Parks and Recreation

Balboa Park
Play
15+ of the top free things to do in San Diego
No cash? No problem. Whether you are spending a day or a lifetime in San Diego, these are some of the best offerings that won’t break the bank.
August 28, 2025 06:44 AM
 · 
Monica Garske
Del Mar Trails Park in Carmel Valley
Live
Neighborhood guide for Carmel Valley, San Diego
June 17, 2022
 · 
Michael Beausoleil
North Park, San Diego
Live
Neighborhood guide for North Park, San Diego
April 14, 2022
 · 
Michael Beausoleil
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A grassy green hill at Kate Sessions Park overlooking Mission Bay, with many people picnicking and sitting on the grass.
Culture
How to spend your 24 extra Leap Day hours in San Diego
Start your day off with good, local coffee, head to the beach, go on a hike, peruse the city’s marvelous murals — seize the Leap Day, SD.
February 28, 2024
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SD Geisel Library UC San Diego
History
6 ways to see Dr. Seuss’ influence in San Diego
The iconic author lived in La Jolla from 1948 until his death in 1991 — but his local legacy lives on.
February 28, 2024
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Glowing blue water at Torrey Pines Natural State Reserve washing onto the rocks from bioluminescence.
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What is bioluminescence and how can you see it?
The naturally occurring phenomenon tends to produce a blue glow at night, but results from a sensation called “red tides.”
February 27, 2024
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Waves in Ocean Beach as kids play on the beach.
City
What is the ‘Coastal Resilience Master Plan?’
The effort aims to find natural ways to address searise, protect communities, and preserve natural habitats.
February 27, 2024
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Rudford's Restaurant San Diego
Food
6 cool retro diners in San Diego
Vintage never goes out of style, right?
February 26, 2024
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A bracket with the text "Pizza Bracket" and two grids with space for four nominees.
Food
Vote in SDtoday’s pizza shop bracket
We want to know: Where is the best pizza in San Diego? Vote for your favorite to help determine a champion.
February 23, 2024
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Players for the San Diego Mojo women's professional volleyball team are playing on a court. They're wearing navy blue uniforms, and some have their hands in the air.
Sports
It’s time: Women’s pro volleyball team San Diego Mojo makes home debut
The team is owned by Olympian Kerri Walsh Jennings and features a 15-player roster with serious pro experience.
February 22, 2024
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Bai Yun — a giant panda in the San Diego Zoo in 2019.
Culture
San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance signs agreement that could bring back giant pandas
The new bears could arrive at the zoo as soon as late summer 2024 if all permits are approved.
February 22, 2024
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Outside at the dog society
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San Diego’s dog-friendly guide
Explore these dog-friendly places in San Diego that span from places to eat, drink, shop, exercise, swim, and stay the night.
February 21, 2024
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A rainy street with water pooling over a crosswalk.
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When will El Niño conditions end in San Diego?
Following another substantial storm, it the end of San Diego’s rainy season in sight?
February 21, 2024
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