LA to San Diego: History, Harbor & USS Midway Magic in one day
Highlights
- Explore Old Town San Diego!
- Take a ride on the San Diego Harbor Cruise.
- Visit a former aircraft carrier at USS Midway.
- Experience the centuries-old neighborhood of Old Town San Diego.
- Discover the cultural oasis of Balboa Park.
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Duration: 8-10 hours
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Professional Driver and Guide
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Admission to USS Midway included
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Admission to Harbor Cruise included
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Visit Old Town San Diego
Embark on an unforgettable journey to the legendary city of San Diego, California with the BEST USS Midway, Old Town San Diego City Tour from Los Angeles. This exhilarating tour takes you to three amazing stops: Old Town San Diego, where you can experience the early San Diego look and feel; a cruise of the San Diego Harbor, where you can explore the scenic beauty and storied landmarks; and a visit to the USS Midway, a former aircraft carrier of the United States Navy that saw action in the Vietnam War and Operation Desert Storm. The tour also includes a visit to Balboa Park, a cultural oasis with 17 museums and the world-famous San Diego Zoo. From start to finish, this tour is packed with adventure, history, and unforgettable experiences. Don't miss out on the opportunity to explore the best of San Diego on this incredible tour.
At a Glance
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Free cancellation
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8 hours
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Available in English
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Mobile voucher
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Small Group tour
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Guided
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Family friendly
Featured Reviews
Explore San Diego's iconic sites on this full-day tour from Los Angeles, including Old Town, a scenic harbor cruise, and the historic USS Midway.
Included
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Professional Driver and Guide (or Driver-Guide)
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Gratuities
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Professional vehicles transportation (Vehicle used based on the number of guests attending that day)
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Admission tickets to San Diego Harbor Cruise and USS Midway Museum(excluding Thanksgiving&Christmas)
Excluded
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Personal expenses and other expenses not listed in the cost includes
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Meals
Meeting Point
09:15AM Departure 99 Ranch Market; Orange Tree Square Shopping Center;
5402 Walnut Ave, Irvine, CA 92604 , United States
End Point
09:15AM Departure 99 Ranch Market; Orange Tree Square Shopping Center;
5402 Walnut Ave, Irvine, CA 92604 , United States
What to expect
Meeting Point
08:30AM Departure Seafood Village Rowland Heights(next to the TS Emporium).
Meeting Point
08:00AM Departure Hartford Hotel, BW Signature Collection Rosemead
Meeting Point
07:45AM Departure Sheraton San Gabriel; Pick-up and drop-off service at this location are only available for the guest who have reservation in the hotel. Please provide the hotel confirmation number. Please note: no parking or bathrooms available at starting point.
Meeting Point
07:30AM Departure Lincoln Plaza Hotel parking lot. Please note: no parking or bathrooms available at starting point.
Meeting Point
07:00AM Departure Pico House Los Angeles. Please note: no parking or bathrooms available at starting point. The pick-up and drop-off service at this station will be suspended until June 30, 2025.
Buckle up for a scenic coastal journey from Los Angeles to San Diego! As we cruise down the iconic I-5, watch the urban sprawl melt into rolling hills, golden beaches, and sparkling Pacific views. We will pass through charming beach towns like Dana Point and Carlsbad, with glimpses of surfers riding waves and palm trees swaying in the breeze. This relaxing drive sets the tone for a day of discovery—where history, harbor views, and cultural gems await. With comfortable transport and curated stops, it’s more than a day trip—it’s the start of your Southern California adventure. Itinerary: Los Angeles → Old Town San Diego (30 mins) → San Diego Harbor Cruise (60 mins, include ticket) → USS Midway (80 mins, include ticket) → Balboa Park (120 mins) → Los Angeles Note: Due to the closure of the USS Midway on Thanksgiving and Christmas, the attraction will be replaced by Hotel del Coronado (40 mins) on the day of the tour.
