Explore San Diego Visitor Information Center: Your Gateway to Adventure
Discover San Diego's best experiences at the Visitor Information Center - your go-to hub for local insights and adventure planning.
The San Diego Visitor Information Center stands as a vibrant hub for tourists, offering invaluable resources and local insights that unlock the best experiences in the city. With a wealth of information at your fingertips, this is the perfect starting point for your San Diego adventure.
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 for the best selection of brochures and personalized advice.
- Don't hesitate to ask staff for recommendations; they are locals and know the best spots!
- Take advantage of free maps and guides available at the center to help plan your day.
- Check the center's information on local events happening during your visit for unique opportunities.
- Remember to explore the nearby waterfront after your visit for stunning views and additional attractions.
Getting There
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Trolley
From Tijuana, head to the San Ysidro Trolley Station. To get there, you can walk from the border crossing to the station, which is about a 10-minute walk. Once at the station, purchase a ticket for the Blue Line towards 'Downtown San Diego'. Get on the trolley and ride it until you reach the 'Santa Fe Depot' station. This ride usually takes about 45 minutes. After exiting the trolley, follow the signs to 'Harbor Drive'. Walk towards Harbor Drive, and you will find the San Diego Visitor Information Center at 996 N Harbor Dr, a short 10-minute walk from the station.
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Bus
From the border, walk to the Tijuana bus terminal, which is about a 15-minute walk. Look for buses heading to San Diego. Once on the bus, tell the driver your destination is 'Downtown San Diego'. The bus ride will take approximately 30-40 minutes. After reaching Downtown San Diego, you can either walk or take the trolley to the Santa Fe Depot. If walking, head southwest towards Harbor Drive; the San Diego Visitor Information Center is located at 996 N Harbor Dr, about a 15-minute walk from the bus stop.
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Walking
If you prefer to walk, after crossing the border into the United States, head straight towards the San Ysidro Trolley Station. This will take about 10 minutes. Then, take the Blue Line trolley towards 'Downtown San Diego' and get off at 'Santa Fe Depot'. From there, walk towards Harbor Drive. The San Diego Visitor Information Center is located at 996 N Harbor Dr, approximately a 10-minute walk from the trolley station.
Discover more about San Diego Visitor Information Center
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
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.
La Punta de los Muertos
0.6 km
Explore La Punta de los Muertos in San Diego, a historical landmark that offers stunning ocean views and a glimpse into the city's rich maritime heritage.
Seaport Village
0.7 km
Explore the enchanting Seaport Village in San Diego, where shopping, dining, and stunning waterfront views create an unforgettable experience for tourists.
Little Italy Street Sign
1.0 km
Discover the vibrant Italian culture of Little Italy, San Diego, where culinary delights and charming streets await every visitor.
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
Explore the Louis J. Wilde Monument, a historical 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
Discover the Gaslamp Quarter, a historic and vibrant district in San Diego, known for its stunning architecture, diverse dining, and exciting nightlife.
WNDR Museum
1.2 km
Explore the WNDR Museum in San Diego for an unforgettable experience where art meets technology, located in the vibrant 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 for an unforgettable glimpse into San Diego's rich history and vibrant cultural heritage.
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
Explore the Martin Luther King Jr Promenade in San Diego for a serene stroll filled with art, history, and stunning waterfront views.
Yuma Building
1.3 km
Explore the Yuma Building in San Diego's Gaslamp Quarter, a historic landmark showcasing the city's architectural heritage and vibrant atmosphere.
Unmissable attractions to see
Navy Pier
0.0 km
Experience the beauty and excitement of Navy Pier in San Diego, where stunning views meet unforgettable ferry adventures and delightful dining.
City Cruises San Diego Whale Watching & Harbor Tours
0.0 km
Embark on unforgettable whale watching and harbor tours in San Diego, where ocean adventures and stunning views await every traveler.
Coronado Ferry Terminal
0.0 km
Explore San Diego's stunning waterfront with a scenic ferry ride to Coronado Island, where adventure and relaxation await.
San Diego Harbor
0.0 km
Discover the breathtaking San Diego Harbor, a vibrant hub of culture, dining, and stunning coastal views in Southern California.
Flagship Cruises & Events
0.0 km
Explore the beauty of San Diego with Flagship Cruises & Events, offering unforgettable boat tours and whale watching experiences on the stunning Pacific Ocean.
San Diego Waterfront
0.1 km
Discover the enchanting San Diego Waterfront, where stunning views, rich history, and lively experiences await every traveler.
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, a vibrant waterfront destination in San Diego, offering stunning views, exciting events, and a taste of local culture.
USS Midway Museum
0.2 km
Experience the awe of naval history at the USS Midway Museum, a premier maritime museum in San Diego featuring aircraft displays and immersive exhibits.
Public Art "The Homecoming"
0.2 km
Discover 'The Homecoming' in San Diego, a stunning public art installation that embodies the spirit of community and reunion.
Tuna Harbor Park
0.3 km
Discover Tuna Harbor Park, a serene waterfront escape in San Diego, blending nature, art, and breathtaking views of the bay.
USS San Diego Memorial
0.3 km
Explore the USS San Diego Memorial, a serene and moving tribute to naval heroes in the heart of San Diego, California.
Unconditional Surrender
0.3 km
Explore the Unconditional Surrender sculpture in San Diego, a powerful tribute to love and joy at the end of World War II, set against a stunning bay backdrop.
Public Art "Embracing Peace"
0.3 km
Experience tranquility at 'Public Art Embracing Peace' in Downtown San Diego, a stunning cultural landmark perfect for reflection and photography.
National Salute to Bob Hope and the Military
0.3 km
Explore the National Salute to Bob Hope and the Military, a moving tribute to the valor of service members in beautiful San Diego.
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
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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
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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.