy the wildlife, cruise the sandy beaches, dine at a nearby restaurant.Traveling to San Clemente? Learn more here for things to do in San Clemente, CA.
Oceanside Harbor Village
After Oceanside Pier, you can always head on over to Oceanside Harbor Village to get a true sense of the seaside town. You can just stroll along the harbor, browse the little shops, or even grab a bite to eat from one of the local restaurants. Obviously, fresh seafood is a good option if you're up for it. It's a small community but worth a visit if you're looking for things to do in Oceanside, California.Buena Vista Audubon Society Nature Center
The Buena Vista Audubon Society Nature Center, located at 2202 S. Coast Highway Oceanside, CA 92054 is a popular spot. Their programs help foster knowledge and appreciation for the plants and animals that make up the natural ecosystem of our community.
Going on a trip to Lompoc, CA? Click here for things to do in Lompoc.
Other Activities and Things to Do in Oceanside, CA
The city of Oceanside contains a range of things to do. It all depends on your mood & your budget. Do you want to be outside? Are you hungry for some grub from popular Oceanside restaurants? It's your call. There are outdoor activities like whale watching tours, indoor skydiving, surf lessons. It is a destination spot! You could head to the museums such as the California Surf Museum & Oceanside Museum of Art. Oceanside CA has a lot of beach activity too.Other things to do in Oceanside, California include eating lunch or brunch, grabbing a drink at one of the eateries or at The Rooftop Bar, taking in the arts and culture, savoring the amazing beauty of the area, swimming at the beach, going on a hike, staying at a hotel,
Go to Oceanside Harbor, Harbor Beach, the Surf Museum, Sunset Market on Pier View Way. Drive Coast Highway (Coast Hwy). You can rent a bike and spend the morning enjoying the view of the ocean, beaches, people fishing or surfing. There are skate parks, trampoline parks, and plenty more. From wine to events to art galleries to trails to picnic views, visitors could spend a lot of time exploring Oceanside's wonder.
San Diego County is huge. What are your favorite Oceanside restaurants? Can you recommend any cool Oceanside coffee shops, either in downtown or anywhere within the city of Oceanside? What's your favorite thing to do in Oceanside CA? Leave a comment! :] Lots of family-friendly and fun things to do in North County.
San Diego County is huge. What are your favorite Oceanside restaurants? Can you recommend any cool Oceanside coffee shops, either in downtown or anywhere within the city of Oceanside? What's your favorite thing to do in Oceanside CA? Leave a comment! :] Lots of family-friendly and fun things to do in North County.
There are plenty of Oceanside attractions, hotels, and fun ways to spend a weekend trip for both tourists and local residents. This coastal city does get busier, as expected, during the spring and summer months due to its beach proximity and tourist attractions. One of the best things to do in Oceanside CA is to take it easy. You could eat some tasty food for fish, enjoy the coastline or marina, stroll the farmers market, or head over to the Pacific Ocean to walk around the Oceanside Harbor. Learn about the Oceanside Harbor Restaurants here. Really, you can make your own self-guided tour filled with beach activities, art, local fun, a leisurely stroll of the coast, surfing, fishing, and plenty of places to watch the sunset views.
More recently I am constantly impressed by how this city is growing toward more metropolitan status but without losing what makes it Oceanside (and North County). What are your favorite things to do in Oceanside CA?
Things to Do in Queretaro Centro, Mexico Top Attractions
Queretaro is an energetic city with a historic center located in central Mexico filled with flavorful food, plenty of people, & hearty history. Santiago de Querétaro is more commonly known as Queretaro City, Queretaro, Queretaro de Arteaga, or Querétaro (with the accent). Regardless of what you call it, there are plenty of things to do in Queretaro & explore its top attractions!
Start your day in the heart of the city at Queretaro's historic center. You could easily spend your experience walking along the streets of Querétaro's historic center, watching cars drive on the road, eyeing the menu of a restaurant or two.
About Carmen
I've been to Queretaro City twice & enjoyed it even more the second time! I adventured through the top things to do in Queretaro Centro as well as other parts of Queretaro state; I ate some of the best (vegan) tacos of my life, bought my very own handcrafted Maria doll from a local woman, & gazed at the dazzling display of Christmas decorations throughout the city. Click here to find out more about me & my travel history. Or you can follow me on Instagram.Related reading: El Cielo Winery Resort on Ruta del Vino Valle de Guadalupe, Ensenada
How far is Queretaro from Mexico City?
