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10 Cities on a Shoestring

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#10 of 10:  San Diego, California

San Diego

When good weather is as plentiful as it is in San Diego, you don't need much else to enjoy the laid-back, SoCal vibe and miles of welcoming coastline. There is much more to see here than just the famous and fabulous, though somewhat pricey, San Diego Zoo and Sea World, (though we won't deny it – those are worth the trip). Here are some alternative, equally awesome places to kick back and enjoy some quality family time in the sun for next to nothing:

  • Balboa Park
    Free.

    This 1,500-acre park is a favorite for visitors and locals alike, with wide open spaces, funky flora, miles of walking trails, a train ride, and 15 museums on the premises. Each of these attractions charges its own admission fee, some as little as $2 for kids; others can be pricey.

  • La Jolla Shores
    Free.

    What more do you need than a sandy spot on a great, family-friendly beach in a simply fantastic San Diego neighborhood? Consider stoking up some barbeque in one of the beach's several, also-free fire pits, but you might need to save your spot somewhat early in the day.

    And for more ideas from the locals, visit our California Travelers Group.

  • Old Town State Historic Park
    Free.

    Get into the groove of pre-1950 San Diego with this charming state park, which features costumed performers (and donkeys!) on Wednesday mornings between 10 and noon.

More Great Budget Travel Ideas

Member Comments On...

10 Cities on a Shoestring

oldsrocket88
oldsrocket88 says:
May 27, 2009

I went to MS&I in chicago a few years ago on a free day and it was a mad house. I would suggest paying admission it is a lot less bussy and worth the admission to avoid the crowds.

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ellorybisk
ellorybisk says:
February 10, 2009

Hi Gang, Ellory from Chicago here. It's true that Chicago is a great place to visit. Here's another tip. Check out the Field Museum and the Museum of Science and Industry Calendars before you go. They too have free days! This does not include special events or special exibits. But hey...free is free! And there's alot to see without the special stuff!

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PeaPod54
PeaPod54 says:
January 16, 2009

In Los Angeles, there's this great place in Manhattan Beach called Sand Dune Park, with a playground and a huge sand dune kids love to climb down. It's a real challenge for them! You climb up on wood stairs to the left side of the dune, through a jungle-like kind of setting, and then it's a sandy, steep leap to the bottom. Last time we went it was uncrowded, easy, and so much fun! Totally free, of course.

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