TRAVELRAGS

San Diego

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See. San Diego Zoo↗×2 pubs A massive zoo in Balboa Park, known for its naturalistic exhibits and wildlife conservation. Torrey Pines Gliderport Experience tandem paragliding flights or enjoy epic sunsets over the Pacific. Mission Beach Boardwalk A 3.5-mile paved path connecting Mission Beach and Pacific Beach, perfect for strolling or biking.

Eat. Kansas City Barbeque↗ A casual eatery and shrine to the movie Top Gun, featuring the original piano from the film. Addison by William Bradley↗ A three-Michelin-starred restaurant located within the Fairmont Grand Del Mar. Chick & Hawk Tony Hawk's new staple restaurant in Encinitas, praised for its local food scene.

Stay. Fairmont Grand Del Mar↗ An AAA Five Diamond property offering horseback riding, golf, and dive-in movie nights. Hotel del Coronado↗ A historic resort mentioned in the Readers' Choice Awards for Southern California. Rancho Bernardo Inn↗ A highly-rated resort in Southern California, according to Condé Nast Traveler readers.

Condé Nast TravelerOct 14, 2026

The Best Airports in the World for Art, According to the “Oscars of the Aviation Industry”

From Denver to Mumbai, these artsy airports show that beauty can still be found in the most stressful of places.

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Lonely PlanetOct 13

The 13 Best Places to Visit in December

December is the ideal month to get away. Try these perfect winter escapes, taking in festive markets, action-packed adventures and the northern lights.

20 things in this story
  • La JollaNeighborhoodFancy neighborhood in San Diego.
  • EncinitasNeighborhoodSurfy neighborhood in San Diego.
  • Ocean BeachSuburbAlternative neighborhood in San Diego.
  • Elsewhere
  • Puerto PrincesaHotelPalawan, PhilippinesCapital of Palawan, gateway to Subterranean River.
  • El NidoNeighborhoodPalawan, PhilippinesOffers 20-plus dive sites with diverse marine life.
  • El YunqueParkPuerto RicoRainforest for hiking in Puerto Rico.
  • Bioluminescent BaySightPuerto RicoOffers dazzling after-dark kayaking.
  • RincónNeighborhoodPuerto RicoKnown for surfing in Puerto Rico.
  • San JuanNeighborhoodPuerto RicoOld town founded in 1521 with bright alleyways.
  • ViequesSightPuerto RicoLocated about 8 miles (13 km) east of the main island of Puerto Rico, it is about 20 miles (32 km) long and 4.5 miles…
  • PonceNeighborhoodPuerto RicoLively second city of Puerto Rico.
  • Coron IslandSightPalawan, PhilippinesOffers thrilling wreck diving on a sunken Japanese fleet.
  • Triglav National ParkSightSloveniaPark with thrilling landscapes for resorts.
  • Lake BledSightSloveniaMagical lake with an isle and castle.
  • HatilloNeighborhoodPuerto RicoTown known for high jinks on Día de los Inocentes.
  • Subterranean River National ParkSightPuerto Princesa, PhilippinesNavigable underground waterway through karst formations.
  • Lake BohinjSightSloveniaBeautiful lake in Triglav National Park.
  • Central Kalahari Game ReserveNature reserveBotswanaLarge reserve attracting big predators in rainy season.
  • Northern Deception ValleyNeighborhoodBotswanaArea attracting grazers and predators in the reserve.
  • CulebraNeighborhoodPuerto Rico
Read the full piece at Lonely Planet →

Atlas ObscuraOct 9

Atlas Obscura’s Guide to America’s Most Haunted Cemeteries

It’s nice to imagine death as an endless deep sleep, but not everyone is so lucky. In cemeteries across the U.S., you’ll find souls whose final resting places are not, in fact, restful at all. Perhaps they died with scores unsettled or, perhaps, their graves were ravaged by greedy developers. Sometimes, heartbreak rendered them unable to move on peacefully; in other cases, they simply couldn’t…

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Condé Nast TravelerOct 6

15 Best Resorts in Southern California 2026: Readers’ Choice Awards

Condé Nast Traveler readers rate their top resorts in Southern California.

