Things to do in San Ysidro

Activities, attractions and tours

Photo by Mona Zambrano
Photo by Mona Zambrano
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Top places to visit

1. San Diego Zoo

San Diego Zoo welcomes around 5 million visitors every year, and it’s easy to see why. Spanning a huge site, the zoo houses about 4000 animals from over 650 different species and subspecies. All of these creatures live in realistic habitats, with most exhibits out in the open air.
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San Diego Zoo featuring zoo animals

2. Mission Bay

Spend summer days enjoying the calm waters and gorgeous scenes of Mission Bay, a saltwater lagoon just north of downtown San Diego. This 4,200-acre (1,700-hectare) bay features pristine beaches, water sports for all ages and park attractions that bring summer to life.
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Mission Bay showing a sandy beach

3. SeaWorld

Ever since it first opened in 1964, SeaWorld® San Diego in Mission Beach has drawn kids and big kids alike. Visitors come here to get closer to the amazing marine animals on show. Why not head over to Dolphin Point where you can feed and even train the performing bottlenoses—these intelligent mammals love to do tricks. It is even possible to arrange to get into the water with the impressive beluga whales, but make sure you book in advance.
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beautiful creatures

4. Balboa Park

Spanning a vast space of 486 hectares, the huge Balboa Park contains an incredible and eclectic wealth of attractions. Home to gardens and trails, museums and galleries, theatres and restaurants—not to mention its own world-famous zoo—the park is a popular spot, frequented by visitors and locals alike.
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Balboa Park which includes a pond

5. Petco Park

Experience America’s favorite pastime in San Diego’s Petco Park. Enjoy stunning views of southern California as you watch a baseball game, concert or other sporting event. The park is named after San Diego-based pet supplies retailer Petco.
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Petco Park

What to do in San Ysidro

Popular places to visit

San Ysidro Border Crossing

After visiting San Ysidro Border Crossing, make a plan to see the other sights and activities in San Ysidro. Amble around this family-friendly area's beautiful beaches or experience its great live music.

San Ysidro Border Crossing

Las Americas Premium Outlets

During your trip to San Ysidro, you can do some window-shopping at Las Americas Premium Outlets. Stroll along the beautiful beaches in this family-friendly area, or check out its lively bars.

Las Americas Premium Outlets
San Diego

San Diego

Tijuana which includes a city and street scenes

Tijuana

Frequently asked questions

Is San Ysidro worth visiting?
San Ysidro offers an interesting mix of local charm, attractions and culture. Whether you're into outdoor activities, history or traditional food, there's a lot to enjoy here.
How do I spend a day in San Ysidro?
Kick your day off with a visit to Sesame Place San Diego and Imperial Beach. Then, check out different areas of San Ysidro for local restaurants and some souvenir shopping.
What is the top tourist attraction in San Ysidro?
The top tourist attraction in San Ysidro is North Island Credit Union Amphitheatre, so don't forget to put it on your agenda.
Is three days enough to stay in San Ysidro?
You can easily tour leading attractions like North Island Credit Union Amphitheatre, Sesame Place San Diego and Imperial Beach with a three-day break in San Ysidro. On average, many travelers book two days here. There's plenty to do and see nearby too, so stick around longer and head to San Diego County.
Is San Ysidro a walkable city?
With vibrant neighborhoods and top sights within walking distance of the city center, San Ysidro is a great place to visit on foot. Enjoy wandering between Sesame Place San Diego and Las Americas Premium Outlets. Then take a stroll through Otay, located 5 kilometers from the center, and Nestor, which is roughly 5 kilometers away.
What are some activities to do in San Ysidro with kids?
Whether you're traveling with tiny adventurers or hard-to-please teens, an itinerary filled with cool activities is the key to a stress-free getaway. Browse our ideas for what to do in San Ysidro with kids.

What to do in San Ysidro for adults?
Kaiser Permanente Otay Mesa Medical Offices is one of the main things to do in San Ysidro. With plenty of activities available, there's something here for everyone.
Are there free things to do in San Ysidro?
In San Ysidro, Imperial Beach is an unmissable spot for anyone wanting to tour the city without opening their wallet. Also, wander around the other neighborhoods and green spaces, and ask for tips from a local tour guide. It's a simple way to find out about the best free things to do in San Ysidro.