Step into the soul of San Diego at Old Town — a vibrant, centuries-old neighborhood where California’s story began. Wander cobblestone streets lined with adobe buildings, lively cantinas, and artisan shops that echo the charm of early Spanish settlers. Explore the iconic Old Town San Diego State Historic Park and Presidio Park, both steeped in history and listed on the National Register of Historic Places. From mariachi melodies to mouthwatering Mexican cuisine, Old Town offers a colorful, immersive glimpse into the birthplace of California. It’s not just a visit — it’s a time-traveling experience wrapped in culture, flavor, and unforgettable stories.
San Diego Harbor
Set sail on a captivating San Diego Harbor Cruise — your front-row seat to one of North America’s most stunning natural harbors. Glide past iconic naval ships, sweeping skyline views, and storied landmarks while soaking in the sun and sea breeze. With live narration from expert guides, each cruise blends fascinating history, scenic beauty, and laid-back coastal vibes into one unforgettable experience. Whether you're snapping photos or simply unwinding, this is the perfect way to see San Diego from a whole new angle. 1 hour • Admission Ticket Included
* Note: On Thanksgiving and Christmas, when the USS Midway is closed, your tour will include a visit to the iconic Hotel del Coronado instead — a seaside Victorian masterpiece rich in charm and history. Please check with your tour guide for details on the day’s itinerary. There is no ticket fee will be refunded. On most tour days, you'll step aboard the legendary USS Midway — a colossal aircraft carrier-turned museum that brings naval history to life. Commissioned just days after WWII, the Midway served for nearly five decades, from Vietnam to Operation Desert Storm, and was once the largest ship in the world. Explore its towering flight deck, vintage aircraft, and immersive exhibits that honor the bravery of those who served.
Discover Balboa Park — San Diego’s crown jewel and a cultural wonderland spanning 1,200 lush acres. Home to 17 world-class museums, stunning gardens, and the renowned San Diego Zoo, this iconic urban park offers something for every curious traveler. Just minutes from downtown, Balboa Park enchants with its Spanish-Renaissance architecture, captivating exhibits, and vibrant cultural events year-round. Whether you're strolling through botanical gardens or diving into art and science, every corner of the park tells a story. It’s not just a destination — it’s an experience that inspires, educates, and delights.
Los Angeles
Buckle up for a scenic road trip from San Diego’s cultural heart — Balboa Park — to the vibrant pulse of Downtown Los Angeles. In just over 2 hours, you’ll cruise along the iconic I-5 and I-405 highways, passing coastal views, rolling hills, and glimpses of Southern California’s diverse landscape. Whether you're heading to LA for; Hollywood glamour and lights, historic landmarks, or world-class dining, this journey back from San Diego offers a smooth blend of relaxation and anticipation. It’s not just a transfer — it’s your gateway back to the energy, creativity, and culture of LA.
End Point
08:30AM Departure Seafood Village Rowland Heights(next to the TS Emporium).
End Point
08:00AM Departure Hartford Hotel, BW Signature Collection Rosemead
End Point
07:45AM Departure Sheraton San Gabriel; Pick-up and drop-off service at this location are only available for the guest who have reservation in the hotel. Please provide the hotel confirmation number. Please note: no parking or bathrooms available at starting point.
End Point
07:30AM Departure Lincoln Plaza Hotel parking lot. Please note: no parking or bathrooms available at starting point.
End Point
07:00AM Departure Pico House Los Angeles. Please note: no parking or bathrooms available at starting point. The pick-up and drop-off service at this station will be suspended until June 30, 2025.
The experience can be subject to change due to bad weather or unforseen circumstances. We always endeavour to give you the best possible experience.
Additional Information
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Bring comfortable shoes, weather-appropriate clothing, sun hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, cash, and water for hydration. A valid reachable phone number is required for safety and trip communication.
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By selecting an option and completing your booking, you confirm that you have read, understood, and agreed to the tour's full product description, including all details about itinerary, included and excluded fees. Your payment indicates your acceptance of these terms.
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Children under 6 may require a booster seat by law. Coach buses usually do not need one, but winter tours using vans/minivans may. Please contact the operator in advance if needed; rental available on request.
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For multiple bookings, please provide all confirmation numbers after booking to ensure you travel on the same bus.
