All San Diego Tours Collection
18 self-guided driving and walking tours n one unbeatable bundle
What to Expect
See everything San Diego has to offer with this all-in-one collection of 18 self-guided audio tours. Explore the city’s most iconic destinations and hidden gems at your own pace — from coastal drives and scenic walks to historic districts and cultural landmarks. Visit Old Town, Balboa Park, La Jolla, Coronado, the Embarcadero, and more, with stories that bring each location to life through immersive, GPS-triggered audio. The bundle even includes day-trip destinations like Julian and Borrego Springs. Whether you’re here for a weekend or a week, this complete pack lets you experience San Diego your way — across multiple days, anytime, and for one low price.
Once purchased, the tours are yours to keep! That means you can explore now at your own pace or revisit them on your next trip to San Diego!
Ready to go? Book below or download our app and purchase directly from your phone.
📍 Location: San Diego, CA
🚶♂️ Type: Walking
⏱ Duration: Varies
✅ Includes: App download, GPS-triggered audio, No Expiration
📶 Works Offline: Download ahead of time - no cell service required
🎧 Multiple Languages: English, Spanish
Get Ready for Your San Diego Self-Guided Tours
Unlock the essence of San Diego with an all-encompassing collection of 18 self-paced audio tours.
From the historic streets of Old Town to the rugged cliffs of La Jolla, each tour offers GPS-triggered storytelling that immerses you in the region’s diverse culture, history, and natural beauty.
Whether you're visiting for a weekend getaway or an extended stay, this bundle allows you to explore San Diego’s most iconic spots like Balboa Park and Coronado, as well as take scenic detours to hidden gems like Julian and Borrego Springs.
Enjoy the freedom to set your own schedule and explore at your own pace—today, tomorrow, or on your next trip.
Includes 18 captivating audio tours of San Diego’s top destinations and local treasures
Explore must-see locations like Balboa Park, La Jolla, and Old Town
Includes scenic day trips to the charming towns of Julian and Borrego Springs
Permanent access to the tours—discover San Diego at leisure
What You’ll See on Your San Diego Self-Guided Tours
Beaches & Bluffs San Diego Driving Tour Highlights
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Discover what makes this stretch of coastline so distinctive, from its coastal conditions to the best vantage points for capturing postcard-worthy photos of Torrey Pines State Beach.
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Learn why this protected reserve is one of San Diego’s natural treasures and hear suggestions for a gentle trail if you choose to explore. Entry is free, with paid parking available, or limited free spots often found along the beach.
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We’ll call out the world-famous Torrey Pines Golf Course and explain why it’s worth a look, even if you’re just admiring the oceanfront setting rather than teeing off.
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See paragliders launch from the cliffs above the Pacific and decide whether watching is enough—or if a tandem flight sounds too tempting to pass up.
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Cruise along Coast Boulevard while learning about La Jolla’s past and present, along with suggestions for popular attractions and places to eat nearby.
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Find out what draws people to Pacific Beach, from its surf scene and sandy shores to the energetic atmosphere along the boardwalk.
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Drive through Mission Beach and hear how it contrasts with Pacific Beach, including the story behind Belmont Park’s classic wooden roller coaster.
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Experience the easygoing feel of Ocean Beach as you pass Dog Beach and the OB Pier, with tips on well-loved local eateries and the area’s free-spirited character.
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Follow the coast along Sunset Cliffs Boulevard while hearing about this iconic park, celebrated for rugged bluffs, ocean vistas, and spectacular sunsets.
La Jolla Walking Tour Highlights
Meeting Point
Your Beaches and Bluffs San Diego driving tour begins at 2602 Del Mar Heights Road.
This is in the parking lot in front of Starbucks in the shopping center just off I-5 North at Del Mar Heights Road.
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Make your way up the cemetery hill for expansive views of Julian and the surrounding peaks. The headstones reveal stories of the settlers who endured the challenges of mountain life.
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Discover how apple orchards reshaped Julian’s future when mining declined. You’ll have the option to pause for a slice of famous apple pie or a freshly made cider donut.
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Notice a simple wheelbarrow that played an outsized role in regional history. It was used during an ambitious survey that mapped thousands of miles of county roads.
