3 Days in San Diego: A Sightseeing Guide

USS Midway Museum

The USS Midway Museum is unbelievably cool, and we didn’t even manage to see all of it — I definitely think it could be a two-day stop for some people. I think getting to see all the different types of planes that’d been on the Midway, as well as traversing through the interior of the ship itself, were the best parts. There’s also a free audio guide you can borrow to hear stories from past pilots and crew.

On the flight deck, you’ll see the many aircraft that were present on the ship during the times it was deployed. Belowdecks you’ll find yourself immersed in a sailor’s life — see the galleys, living areas, laundry room, barber room, cartographers’ room, quarters for the captain, admiral, officers; and much more. There are also many unique exhibits, such as one on Operation Desert Storm and another on navy intelligence!

*Also note that buying tickets online saves you $2 compared to in-person.

SeaWorld San Diego

I think I first went to SeaWorld as a baby (I obviously don’t remember anything from then 🤣). It’s still such a fun time as an adult! You’ll want to download the SeaWorld app to see a live map of the park, all the show times, and ride wait times (which aren’t always accurate, just fyi, or maybe I was using it wrong).

I really enjoyed watching the dolphin and orca shows. We accidentally missed the sea lion one, but I definitely hope to catch it next time.

We also went on several rides. Arctic Rescue and Manta are shorter but relatively high-speed roller coasters; I’d say teen and family friendly. None of us braved the Electric Eel, which drops people from an insane height. Tentacle Twist was fun, more low-key and chill, but good for adults and kids alike. There are also several exclusively kid-oriented rides. I believe there are two wet rides as well; we didn’t have time to ride on Journey to Atlantis, but I managed to convince my brother Theodore to go on Shipwreck Rapids with me right before closing time, which got him soaking wet (sorry bro xD).

Museum of Illusions

The Museum of Illusions is a bit on the smaller side and thus pricier in consideration, but still a lot of fun. I think the best part is getting to take all sorts of awesome, brain-defying pictures!