San Diego

A military serviceman jogging on the Silver Strand Beach of San Diego; (c) Soul Of America

First-time visitors rarely consider San Diego and black culture in the same sentence. But there are surprising rewards in many places within this large sunny metro area.

History
Though it teems with modern skyscrapers, Downtown once had a thriving Black community

Cultural Sites
One site is anchored by one of the nation’s few Malcolm X monuments

Malcolm X monument in his namesake library & performing arts center, San Diego; (c) Soul Of America

Restaurants & Nightclubs
Black restaurants were reduced by the pandemic, but recovery is underway

Beaches
The city features some of the best beaches and beachfronts in America

Family Attractions
San Diego Zoo, Sea World, Legoland, Balboa Park, Mission Bay, and more

Maybe you want to feed dolphins at SeaWorld too; (c) San Diego CVB

General Attractions
Yes, there are reasons for singles and couples to visit as well

Historic Sites
This seaside city has several Black landmark-worthy historic sites

Places of Worship
This sun-blessed city is served by traditional & progressive congregations

The Arts
An underappreciated aspect of the city is its vibrant art scene

Shops & Galleries
There has been a lot of retail shop turnover in the last 10 years

Trivia & Famous Residents
One of the most famous residents was a Black female pioneer in the West

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