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Take in the exterior of Southern California’s longest-running hotel. The story of its founders offers insight into Julian’s diverse and enterprising past.
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Browse exhibits showcasing tools, artifacts, and stories from Julian’s mining days. Together, they bring the town’s pioneer-era daily life into focus.
Discover San Diego’s Little Italy Walking Tour Highlights
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Take in spectacular coastal views and pass famous landmarks like La Jolla Shores and Scripps Pier on this scenic trail. Along the way, learn about the stunning natural features of this iconic area, including the famous Torrey Pines.
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Stretching from the Cove to Scripps Pier, this marine park is home to abundant wildlife and kelp forests. It’s a perfect spot for exploring La Jolla’s fascinating underwater ecosystem.
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Discover the story behind Sunny Jim Cave and its whimsical name. For an added adventure, descend the staircase into the cave for a closer look at this unique coastal feature.
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A postcard-perfect cove, often filled with seals and sea lions, offering panoramic ocean views and crystal-clear waters. It's an ideal spot for photos and wildlife watching.
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Known as the Pink Lady, this glamorous hotel has been a Hollywood favorite since 1926. With its Mediterranean charm and ocean views, it’s a must-visit for those looking to experience La Jolla’s timeless elegance.
Meeting Point
Your La Jolla walking tour begins at 7905 Prospect Place.
Use your favorite navigation app to make your way to the corner of Park Row and Prospect Place in La Jolla. Once there, open the Drives & Detours app to begin.
Apple Pies & Desert Skies: San Diego County Driving Tour Highlights
Discover Coronado Walking Tour Highlights
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Opened in 1888, this legendary Victorian beachfront hotel has hosted world leaders, celebrities, and dignitaries for more than a century. Its striking red turrets and rich history make it one of California’s most recognizable seaside landmarks.
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Wide stretches of golden sand, rolling dunes, and calm surf define Coronado Beach. It’s an ideal place to slow down, enjoy ocean views, and experience the relaxed cadence of the Pacific coast.
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This residence commemorates author L. Frank Baum, who spent time on Coronado and found inspiration in the island’s atmosphere. His presence adds a literary and imaginative chapter to Coronado’s story.
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Coronado’s central thoroughfare is lined with boutiques, cafés, and historic façades that reflect the island’s easygoing coastal spirit. A walk here offers a true sense of the town’s personality.
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Completed in 1919 and designed by architect Irving J. Gill, this church is admired for its clean lines and timeless simplicity. It continues to serve as a spiritual anchor for the Coronado community.
Meeting Point
Your Coronado Island walking tour begins at 1107 Orange Ave.
Look for the Old Town Trolley Stop J, on the sidewalk in front of McP's Irish Pub.
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Step into a dazzling open-air art space designed by Niki de Saint Phalle, where towering mosaic sculptures gleam in the sunlight. The playful forms and vivid colors make this one of the most distinctive art experiences in San Diego County.
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Enjoy a tranquil stretch alongside Lake Wohlford, a beloved spot for fishing and wildlife watching. The quiet shoreline and surrounding hills provide a soothing pause in the journey.
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Take in broad views across Pauma Valley, an agricultural landscape bordered by gentle foothills. As the road rises toward Palomar Mountain, the scenery becomes increasingly dramatic.
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Discover one of the world’s most famous observatories, home to the legendary 200-inch Hale Telescope. An onsite exhibit space shares the story of groundbreaking astronomical research conducted here.
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Begin your exploration of California’s largest state park at the visitor center, where exhibits introduce the park’s landscapes and wildlife. From here, nearby trails and Borrego Palm Canyon await.
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Encounter the famous metal serpent rising from the desert, part of a vast outdoor sculpture collection scattered across Borrego Springs. Each piece brings a sense of wonder to the stark desert setting.
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Stroll through the former gold-rush town of Julian, now celebrated for its old-fashioned charm and renowned apple pies. Along the way, discover historic buildings and the best spots to sample local favorites.
Meeting Point
Your San Diego driving tour begins at Plaza Del Lago Center, Escondido.
Use your favorite navigation app to make your way to the parking lot at the Plaza Del Lago shopping center, located at 3440 Del Lago Blvd, Escondido, CA 92029.
