Top 10 Best Things To Do in Chula Vista, California

Chula Vista Bayfront photo By Port of San Diego – Wikimedia Commons

Top 10 Best Things To Do in Chula Vista, California

Located 7 miles from downtown San Diego and tucked between the San Diego Bay, Chula Vista, named after the Spanish word “beautiful view” doesn’t fall short of its name. The city lives up to its name, boasting everything sure to catch your eye. 

Each and everyone is well taken care of in Chula Vista. Regardless of your reason for visiting, be sure to witness plenty of sites in the lovely city. The city offers a wide range of outdoor recreation, family activities, and urban activities to keep you going during your visit.

Check out our list of the best things in Chula Vista, California.

1. Discover the history of Chula Vista at the Chula Vista Heritage Museum

Chula Vista, CA, USA  Photo By Roman Eugeniusz – Wikimedia Commons

Learning the History of Chula Vista and its people is the best way to familiarize yourself with the people. Located in the Chula Vista Public library, The Heritage Museum has a mission of preserving the heritage of the local Chula Vista community.

The museum is free and open to everyone during library hours. You can discover the stories of indigenous people of South bay and look through photos of the old town to get a glimpse of the city’s evolution. There’s also a yearly exhibition at the museum, which all adds to the plenty of things you can discover about Chula Vista’s history.

2. Rest the night at Hercor Hotel

For the urban boutique fanatics, look no further than the Hercor Hotel. The hotel is located about 15 minutes from the San Diego airport, and it’s the first place you check in first. 

Here, all your needs are well taken care of by well-trained staff day and night to ensure a memorable visit. The rooms are air-conditioned and you get free Wi-Fi. There’s also a variety of meals to choose from at pocket-friendly prices.

3. Munch some Mexican food at Tacos El Gordo

Tacos El Gordo Photo By kennejima – Wikimedia Commons

Are you down to try some Mexican fare? Well, Tacos El Gordo is the place to be. Their tacos are full of flavour, and they are served with handmade tortillas. They also serve other fresh and tasty Mexican fares such as quesadillas and mulas.

In addition to the toothsome food, the staff is well known for its hospitality. Their services are superb, and their hospitality is incomparable.

4. Try out freestyle skateboarding at Len Moore Skate park

The Len Moore Skate park offers a huge space with many ramps coming in different shapes and sizes. You won’t have to worry if you haven’t gone pro yet, as even beginners can comfortably share the space. 

The park is free, and it’s fitted with good lighting for nighttime sessions. You can just relax and enjoy the show by watching the skaters perform their freestyle moves.

A skate night is held once a month, there’s DJ music and a lot of fun in store for you.

5. Go Hiking at the Otay Valley Regional Park

This park features a good landscape with many viewpoints. Hiking, biking, and equestrian trailing are some fun activities you can do in the 200-acre park. 

You can encounter some raccoons, but they should be the least of your concerns, as they are friendly with people. Always carry some water and snacks with you when hiking the park.

Annual events and musical concerts also take place in the valley. They are the best family getaways.

6. Go Hiking at the Rice Canyon Trail

The Rice Canyon Trail is the go-to place if you are a nature enthusiast. The trail is surrounded by eye-catching scenery and the distinctive smell of nature. 

The 3.5-mile trail is lightly-traffic, ideal for hiking, walking, and trail running. The park is beginner-friendly, with well-placed yellow signs to guide you through the park.

Parking areas and picnic tables are available in the park, which provides perfect lunch spots.

7. Have a good time at Aquatica Seaworld’s waterpark

Aquatica is an alluring landscape waterpark with high-speed thrills and rides, relaxing pools, up-close animal experiences, and top-level amenities similar to those of a beach-side resort.

The park features a giant wave pool with an extensive beach for sunbathing. It’s among the largest in California and features plenty of water-based slides and rides. You can try out the HooRoo Run with two enclosed and open-air slides which can descent up to 80-foot.

If you love having fun in places with water, The Aquatica should be on your to-do list.

8. Spend a day at the Marina View Park

Marina Park in Chula Vista Photo By Laurismont – Wikimedia Commons

The lawns and grassy park packed with soaring trees are what make Marina View Park the perfect relaxing spot. This family-friendly spot offers most of Chula Vista Attractions.

Attractions include public artworks, play equipment, arbours, and many picnic tables. Modern restrooms are available, and there’s also a wading pool with fountains for keeping the water fresh.

There’s enough space available for playing if you tag along with your little ones.

9. Check out the Living Coast Discovery Center

The Living Coast Discovery Center is an environmental education centre featuring birds, marine animals, and land animals.

The centre focuses on plants and animals native to southern California and San Diego Bay. Here, you’ll see many shark species, other displays like Eagle Mesa, the Shorebird Aviary, The Burrowing Owl Courtyard, and many more.

It’s a great place for the family to learn some new stuff and as a bonus, the centre has access to hiking trails stretching to San Diego’s bay Shores.

10. A romantic dinner at Italianissimo Trattoria

Make your visit unforgettable by having dinner at the Italianissimo Trattoria. An authentic Italian restaurant that has been around for around three decades.

It’s open for lunch and dinner, with a menu consisting of delicious Italian fare. Calamari, mushroom ravioli, and classic Margherita pizza are some signature dishes along with other mouth-watering Italian fares you can choose from. 

Along with the food, is an exceptional collection of wines and succulent spirits and beverages to complement your meal.

There you have it! The city known as the Lemon Capital of the World boasts plenty of attractions. If you didn’t have any reason to visit, now you have.

They are family-friendly and be sure to check them out on your next visit.