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Mount Soledad Memorial Park: A Tribute in the Sky

Honor American veterans while enjoying breathtaking panoramic views of San Diego from atop Mount Soledad.

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Mount Soledad Memorial Park in La Jolla, California, is a poignant tribute to U.S. veterans, offering panoramic views of San Diego and the Pacific Ocean. The park features a towering cross and thousands of plaques honoring service members, creating a serene space for reflection and appreciation.

A brief summary to Mount Soledad Memorial Park

  • Monday 7 am-10 pm
  • Tuesday 7 am-10 pm
  • Wednesday 7 am-10 pm
  • Thursday 7 am-10 pm
  • Friday 7 am-10 pm
  • Saturday 7 am-10 pm
  • Sunday 7 am-10 pm

Local tips

  • Visit during sunset for stunning views of the city and the Pacific Ocean.
  • Allow at least 30 minutes to an hour to fully experience the memorial and its surroundings.
  • Parking is limited, especially on weekends, so arrive early or be prepared to walk from nearby street parking.
  • Bring a light jacket, as it can be breezy at the top of Mount Soledad.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    From downtown La Jolla, take La Jolla Scenic Drive South up Mount Soledad. The drive is approximately 10 minutes. Parking is available in a few lots near the memorial, but it can be limited, especially on weekends. Street parking is available on La Jolla Scenic South. There are no fees to park or enter the memorial.

  • Public Transport

    The MTS Bus Route 30 stops near Mount Soledad. From the bus stop, there is an uphill walk to the memorial. Check the MTS website or app for the most up-to-date schedules and fare information. A one-way fare is typically $2.50.

  • Walking

    From downtown La Jolla, it is approximately a one-hour uphill walk to Mount Soledad. Follow the streets of downtown La Jolla to La Jolla Natural Park and continue uphill. After exiting the park, you'll pass Encelia Drive. Continue to follow La Jolla Scenic Drive South to the memorial. There are no fees associated with walking to the memorial.

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Discover more about Mount Soledad Memorial Park

Mount Soledad Memorial Park, perched atop Mount Soledad in La Jolla, California, is a moving tribute to the valor and sacrifice of U.S. military veterans. The park is known for its iconic white cross and the black granite plaques that commemorate veterans from various military branches and conflicts. This creates a serene and reflective atmosphere. The memorial's history dates back to 1954, when a cross was erected to honor Korean War veterans. Over time, it evolved to include plaques honoring veterans from all military branches, spanning conflicts from the Revolutionary War to current engagements. Today, over 4,000 plaques tell personal stories of bravery and service. Visitors can enjoy 360-degree panoramic views of San Diego, the Pacific Ocean, and the surrounding mountains. It's an ideal spot for quiet reflection, photography, or simply soaking in the natural beauty of Southern California. The park is open daily from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. and admission is free. Limited parking is available near the memorial, with additional parking a short walk away. The site has faced controversies regarding the presence of the cross on public land. However, in 2016, the land was officially transferred to the Mount Soledad Memorial Association, ensuring its preservation as a veterans memorial.

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