Once you're there, open the Drives & Detours app and tap "Start Tour".
Meeting Point
Your Julian walking tour begins at the Bailey House, 2315 Main Street, Julian, California.
Use your favorite navigation app to make your way to the front of the Bailey House. Once there, open the Drives & Detours app to begin.
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This large, contemporary square acts as Little Italy’s shared front yard, hosting everything from weekly markets to community celebrations. Its open design reflects the neighborhood’s renewed emphasis on gathering, culture, and connection.
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Towering above the street, this well-known sign signals the entrance to a district shaped by tuna fishing and canneries. It serves as a lasting symbol of the immigrant families who helped drive San Diego’s early waterfront economy.
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This small 19th-century cottage is the oldest remaining residence in Little Italy. Preserved within modern surroundings, it provides a striking contrast between the neighborhood’s origins and its ongoing growth.
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Popular with residents, this green space is both a social hub and a window into the area’s past. Nearby historic structures recall the everyday residential life that once defined these streets.
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Located in the city’s original Fire Station No. 6, this compact museum tells the story of San Diego’s firefighting heritage. Inside, vintage equipment and surprising historical connections bring the past to life.
Meeting Point
Your San Diego Little Italy walking tour begins at 1605 India Street, San Diego.
Look for the Old Town Trolley signpost for Stop K, near the corner of India and Cedar.
Balboa Park Walking Tour Highlights
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Rising above the park with Spanish Colonial-style details, this tower offers panoramic views. Visitors can climb to the top for an unparalleled vista of the city and beyond.
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Built for the Panama–California Exposition, this majestic building houses several museums and reflects the blend of art and function that defines the park’s architecture.
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A beautifully ornate building with sculptures and intricate details, Casa del Prado hosts various cultural events, museums, and exhibitions throughout the year.
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This charming 1915 structure now serves as the park’s visitor center, complete with a courtyard café—a perfect spot to take a break during your exploration.
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Created in partnership with the iconic Comic-Con event, this museum celebrates comic book culture, pop fandom, and entertainment. Exhibits range from superheroes to gaming legends.
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An Art Deco gem from 1935, this building showcases aircraft and space-related exhibits. It’s a fascinating stop for those interested in aviation history and technology.
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Set inside an iconic Spanish Colonial structure, this museum delves into anthropology, culture, and human experience through engaging exhibits. Its striking tower and dome make it a standout landmark in the park.
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From vintage automobiles to motorcycles and racing history, this museum traces the story of transportation through design and innovation. It’s a favorite stop for fans of classic engineering and style.
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This open-air venue houses one of the largest outdoor pipe organs in the world and hosts regular free performances. Its grand scale and acoustics make concerts here especially memorable.
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Built in 1915, this stately hall blends exposed wood beams with Spanish Revival style. Today, it continues to serve as a venue for social gatherings and community events.
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Balboa Park’s flagship art museum presents works from around the world alongside rotating exhibitions. Its richly detailed exterior is one of the park’s most recognizable façades.
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Carefully restored to its 1915 design, this building now hosts the Mingei International Museum and other creative spaces. Its playful architecture reflects the artistic spirit within.
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A burst of color leads into this collection of working studios where artists create and sell their work. Visitors can watch the creative process unfold and browse unique handmade pieces.
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This serene, contemporary fountain honors the preservationist who helped protect Balboa Park’s historic buildings. Its calming design makes it a popular place to pause and take photos.
Meeting Point
Your Balboa Park walking tour begins at the Kate Sessions Statue.
The Kate Sessions Statue stands at the west entrance to Balboa Park at the corner of El Prado and Balboa Drive. This can be found at the end of Laurel Street.
San Diego Gaslamp Quarter Walking Tour Highlights
North Park by Design Architecture Walking Tour Highlights
Bankers Hill Architecture Walking Tour Highlights
UCSD Campus Art Walking Tour Highlights
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This historic site marks the location of San Diego’s first Catholic Mass, celebrated in 1769. Today, the church continues to serve as a meaningful spiritual and cultural anchor in Old Town.
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Long before the famous house was built, this land functioned as San Diego’s execution site, fueling its reputation for hauntings. Today, the museum blends documented family history with the folklore that surrounds the property.
