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| THEME PARKS |
Belmont Park at Mission Bay, is San Diego's premiere beachfront amusement center. Here you'll find rides and arcade, shops and oceanfront restaurants. The park's most distinctive attraction is the Giant Dipper Roller Coaster, one of two original oceanfront roller coasters still operating on the west coast. Originally built in 1925, it's been restored for all to experience the excitement. Other attractions include a simulated wave attraction (FlowRide), a carousel and a 175-foot indoor swimming pool, know as The Plunge. 619-656-1500 - www.belmontpark.com
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San Diego Wild Animal Park is a favorite San Diego attraction for visitors of all ages. Located 30 miles north east of San Diego, this 1,800-acre wildlife preserve allows people to view exotic animals as they appear in their native Asia and Africa. Established in 1969, the park has over 3,500 animals representing 260 species. It's also an accredited botanical garden filled with thousands of beautiful plants and flowers. 760-747-8702 - www.sandiegozoo.com/wap
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Knott's Soak City Water Park is San Diego County's wildest water adventure park! Thirty-two water-logged acres packed with 23 of the most intense water rides imaginable, all themed to the surf woodies and longboards of the 1950s San Diego coast! New is Pacific Spin, where a giant six-story funnel drops riders from 75 feet in the air, then into a 132-foot-long tunnel before toppling into a pool below. Located in Chula Vista. - www.knotts.com/soakcity
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Legoland California features kid-powered rides, cool building challenges, a unique mix of interactive attractions, shows that pull the audience into the action and much more. It's a land of surprise, lively music, whimsical and astonishingly accurate LEGO® brick models and a chance to let everyone's imagination run free. Legoland California has over 50 rides and attractions and many special year around events. East of Interstate 5 off Cannon Road in Carlsbad. 760-918-5346 - www.lego.com
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San Diego Zoo is home to over 4,000 exotic, rare, and endangered animals representing 800 species. Animals include giant pandas from China, koalas from Australia, pygmy chimpanzees from central Africa, Indochinese tigers, a variety of hornbills from Asia, and Andean condors from South America. Unique exhibits include Ituri Forest, Polar Bear Plunge, Rainforest Aviary, Gorilla Tropics, Tiger River, the African Kopje, and Sun Bear Forest. Other highlights are guided double-deck bus tours, the Skyfari aerial tram and the Children's Zoo. The luxuriously planted 100-acre Zoo is also an accredited botanical garden. One of the most popular San Diego attractions in magnificent Balboa Park. 619-234-3153 - www.sandiegozoo.org
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Sea World, one of San Diego's top tourist attractions, has hosted more than 100 million guests since it opened in 1964. At Sea World San Diego you can go below the surface and above the waves, count the teeth on a shark, meet Shamu® and go inside R.L. Stine's Haunted Lighthouse 4-D. A new adventure is "Journey To Atlantis," an exciting water coaster. Sea World is a very popular San Diego attraction. 1-800-257-4268 - www.seaworld.com |
Carlsbad State Beach is a big, mostly local and uncrowded beach with lots of sand. It has a seawall and a sidewalk, which makes it popular for walking, jogging, biking and people watching. Among the interesting features are two sets of rock jetties that divide the beach. Free parking is available on Carlsbad Boulevard and at the Tamarack parking lot at the southern tip of the seawall. Good public facilities and local bars and restaurants are on the north end near the village of Carlsbad. Lifeguards are on duty in season.
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| Del Mar Beach is one of San Diego's finest and most popular beaches. It's great for families, tourists and surfers who enjoy its wide expanse of sand and social activities. Swimming, walking, surfing, body boarding and even grunion hunting are just some of the things to do. Nearby are two seaside grassy parks - Seagrove and Powerhouse - both offering great picnicking and stunning ocean views. Jakes and the Poseidon Restaurant are right on the beach and other eateries and services are within a few blocks in the village of Del Mar. Services include showers and restrooms plus year-round lifeguards. Paid parking is available or park for free on one of the nearby streets. At low tide you can walk all the way south to the beautiful Torrey Pines State Park. A top attraction in San Diego. |
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| Fletcher Cove Beach Park in Solana Beach lies below the sandstone bluffs that run the length of this community. It's a small beach with public parking, restrooms and seasonal lifeguards. The cove was constructed years ago by cutting out a portion of the bluffs with hydraulic water hoses and steam shovels. The City of Solana Beach sponsors many community events at this location. |
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La Jolla Shores is a family favorite with a wide sandy beach, gentle waves and a playground for kids. It's popular for scuba diving, ocean swimmers and kayakers. La Jolla Shores is an ideal place to learn how to surf and many surf camps take their students here before braving rougher waters. It's the only beach boat launch in San Diego, where small vessels can be launched directly into the surf. There's an underwater canyon off La Jolla Shores Beach, designated as an ecological preserve, making this beach rich with marine life. Bonfires at night in provided containers are popular. A permanent lifeguard station is located adjacent to the main 350-space parking lot. Limited on-street parking is also available. Public restroom and showers are located 100 yards north and south of the main lifeguard tower.
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Mission Beach is more of a locals' beach than neighboring Pacific Beach. It's popular for tanning, volleyball, horseshoes, surfing and socializing. South Mission beach, marked by the historic roller coaster and the Plunge - an indoor swimming pool - has two famous beach bars: the Beachcomber and the Pennant, both Mission Beach institutions. A narrow cement boardwalk parallels the beach offering walking, biking and bicycling. Public parking is available on the north and south side of Belmont Park and at the foot of West Mission Bay Drive. There's also parking in two lots across the street adjacent to Bonita Cove, next to the Bahia Hotel. These lots fill very quickly on busy summer days and traffic can be heavy at times. Stores and services are available within walking distance of Mission Beach. A big San Diego attraction for young adults.