14 hotels in this story
  • Fairmont Grand Del MarHotelExperience magic at every turn as you walk amidst a grove of eucalyptus trees and marvel over a waterfall cascading…
  • Rancho Bernardo InnHotelHere at Rancho Bernardo Inn, welcome!
  • Elsewhere
  • The Lodge at Torrey PinesHotelLa Jolla, United StatesThe Lodge at Torrey Pines feels like stepping back into a bygone era.
  • Hotel del CoronadoHotelCoronado, United StatesEnjoy sun, sea, and time together at our iconic California beach resort, blending idyllic charm with golden-era allure…
  • San Ysidro RanchHotelMontecito, United StatesDon't worry about the weather or the season when booking a room here.
  • Montage Laguna BeachHotelLaguna Beach, United StatesSet amongst the bluffs along one of Southern California’s most cinematic stretches of coastline, Montage Laguna Beach…
  • The Ritz-Carlton Bacara, Santa BarbaraHotelSanta Barbara, United StatesA luxury Santa Barbara Property with unmatched views.
  • Rancho Valencia Resort & SpaHotelRancho Santa Fe, United StatesThink of it as California’s version of the Mediterranean with Spanish Colonial–style architecture and private casitas…
  • The Resort at Pelican HillHotelNewport Coast, United StatesIt has a luxurious Tuscan vibe , with well-manicured hills overlooking the Pacific, beautiful villas and bungalows, and…
  • Park Hyatt Aviara Resort, Golf Club & SpaHotelCarlsbad, United StatesOne of north county San Diego’s most elegant resorts, Park Hyatt Aviara Resort, Golf Club & Spa ups the ante in all…
  • Terranea ResortHotelRancho Palos Verdes, United StatesDiscover luxury at one of the finest Palos Verdes resorts.
  • The Alisal Guest Ranch & ResortHotelSolvang, United StatesTime slows down as you drive down the oversize oak tree lined drive way.
  • Hyatt Regency Huntington Beach Resort and SpaHotelHuntington Beach, United States
  • The Ranch at Laguna BeachHotelLaguna Beach, United States
Read the full piece at Condé Nast Traveler →

Atlas ObscuraSep 30

The Best Haunted Hotels to Book for a Spooky Getaway

Nothing beats staying in a hotel whose suites hold some stories — especially if they’re of the spooky variety. The same friends who roll their eyes at mentions of luxury amenities and amazing views will be wide-eyed when you tell them about the ghost you accidentally ate breakfast with, the wailings you heard on your way to the icebox, or your run-in with an uncanny Victorian woman wearing all…

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Lonely PlanetSep 14

7 of the Best Zoos in the USA

From San Diego to the Bronx, here

17 sights in this story
  • San Diego ZooZooPioneered cageless exhibits, home to rare and endangered animals.
  • Frozen ZooSightPreserves living genetic material from 1300 species at -320°F.
  • Elsewhere
  • Bronx ZooZooNew York City, United StatesOne of the country's largest metropolitan zoos, spread across 265 acres.
  • Disney’s Animal KingdomSightOrlando, United StatesTheme park with AZA accreditation and rigorous animal care standards.
  • Kilimanjaro SafarisSightOrlando, United StatesSafari ride across savannas with giraffes, rhinos, and elephants.
  • Henry Doorly Zoo and AquariumZooOmaha, United StatesFeatures the world's largest indoor desert and a rainforest under glass.
  • Desert DomeSightOmaha, United StatesWorld's largest indoor desert, recreating ecosystems from Namibia to Australia.
  • Kingdoms of the NightSightOmaha, United StatesUnderground exhibit recreating caves, swamps, and nocturnal forests.
  • Lied JungleSightOmaha, United StatesAmerica’s largest indoor rainforest, home to pygmy hippos and tapirs.
  • Congo Gorilla ForestAttractionNew York City, United StatesAdmission fees directly support conservation work in Central Africa.
  • Cheyenne Mountain ZooZooColorado Springs, United StatesOffers memorable experiences, including feeding giraffes eye-to-eye.
  • Smithsonian’s National Zoo & Conservation Biology InstituteSightWashington, United StatesA scientific establishment working on wildlife health and species conservation.
  • ZooMontanaSightBillings, United StatesFocuses on species adapted to northern climates, with botanical gardens.
  • Columbus ZooSightColumbus, United StatesPremier family destination with eight geographic regions and interactive exhibits.
  • The WildsZooCumberland, United StatesSister facility to Columbus Zoo, supporting wildlife projects globally.
  • Tiger MountainSightNew York City, United States
  • Himalayan HighlandsSightNew York City, United States
Read the full piece at Lonely Planet →

