“Embarcadero” is Spanish for “landing place.”” This name certainly fits the stretch of San Diego’s coastline on the fringes of the San Diego Bay. Embarcadero is a busy marina, a cruise ship terminal, a docking area for several historic maritime vessels, and it’s home to a floating museum. It’s also bustling with a high-energy vibe as it is packed with numerous retail and dining spots plus some grand hotels.
Here are some of the exciting attractions on San Diego’s Embarcadero that you simply cannot miss:
- San Diego County Waterfront Park.
- USS Midway Museum.
- Maritime Museum of San Diego.
- Flagship Cruises Events.
- Seaport Village.
- Museum of Contemporary Art San Diego.
- Ruocco Park Market.
This park, said to be San Diego’s idyllic front porch, sits on 12 acres of green space. It has a number of amenities like gardens, plazas, splash fountains, and a creative playground. Best of all, you can catch the most spectacular views of the Downtown San Diego skyline here.
This is a not-to-be-missed attraction! Go on a tour aboard the USS Midway, the longest-serving aircraft carrier in the U.S. There is so much to see and learn in this floating interactive museum. Exhibits include various restored aircraft, flight simulators, and a visit to the enormous flight deck. Many of the guides here are veterans who once served on the ship.
This floating facility takes pride in the restoration and maintenance of an outstanding collection of historic ships. The Star of India is its pride and glory, still active and sailing at 150+ years old. Several memorials are installed here, all of which commemorate a specific time in US naval history.
Since 1915, this fleet of passenger boats has been touring visitors around the waters of San Diego Bay and they’re still going strong. It has daily harbor tours that last from one to two hours, plus luxury cruises complete with chef-prepared food, champagne, music, and dancing. Their Patriot Jet Boat Thrill Ride also provides an exciting and unique experience for those with the need for speed. If you’re up for a personal encounter of the aquatic kind, they also have a whale-watching cruise.
There is never a dull moment when you visit this waterfront commercial and recreation hub. Go on a shopping spree at any of their 50+ shops that sell anything from the trendiest clothes to magnets. (Yes, MAGNETS.) Give in to your cravings and savor anything from good ol’ burgers and fries to the freshest seafood preparations. Ales, brews, and spirits galore are also aplenty here. Then expect live music, interesting casual discussions on any topic, and family art sessions by the bay.
Modern art takes center stage in this Downtown San Diego museum. Here, you will find artworks of any media, the earliest of which was created circa 1950. The San Diego location – a historic building formerly used as a baggage depot – is a point of interest in itself.
Every Saturday from 10 AM to 5 PM, Ruocco Park near the USS Midway and the Tuna Harbor Dockside Market becomes the go-to venue for amazing and tasty street food. Check out the artisanal treats here and have your fill before heading out for a day of enjoying the various sights, sounds, and feels of San Diego’s Embarcadero.
Also consider the Embarcadero’s proximity to another nearby bustling community. There are also lots of things to do in Little Italy, San Diego after your Embarcadero tour. For more information about the area, call us – Little Italy Condos – at 619.322.2262 or email [email protected].