Discover San Diego: Your Gateway to the City's Wonders
Explore the heart of San Diego at the Visitor Information Center, your ultimate guide to the city's attractions, tours, and local experiences.
The San Diego Visitor Information Center is your essential starting point for exploring the vibrant culture, stunning scenery, and rich history of San Diego. Located along the picturesque harbor, this center offers a wealth of resources, expert advice, and guided tours that will help you uncover the best this coastal city has to offer. Whether you're seeking maps, brochures, or recommendations, the friendly staff is ready to assist you in making the most of your visit.
A brief summary to San Diego Visitor Information Center
- 996 N Harbor Dr, San Diego, Downtown San Diego, California, 92101, US
- Visit website
- Monday 10 am-4 pm
- Tuesday 10 am-4 pm
- Wednesday 10 am-4 pm
- Thursday 10 am-4 pm
- Friday 10 am-4 pm
- Saturday 10 am-4 pm
- Sunday 10 am-4 pm
Local tips
- Visit early in the day to avoid crowds and get personalized assistance from the staff.
- Check out their free maps and brochures to plan your itinerary effectively.
- Inquire about special discounts for local attractions and tours available exclusively through the center.
- Don't forget to ask about upcoming local events or festivals during your visit.
Getting There
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Public Bus
From any location in Chula Vista, find the nearest bus stop for the Metropolitan Transit System (MTS) buses. You can use the MTS website or mobile app to plan your route. Take the 701 or 704 bus towards Downtown San Diego. The journey will take approximately 30-40 minutes depending on traffic. Get off at the 'Broadway & 1st Ave' stop. From there, walk north on 1st Ave for about 0.3 miles (approximately 6-7 minutes) until you reach N Harbor Dr. Turn left onto N Harbor Dr, and the San Diego Visitor Information Center will be on your right at 996 N Harbor Dr.
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Trolley
Head to the nearest Trolley station in Chula Vista, either the 'H Street Trolley Station' or 'Civic Center Trolley Station'. Board the Blue Line Trolley towards 'America Plaza'. After about 30 minutes, get off at the 'America Plaza' station. From there, it's a short walk. Exit the station and head northwest on Broadway for about 0.4 miles (approximately 8-10 minutes). Turn right onto N Harbor Dr, and you will find the San Diego Visitor Information Center at 996 N Harbor Dr.
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Bicycle
If you prefer cycling, you can rent a bike from one of the local bike rental shops in Chula Vista. Once you have a bike, head towards the Bayshore Bikeway, which provides a scenic route along the waterfront. Follow the bikeway north towards Downtown San Diego. Continue until you reach N Harbor Dr. The ride will take around 40-50 minutes. The San Diego Visitor Information Center is located at 996 N Harbor Dr on your left.
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Walking
If you are close enough, you can walk to the San Diego Visitor Information Center from various points in Chula Vista. For instance, if you are near the Chula Vista Marina, head west towards the water and follow the path along the bay. Continue north until you reach N Harbor Dr. This walk is approximately 3 miles and will take about 1 hour. Once you reach N Harbor Dr, turn right, and you will find the Visitor Information Center at 996 N Harbor Dr.
Discover more about San Diego Visitor Information Center
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Coronado Ferry Terminal
0.0 km
Experience stunning views and seamless travel at Coronado Ferry Terminal, your gateway to the enchanting Coronado Island.
La Punta de los Muertos HISTORICAL MARKER
0.5 km
Explore La Punta de los Muertos, a pivotal historical landmark in San Diego, revealing the rich tapestry of the city's cultural heritage.
Little Italy Street Sign
1.0 km
Experience the vibrant culture, authentic cuisine, and charming atmosphere of San Diego's Little Italy, a thriving urban village with a rich history and a welcoming spirit.
Our Lady of the Rosary Catholic Church
1.1 km
Discover the architectural beauty and tranquil atmosphere of Our Lady of the Rosary Catholic Church in Downtown San Diego, a must-visit spiritual landmark.
Louis J. Wilde Monument
1.1 km
Discover the Louis J. Wilde Monument, a historic landmark in San Diego's Gaslamp Quarter, showcasing the city's rich heritage and architectural beauty.
Piazza Basilone
1.1 km
Discover the serene Piazza Basilone in downtown San Diego, a historical landmark honoring WWII hero John Basilone amidst tranquil gardens.
Amici House
1.1 km
Discover the Italian heritage of San Diego at Amici House, a cultural center that highlights the rich history and traditions of the Italian community.
Gaslamp Quarter
1.2 km
Experience the lively spirit of San Diego's Gaslamp Quarter, where Victorian charm meets modern entertainment and culture.