Lonely PlanetSep 7

10 of the Best Road Trips in the USA

Road-tripping across the US is one of the most iconically American things you can do. Here are 10 of the best ways to do it.

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Condé Nast TravelerSep 5

18 Luxury Family Resorts in the US and Caribbean for Your Next Getaway

Whether you’re dreaming of the beach, the mountains, or Disney World, these resorts do it right.

25 things in this story
  • Fairmont Grand Del MarHotelIn-room glamping package with indoor tent and child-sized robe.
  • Addison by William BradleyRestaurantThree-Michelin-star restaurant with a new Champagne lounge.
  • AmayaTrain station
  • Clubhouse GrillBar
  • Elsewhere
  • St. Regis Deer ValleyHotelDeer Valley, United StatesSki-in/ski-out access with a funicular ride up from the base.
  • Peninsula ChicagoHotelChicago, United StatesOffers connecting suites with play stations and an in-room tent.
  • Terranea ResortHotelPalos Verdes, United StatesRenovated casitas with ocean views and a gorgeous spa.
  • BashiRestaurantPalos Verdes, United StatesPan-Asian and sushi restaurant with oceanfront views.
  • Mar’selRestaurantPalos Verdes, United StatesSignature restaurant for special occasions with ocean views.
  • Nelson’sRestaurantPalos Verdes, United StatesFish tacos, firepits, and space for casual sunset gatherings.
  • The Links at TerraneaSightPalos Verdes, United StatesShort course or nine-hole golf game available.
  • Waldorf Astoria Monarch BeachHotelDana Point, United StatesRefined family-friendly getaway with kids club and special kids menus.
  • Bourbon Steak by Michael MinaRestaurantDana Point, United StatesHigh-end restaurant with special kids menus.
  • Four Seasons Oahu at Ko OlinaHotelOahu, United StatesUltra luxury resort with lagoon access and kids programs.
  • Ko Olina Golf ClubSightOahu, United StatesGolf club accessible to Four Seasons Oahu guests.
  • Montage Palmetto BluffHotelBluffton, United StatesSprawling retreat with nature trails, pools, and a golf course.
  • HushRestaurantBluffton, United StatesDimly lit speakeasy specializing in curated bourbon and ryes.
  • Historic Mitchelville Freedom ParkParkHilton Head, United StatesCultural landmark, first self-governed community of formerly enslaved people.
  • Griot’s CornerSightHilton Head, United StatesPlace where children can enjoy immersive storytelling.
  • Okan BlufftonRestaurantBluffton, United StatesOkan Bluffton in Bluffton, SC.
  • Cheval Blanc St-BarthHotelSaint Barthélemy, FranceResort on Flamands Beach providing baby equipment and kids programming.
  • Flamans BaySightSaint Barthélemy, FranceBright blue waters perfect for swimming and snorkeling.
  • Brasserie 7452RestaurantDeer Valley, United StatesAlfresco, fireside dining for an unfussy family lunch.
  • Four Seasons Resort Orlando at Walt Disney World ResortHotelOrlando, United StatesLuxury hotel within Walt Disney World Resort with early park access.
  • Ma Daisy’s PorchRestaurantBluffton, United States
Read the full piece at Condé Nast Traveler →

Lonely PlanetAug 26

The Best Día de Muertos Celebrations in the United States

You don

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Condé Nast TravelerAug 10

Where to Stay—or Staycation—in San Diego With Kids

From dive-in movies to horseback adventures, these kid-friendly hotels make it easy to visit America’s Finest City.