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| Moonlight State Beach is just a few blocks west of downtown Encinitas. An active beach heavily monitored by lifeguards, this is an excellent choice for visitors with children. Access for the handicapped is available. A fresh coat of sand is poured on rocky portions of the beach each May. There are restrooms, showers, a snack bar, fire rings, volleyball courts and free parking. The City of Encinitas sponsors many community events at this location. |
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Oceanside City Beach offers a wide stretch of sand, the longest pier on the West Coast, playground equipment, lifeguards, restrooms, showers and approximately 70 fire rings. It's perfect for swimming, sunbathing, surfing or simply romping in the blue Pacific Ocean. The adjacent street is excellent for strolling, rollerblading, or bike riding. Volleyball courts are set up along the beach and an amphitheater offers concerts and other community events. Restaurants and assorted services are available at nearby downtown Oceanside.
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Pacific Beach, the most popular beach in San Diego, is considered our nearest equivalent to Venice Beach. It's a happening place with lots of sand and people. Pacific Beach runs south of the Crystal Pier for about two miles becoming Mission Beach and then South Mission Beach. Being adjacent to the residential and commercial areas of the community of Pacific Beach, it draws large crowds in the summer. Parking and traffic can be very difficult - but worth it. A narrow boardwalk lines the beach and in the summer months is teeming with rollerbladers, runners and bike riders - not to mention the "beach bums" that hang out in the warm weather. Various shops, restaurants and beach rental outfits can be found along the boardwalk. Lifeguards are on duty year round at the main lifeguard station at the foot of Grand Avenue and along the beach in seasonal towers in the summer. This beach has separate areas reserved for swimming and surfing. Public restrooms and showers are located at the foot of Grand Avenue in the median of Pacific Beach Drive. The boardwalk is accessible to wheelchairs and containers for beach fires are provided during the summer months. |
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South Carlsbad State Beach, at the foot of Poinsettia off I-5, is relatively undeveloped, offering natural views of the ocean and lagoons. There are several parking lots and places to pull off the Coast Highway 101, where you can park, take a walk or snap a few photos. High dramatic cliffs line the northern portion while the terrain in the south is more level and accessible. Here you'll find a popular State of California campsite overlooking the beach. Lifeguard services are available in the summer. |
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California Ballet Company has been active in re-staging the classics and in the creation of its own trail-blazing works since its inception in 1968. The California Ballet Company is a vision of its founder, Maxine Mahon. The fire which she transmitted to her collaborators has molded them into a shining institution which is the multi-faceted California Ballet Company of San Diego. 858-560-5676 - www.californiaballet.org
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| City Ballet of San Diego is a non-profit organization committed to furthering the ballet art form. As San Diego's world-class professional ballet company, City Ballet produces classic and contemporary ballet programs that critics cheer. Training programs for children and pre-professionals are offered at City Ballet School. Innovative education programs range from arts outreach to inner-city children to bringing the world's best ballet instructors to San Diego. 858-272-8663 - www.cityballet.org |
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| San Diego Ballet was founded in 1991 with a mission to excite, enrich and entertain their diverse audience through the presentation of quality classical and contemporary dance. It enjoys critical acclaim with original and classical pieces. The San Diego Ballet collaborates with SD Chamber Orchestra and the Pasadena Symphony. It's also a touring company that has performed with the San Diego Symphony and the San Diego Camarada in the Mid-West and Southwest states. A top San Diego attraction for dance fans. - www.sandiegoballet.org |
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| Balboa Park Gardens are found throughout the lushly planted urban park. Balboa Park is a horticultural paradise offering a magnificent backdrop for the many cultural attractions. The stately rows of palms, forested lawns and ever-changing floral displays create a relaxing atmosphere that enhances a visit to the Balboa Park. Their web site describes the beautiful gardens in detail. One San Diego's favorite garden attractions. - www.balboapark.org |
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Quail Botanical Gardens has one of the most diverse and important plant collections anywhere. California native plants, exotic tropicals, palms, bamboo and other unusual plant collections thrive on 30 beautiful acres with scenic trails and a relaxing waterfall. Quail Botanical Gardens is dedicated to the conservation of rare and endangered plants from across the globe. Visitors enjoy tours, nature walks, lectures, landscape advice, instructional programs and fabulous summer concerts. 230 Quail Gardens Drive in Encinitas. 760-436-3036 - www.qbgardens.com
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San Diego Zoo Gardens are a world-class botanical wonder that add so much to the home of one of the finest animal collections in the world. The approximately 700,000 plants that grace the Zoo grounds create the peaceful landscape that it's known for. Nestled in the northeast corner of Balboa Park, the Zoo's 100 lushly planted acres have delighted and amazed visitors ever since its founding in 1916. A favorite San Diego attraction for gardeners. - www.sandiegozoo.org
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The Flower Fields Of Carlsbad take you into one of nature's wondrous fields of dreams and color. A place where kids can run and adults can linger on 50 acres of extraordinary spring color in bloom on a hillside overlooking the Pacific Ocean. Enjoy the special nursery, garden and gift shop by Armstrong Garden Centers. There are festivals throughout the season. Just east of Interstate 5 off Palomar Airport Road in Carlsbad. One of the best San Diego attractions. 760-431-0352 - www.theflowerfields.com