WNDR Museum
1.2 km
Experience the intersection of art and technology at WNDR Museum San Diego, where interactive exhibits ignite curiosity and inspire creativity in the heart of the Gaslamp Quarter.
Gaslamp Quarter - The Historic Heart Of San Diego
1.3 km
Discover the Gaslamp Quarter, San Diego's historic center brimming with Victorian charm, vibrant nightlife, and culinary delights.
Gaslamp Museum at the Davis-Horton House Museum
1.3 km
Explore the Gaslamp Museum at the Davis-Horton House and uncover the fascinating history of San Diego in the heart of the Gaslamp Quarter.
Gaslamp Quarter Historical Foundation
1.3 km
Explore the Gaslamp Quarter's rich history at the Gaslamp Quarter Historical Foundation, where architecture and tales of the past come alive.
Martin Luther King Jr Promenade
1.3 km
Reflect on Dr. King's legacy at San Diego's waterfront promenade, featuring inspiring quotes, public art, and connections to the Gaslamp Quarter and Convention Center.
Yuma Building
1.3 km
Discover the Yuma Building in San Diego's Gaslamp Quarter: a historic landmark with Victorian architecture, Native American culture, and a vibrant past, offering a unique glimpse into the city's heritage.
Independent Order of Odd Fellows Building
1.3 km
Explore the historic Independent Order of Odd Fellows Building in San Diego's Gaslamp Quarter, a landmark of fraternal history and Italian Renaissance architecture dating back to 1882.
Unmissable attractions to see
San Diego Harbor
0.0 km
Experience the lively San Diego Harbor, where stunning waterfront views, thrilling activities, and rich maritime history come together for an unforgettable visit.
San Diego Waterfront
0.1 km
Explore the San Diego Waterfront: A Stunning Blend of Nature, Culture, and Culinary Delights Await You.
Embarcadero
0.2 km
Discover the vibrant Embarcadero in San Diego, a stunning waterfront destination perfect for relaxation, dining, and cultural exploration.
Broadway Pier
0.2 km
Discover the charm of Broadway Pier, where San Diego's maritime history meets stunning waterfront views and vibrant local culture.
USS Midway Museum
0.2 km
Discover the rich naval history and aviation legacy at the USS Midway Museum, an iconic maritime museum in San Diego.
Public Art "The Homecoming"
0.2 km
Explore 'The Homecoming,' a striking public art installation in Downtown San Diego that embodies cultural significance and emotional connection.
Tuna Harbor Park
0.3 km
Discover Tuna Harbor Park in San Diego - a scenic waterfront haven perfect for relaxation, sightseeing, and enjoying stunning harbor views.
USS San Diego Memorial
0.3 km
Explore the USS San Diego Memorial, a serene tribute to naval bravery and a key historical site in San Diego's vibrant waterfront.
Public Art "Embracing Peace"
0.3 km
Experience the love and unity of Embracing Peace, a stunning public art installation in Downtown San Diego, capturing the essence of human connection.
National Salute to Bob Hope and the Military
0.3 km
Explore the National Salute to Bob Hope and the Military at Tuna Wharf, a poignant tribute to American heroes in San Diego's stunning waterfront.
Five Star Tours & Charter Bus Company
0.4 km
Discover the beauty of San Diego with Five Star Tours & Charter Bus Company, your gateway to unforgettable adventures and seamless travel experiences in Southern California.
Stone Brewing Tap Room - Kettner
0.5 km
Immerse yourself in the craft beer culture at Stone Brewing Tap Room - Kettner, where flavor meets community in San Diego's vibrant downtown.
Pantoja Park
0.6 km
Discover tranquility at Pantoja Park, a serene retreat in Downtown San Diego, perfect for picnics, leisurely strolls, and enjoying the outdoors.
Maritime Museum of San Diego at Star of India Wharf
0.6 km
Explore a world-renowned collection of historic ships at San Diego's Maritime Museum, a captivating journey through 500 years of seafaring history.
Maritime Museum of San Diego
0.7 km
Immerse yourself in the maritime history of San Diego at the Maritime Museum, featuring historic ships and engaging exhibits.
Essential places to dine
Seneca Trattoria
0.2 km
Discover the authentic flavors of Northern Italy at Seneca Trattoria in Downtown San Diego – where exquisite cuisine meets stunning bay views.
Animae
0.3 km
Experience exceptional Asian fusion cuisine at Animae in Downtown San Diego—where tradition meets innovation in fine dining.
Top of the Market - San Diego
0.4 km
Discover fine dining at Top of the Market in San Diego—where fresh seafood meets stunning bay views for an unforgettable culinary experience.
TopSail
0.5 km
Discover TopSail: An exquisite waterfront restaurant in San Diego offering fresh cuisine and stunning views of the harbor.