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Condé Nast TravelerAug 7

Eating My Way Through Tijuana, Where Food Tells the Story of the Border

Guided by local chefs and food experts, writer Megan Spurrell explores the culinary crossroads of Tijuana.

14 things in this story
  • Friendship ParkSightnow-closed park on the US side of the border
  • Elsewhere
  • San Ysidro Port of EntrySightTijuana, Mexicobusiest land border crossing in the Western Hemisphere
  • Avenida RevoluciónSightTijuana, Mexicomain street in Tijuana
  • Hotel LafayetteHotelTijuana, Mexicohotel in Tijuana
  • Farmacias RomaRestaurantTijuana, Mexicomeeting point suggested by Antonio Díaz de Sandi
  • Club Tengo HambrePlaceTijuana, Mexicoleads food tours in Tijuana, Valle de Guadalupe, Mexico City
  • Don PoloRestaurantTijuana, Mexicoburrito joint serving since 1916
  • La Cahua de YeyoRestaurantTijuana, Mexicoserves carne asada tacos and tacos gobernadores
  • El Concha'al del PaisaRestaurantTijuana, Mexicocart serving shrimp, octopus, and scallops tostadas
  • ErizoRestaurantTijuana, Mexicoseafood restaurant with marine-inspired decor
  • Caesar's RestauranteRestaurantTijuana, Mexicoinvented the Caesar salad
  • Matiz EstudioSightTijuana, Mexicopottery shop using local clays for handmade dishware
  • Chan's BistroRestaurantTijuana, Mexicomodern, casual Chinese restaurant
  • Colonia CachoNeighborhoodTijuana, Mexicotrendy neighborhood in Tijuana
Read the full piece at Condé Nast Traveler →

Condé Nast TravelerAug 6

21 Best Hotels in California for Wine Getaways, Ranch Life, and Endless Ocean Views

According to our Triple Crown Awards—a distinction for hotels that have been recognized by Traveler thrice over.

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Atlas ObscuraAug 6

Top Gun ‘Sleazy Bar’ in San Diego, California

Tucked away in the heart of San Diego’s bustling Marina District, Kansas City Barbeque might look like just another casual eatery serving up smoky ribs and cold beers. But for movie buffs, this unassuming spot holds a special place in cinematic history—it’s home to the original piano featured in the iconic 1986 film Top Gun . The beloved bar became a star itself after being used as a filming lo…

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Condé Nast TravelerJul 28

San Diego, According to Local Legend Tony Hawk

From his favorite bites to the essential skate parks, it's all too easy for Hawk.

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Condé Nast TravelerJul 13

The Best Aquariums in the US

Marine life encounters, giant whale sharks, and conservation programs are all on the table at the best aquariums in the US.

13 things in this story
  • Birch AquariumAquariumIt serves as the public outreach center for Scripps Institution of Oceanography at the University of California, San…
  • Elsewhere
  • Georgia AquariumAquariumAtlanta, United StatesAward-winning program with puppyish sea lions.
  • Tennessee AquariumMuseumChicago, United StatesIt opened in 1992 on the banks of the Tennessee River in downtown Chattanooga, with a major expansion added in 2005.
  • Seattle AquariumMuseumChicago, United StatesThe aquarium opened in 1977 and is accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA).
  • Monterey Bay AquariumMuseumChicago, United StatesKnown for its regional focus on the marine habitats of Monterey Bay, it was the first to exhibit a living kelp forest…
  • Shedd AquariumAquariumChicago, United StatesChicago's aquarium.
  • OdySea AquariumAquariumScottsdale, United StatesOnly rotating aquarium in the world, features OdySea Voyager.
  • Alaska SeaLife CenterAquariumSeward, United StatesIt is located on the shores of Resurrection Bay in Seward.
  • Adventure AquariumAquariumCamden, United StatesThe Adventure Aquarium, formerly the Thomas H.
  • National AquariumAquariumBaltimore, United StatesExplore award-winning exhibits and meet all the animals at the National Aquarium, located on Baltimore’s Inner Harbor.
  • Oregon Coast AquariumMuseumChicago, United States
  • Aquarium of HawaiiMuseumChicago, United States
  • Audubon Aquarium of the AmericasAquariumNew Orleans, United States
Read the full piece at Condé Nast Traveler →

