A relaxing weekend getaway was much needed and a flight to San Diego, CA sounded perfect especially since it would be my first time visiting. Two common things that I’ve heard about San Diego is that it is beautiful and to go without an itinerary would be a mistake. Well…we decided to go without an itinerary to see where the weekend would take us and this is how it went!
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Where to Stay in San Diego
Since this was a first for everything San Diego, I am beyond grateful that my first stay was at the Hilton San Diego Gaslamp Quarter! Full hotel review here but long story short, the property was clean, quiet and honestly stunning. It is fairly close to the San Diego International airport being about 4 miles away and walkable to Petco Park, the San Diego Convention Center and other restaurants/shops throughout Gaslamp Quarter. The hotel service was also amazing. I have no complaints so if you are wondering where to stay in San Diego, put this one high on your consideration list.
>>> Hilton San Diego Gaslamp Quarter Hotel Full Review <<<
24 Hours in San Diego
As soon as our Uber arrived at the hotel, we left our bags at the bellhop desk and headed 15 minutes away to Fashion Valley Mall. Definitely one of the best outdoor malls that I’ve experienced, the atmosphere was very welcoming and relaxing. There were interactive directories throughout the property which were extremely helpful and plenty of lounge areas to just chill and enjoy. We even met a few people and had fun conversations, I would definitely go again.
It was time to head back to the room, check in, and choose a place to have dinner. There were several restaurants and bars on the same street as the hotel plus there was a huge pool party across the street at Hard Rock so we just blended in with the crowd! We ended at 207 Bar because who can ever say no to wings and good drinks? The food and service were great; we also enjoyed the music and FIFA streaming.
I had already decided that I needed to plan a longer trip back to San Diego very soon by the next morning but it was time to have breakfast and prepare to leave. We had an amazing meal to start the day at the Hilton’s on-site restaurant Wild Hare Bar Garden, great service and food once again. After dropping by the Starbucks across the street, we walked to explore the marina views; we specifically hung out at the Embarcadero Marina Park South and enjoyed the scenery until it was time to grab our bags from the hotel and head to the airport.
Overall, the goal was to have a laidback, relaxing weekend trip and it was 100% a success. I will be back soon to explore more and do water activities but until then, if you have a trip to San Diego planned, feel free to add any of these to your explore list while you’re there!