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A collection of carefully preserved Victorian homes, Heritage Park saved these buildings from demolition by relocating them here. Together, they offer a walk through different chapters of the city’s architectural story.
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This engaging museum chronicles the remarkable 2,000-mile trek of the Mormon Battalion during the Mexican–American War. Interactive displays highlight the group’s lasting impact on early San Diego.
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Constructed in 1908 as a rectory, this building was later moved to Old Town and adapted for new uses. Its survival reflects San Diego’s dedication to protecting historic structures.
Meeting Point
Your Old Town San Diego walking tour begins directly in front of the Immaculate Conception Church in Old Town San Diego State Historic Park.
San Diego Embarcadero Walking Tour Highlights
San Diego's Historic Old Town Walking Tour Highlights
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This stop showcases an exceptional group of historic vessels, highlighted by the famed Star of India. Together, they tell the story of San Diego’s seafaring past through tales of global trade, discovery, and maritime progress.
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A contemporary gathering spot along the bay, Portside Pier pairs ocean views with seafood-focused dining. It’s an ideal place to slow down and take in the sights and sounds of the working harbor.
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Serving as San Diego’s cruise ship terminal, this pier reflects the city’s long connection to Pacific travel. The steady movement of ships brings a dynamic feel to the waterfront.
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Once central to waterfront commerce, this pier offers wide bay views and insight into the city’s early coastal economy. Its location makes it a memorable stop along the harborfront.
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Opened in 1915, this grand station is known for its Spanish Colonial Revival design and historic significance. It continues to function as a transportation hub and architectural showpiece.
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This massive aircraft carrier has been repurposed into a hands-on museum experience. Its decks and exhibits highlight decades of naval aviation and life at sea.
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Originally a police station, this restored landmark now houses shops, dining, and cultural spaces. It reflects how historic buildings can be reimagined for modern city life.
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This waterfront destination blends specialty shops, casual dining, and open-air walkways. Its relaxed atmosphere and bay views have made it a favorite stop for decades.
Pies & Pickaxes: Discover Julian Walking Tour Highlights
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This small but powerful museum preserves the legacy of San Diego’s early Chinese residents through photographs, artifacts, and personal histories. Its exhibits reveal a once-thriving cultural community rooted in this neighborhood.
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A showcase of Victorian elegance, the Horton Grand remains a Gaslamp favorite for its classic charm. Some guests are also drawn by the hotel’s well-known ghostly lore.
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Added to Old City Hall in 1909, the Bijou once filled downtown with live entertainment. Though long closed, it hints at the neighborhood’s lively early nightlife.
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Once among downtown’s most elegant hotels, the St. James was known for its rooftop views and refined atmosphere. Its story remains an important part of Gaslamp history.
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Just beyond the Gaslamp, this waterfront corridor opens to broad views of San Diego Bay. It’s an inviting place to pause and take in the coastal atmosphere.
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Restored to its 1924 glory, the Balboa Theatre continues to welcome audiences in a beautifully preserved space. Its Spanish Revival details make it a downtown architectural standout.
Meeting Point
Your San Diego Gaslamp Quarter walking tour begins at the Gaslamp Quarter Sign at 199 Fifth Ave, San Diego.
The Gaslamp Quarter Sign is an archway over Fifth Avenue, near the junction with L Street. It is close to the Gaslamp Quarter light rail station.
Liberty Station Historical Discovery Walking Tour Highlights
Meeting Point
Your San Diego Liberty Station walking tour begins at the North Playground Parking Lot on Balboa Drive, near 6th Avenue.
Barrio Logan Walking Tour Highlights
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Perched at a dramatic tilt, Do Ho Suh’s house looks as though it crash-landed on the building below. The work reflects ideas of migration, instability, and what it means to feel at home.
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Designed by William Pereira, this bold, futuristic library is one of UCSD’s most recognizable landmarks. Its sculptural form embodies the campus’s forward-thinking spirit and represents hands lifting up books.
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This piece draws the eye toward the coastline and horizon beyond campus. It highlights how UCSD’s dramatic setting becomes part of the artwork itself.
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Known worldwide for developing innovative theater, this playhouse has launched productions that later reach major stages. It adds international cultural influence to the campus.