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Wild Animal Park Gardens are a botanical wonder in their own right, in addition to the fascinating animals. From towering acacias and conifers swaying at lofty heights, to the prickly beauty of denizens of the desert, to the astonishing hues of blossoms vying for the attention of pollinators, the Wild Animal Park offers an array of plants for the curiosity and enjoyment of visitors. Whether you're a horticulturist, a gardening buff or a novice to things green and leafy, the Park displays plants that will intrigue and delight you. One of the best San Diego garden attractions. - www.sandiegozoo.org
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| HISTORICAL |
Cabrillo National Monument celebrates Juan Rodriguez Cabrillo's landing in San Diego Bay in 1542. The park offers a superb view of San Diego's harbor and skyline. At the highest point of the park stands the Old Point Loma Lighthouse, which has been a San Diego icon since 1854. In the winter, migrating gray whales can be seen off the coast. Native coastal sage scrub habitat along the Bayside Trail offers a quiet place to reflect and relax. A favorite San Diego historical attraction. 619-557-5450 - www.nps.gov/cabr
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Junipero Serra Museum is a striking mission-style building constructed in 1929 to commemorate the site where Father Junipero Serra and Captain Gaspar de Portola established the first mission and fortified settlement in present-day California. The museum showcases artifacts such as housewares, furniture, tools and a cannon from the Native American, Spanish, Mexican, and American periods through 1929. The Museum Store offers a complete selection of books on early San Diego and California history. In Presidio Park above Old Town State Historic Park. A popular San Diego attraction. 619-297-3258 - www.sandiegohistory.org
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La Paloma Theatre opened in Encinitas in 1928 with the film "The Cohen's And Kelly's in Paris." It was one of the first theatres to show "Talkies." The transition from silent pictures didn't happen over night, so La Paloma was also equipped with a beautiful pipe organ, a standard piece of theatre equipment during the silent movie era. Films in the early days of motion pictures were usually preceded by a vaudeville stage act, and La Paloma was well suited for that. La Paloma Theatre hosts featured films and many community and city functions throughout the year. 760- 436-5774 - www.lapalomatheatre.com
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Leo Carrillo Ranch Historic Park was once part of the original 2,538 acre working ranch and vacation retreat of actor Leo Carrillo. The City of Carlsbad has restored many of the buildings on the 27-acre parcel including the hacienda, reflecting pool, cantina, carriage house, tack room, stable, barn, foundry and equipment shed. Open Tuesday through Sunday with tours on weekends. - www.ci.carlsbad.ca.us
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Marston House was built in 1905 for the prominent San Diego merchant, philanthropist and civic leader. Furnished in the style of the American Arts and Crafts Movement of the early 20th century, the interior reflects the architect's commitment to function and simplicity of design. Five acres of landscaped grounds offer a picturesque blend of English Romantic themes with California influences. The Marston House is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. 3525 Seventh Avenue near Balboa Park. 619-298-3142 - www.sandiegohistory.org
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Mission San Luis Rey is a jewel of early California history, set in a quiet river valley in Oceanside. Walk through the Sunken Gardens or along the arched colonnade imagining the everyday life of the Franciscan Friars and Indians who inhabited the Mission more than two centuries ago. Founded on June 13, 1798, Mission San Luis Rey de Francia is the eighteenth in a line of twenty-one California Missions. Enjoy guided and self-guided tours, a museum, gift shop, Franciscan Retreat Center and an old cemetery. An historic San Diego attraction. 760-757-3651 - www.sanluisrey.org
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Old Town San Diego is one of the most exciting and colorful San Diego attractions. Dating back to the time of the early Spaniards in California, Old Town reflects the rich, colorful history of early California. Daily shows, monthly festivals, dining, artisans and a wealth of beautiful shops give Old Town it's festive air. Don't miss it. Start your visit at the Old Town Visitor's Information Center. One of the most popular historic San Diego attractions. 909-693-5463 - www.oldtownsandiego.org
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Spreckels Theatre was built for sugar heir John D. Spreckels, who wanted the best for his adopted city of San Diego. A relic of the great era of downtown theater-palaces, the Spreckels opened in 1912 as the first modern commercial playhouse west of the Mississippi. With it's baroque moldings, ceiling frescoes, ornate box seats and a stunning marble lobby, it was one of the most handsome theaters in America. Its stage was one of the largest: 82 feet by 58 feet. The 1,466-seat theater was converted for film use in 1922 and back to live shows in the 1970s, escaping the urban "renewal" that leveled so many smaller movie houses. Recent improvements provide crystal-clear acoustics and warm golden lighting, but the spirit of her founding era has been carefully maintained. Among the most historical San Diego attractions. - www.sandiegohistory.org
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Thomas Whaley House is a two-story Greek Revival style brick residence completed in 1857. Acclaimed as the "finest new brick block in Southern California," it was home to Whaley family members for nearly a century until 1956, when the County of San Diego purchased the property and undertook a major renovation. In 2000, Save Our Heritage Organization assumed the stewardship of the property and restoration to it's original appearance is again in progress. The Whaley House is in Old Town at 2482 San Diego Avenue. A San Diego attraction worth seeing. 619-297-9327 - www.whaleyhouse.org
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Villa Montezuma brings back the splendor and glory of San Diego's early boom years. Built in 1887 for author and musician Jesse Shepard, this Victorian house offers an exotic exterior, ornate interior and art glass windows. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, the Villa Montezuma hosts a variety of cultural and community activities. Weekend tours or private bookings can be arranged. 1925 K Street in the Sherman Heights neighborhood. 619-239-2211 - www.sandiegohistory.org
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| MUSEUMS |
Antique Gas & Steam Engine Museum brings back memories of rural lifestyles and family traditions. Located on 40 acres of rolling farm land in Vista, the equipment is in operating condition and used in Museum programs. The collection focuses on equipment from 1849 to1950 covering agriculture, construction and early industrial trades. Exhibits include blacksmith and wheelwright shop, country kitchen and parlor, steam and gas industrial power units, gristmill and sawmill and farm equipment from horse drawn through modern row crop. A unique San Diego museum attraction. 760-941-1791 - www.agsem.com
