Everyone loves San Diego for its beautiful beaches, and popular attractions like Balboa Park and the San Diego Zoo. But did you know that beyond the usual hotspots and touristy areas are unique San Diego activities and attractions that are worth your time? From whimsical gardens to historical landmarks, here are unique attractions that you didn’t think to try in San Diego.
San Diego Museum of Us
Our first attraction is located in Balboa Park, but you probably didn’t even know it’s there! It’s the Museum of Us. Who is the “us,” you may be wondering? Well, it’s a museum dedicated to humans! Come here to take a journey throughout human existence. It explores different races, tribes, and cultures and how they’ve adapted and what they have endured through history. A highlight is the Living with Animals exhibit, paying homage to man’s best friend, the dog. You’ll also get to know the history of California and who settled it. The museum’s displays and engaging and interactive, and you will come away having learned something you might not have known.
Harper’s Topiary Garden
This is a quirky living art installation in the neighborhood of Mission Hills. Harper’s Topiary Garden was created by Edna Harper in 1994 and features over 50 meticulously trimmed plant sculptures, including animals and surfers. Observe the garden and try to identify what the sculptures are. Some are pretty easy to identify, while others are intricate and well-disguised. You can see how much work and dedication went into crafting each and every shrub. You can’t enter the garden, but the sidewalk gets you close enough. After identifying the sculptures, be sure to stay a while to see great views of San Diego from this elevated height.
Zoro Garden
Another gem located in the massive Balboa Park is Zoro Garden. Zoro Garden has quite a unique history. It was once a nudist colony during the 1935 California-Pacific Exposition. Now it’s been reimagined as a park and butterfly release zone. Each year there’s an annual butterfly release, where everyone celebrates with butterfly themed crafts. You can even get seeds to grow butterfly friendly plants in your own home! Come to Zoro Garden and enjoy a moment of solitude in the city. You might see a butterfly or hummingbird flitting from flower to flower.
The Kissing Statue
This is an iconic statue that has gotten much popular throughout the years, but being able to see it in person is a really unique experience. Standing 25 feet tall at Tuna Harbor Park is a statue that’s had many names, including Unconditional Surrender, Embracing Peace, and simply the Kissing Statue. This enormous statue commemorates the end of World War II. While its portrayal has sparked some debate and controversy, the statue remains a popular photo op. When you come see it, be sure to stop by the USS Midway Museum also.
Gaslamp Museum at the Davis-Horton House
This is a small museum but it’s worth the visit. As the oldest standing structure in downtown San Diego, the Davis-Horton House gives you a look into the Victorian times of San Diego. There’s a pamphlet with information you can read along on your self-guided tour. To really get the most out of the museum, consider speaking to one of the docents on site. They’ll happily answer questions and explain the exhibits and artifacts of this unique museum. Stop by the gift shop on your way out for a treasure to remember your visit.
Mushroom Beach House
This is one of San Diego’s unique little landmarks. Located along the cliffs of Black Beach in La Jolla, this mid-century style mushroom house is a marvel of engineering and architecture. It was designed by architect Dale Naegle in 1968, with a futuristic mushroom design. It was built for the potato chip mogul of Bell’s Potato Chips, Sam Bell. He was interested in having a special beach house where he and his visitors could enjoy privacy while admiring the beach views. The home is made mostly out of concrete with an upper deck that overlooks the ocean. The house isn’t open to the public, but it’s a unique attraction worth checking out.
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Go check out these unique activities and attractions you didn’t think to try in San Diego! When you do, be sure to choose premium accommodations from Vacation Rentals by Kimberly. Reach out today to reserve a San Diego vacation rental that’s uniquely San Diego!