The Lion's Share
0.5 km
Experience the eclectic flavors of America at The Lion's Share in Downtown San Diego—where innovative cuisine meets vibrant nightlife.
Puesto At The Headquarters
0.6 km
Experience authentic Mexican cuisine at Puesto At The Headquarters in Downtown San Diego - where every meal is a celebration.
Bronze Bird
0.9 km
Experience the best of Californian breakfast cuisine at Bronze Bird in San Diego's historic Gaslamp Quarter.
Ironside Fish & Oyster
1.0 km
Experience the best of San Diego's seafood scene at Ironside Fish & Oyster - fresh oysters, coastal cuisine, and vibrant ambiance await!
Tapas & Beers | French and Spanish Restaurant
1.0 km
Experience a fusion of French and Spanish cuisines at Tapas & Beers in San Diego's lively Gaslamp Quarter.
Dobson's Bar & Restaurant
1.0 km
Experience exquisite American cuisine infused with French and Italian influences at Dobson's Bar & Restaurant in San Diego's Gaslamp Quarter.
The Westgate Room Restaurant
1.0 km
Experience culinary excellence at The Westgate Room Restaurant in Downtown San Diego - where local flavors meet elegant dining.
Born and Raised
1.2 km
Discover culinary excellence at Born and Raised - San Diego's premier steakhouse offering exquisite cuts of meat in a luxurious setting.
GlassDoor Restaurant
1.2 km
Experience authentic Mexican flavors in the heart of San Diego at GlassDoor Restaurant—where delicious food meets vibrant culture.
Kettner Exchange
1.2 km
Discover Kettner Exchange: Where American cuisine meets a vibrant pub atmosphere in the heart of San Diego.
Werewolf
1.2 km
Discover Werewolf: A Bar & Breakfast Haven Offering Brunch Delights & Karaoke Fun in San Diego's Gaslamp Quarter.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Wheelhouse Gift Shop
0.1 km
Discover unique souvenirs and tasty snacks at Wheelhouse Gift Shop, your ideal stop in San Diego's vibrant harbor area.
Urban Beach House
0.5 km
Explore Urban Beach House in Downtown San Diego for stylish surf gear and beachwear that embody the Southern California lifestyle.
Madison San Diego Boutique
0.6 km
Explore Madison San Diego Boutique for unique gifts, fashion accessories, and local artistry in the heart of Downtown San Diego.
Great Souvenirs Of San Diego,inc
0.7 km
Explore Great Souvenirs of San Diego, a delightful shop offering unique keepsakes and local crafts that capture the essence of this beautiful city.
Urban Girl
0.7 km
Discover unique gifts and stylish women's clothing at Urban Girl, the perfect shopping spot in Downtown San Diego for trendy souvenirs.
Bay Company
0.8 km
Explore the Bay Company in Downtown San Diego for unique souvenirs and local crafts, capturing the essence of your visit.
Eclectique Boutique
0.8 km
Explore Eclectique Boutique in Downtown San Diego for unique gifts, stylish clothing, and trendy accessories that capture the essence of California.
Vitreum
1.1 km
Explore Vitreum, San Diego's unique gift shop offering locally crafted treasures and artisanal gifts that capture the city's vibrant spirit.
Rosamariposa
1.2 km
Explore Rosamariposa, a charming gift shop in Downtown San Diego, offering unique treasures that capture the essence of local artistry and culture.
Dream Boutique
1.2 km
Explore Dream Boutique in San Diego's Gaslamp Quarter for unique women's fashion, jewelry, and art that celebrates local creativity.
San Diego Trading Company
1.3 km
Explore San Diego Trading Company for unique gifts and souvenirs embodying the vibrant spirit of California in the heart of Gaslamp Quarter.
IT'SUGAR
1.3 km
Explore IT'SUGAR in San Diego - a candy wonderland offering an irresistible array of sweets and quirky gifts in the lively Gaslamp Quarter.
Gaslamp Garage
1.4 km
Explore Gaslamp Garage in San Diego for unique gifts, stylish clothing, and fun souvenirs that capture the essence of the city.
Wotown Vintage
1.5 km
Explore Wotown Vintage in San Diego: A unique fusion of vintage clothing, local art, and skate culture awaits you.
Wild Dove Boutique
1.5 km
Explore Wild Dove Boutique in Downtown San Diego for trendy clothing and accessories that capture the essence of modern fashion.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
False Idol
0.8 km
Discover False Idol, a tiki bar in San Diego offering exotic cocktails and an immersive island atmosphere that delights every visitor.
Star Bar
1.2 km
Discover the excitement of Star Bar in San Diego's Gaslamp Quarter, where karaoke and sports come together for an unforgettable nightlife experience.