Need a day trip idea? You're already in Central Mexico, so perhaps you're wondering how far is Queretaro from Mexico City? Where is it located? Mexico City is about 134 miles/217 km or 160 miles/259 km away from Queretaro depending on your route. Just look at Google maps. Definitely worth a trip if you can muster it, perfect for day trips!Read my other blog posts about Mexico:
A Mini Guide to Tijuana's Breweries, Craft Beer, & Tasting Rooms
How far is Queretaro from San Miguel de Allende?
A day trip is right around the corner! There are a few different routes you can choose from, so the answer may vary. How far is Queretaro from San Miguel de Allende? The trip ranges from 41 miles/66 km to 59 miles/95 km, depending on your route. San Miguel de Allende is a beautiful & historic city. Let's explore!
Related reading: A Mini Guide to Tijuana's Breweries, Craft Beer, & Tasting Rooms
The Aqueduct / El Acueducto de Querétaro
You can't miss the amazing red brick aqueduct as you drive into Queretaro. It's the first thing you see as you drive into town. The notable arches are one of the top attractions; they extend for 1,280 meters with a total of 74 arcs. The aqueduct's original function brought water from the valley into various fountains throughout the city. It's quite a masterpiece, one of the best.
El Cerrito Archaeological Zone (Zona Arqueológica El Cerrito)
El Cerrito Archaeological Zone (Zona Arqueológica El Cerrito) is an archaeological zone and place of worship.
Buy snacks & goodies from the vendors. |
Walk the Streets
There are plenty of things to do in Queretaro. The thriving city feels clean despite the hubbub of locals & travelers; you might see workers sweeping up leaves or trash at any given time. Walk around the streets of Queretaro Centro to get a feel for the landscape. Some might say people watching & strolling around are some of the best top attractions in Queretaro City.Things to do in Queretaro: Walk around the shops & restaurants |
Plaza de Armas
Plaza de Armas historic center feels like the heartbeat of Queretaro Centro, important, historical, interesting. It's always lively with kids playing, families walking around town, people dining, people selling dolls, t-shirts, crafts. There are water fountains, perfectly trimmed shrubs, & plenty of places to sit. Jardin Guerrero is the perfect spot to chill.Cerro de las Campanas
The Cerro de las Campanas which means Hill of the Bells, is a hill and national park in Querétaro City. Many people consider this as a must-visit destination. The address for Cerro de Las Campañas is 22034 Tijuana, B.C., Mexico.
Peña de Bernal
Peña de Bernal is 59 min (58.7 km) from Queretaro City via QRO 100 and Autopista México - Querétaro/Jurica - San Juan del Rio/Pedro Escobedo-Santiago de Queretaro/México 45/México 57 N. Peña de Bernal is one of the tallest monoliths in the world! It is the third largest monolith in the world.
Jardín Zenea (Zenea Garden)
Jardín Zenea (Zenea Garden) is a perfect nature spot to spend time outside. It's located at Calle 16 de Septiembre 8-24, Centro, 76000.
Support Local Shops in Queretaro Centro
We walked around Queretaro de Arteaga as a family. There are so many local vendors showing off their handcrafted goods in the city center. Why not take a look while you're visiting? I bought a blue & silver hand-beaded bracelet for my mom.Templo de Santa Rosa de Viterbo
Templo de Santa Rosa de Viterbo in Santiago de Querewtaro, Mexico is a domed Baroque church with a bell tower and ornage interior.
My niece found some hand-sewn scrunchies she couldn't resist. A few of us bought evil-eye bracelets from a couple shops. Fred bought a t-shirt from a Queretaro Centro vendor. This is one of the best things to do in Queretaro City! There's food, art, architecture, wine and cheese, and more.
