San Diego set to dazzle global travelers in 2024 with adventure & culture

Thursday, January 18, 2024

Explore San Diego in 2024! A world of new adventures, cultural richness, and culinary delights awaits in this top global travel destination.

In 2024, San Diego is set to become a beacon of exciting new adventures for global travelers. Recognized by AFAR Magazine as a must-visit destination and honored as the first American city to receive the World Design Capital title, San Diego is poised to cement its place as a premier global hotspot. With stunning natural beauty, rich cultural diversity, and a culinary scene that has garnered acclaim, San Diego offers 24 compelling reasons to explore its wonders this year.

Julie Coker, President and CEO of the San Diego Tourism Authority, highlights the city’s diverse offerings. From family-friendly attractions and gourmet dining to art festivals, museums, and outdoor activities, San Diego is ready to impress in 2024.

Exciting Attractions

LEGOLAND California introduces Dino Valley and North America’s first LEGO World Parade in 2024, coinciding with its 25th anniversary. Dino Valley features new rides and interactive elements for children.

SeaWorld San Diego unveils Jewels of the Sea: The Jellyfish Experience, an immersive aquarium experience with a walk-through arch and large viewing wall.

The iconic Botanical Building in Balboa Park, dating back to 1915, reopens in 2024 after extensive restoration, showcasing a vast collection of rare and indigenous plants.

The Nat, San Diego’s Natural History Museum, celebrates its 150th anniversary with special events, including free admission, a new Nature Garden, and a giant-screen movie.

Arts and Entertainment Highlights

San Diego and Tijuana jointly kick off the yearlong World Design Capital 2024 celebration, having won the title over Moscow. The theme “Home” will be central to various events and activities.

The Wonderfront Music & Arts Festival returns to San Diego’s Embarcadero after a hiatus, featuring three days of music, food, and fun.

La Jolla Concours d’Elegance in April 2024 showcases exquisite automotive design at La Jolla Cove, featuring a range of classic vehicles and themed events.

Copley Symphony Hall reopens following a $125 million renovation, offering improved acoustics and a reconfigured stage.

KAABOO music festival returns to the Del Mar Fairgrounds with a lineup of renowned artists.

Culinary Delights

Lafayette Hotel, under new ownership, introduces eight diverse dining options, ranging from a retro diner to a bar with a bowling alley.

San Diego boasts five Michelin-starred restaurants, including the three-starred Addison at the Fairmont Grand Del Mar.

Watershed, a new restaurant focusing on sustainability, opens in North Park, led by renowned chef Drew Deckman.

Karl Strauss Brewing Co. reimagines its original tasting room in celebration of its 35th anniversary, paying tribute to San Diego’s craft beer scene.

Malibu Farm joins the array of dining options at Seaport Village, enhancing the waterfront area’s appeal.

The Whaling Bar at La Jolla’s La Valencia Hotel reopens under new management, offering a refreshed historic experience.

Sporting Thrills

Gallagher Square at Petco Park undergoes a $20 million upgrade, adding new features like a viewing deck, dog park, and art displays.

Petco Park celebrates its 20th anniversary with various events and commemorations.

The first-ever rodeo at Petco Park features top cowboys competing for significant prize money.

The Rady Children’s Invitational brings top college basketball teams to UC San Diego for a Thanksgiving tournament.

The Breeders’ Cup returns to Del Mar Racetrack, solidifying its status as a premier event in Thoroughbred racing.

The San Diego Mojo, owned by Kerri Walsh Jennings, debuts in the Pro Volleyball Federation, playing at Viejas Arena.

The State Games of America return to San Diego, featuring competitions in various sports for amateur athletes.

Outdoor Activities and Beaches

Waterfront Park adds pickleball courts, a dog park, and shaded seating to its 12-acre site along the Embarcadero.

San Diego’s beaches continue to be a major international travelers preference, offering surfing, sunbathing, and scenic boardwalks along 70 miles of coastline.

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