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As the campus gathering place, Price Center integrates art into everyday student life. The surrounding works create a natural blend of movement, conversation, and creativity.
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This winding walkway coils around a giant stone book etched with a Milton quote. It cleverly combines literature, symbolism, and physical movement.
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Quiet and upright, this sculpture offers a moment of stillness amid a busy campus. Its simplicity invites contemplation rather than spectacle.
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Bright, winged, and full of energy, this sculpture has become a beloved emblem of UCSD. Its bold colors and joyful form make it instantly recognizable.
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By emphasizing existing landscape elements, this piece treats nature itself as sculpture. It softens the boundary between art and environment.
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Kelly’s abstract sculpture uses strong color and clean geometry to command attention. The vivid forms stand out against the surrounding greenery.
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Engaging themes of communication and historical change, this contemporary piece raises big questions about progress. Its title suggests reflection without prescribing answers.
Meeting Point
Your UCSD Campus walking tour begins at the Epstein Family Amphitheater.
The Epstein Family Amphitheater is on Russell Lane and Rupertus Lane, beside the UCSD Visual Arts Center.
Meeting Point
Your San Diego Embarcadero walking tour begins directly in front of the San Diego Maritime Museum at 1492 North Harbor Drive.
Make your way to the path along the waterfront, just in front of the San Diego Maritime Museum.
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A long-standing presence in the neighborhood, this church reflects both the spiritual and social fabric of North Park. Its setting underscores the role churches played in anchoring early communities.
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Originally a neighborhood cinema, this landmark has evolved into a well-known live music venue. Its reinvention mirrors North Park’s enduring appreciation for shared cultural experiences.
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For generations, this parish has provided a center for worship and community life. Its presence reflects the lasting importance of faith institutions in North Park’s development.
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Set inside a historic structure, this independent bookstore blends literature with local character. It embodies North Park’s modern creative spirit layered onto its historic roots.
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This well-preserved home represents the comfortable refinement sought by early residents. Together with its neighbors, it helps tell the story of how ordinary families shaped North Park’s identity.
Meeting Point
Your San Diego North Park walking tour begins at the North Park Sign on University Avenue, San Diego.
The North Park Sign is right beside the Observatory North Park and the North Park Theater.
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This understated monument commemorates submariners who lost their lives during World War II. Its quiet presence encourages reflection on a rarely told chapter of naval history.
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Originally used for ceremonies and formations, this broad plaza remains a central gathering place. Its open design and prominent flag make it one of Liberty Station’s most familiar spaces.
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Known as the USS Neversail, this concrete training ship gave recruits practical experience without leaving land. It remains one of Liberty Station’s most unusual and memorable landmarks.
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This bright, postcard-style mural adds a contemporary touch to the historic grounds. It reflects the neighborhood’s creative energy and evolving identity.
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Displayed on-site, this historic minesweeper links Liberty Station directly to active naval service. It offers a tangible connection to the fleet recruits who were preparing to join.
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Created as a recreational escape for service members, this compact course remains in use today. It reflects the importance of leisure and morale in military life.
Meeting Point
Your San Diego Liberty Station walking tour begins at Sellers Plaza (Gate One) on Truxton Road.
Sellers Plaza is directly beside the Loma Club and can be accessed by Lytton Street and Barnett Avenue.
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Constructed for a well-known early settler, this home marks San Diego’s shift from frontier settlement to established city. Its architectural details suggest growing confidence, comfort, and long-term investment.
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Dating to the earliest phase of development, the Keating House reflects the optimism of San Diego’s first growth surge. It remains a tangible link to Bankers Hill’s beginnings.
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Designed by Hebbard & Gill, this Arts and Crafts masterpiece embodies civic pride and progressive values. It stands today as one of Bankers Hill’s most significant preserved landmarks.
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Spanning a steep canyon, this pedestrian bridge combines engineering ingenuity with visual charm. It once provided a vital link to transit and city services.
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This modest corner store reflects everyday life during the mid-20th century. It recalls a time when residential streets were closely tied to small, local businesses.
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A recurring neighborhood event, the Barrio Art Crawl transforms streets and storefronts into a living gallery. It’s an easy way to connect with local creatives, experience new work, and sense the area’s artistic energy up close.