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California Surf Museum features an outstanding collection of antique surfboards, photos and memorabilia of local surfing legends. An unusual San Diego museum attraction at 223 N. Coast Highway in Oceanside. 760-721-6876 - www.surfmuseum.org
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Maritime Museum of San Diego is among the most interesting San Diego museum attractions. It has a worldwide reputation for excellence in restoring, maintaining and operating historic vessels. This museum-on-water is the focal point of San Diego's historic Embarcadero Promenade and has one of the world's finest collections of historic ships, including the world famous Star of India (1863), a stunning vision that graces the coastline as the world's oldest actively-sailed, square-rigged ship. 619-234-9153 - www.sdmaritime.com
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Mingei International Museum was incorporated in 1974 as a nonprofit, public foundation dedicated to furthering the understanding of art of all cultures of the world. This art shares a direct simplicity and reflects a joy in making, by hand, useful objects that are satisfying to the human spirit. Mingei International established the Museum of World Folk Art in University Towne Centre in 1978. In 1996 it opened a new, architecturally designed, state-of-the-art museum in Balboa Park, San Diego. Changing exhibitions focus on traditional and contemporary folk art, craft and design. Through the universal language of line, form and color, mingei speaks eloquently of the similarities and distinctions of individuals and cultures. 619-239-0003 - www.mingei.org
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Museum of Making Music exhibits more than 450 vintage instruments and samples of the most memorable tunes spanning more than 100 years. Best of all, the museum helps you see the connection between history and music. 5790 Armada Drive in Carlsbad near Legoland. 877-551-9976 - www.museumofmakingmusic.org
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Museum of Photographic Arts is one of the country's first and finest museums dedicated solely to photographic and film arts. It offers changing exhibitions by masters of the art form and critically acclaimed work by celebrated photographers. The museum presents lectures, workshops and a theater hosts on-site film series. The museum store has a collection of photography-related books, posters, note cards and unique gift items. A San diego museum worth seeing. 619-238-7559 - www.mopa.org
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San Diego Aerospace Museum recreates the history of aviation from the Wright Flyer to the space shuttle. See exhibits of more than 65 aircraft, 1,400 scale models, and 10,000 aviation-related items. The museum houses the International Aerospace Hall of Fame and an extensive aviation library and archives plus a remarkable aerospace museum store. One of San Diego's top museum attractions. 619-234-8291 - www.aerospacemuseum.org
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Oceanside Museum of Art is a cultural jewel located in a classic Irving Gill designed building in downtown Oceanside. OMA presents five provocative exhibits each year and art instruction at the OMA-School of Art. Also offered is chamber music in the museum galleries, bus tours to other art museums in Southern California, lectures, workshops and museum tours for school classes and community groups. Oceanside Museum of Art is a gathering place where friends meet to share and enjoy the rich cultural experiences available in the region. 760-721-2787 - www.oma-online.org
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San Diego Aircraft Carrier Museum is located aboard the historic USS Midway, docked right along the Navy Pier in downtown San Diego. No carrier has the history or the crew to match the Midway. Its 47-year odyssey spanned the end of WWII and Desert Storm and involved more than 225,000 Americans as crew members. The San Diego Aircraft Carrier Museum features exhibits, an audio guide with admission, flight simulators and tours of the carrier. An adventuresome San Diego museum and one of the most popular attractions. 619-544-9600 - www.midway.org
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San Diego Automotive Museum offers a fascinating stroll among more than 80 automobiles and motorcycles. From the Model T to the Maserati, it's a trip down Memory Lane. The Museum Store is stocked with exceptional car lover merchandise, and the research library is open to the public. Palisades area of Balboa Park. 619-231-2888 - www.sdautomuseum.org
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San Diego Firehouse Museum gives a glimpse of San Diego's fire-fighting past and its future. Founded in 1962, the Firehouse Museum occupies the former home of San Diego Fire Station No. 6. The museum's brick-and-mortar building features various fire-fighting gear and pays tribute to fire marshals, chiefs, deputy chiefs, alarm dispatchers and battalions who have answered the call of duty. 1572 Columbia Street in the heart of Little Italy. Open Wednesday through Sunday. A little-known, but interesting San Diego attraction. - thesdfirehousemuseum.org
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San Diego Model Railroad Museum celebrates America's railroads with the largest permanent operating model railroad and toy train exhibit in the United States. The 24,000 square foot museum has four giant scale model railroads of the Southwest, including an "HO" 1/87 actual size replica of one of the largest timber trestles in North America. Children of all ages can enjoy being engineer on a special Lionel layout. A fun San Diego museum attraction. Downstairs in the Casa De Balboa Building in Balboa Park. 619-696-0199 - www.sdmodelrailroadm.com
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San Diego Museum of Man is a museum of anthropology with some of the cities' greatest treasures. Each exhibit is another chapter in the fascinating story of mankind and displays part of the Museum's unique collection of artifacts, folklore and physical remains. Learn about ancient Egypt and native cultures of the Western Americas. Youngsters of all ages can explore the mysteries of ancient Egypt at the museum's innovative Children's Discovery Center. An fascinating San Diego museum attraction in beautiful Balboa Park. 619-239-2001 - www.museumofman.org