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Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
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Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
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Note: Due to the closure of the USS Midway on Thanksgiving and Christmas, the attraction will be replaced by Hotel del Coronado (40 mins) on the day of the tour. And no ticket fee will be refunded.
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Please verify your name and contact details; errors may incur additional costs.
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Public transportation options are available nearby
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Suitable for all physical fitness levels
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Tickets & Admission: Third-party attraction tickets or city passes are not accepted.
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Tour duration includes visit times, travel, traffic, and driving between locations. The roundtrip traveling time between Los Anegeles and San Diego will be around 3-4 hours depends to the traffic on the day.
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Travelers under 18 must be with an adult. Pregnant travelers allowed if under 24 weeks.
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You must provide your pick-up location to the operator at least 3 days before departure. If not received, the default pick-up will be: 07:00am Departure Pico House Los Angeles--424 N Main St, Los Angeles, CA 90012
What our experts say
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Try the local tacos at Old Town!
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Check out Balboa Park's gardens.
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Bring a camera for stunning harbor views.
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Dress in layers; it can be cool by the water.
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Arrive early for best seating on the cruise.
More About this Experience
Introduction
Discover the charm and history of Southern California on the BEST USS Midway, Old Town San Diego City Tour from Los Angeles. This unforgettable tour takes you on a journey to the legendary city of San Diego, where you'll explore Old Town San Diego, embark on a cruise of the picturesque San Diego Harbor, and visit the iconic USS Midway. With a final stop at Balboa Park, this tour offers a comprehensive experience of some of San Diego's most beloved attractions.What to expect?
During this immersive tour, you can anticipate a day filled with adventure, history, and breathtaking sights. Explore the centuries-old neighborhood of Old Town San Diego, where you'll be transported back in time to the early days of the city. Hop aboard a scenic boat ride and cruise along the stunning San Diego Harbor, marveling at the natural beauty and iconic landmarks. Visit the USS Midway, a former aircraft carrier of the United States Navy, and delve into its incredible history and exhibits. Finally, unwind and soak up the culture in Balboa Park, home to 17 museums and the renowned San Diego Zoo.Who is this for?
This tour caters to a wide range of travelers, from history enthusiasts to nature lovers. If you're captivated by the rich history of California and enjoy exploring cultural landmarks, this tour is perfect for you. Families, couples, and solo travelers alike can all find enjoyment in the diverse experiences offered throughout the day. Whether you're a local keen on discovering more about your own backyard or a visitor eager to soak up the essence of Southern California, this tour welcomes everyone.Why book this?
Embark on this tour for a unique blend of history, scenery, and entertainment. With knowledgeable guides leading the way, you'll gain fascinating insights into the storied past of San Diego. From the historic streets of Old Town San Diego to the towering USS Midway, each stop offers a captivating experience. The San Diego Harbor cruise provides an awe-inspiring perspective of the city's stunning waterfront. Balboa Park's lush gardens, world-class museums, and vibrant atmosphere offer a perfect escape from the ordinary. This tour grants you access to the best that San Diego has to offer in a single, convenient package.Good to know
To make the most of your experience, keep in mind a few essential details. The total duration of the tour spans between 480 to 600 minutes, ensuring you have ample time to explore each attraction. The meeting point for departure is Pico House in Los Angeles at 7:00 AM. Remember that there are no parking or bathroom facilities available at the starting point. Be prepared to be immersed in history, be captivated by stunning views, and be amazed at the cultural riches of San Diego.Reviews
Travelers who have embarked on this tour rave about the captivating experiences it offers. They appreciate the well-planned itinerary that allows for ample time at each stop. Visitors are particularly impressed by the USS Midway Museum, where they can delve into the fascinating history of this impressive aircraft carrier. The San Diego Harbor Cruise also receives high praise, with its scenic beauty and knowledgeable narration adding a special touch. Balboa Park's cultural oasis and the charming ambiance of Old Town San Diego leave visitors enthralled with the vibrant spirit of the city. Overall, travelers are satisfied with the tour's performance and highly recommend it to others seeking an unforgettable journey through San Diego.This is a popular product and the date you are looking for just sold out. Next available date is