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Recognized for its massive murals covering freeway supports, Chicano Park stands as both an open-air art space and a symbol of grassroots activism. Each vivid image reflects stories of Chicano culture, resistance, and community pride.
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A longtime local favorite, this family-owned kitchen is known for hand-pressed tortillas and traditional Mexican dishes made without fuss. Long waits are common, but the honest, time-tested flavors are part of the experience.
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For generations, this church has supported the spiritual and social life of Barrio Logan’s Catholic residents. Its continued presence reflects deep-rooted traditions and a strong sense of community.
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Set inside a repurposed warehouse, this modern arts venue showcases rotating exhibitions and performances. Its programming blends experimental work with community engagement, keeping the neighborhood creatively forward-looking.
Meeting Point
Your San Diego Barrio Logan walking tour begins at Mercado del Barrio.
Mercado del Barrio is at the corner of Newtown Avenue and Cesar E. Chavez Parkway, near to Chicano Park.
FAQs About Our San Diego Self-Guided Tours
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No pass is required for your visit to Old Town San Diego State Historic Park, and free parking is available nearby. Visit the California State Parks website for more information.
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Tickets to the USS Midway Museum cost the following:
Adults (13+): $39
Youth (4–12): $26
Veterans With ID: $26
Children 3 years old and younger, active-duty military (with valid ID), and reservists receive free admission.
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Tickets to the San Diego Air & Space Museum cost the following:
Adults (12 and Over): $35.00
Seniors (65+) / Student / Retired Military (With ID): $29.00
Youth (3–11): $22.00
Children 2 and Under: Free
SDASM Members: Free
Active Duty Military: Free
Docent Basement Tours per Person Over 12 (Free for Children Under 12 With a Paid Adult): $20
Visit the San Diego Air & Space Museum website for more information.
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Tickets to the Comic-Con Museum cost the following:
Adult (18+): $30.00
Senior (65+): $20.00
Military (With ID): $20.00
Junior (13–17): $20.00
Student (With ID): $20.00
Youth (6–12): $15.00
Child (Under 6 Years Old): $0.00
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Tickets to The San Diego Museum of Art cost the following:
Adult: $25.00
Senior (65+): $15.00
Youth (Under 17): Free
Current Students (With ID): Free
Military, Active, Retired, Plus One Guest (With ID): Free
Visit The San Diego Museum of Art website for more information.
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Admission to the Adobe Chapel Museum is free, but a donation is strongly encouraged. Visit the Save Our Heritage Organisation website for more information.
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A day pass to the San Diego Automotive Museum costs the following:
Adults (18–64): $19.50
Seniors (65+): $17.00
Military (Active or Veteran, With ID): $17.00
Student (With ID): $17.00
Youth (3–15): $15.00
Visit the San Diego Automotive Museum website for more information.
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General Admission to the Gaslamp Museum at the Davis-Horton House is $8.00. Visit the Gaslamp Museum at the Davis-Horton House website for more information.
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Tickets to the Balboa Theatre vary in price depending on the show and the seats you choose. Visit the Gaslamp Museum at the Davis-Horton House website for more information.
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Admission to the California Tower costs the following:
Adults (18+): $19.95
Seniors (62+), Military, Teachers, Students (With ID) & Youth (6-17): $16.95
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Tickets to the Casa del Prado Theater vary in price depending on the show and the seats you choose. Visit the Casa del Prado Theater website for more information.
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Entrance to the Star of India is included in General Admission to the Maritime Museum of San Diego. Prices are as follows:
Adults: $28
Military & Senior (62+): $20
Youth (6–17): $15
Ages 5 & Under: Free
Visit the Maritime Museum of San Diego website for more information.
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Admission to the Whaley House Museum varies in price. The base rate for tickets appears to be the following:
Adults: $13.30
Child: $9.50
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Admission to the San Diego Chinese Historical Museum costs the following
Adults: $8
Seniors (65+), Groups of 10+, SDTA’s Show Your Badge Program, Educators and Students (With School or University ID): $6
Children Under 12: Free
Visit the San Diego Chinese Historical Museum website for more information.