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San Diego Museum of Art is a leading art institution and one of the outstanding San Diego attractions, with approximately 500,000 visitors annually. Its holdings include renowned collections of Italian Renaissance, Dutch and Spanish Old Masters, Asian art, south Asian paintings, as well as comprehensive examples of American art, nineteenth-century European paintings, twentieth-century paintings and sculpture, and the Frederick R. Weisman Gallery for Contemporary California Art. The Museum hosts major touring exhibitions and offers a year 'round schedule of performances, concerts, lectures, gallery talks and films. A famous San Diego attraction. 619-232-7931 - www.sdmart.com
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San Diego Natural History Museum features its own giant-screen film Ocean Oasis, which takes visitors on an incredible journey through Baja California and the Sea of Cortez. In a 90,000 sq. ft. expansion, visitors also enjoy exciting traveling exhibitions and regional displays of its 7.5 million specimen scientific collection in the disciplines of paleontology, mineralogy, botany, entomology, marine invertebrates, herpetology, ornithology and mammalogy. Another popular San Diego museum attraction in beautiful Balboa Park. 619-232-3821 - www.sdnhm.org
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| MUSIC |
The Cabrillo Chamber Orchestra is a professional San Diego ensemble that specializes in the literature of the baroque, rococo, and classical eras and sometimes more. They work with local artists to bring music par excellence to the public: to celebrate, educate and entertain. Performances are at St. Andrew's Episcopal Church at 890 Balour Drive in Encinitas. 619-287-0821 - www.cco-sd.com
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La Jolla Symphony & Chorus is a performance ensemble affiliated with the University of California, San Diego, which performs six concerts each year plus special performances at other venues in Southern California. The LJS&C is an independent, non-profit, corporation, comprised of volunteer musicians from all walks of life, including UCSD students, staff and faculty, as well as professional musicians. The mission of the LJS&C is to enrich the cultural life of San Diego through professional, financially accessible concerts of ground-breaking, traditional and contemporary classical music. Performances are in the Mandeville Auditorium on the UCSD campus in La Jolla. One of the top San Diego concerts. 858-534-4637 - www.lajollasymphony.com
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La Jolla Music Society contributes to San Diego's cultural vitality through a rich variety of concerts, including classical, jazz and contemporary music, ballet and modern dance. The Society's signature event is the acclaimed SummerFest, a three-week chamber music festival of performances, live broadcasts, open rehearsals, educational encounters, pre-concert talks and social events. A top San Diego concert. 858-459-3728 - www.ljms.org
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La Jolla Presbyterian Church Concert Series presents exceptional musical events free of charge. Attend the Sunday concerts and experience a truly uplifting musical presentation, in a welcoming and intimate concert setting. La Jolla Presbyterian Church at 7715 Draper Avenue in La Jolla. A fun and casual San Diego concert series. 858-454-0713 ext. 321 - www.ljpc.org
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Lake San Marcos Chamber Music Society has been presenting nationally and internationally known artists in masterworks of classical chamber music since 1989. The concerts are given Sunday afternoons in the beautiful Schulman Auditorium at 1775 Dove Lane in Carlsbad at 2:30 p.m. 760-630-4360 - lsmcms.adnc.com
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San Diego Folk Heritage presents concerts and storytelling by local artists, offer weekly Contra Dances, and sponsor concerts by touring musicians. They also present the Sam Hinton Folk Heritage Festival every May, the Sea Chantey Festival on board the Star of India, and the Train Song Festival in October. Concerts are in Encinitas and in Poway. 858-566-4040 - www.sdfolkheritage.org
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San Diego Chamber Orchestra, founded in 1984, is the premiere professional chamber orchestra of San Diego County. Under Artistic Director and Conductor Jung-Ho Pak, the Orchestra performs at venues in downtown San Diego, La Jolla, and in the north county at Rancho Santa Fe. The Orchestra also performs for local organizations and corporations for special events. It has an annual holiday tradition of performing Handel's Messiah in beautiful churches and the California Center of the Performing Arts, Escondido. The San Diego Chamber Orchestra is a cultural leader and unique classical music experience for the San Diego community. 858-350-0290 - www.sdco.org
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San Diego Children's Choir was founded by Polly Campbell and incorporated as a non-profit public benefit corporation in 1990. The Choir is open to boys and girls, ages six to eighteen, from all racial, ethnic, religious, and economic backgrounds. Rehearsals and performances of fine music literature form the foundation of instruction. The Choir currently has five branches to provide choral opportunities to youth in major areas of San Diego County. The Choir provides the youth of San Diego opportunities for artistic and personal growth through choral music performance at private and public events. 858-587-1087 - www.sdcchoir.org
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San Diego Folk Heritage presents concerts and storytelling by local artists, offer weekly Contra Dances, and sponsor concerts by touring musicians. They also present the Sam Hinton Folk Heritage Festival every May, the Sea Chantey Festival on board the Star of India, and the Train Song Festival in October. Concerts are in Encinitas and in Poway. 858-566-4040 - www.sdfolkheritage.org
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Spreckels Organ Pavilion houses one of the world's largest outdoor pipe organs. This unique outdoor organ, with over 4,500 pipes, was donated to the City of San Diego by John and Adolph Spreckels in 1914. It's housed in an ornate vaulted structure with highly embellished gables and comfortable seating for 2,400. Free year around organ concerts are held on Sunday afternoons at 2 p.m. The annual free Summer International Organ Festival is presented from mid-June through August on Monday evenings. A relaxing way to spend the afternoon. 619-702-8138 - www.sosorgan.com
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The San Diego Symphony has become one of the leading orchestras in the United States, since its inception in 1914. It performs over 100 concerts each season including: the Masterworks series offering traditional classical repertoire and featured guest classical artists; the Winter Pops series with guest pop artists; annual holiday programs; a Family Festival series; and the Light Bulb Series an interactive series of concerts that examine classical music from thought-provoking angles. The Symphony also presents an outdoor Summer Pops season mixing classical favorites and popular music in a festive, outdoor atmosphere on San Diego's waterfront. One of the favorite San Diego concerts. 619-235-0804 - www.sandiegosymphony.com