The Whiskey House
1.2 km
Discover The Whiskey House, San Diego's premier bar offering an unparalleled selection of whiskey, gourmet food, and a vibrant atmosphere for all occasions.
The Shout! House
1.2 km
Discover the exhilarating nightlife at The Shout! House, a dueling piano bar in San Diego's Gaslamp Quarter, with live music, delicious food, and crafted drinks.
Gaslamp Tavern
1.2 km
Experience the lively atmosphere of Gaslamp Tavern, where great food and sports combine in the heart of San Diego's Gaslamp Quarter.
The Tipsy Crow
1.2 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at The Tipsy Crow, a top bar in San Diego's Gaslamp Quarter, offering drinks, bites, and unforgettable memories.
Whiskey Girl
1.2 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at Whiskey Girl, a top sports bar and live music venue in San Diego's Gaslamp Quarter.
Vin de Syrah
1.2 km
Discover the enchanting Vin de Syrah, a premier wine bar in San Diego's Gaslamp Quarter, offering exquisite wines and an inviting atmosphere.
Trailer Park After Dark
1.3 km
Discover the quirky charm of Trailer Park After Dark, a unique bar and restaurant in San Diego's Gaslamp Quarter offering creative cocktails and delicious food.
Prohibition Lounge
1.3 km
Discover the enchanting Prohibition Lounge in San Diego's Gaslamp Quarter, where vintage charm meets modern mixology and live music.
Room 56
1.3 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at Room 56, San Diego's top cocktail bar, featuring innovative drinks and a stylish atmosphere.
The Smoking Gun SD
1.4 km
Experience a unique blend of grill and bar culture at The Smoking Gun SD in San Diego's lively Gaslamp Quarter.
Happy Does Bar
1.4 km
Discover the lively atmosphere of Happy Does Bar in San Diego's Gaslamp Quarter – perfect for drinks, delicious food, and fun nights out.
Fifth & Rose
1.4 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of San Diego at Fifth & Rose, a chic cocktail bar in the Gaslamp Quarter, offering expertly crafted drinks.
The Nolen
1.4 km
Experience breathtaking views and innovative cocktails at The Nolen rooftop bar in downtown San Diego, where every sip is a delight.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Bloom Nightclub
1.2 km
Unleash your inner party animal at Bloom Nightclub, the heartbeat of San Diego's nightlife, featuring electrifying music and a chic atmosphere.
Onyx Room
1.2 km
Discover the pulse of San Diego nightlife at Onyx Room, where exquisite cocktails and electrifying music converge in the heart of the Gaslamp Quarter.
Phantom Lounge and Nightclub
1.2 km
Experience the dynamic nightlife of San Diego at Phantom Lounge and Nightclub, where great cocktails, music, and ambiance come together for an unforgettable evening.
TORO
1.2 km
Dive into the pulse of San Diego's nightlife at TORO, where electrifying music and vibrant energy create unforgettable nights.
The Brig
1.2 km
Discover electrifying nightlife at The Brig, the ultimate night club in San Diego's Gaslamp Quarter, perfect for dancing and unforgettable memories.
San Diego Club Crawl
1.3 km
Unleash your nightlife spirit with San Diego Club Crawl: an unforgettable journey through the city's vibrant bars and nightclubs.
F6ix
1.3 km
Discover the electrifying nightlife at F6ix, a premier nightclub in San Diego's Gaslamp Quarter, featuring vibrant music, craft cocktails, and an unforgettable atmosphere.
Parq Nightclub
1.3 km
Discover the ultimate nightlife experience at Parq Nightclub, where world-class DJs, exquisite cocktails, and an electrifying atmosphere await in Downtown San Diego.
Side Bar
1.3 km
Experience the ultimate nightlife at Side Bar in San Diego's Gaslamp Quarter, featuring live music, creative cocktails, and a vibrant atmosphere.
Oxford Social Club
1.4 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at Oxford Social Club, where elegance meets excitement in the heart of San Diego's Gaslamp Quarter.
NOVA SD
1.4 km
Discover the thrill of San Diego nightlife at NOVA SD, the ultimate night club experience in the lively Gaslamp Quarter.
Sevilla Nightclub of San Diego
1.4 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere of Sevilla Nightclub, San Diego's hotspot for live music and exhilarating nightlife in the Gaslamp Quarter.
Altitude Sky Lounge
1.6 km
Discover the breathtaking views and vibrant nightlife at Altitude Sky Lounge, San Diego's premier rooftop destination for great food and cocktails.
San Diego VIP Nightlife
2.2 km
Discover the pulse of San Diego's nightlife at San Diego VIP Nightlife, where music and excitement await in downtown's vibrant setting.
Spin Nightclub
3.6 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife of San Diego at Spin Nightclub, where live music meets an electrifying atmosphere for an unforgettable experience.
