Tami Wilcox have always loved to explore new places, but travel is the venue she uses to grow closer to her family. She’s a Mom to four grown kids and grandmother of six. Whether they’re traveling together or when she’s traveling to visit them, they share fun experiences and bonding time. Tami share her travel tips with everybody so you can save money and time, and travel more with your family! Read more about her trips at her blog: postcardsandpassports.com
Going Local in San Diego with Tami Wilcox on Fotostrasse
Balboa Park in San Diego
Balboa Park is larger than Central Park in New York City. It was built to house the 1915 Panama-California Exposition. Now, it is home to the San Diego Zoo, an outdoor organ pavilion, museums, gardens, fountains, an award-winning restaurant, and much more.
On the weekends and evenings, it is a great gathering place as people stroll through the park, entertained by jugglers and musicians. The great thing about Balboa Park is that you’ll see something new every time you visit!
A Visit to Coronado Island
Coronado Island is a beautiful neighborhood of San Diego which can be reached by crossing the sweeping Coronado bridge. Homes in Coronado have steep prices, and it’s no wonder — everyone is within walking distance of the beach.
The most famous landmark is the historic Hotel del Coronado, with its Victorian architecture and storied past. Marilyn Monroe once filmed a movie there! A visit to Coronado Island must include a stroll down Orange Avenue to see the many boutique shops and art galleries. Renting a bicycle is also a great way to get around.
San Diego’s Downtown Harbor and Bob Hope Tribute
Another San Diego must-see is the downtown harbor. As you stroll along the waterfront, you will see cruise ships preparing to embark, historic merchant vessels, the USS Midway museum, and the quaint Seaport Village where you can ride an antique carousel or eat in a harborside restaurant.
My personal favorite is Tuna Harbor Park, right next to the USS Midway. There’s a Bob Hope tribute there and a huge replica of the ‘Kissing Sailor’ statue. You can bring a picnic here or meander down to the ‘G’ Street pier and watch the fishermen get their nets and traps ready.
Old Town was the original settlement of San Diego and even today you can see many homes and buildings that have been preserved or restored. You’ll find museums, a real blacksmith shop, the original jail and courthouse, the Estudillo mansion, and horse stables (with mules, too).
There’s a haunted home (the Whaley House) and a pioneer cemetery, as well as the Cosmopolitan Hotel, and a historic church. What you might not have expected are colorful markets brimming with Mexican souvenirs and art — and restaurant windows where you can watch women making homemade tortillas. In January, they host a reenactment of the Mormon Battalion infantry march of 1847 and at Christmas, you’ll see Christmas carolers. Historic tours are given free every day.
A Little Italy in San Diego
Little Italy is an authentic Italian neighborhood in downtown San Diego. While there’s at least one Italian restaurant on every block, it’s really a foodie’s delight with urban and trendy restaurants springing up everywhere. Every Saturday, Little Italy is home to one of the best street markets in San Diego: the Mercato on Cedar Street, between Kettner Blvd and Front St.
Residents do their weekly grocery shopping at this market, and savvy visitors find all kinds of treasures – from fresh fruit and vegetables to flowers and green smoothies. Musicians and artisan crafts also make an appearance.
Going Local is a series of interviews that we are doing with people that live and enjoy the city they live. You can read more interviews filled with tips here. And if you want to be featured here, this link will tell you how. We're always looking for more locals to share their favorite spots!