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| NATURE PARKS |
Anza-Borrego Desert State Park is the largest desert state park in the contiguous United States, offering more than 600,000 acres. 500 miles of dirt roads, two huge wilderness areas and 110 miles of riding and hiking trails present visitors with the wonders of the Colorado Desert. Named after the Spanish explorer Juan Bautista de Anza and the Spanish word "borrego," referring to bighorn sheep, the park features washes, wildflowers, palm groves, cacti and sweeping vistas. Visitors may also see roadrunners, golden eagles, kit foxes, mule deer and bighorn sheep as well as desert iguanas, chuckwallas and four species of rattlesnake. Depending on winter rainfall, the natural beauty of the Anza-Borrego Desert State Park is enhanced by the magical appearance of desert wildflowers in the spring. 760-767-4684 - www.anzaborrego.statepark.org
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Batiquitos Lagoon Nature Trail is the best way to explore the spectacular Batiquitos Lagoon in south Carlsbad. The 2-mile long trail follows the waters edge through a serene Eucalyptus forest. It starts just east of Interstate 5 and goes most of the way to El Camino Real. Be prepared to see lots of birds and animals. Five public parking lots provide access to the trail, one by the Nature Center on Batiquitos Drive in Aviara. Take the Poinsettia Lane exit from I-5 and head east. The Batiquitos Lagoon Foundation gives scheduled walks and talks most weekends. 760-931-0800 - www.batiquitosfoundation.org
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Los Peñasquitos Canyon Preserve is a vast and beautiful natural open space located between the I-5 and I-15 freeways. It's made up of two large coastal canyons covering more than 4000 acres and stretching some 7 miles. Los Peñasquitos Canyon and its tributary, Lopez Canyon, are characterized by perennial streams and steep slopes rising from flat, densely vegetated canyon bottoms. The scenery ranges from woodland to open grassland that rises abruptly onto brush-covered slopes. Midway in Los Peñasquitos Canyon is a boulder-studded waterfall set against an untouched backdrop of rolling hills. The area has 130 different birds, 26 species of mammals, 22 kinds of amphibians and 90 kinds of plants. Some of the bigger mammals include mule deer, bobcats, and even mountain lions. Miles of trails provide a haven for hiking and bike riding. - www.sandiego.gov
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Mission Bay Park is a 4,300-acre aquatic park with 27 miles of shoreline and 19 miles of sandy beaches. It was originally named False Bay by Juan Rodriguez Cabrillo, who came upon it in 1542. In those days, it was a vast tidal marsh that could confuse mariners into believing it was San Diego Bay, the larger bay just to the south. It was dredged in the 1960's to form a monumental man-made bay with vast stretches of beaches, lawns, marinas and resort hotels. Mission Bay is used by motorboaters, sailboaters, rowers, waterskiers, picnickers, joggers and swimmers. It is also home to many species of birds, fish and other animals and has a nature reserve at it's northern end near Crown Point. A paved path around the entire park is a great way to spend the day exploring this San Diego attraction. - www.sandiego.gov
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Mission Trails Regional Park encompasses nearly 5,800 acres of rugged hills, valleys and natural open space that represent the way San Diego looked in the early days. Only eight miles northeast of downtown San Diego, Mission Trails Regional Park provides a quick, natural escape from the urban hustle and bustle. Established in 1974, it's one of the largest urban parks in the U.S. Originally used by the Kumeyaay Indians, the park is the site of the Old Mission Dam, built to store water for the Mission San Diego de Alcala. With over 40 miles of trails, boating on Lake Murray, camping at Kumeyaay Lake, numerous informative hikes and a Visitor & Interpretive Center, Mission Trails Regional Park has something to offer everyone. One of the top San Diego attractions. - www.mtrp.org
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Rose Canyon Open Space Park is located in the University City neighborhood of San Diego. Named after San Diego entrepreneur Louis Rose, it's approximately 4 miles long and is very narrow, averaging less than 1/4 mile wide. Yet, here you'll find riparian, oak woodland and field habitats and a great variety of plants and animals. Rose Canyon Open Space Park is a welcome respite from the growing urban environment, with hiking trails, wildlife viewing and a place to relax. 858-597-0220 - www.mtrp.org
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San Dieguito Park is a beautiful place to spend the afternoon with friends and family. This 125-acre park at the east end of Lomas Santa Fe Drive in Solana Beach, is operated by the County of San Diego. Only minutes from the ocean, it's cooled by sea breezes during the warm summer months. The four reservable picnic areas are set among towering eucalyptus groves that characterize this part of the county. A ball field, basketball court, play areas and hiking trails are nearby for visitors to enjoy. The lower area of the 125-park has a large open grassy area that's devoted to picnics. Other highlights include a duck pond and gazebo. - www.co.san-diego.ca.us
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Sunset Cliffs Natural Park is a 68-acre resource-based park dedicated in 1983. It stretches along the Pacific Ocean bordering the western edge of Point Loma. 18 acres lie to the west of Sunset Cliffs Blvd. between Adair and Ladera Streets. The 50-acre hillside section is a designated multiple species conservation area. The Park's topography includes intricately carved coastal bluffs, arches and sea caves. It affords inspiring panoramic ocean views. From the cliffs, the California Gray Whale can be seen migrating annually from the Bering Sea to Baja California. - www.sandiego.gov/park-and-recreation/parks
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Tecolote Canyon Natural Park offers visitors educational and recreational opportunities with scenic vistas, varied terrain and an 18-hole golf course nestled in the middle. Located just minutes from the city center near Mission Bay, the park's 900 acres include over six miles of trails for hiking and biking, plus a Nature Center with exhibits on the animal and plant life of the Canyon. Tecolote means "owl" in Spanish. Centuries ago, the Kumeyaay Indians found food and shelter in Tecolote Canyon, a place that today is rich with history. It was dedicated as a natural park in 1978 - www.sandiego.gov