Related reading: Things To Do at Playas de Tijuana
Things to do in Queretaro Centro: Browse the churches & missions! |
Churches & Missions
Queretaro has some exquisite churches & even some Franciscan missions. Awe at the pale yellow towers of Templo de la Congregacion de Guadalupe. Take a tour of Templo y ex-convento de la Santa Cruz de los Milagros. There's the Iglesia de Santa Rosa de Viterbo.Go inside a church whenever possible. Sit in the back rows or stay to the side so you can respectfully view the inside without interfering with anyone praying. Some of the churches in Queretaro are quite phenomenal. You can see a lot in the city center.
Gorditas being made at a restaurant in Queretaro Centro, Mexico. |
Eat Everything
Best things to do in Queretaro City? Eat, eat, eat again, eat some more. Whether you're looking for places to eat a sit-down meal, the famous fresh churros con chocolate, or maybe a little snacky snack from one of the vendors (think candies, gum, mini portions of popular Mexican snacks), Queretaro Centro is a hub for foodies. Food bloggers & lovers rejoice! Bring your pesos and let's eat.Museums / Museos en Queretaro
Quertaro's museums are filled with knowledge and art waiting to be dis Find the Museo Regional in the former Convent of San Francisco; reviewers particularly love the colorful patio. There's the MUCAL Museo del Calendario. There are plenty of museos en Queretaro, take your pick! Go to the art museum. There is a lot of wonderful art around the city!Hanging out at the Queretaro Airbnb with my adorable Maria doll, made by a local woman. |
Queretaro Tourism and Social Media
Wander around and enjoy exploring the city. Queretaro's social media presence and events calendar is impressive, which I love as a social media professional. It's one of those little things that bring me joy in life. Anyway, I digress. Take a look at the Queretaro Travel website, a visitor guide for all things in the state of Queretaro.They cover different regions, events, frequently asked questions, contact information, & other useful Queretaro Mexico tidbits. They have more information on the best things to do in Queretaro City & top attractions.
Where Should I Stay in Queretaro? Hotel? Airbnb? Does It Matter?
Airbnb Accommodations
I stayed in a Queretaro Airbnb both times I've stayed in Queretaro City since we're usually traveling with a group. In Queretaro, Mexico, it might be cheaper for a group of 5 adults & 3 kids to pitch in for an Airbnb rather than stay in 2-3 hotel rooms each night.Each Queretaro Airbnb I stayed at was great for families, had solid Wi-Fi, comfortable beds, & everything you could need. Sign up for Airbnb with my link & get $40 off your booking. That could be a free night's stay!
Hotels Options Nearby
Searching for Queretaro hotels to stay in? There are plenty of options in Queretaro Centro & the surrounding area if you want to be within distance of top attractions. Take a look at some of the hotels in the area.Simply type in your arrival & departure date, as well as the number of people in your party; this map will show you Queretaro hotels available during that time. Browse hotels in Queretaro - there are 200+ hotels to choose from.
Whether you're traveling by yourself, with family, friends, or on business, you'll find tasty food & interesting things to do in Queretaro, Mexico. You can do nothing & just stay inside your Queretaro hotel or Airbnb. You can spend the day hopping from museum to museum. You could do a food tour.
Do you have any questions? Leave a comment below & I'll do my best to help. I hope this was helpful. Have you explored Queretaro, Mexico? Have any recommendations on the best things to do in Queretaro City? Share your best tips or moments.
What to Do in Queretaro with Kids
We traveled around Queretaro Centro with a five-year-old, six-year-old, 8-year-old, two 20-somethings, a 30-something, & two 50-somethings. The kids had fun trying out foods from different stands. Mexico tends to be lean on the affordable side so the kids can feel like they're princes & princesses without the adults having to burn tons of cash. Buy little toys from the vendors or shop cute jewelry, trinkets, & other gifts from other shops.Whether you're traveling by yourself, with family, friends, or on business, you'll find tasty food & interesting things to do in Queretaro, Mexico. You can do nothing & just stay inside your Queretaro hotel or Airbnb. You can spend the day hopping from museum to museum. You could do a food tour.
Do you have any questions? Leave a comment below & I'll do my best to help. I hope this was helpful. Have you explored Queretaro, Mexico? Have any recommendations on the best things to do in Queretaro City? Share your best tips or moments.
If you're stopping by, remember to support local whenever you can. Check websites if possible for updated hours and information. Be kind.
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