If a perfect climate, maritime scenery and gorgeous ocean beaches are superb raw materials of family vacations, the world famous San Diego Zoo, San Diego Wild Animal Park, SeaWorld, Balboa Park, Mission Bay Park and LEGOLAND take it to another level. San Diego is unquestionably one of the top three American cities for family tourism. Those outstanding family attractions lead you to first believe this is only a laid-back family resort town next to military bases. You would be seductively wrong.
 
    Downtown San Diego has beefed up its attractions for adults with active urban and maritime lifestyles. You will be amazed at the profusion of residential, office, retail, dining, yacht harbors and entertainment establishments and construction recently completed and underway downtown. Universities, research institutes, biomedical, computer and telecommunication industries have taken the reins of the economy to another level. The fast paced economy has led to a smorgasbord of dining, shopping and entertainment options for all.

    Horton Plaza, Embarcadero, Seaport Village, Mission Valley and Balboa Park let everyone take in bountiful shopping, romantic waterfront strolls and enchanting dinner cruises in one of America’s largest natural harbors. Shakespeare fans revel in the Bard’s playpen at the Globe Theatre. Petco Park for major league baseball is the newest jewel of the reinvigorated Gaslamp Quarter, which buzzes with activity day and night. The convention center is a stunning work of art, and that’s before you walk in the door. In response to demand, many hotels and condos have opened or expanded between the waterfront, downtown, ballpark and convention center. San Diegans plan well ahead for family outings as well as scheduled golf and tennis events, hiking or retreating to the devilishly attractive Anza-Borrego Desert.

    There’s always the lure of chartered day fishing and ferries with sumptuous harbor views. A few years ago, pioneering vintners discovered that the climate is also perfect for cultivating grapes in northern San Diego County. In fact, North County is already winning its share of international wine contests. Look out Napa Valley!

    The African American presence, though small, is getting in on the action. The Diamond district, just south of Martin Luther King, Jr. Freeway, has spawned two cultural centers, restaurants, a must visit gallery and soulful events in and around its centerpiece -- Market Creek Plaza. This district holds the distinction of hosting the first statue dedicated to Malcolm X. Having its own trolley station, Market Creek Plaza is a must visit destination whether you drive or commute from downtown.

    Sparkling beaches, abundant natural beauty, the best climate, and superb family attractions in San Diego have been always enjoyed by Main Street Americans. With added general attractions and Black cultural attractions, the city has now earned a well-deserved slot on the calendars of a broader spectrum.

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