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Entrance to Sunny Jim’s Sea Cave costs the following:
Adults: $13
Youth (3–17): $7
Active Veterans and Seniors: $8
Everyone aged under 18 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian, or have a letter of permission. Visit the Sunny Jim’s Sea Cave website for more information.
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General admission for day parking at Torrey Pines State Beach is $12–$25 per vehicle at South Beach Lot and $10–$25 per vehicle at North Beach Lot. Certain parking passes are accepted. Visit the Torrey Pines State Beach website for more information.
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General admission for day parking at Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve is $10–$25 per vehicle at North Beach and $12–$25 per vehicle at South Beach. Certain parking passes are accepted. Visit the Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve website for more information.
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Flying a paraglider with an instructor costs $200 ($190 cash) and hang gliding costs $225 ($215 cash).
No reservations are available, and tickets are sold on a first-come, first-served basis.
Visit the Torrey Pines Gliderport website for more information.
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Tickets to the Birch Aquarium at Scripps are cheaper when purchased in advance. General admission on the day is as follows:
Adult (13+): $39.95
Child (3–12): $34.95
Child 2 and under: Free
Visit the Birch Aquarium at Scripps website to purchase advance tickets and for more information.
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Yes, a pass is required to visit Cabrillo National Monument. A Standard Pass costs $10–$20. Visit the National Park Service website for more information.
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Free parking is available on Coronado Island at Ocean Boulevard, near Coronado City Hall and Community Center, and at the Coronado Ferry Landing.
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Tickets for Lamb’s Players Theatre range between $28 and $92, depending on the seat and show.
An $8 discount is available for seniors aged over 66 and veterans.
Half-price tickets are available for:
Youth (ages 5–17)
Young Adults (18–35) who are members of the Lamb’s Players Theatre <35 Club
Active Duty Military
Group discounts are available for groups of 10 or more. The 7 pm performance on Fridays includes a free Youth, Young Adult, or Active Duty Military ticket with the purchase of a regular-priced adult ticket.
Visit the Lamb’s Players Theatre website for more information.
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Admission to the Julian Pioneer Museum is a donation of $5 per person, with children 12 and under free.
Visit the Julian Pioneer Museum website for more information.
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Admission to the San Diego Firehouse Museum is $5 for adults and $2 for children and seniors.
Visit the San Diego Firehouse Museum website for more information.
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A round of golf at the Loma Club varies in price depending on how many holes you want to play, your tee time, and what course you choose. Visit the Loma Club website for more information.
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Tickets to the Chicano Park Museum & Cultural Center cost the following:
General Admission: $8
Community Admission (For community or Barrio Logan Residents): $3
Student / Teacher Discount: $4
18 and Under: Free
Visit the Chicano Park Museum & Cultural Center for more information.
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Tickets to the Mandell Weiss Forum Theater vary in price depending on the show and the seats you choose. Visit the La Jolla Playhouse website for more information.
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Tickets to the La Jolla Playhouse vary in price depending on the show and the seats you choose. Visit the La Jolla Playhouse website for more information.
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Tours are fully refundable up to 24 hours in advance.
If it’s within 24 hours or you had an issue during your tour, email support@drivesanddetours.com. We review all requests individually and will always do our best to make things right.
Our goal is to ensure every traveler has a great experience exploring with Drives & Detours.
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You will walk for about 1.5 miles on Drives & Detours’ La Jolla walking tour. This is mostly easy and along flat, well-paved surfaces. There are some hills to climb.
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You will walk for about 1.5 miles on Drives & Detours’ Balboa Park walking tour. This is mostly easy and along flat, well-paved surfaces. There are some hills to climb.
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You will walk for about one mile on Drives & Detours’ Gaslamp Quarter walking tour. This is mostly easy and along flat, well-paved surfaces. There are some hills to climb.
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You will walk for about 2.5 miles on Drives & Detours’ San Diego Embarcadero walking tour. This is mostly easy and along flat, well-paved surfaces. There are some hills to climb.
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You will walk for about one hour on Drives & Detours’ San Diego Embarcadero walking tour. This is mostly easy and along flat, well-paved surfaces. There are some hills to climb.
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You will walk for just over two miles on Drives & Detours’ Coronado Island tour. This is mostly easy and along flat, well-paved surfaces. There are some gentle hills to climb.