OutsideJun 16

Adventure Everywhere in San Diego, California

With the right perspective, and the right vehicle, you can find Adventure Everywhere

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OutsideJun 6

The Best Dog Beaches in America, According to Dogs

There's something special about a place where people and their dogs can relax, play, and experience the outdoors together. These seven destinations do it best.

6 sights in this story
  • Ocean Beach ParkParkOriginal OG of dog parks in California, first off-leash beach.
  • Elsewhere
  • Huntington Dog BeachSightHuntington Beach, United StatesMile-and-a-half stretch of sand where pets can run wild.
  • De Soto ParkSightTampa, United StatesWell-loved dog beach with two leash-free locations.
  • Jupiter ParkParkPalm Beach County, United StatesBoasts 2.5 miles of coastline where dogs can roam free.
  • Elephant Butte Lake State ParkSightTruth or Consequences, United StatesDog-friendly area where many swim and play with their dogs.
  • Montrose Dog BeachSightChicago, United StatesNearly four acres fenced in on Lake Michigan.
Read the full piece at Outside →

Condé Nast TravelerJan 27

41 Best Airbnbs in California, Whether You're Headed to Yosemite or LA

Top spots to stay for seaside getaways, wine country weekends, and national park trips.

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Condé Nast TravelerNov 20, 2025

The Friendliest Cities in the US, According to Our Readers

Places that embody Midwest nice, Southern hospitality, and more.

12 things in this story
  • Cardiff State BeachNature reserveBeach where you can catch waves.
  • Belmont ParkTheme parkOpened on May 4, 1905, it is one of the most well known racetracks in the country, as it hosts the Belmont Stakes, the…
  • Elsewhere
  • Fort SumterParkCharleston, United StatesBuilt on an artificial island in 1829 in response to the War of 1812, which had exposed the inadequacy of American…
  • Crescent ParkParkNew Orleans, United StatesPark for a stroll.
  • Sydney and Walda Besthoff Sculpture Garden at NOMASightNew Orleans, United States11-acre sculpture garden.
  • The CitadelSightCharleston, United StatesEstablished in 1842, it is the third oldest of the six senior military colleges in the United States.
  • Kiawah IslandSightCharleston, United StatesKiawah is a sea island, or barrier island, on the Atlantic coast of the United States.
  • Isle of PalmsSightCharleston, United StatesAs of the 2020 census, Isle of Palms had a population of 4,347.
  • The Thurman CafeRestaurantColumbus, United StatesKnown for overloaded burgers.
  • Torpedo Factory Art CenterArts centreAlexandria, United StatesArt center.
  • Kentucky Horse ParkParkLexington, United StatesPark dedicated to horses.
  • Keeneland Race CourseSightLexington, United StatesRace course.
Read the full piece at Condé Nast Traveler →

Atlas ObscuraNov 4, 2025

Mothership in San Diego, California

Be prepared to be beamed up to another world with space themed cocktails and mocktails like the Polaris, Wormhole, Saturn and Astro Zombie at this planetary tiki bar in San Diego. As soon as you walk inside, the rock walls, spaceship seating, and starlight ceiling transport you out of this world. Some say it feels like you are entering the famous “Mos Eisley Cantina” from the Star Wars series.…

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National GeographicSep 27, 2023

These U.S. beach towns are even better in the fall

Summer may be over, but beach season doesn’t have to be. In fact, with fewer crowds and cooler temperatures, fall is the best time to explore coastal towns where cultural sites, natural wonders, and ...

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Ask AI · San Diego

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