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Torrey Pines State Reserve, one of San Diego's greatest treasures is located on the coast between La Jolla and Del Mar. It remains one of wildest stretches of land on the Southern California coast. 2000 acres of land have been preserved with native plants including chaparral and the rare and elegant Torrey Pine trees. Enjoy miles of unspoiled beaches, a lagoon that's vital to migrating seabirds, eight miles of trails, a visitor center and guided nature walks on weekends and holidays. Torrey Pines visitors rest at the stunning overlooks, walk the peaceful trails or exercise in a clean, beautiful environment. One of the favorite San Diego attractions. - www.torreypine.org
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| SCENIC TOURS |
Hornblower Cruises is a great way to enjoy the sights and sounds of the magnificent San Diego Bay. San Diego Bay boasts some of America's most historic warships such as the U.S.S. Ronald Reagan and the U.S.S. Midway as well as playing host to the scenic sights of the Coronado Bay Bridge and Seaport Village to name just a few! Choose from one of Hornblower's harbor cruises, dining cruises or a San Diego whale watching adventure! An exciting San Diego attraction. 619-686-8700 - www.hornblower.com
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Old Town Trolley Tours is the best way to learn the history and see the highlights of San Diego. The tours in colorful buses are entertaining and educational. See Old Town State Park, Seaport Village, Horton Plaza, Coronado Island, Hotel Del Coronado, San Diego Zoo, Gaslamp Quarter, San Diego Museum of Art, Natural History Museum, Aerospace Museum, Lindbergh Field, Naval Station San Diego, Balboa Park, El Prado, Heritage Park, Star of India, Whaley House, and much more! Tour at your own pace by getting off at any of the convenient stops. Reboard the Old Town Trolley when you're ready. 619-298-8687 - www.trolleytours.com
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San Diego Scenic Tours offers informative tours that cover the highlights of San Diego landmarks and Tijuana. All sightseeing tours are professionally narrated with air-conditioned minibuses and motorcoaches. Pick-up is free from most local hotels and guests are advised to call in advance for reservations. This is a great way to start your San Diego visit. 858-272-8687 - www.sandiegoscenictours.com
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The Grapeline, Temecula Valley's wine country shuttle, offers a view of Southern California's premier wine region aboard spacious deluxe shuttle coaches. Hop aboard at convenient locations at most Temecula area hotels, or schedule a departure from San Diego, Escondido, or Fallbrook. Have a fun-filled day visiting a variety of wineries, each with a character as rich and individual as the wines they produce. 909-693-5463 - www.gogrape.com
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| SCIENCE |
Birch Aquarium at Scripps Institution of Oceanography is the public exploration center for Scripps Institution of Oceanography at UCSD in La Jolla. Because it's smaller than some of its better-known cousins, the Birch Aquarium allows you to get close to the animals and take your time enjoying them. Colorful fish and anemones of all descriptions adorn the exhibits. The most popular exhibit is the sea horses, featuring many species, from tiny miniature sea horses less than an inch tall to other-worldly leafy sea dragons. Interactive exhibits teach the history of oceanography. 858-534-3474 - www.aquarium.ucsd.edu
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Mount Laguna Observatory, operated by SDSU is open to the public most Fridays and Saturdays at the Mount Laguna Forest Service Visitor Center on the Sunrise Highway. 619-473-8547 or 619-594-6182 - mintaka.sdsu.edu
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Reuben H. Fleet Science Center brings the world's largest motion pictures to the giant tilted dome Omnimax screen. Enjoy thrilling visions while 152 speakers deliver state-of-the-art sound. The Exhibit Galleries feature more than 100 hands-on science exhibits. Find unique gifts at the Science Store. One of the favorite San Diego attractions in historic Balboa Park. 619-238-1233 - www.rhfleet.org
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Whale Watching brings the experience of the annual migration of California gray whales to the warm breeding grounds off the coast of Baja California. Glimpse these peaceful giants of the sea from Cabrillo National Monument or on special whale-watching cruises. Best time to see is January through March. An exciting San Diego attraction. 619-557-5450 - www.sdhe.com
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| THEATER |
Broadway San Diego is professional San Diego theater at it's best. Their award-winning, Broadway-style live theater presentations are produced by The Nederlander Organization and presented at the San Diego Civic Theatre. 3rd and B Street in Downtown San Diego. 619-231-8995 - www.broadwaysd.com
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Coronado Playhouse is the oldest community theatre in San Diego County. More than two hundred productions have been produced since it was first organized as the Coronado Players in 1946. The Playhouse is operated by a Board of Directors, who are elected by the membership. Performers, stage and technical crew are all dedicated volunteers. The Playhouse is self-supporting through box office revenues, season tickets, memberships, donations, grants and the generosity of volunteers. 1335 First Street at the Coronado Ferry Landing. 619-435-4856 - www.coronadoplayhouse.com
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Horton Grand Theatre presents Triple Espresso, a long-running San Diego theater presentation in which three long-time friends attempt to resurrect their long-dormant variety act at a coffeehouse. Horton Grand Theatre at 444 Fourth Avenue in San Diego. 619-234-9583 - www.tripleespresso.com
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Lamb's Players Theatre is a leading performing arts organization offering a variety of drama, comedy and musicals. The annual 5-play season runs from January through November, with December filled with a variety of Christmas productions. The Lamb's Players Resident Theatre is a beautiful 350-seat facility in Coronado's historic Spreckels Building, at 1142 Orange Avenue in Coronado - just two blocks north of the Hotel del Coronado. 619-437-0600 - www.lambsplayers.org