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You will walk for just over half a mile on Drives & Detours’ Julian walking tour. The walk is a little over half a mile, or about 1 kilometer. There are some hills and steps along the route, and certain sections have no sidewalk. Parking can be a challenge in Julian on busy weekends. There's an overflow lot located on 4th Street between B and C Streets.
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You will walk for about one mile on Drives & Detours’ San Diego Little Italy walking tour. This is mostly easy and along flat, well-paved surfaces. There are some hills to climb.
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The San Diego Liberty Station walking tour is flat and spans about one and a half miles one way. Give yourself around an hour and a half to enjoy it at a comfortable pace, with time to pause and explore along the way.
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The walk is flat and spans about two and a half miles one way. Give yourself close to two hours to stroll at an easy pace and linger wherever curiosity calls. Consider hopping on a bike if you're in the mood for a ride—it’s a great way to cover the distance between stops while taking in the neighborhood’s architectural charm, from Craftsman bungalows to Spanish Revival gems and everything in between.
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Our Barrio Logan walking tour covers approximately 1.2 miles (2 kilometers) and takes about 60 to 90 minutes to complete at a leisurely pace. This is mostly easy and along flat, well-paved surfaces. There are some hills to climb.
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Our UCSD Campus Art walking tour is flat and approximately 2.5 miles long. You'll want to allow two to three hours to give yourself time at some of the stops.
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Yes, downloading the Drives & Detours app will give you full access to the tours you have purchased, as well as many other self-guided tours.
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Download the tours before you go. Some areas have poor signal, which can make downloading the tour difficult. Once the tour is downloaded, it will work without any cell signal
The tour audio plays automatically as you approach each stop
Want to see more? Tap “View Stop” to see photos and bonus content
To return to the map, tap the small down arrow between the “previous” and “next” buttons
Follow the blue line and audio directions to stay on route
Use audio controls to pause, rewind, or skip—just like a podcast
Safety first: Keep your eyes on the road or sidewalk, follow traffic laws, and stay aware of your surroundings
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No—download your San Diego tours before you go, and you won't need a cell signal. Drives & Detours’ tours work without any cell signal once they are downloaded to your device.
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Once you have purchased your San Diego self-guided tours from Drives & Detours, you can use them whenever you want. You can always take the tour another day if the weather is bad on the day you plan to take it.
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Unfortunately, Dives & Detours cannot guarantee that the San Diego self-guided tours are accessible. People with wheelchairs, strollers, or mobility impairments are very welcome.
Pro Tips for Your Drives & Detours San Diego Self-Guided Tours
Download before you go.
Enable location services—GPS triggers the audio.
Use earbuds, headphones, or your car speakers.
Pause and resume anytime. If you take a break, just reopen the app and head back toward your last stop.
Lost your way? Tap any pin on the map, then tap the right-turn-arrow icon to open your default maps app for turn-by-turn directions to that spot.
Drives & Detours' San Diego Tours
Essential San Diego: Top 5 Self-Guided Walking Tours
Discover San Diego’s must-see sights with five self-guided walking tours. Explore at your own pace through Old Town, Balboa Park, the Gaslamp Quarter, the Embarcadero, and La Jolla. Each tour features immersive, GPS-triggered audio that brings the history, culture, and coastal charm to life.
La Jolla Seaside Stroll
Set out on a self-guided journey through La Jolla’s best-kept secrets. From hidden sea caves and playful seals to tales of its famous locals, this tour blends scenic beauty, rich history, and coastal discovery.
Apple Pies & Desert Skies
Spend the day exploring San Diego County’s breathtaking backroads on this self-guided drive. Take in panoramic mountain views from Palomar Observatory, explore the desert art of Borrego Springs, and wander the charming streets of historic Julian. Tap for full details.
Coronado: Discover the Crown City
Stroll through Coronado Island’s storied past with this self-guided walking experience. Visit its most beloved landmarks, uncover fascinating history, and hear captivating stories of the people who shaped this seaside community.
Discover More About San Diego
Check out some of the most of popular tourist destinations in San Diego. From Balboa Park and the San Diego Zoo to Legoland and the USS Midway. We think everything on this list is worth seeing at least once.