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La Jolla Playhouse is a professional theatre in residence founded in 1947. It operates the Mandell Weiss Center for the Performing Arts on the UCSD campus in La Jolla. La Jolla Playhouse has earned its place in the international theatre with brilliant and innovative productions of classics and new plays and musicals that have including many world premieres. It enjoys more than 300 major honors including the 1993 Tony® Award as America's Outstanding Regional Theatre. The Playhouse season runs from April to December, and normally includes 6 productions. A favorite San Diego theater attraction. 858-550-1035 - www.lajollaplayhouse.com
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Lawrence Welk Theatre presents live Broadway-style musicals in the intimate 339-seat Broadway style theater at the Welk Resort San Diego in Escondido. Includes a museum with memorabilia highlighting the life and career of legendary band leader Lawrence Welk. A sumptuous buffet is also available before each performance at Mr. W's Restaurant. A popular San Diego theater attraction. 760-749-3448 - www.welkresort.com
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Moonlight Stage Productions brings critically acclaimed live theater to the City of Vista through the Moonlight Cultural Foundation, a non-profit organization. For over 20 years the summer productions have been at the Moonlight Amphitheatre in Brengle Terrace Park. The open air venue offers 899 permanent seats with lawn seating for about 1200. The winter season is presented at the Avo Playhouse at 303 Main Street. Built in 1948 as a neighborhood movie house, the Avo Playhouse was purchased by the City of Vista and elegantly restored to accommodate live performances in 1995. 760-724-2110 - www.moonlightstage.com
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Mystery Cafe Dinner Theater performs a comedic murder mystery in four hilarious acts. Between acts you are served a delicious four-course meal by the suspects themselves - the actors. Toward the end of the evening you try to guess whodunit! Friday and Saturday evenings at 8 p.m. Imperial House Restaurant at 505 Kalmia Street near Balboa Park. 619-544-1600 - www.mysterycafe.net
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National Comedy Theater is San Diego's acclaimed improvisational comedy group, where the performers create the show entirely upon audience suggestions. Appropriate for all ages. Friday and Saturday evenings, at 7:30 and 9:45 p.m. National Comedy Theater at 3717 India Street in Mission Hills. 619-295-4999 - www.nationalcomedy.com
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North Coast Repertory Theatre has evolved from its modest beginning 22 years ago, into one of the area's leading performing arts organizations. The theatre boasts an award-winning Mainstage season, with year-round performances to over 35,000 people in its intimate 194-seat setting. In addition, the theatre involves thousands of young people each year in the Theatre School. 987-D Lomas Santa Fe Drive in Solana Beach. 858-481-1055 - www.northcoastrep.org
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Palomar College Performing Arts offers a variety of live music, dance and theater productions performed by the students putting their talent and training to work in a live, real-world setting. Ticket prices make quality, live performances available to people of all ages and incomes. Howard Brubeck Theatre on the San Marcos Campus -1140 W. Mission Road. 760-744-1150 ext. 2453 - www.palomar.edu
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Patio Playhouse was incorporated in 1967 as a theatre group for theatrical arts education and presentation. They've been building a community of playgoers and participants by providing affordable, quality entertainment and opportunities for people to take part in award-winning shows. Patio Playhouse provides a venue where people from school age to seniors can participate in live drama, learn new skills, and enrich the quality of life in the community. 201 East Grand Avenue in Escondido. 760-746-6669 - www.patioplayhouse.com
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Poway Performing Arts Company is a non-profit, community theatre located upstairs in the Lively Center at 13250 Poway Road in Poway. Performances are Fridays and Saturdays at 8:00 PM and Sundays at 2:00 PM. Auditions are open to anyone wishing to share in the joy of theatre and behind the scenes individuals are always welcome. 858-679-8085 - powpac.tripod.com
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San Diego Repertory Theatre is a prominent downtown San Diego theatre celebrating it's 28th season. It's the third-largest professional theatre in San Diego, employing over 800 artists, craftspeople, collaborators and consultants a year. An audience of 150,000 people are treated to a six-play season. The REP has earned unprecedented critical acclaim by amassing more than 100 DramaLogue Awards and San Diego's Critics Circle Awards. The mission at the REP is to produce adventurous programming that explores key spiritual, political and cultural values that are vital to the community. The Lyceum Theatre Complex at 79 Horton Plaza in downtown San Diego. A top-ranked San Diego theater attraction. 619-544-1000 - www.sandiegorep.com
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Starlight Theatre is operated by the San Diego Civic Light Opera Association, one of the oldest continuously producing musical theatre companies in the United States. Since it's first season in 1946, Starlight has presented 54 seasons of musical theatre productions for more than four million San Diegans and visitors. These seasons have encompassed nearly 1000 productions of 120 different musicals. Beginning in 1992 Starlight became a year-round producer of quality theatre both at the Starlight Bowl in Balboa Park and at indoor venues including the Civic Theatre and the Spreckels Theatre. 619-544-7827 - www.starlighttheatre.org
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The Old Globe is one of the most renowned regional theaters in the country and has stood as San Diego's flagship arts institution for over 68 years. The Globe produces a year-round season of 12-14 plays and musicals on its three stages, including the highly-regarded Shakespeare festival. It's become a gathering place for leading theater artists from around the world and is at the forefront of the nation's leading performing arts organizations. The Old Globe complex is in Balboa Park. A top-ranked San Diego theater attraction. 619-239-2255 - www.oldglobe.org
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The Theatre in Old Town is an innovative production company that brings award-winning, long-running musicals and comedies to San Diego audiences. The Theatre is operated under a concession contract with California State Parks. It's currently playing Robert Dubac's THE MALE INTELLECT: an oxymoron? 4040 Twiggs Street in the heart of the Old Town San Diego State Historic Park. 619-688-2494 - www.theatreinoldtown.com
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