13 Fun Things To Do In San Diego On Thanksgiving Day

Thanksgiving Day in San Diego is a wonderful time of year to enjoy the beautiful weather and explore the many things the city has to offer. If you’re looking for an exciting and memorable way to spend your Thanksgiving, look no further! Here are 13 fun activities to enjoy in San Diego on Thanksgiving Day, from family-friendly attractions to thrilling outdoor adventures. Enjoy a day of sightseeing, shopping, and more in the beautiful city of San Diego - you’re sure to have a Thanksgiving to remember!

San Diego Zoo

The San Diego Zoo is open from 9am to 5pm on Thanksgiving Day and features a variety of activities for all ages. For those looking to get up close and personal with some of the animals, the Zoo’s “Animal Encounters” program allows visitors to feed, touch, and even take photos with some of the Zoo’s most popular animals. There are also plenty of opportunities to learn about the animals and their habitats with educational presentations and guided tours.

Visitors looking to get a break from the hustle and bustle of the city can enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of the San Diego Zoo’s botanical gardens. The gardens feature a variety of plants and trees from around the world and are a great place to take a stroll and appreciate the beauty of nature.

For those looking for a unique Thanksgiving experience, the San Diego Zoo also offers a Thanksgiving Day “Feast with the Beasts” event. This event includes a buffet-style lunch, live entertainment, and an exclusive animal viewing experience. Guests can also enjoy a special performance by the San Diego Zoo’s animal ambassadors.

For those looking to experience the Zoo in a whole new way, the San Diego Zoo also offers night tours. These tours are a great way to experience the Zoo after dark and learn about the nocturnal habits of some of the animals.

No matter how you decide to spend your Thanksgiving, the San Diego Zoo is sure to provide you with an unforgettable experience. With its vast array of animals and activities, the San Diego Zoo is the perfect place to spend the Thanksgiving holiday.

Balboa Park

Thanksgiving is a special time of the year in San Diego, and one of the best places to spend it is at Balboa Park. This beautiful and historic park is a great place to explore and spend time with family. Every year, the park is filled with holiday events, decorations, and activities that make it a perfect place to visit around Thanksgiving.

The park is filled with amazing attractions, such as the renowned San Diego Zoo, museums, gardens, and the Old Globe Theatre. On Thanksgiving, the park is transformed into a festive wonderland with decorations, activities, and performances. Every year, the park hosts a Thanksgiving Day parade filled with colorful floats, marching bands, and dancers. It's an incredible way to start off your holiday.

In addition to the parade, there are a variety of holiday events for visitors to enjoy. The park puts on a special Thanksgiving dinner, featuring traditional Thanksgiving dishes like turkey, stuffing, and mashed potatoes. There are also holiday crafts, storytelling, and musical performances.

If you're looking for an outdoor adventure, Balboa Park has plenty to offer. There are miles of trails and open spaces to explore. You can take a walk around the scenic lake, or explore the lush gardens and green spaces. You can also take a ride on the Balboa Park Carousel, a classic amusement park ride that's been around since 1910.

For those looking for some holiday shopping, the park has several gift shops and boutiques that offer unique items for the holidays. And if you're in the mood for a delicious Thanksgiving meal, there are plenty of restaurants and cafes in the park offering a variety of delicious Thanksgiving dishes.

No matter how you choose to spend your Thanksgiving in Balboa Park, there's something for everyone. From the parade and holiday events to the outdoor adventures, this park is the perfect place to celebrate the season. So mark your calendars and plan a visit to Balboa Park this Thanksgiving – it's sure to be a memorable holiday experience.

Seaport Village

San Diego’s Seaport Village is the perfect place to spend your Thanksgiving holiday! Located just steps from the San Diego Bay, this outdoor shopping and dining destination is one of the city’s most beloved attractions. There’s something for everyone – from the young to the old, from the adventurous to the relaxed, from the budget-conscious to the luxury-minded. Here’s what you should know about spending Thanksgiving at Seaport Village!

On Thanksgiving Day, Seaport Village opens at 10:00am and closes at 8:00pm. That gives you plenty of time to explore the shops, restaurants, and attractions that make this place so special. Be sure to check out the marina, which is a great spot for some peaceful reflection and appreciation of the beauty of San Diego.

If you’re looking for a delicious meal, Seaport Village has plenty of restaurants to choose from. You can enjoy classic Thanksgiving dishes, or you can explore the culinary delights of the many international eateries. From seafood to Mexican, Italian to Japanese, there’s something for everyone.

Another great thing about Seaport Village is that it’s easily accessible. Located just minutes from downtown San Diego, it’s easy to get to via public transportation or car. Plus, there’s plenty of parking available.

Spending Thanksgiving at Seaport Village is the perfect way to enjoy San Diego’s beauty and charm. With plenty of shopping, dining, and entertainment options, there’s something for everyone. So come and make some holiday memories this Thanksgiving – you won’t regret it!

La Jolla Cove

On Thanksgiving, La Jolla Cove is a great place to explore and appreciate the beauty of nature. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful morning stroll or an afternoon of kayaking, La Jolla Cove has something for everyone. Along the shore, visitors can walk along the beach’s rocky shoreline and marvel at the abundance of sea life, such as sea stars, sea anemones, and sea slugs.

For those looking to get their heart rate up, the Cove is a great spot to go kayaking. The crystal-clear waters are ideal for paddling around, taking in the beautiful scenery and spotting dolphins, sea lions, and other marine life. For those without a kayak, rentals are available at nearby shops.

If you’re looking for a unique Thanksgiving experience, you can also join in on the La Jolla Cove turkey trot. This annual event is a 5k race around the Cove, with the proceeds going to benefit the San Diego chapter of the National Alliance on Mental Illness.

No matter what you decide to do, La Jolla Cove is the perfect spot to spend Thanksgiving. You can take in the breathtaking views, appreciate nature, or even try something new like kayaking or the turkey trot. The Cove is a great place to celebrate the holiday with friends and family.

For a memorable Thanksgiving experience, come to La Jolla Cove of San Diego. The Cove’s natural beauty, abundance of activities, and unique events make it one of the most popular places to visit on Thanksgiving. Whether you’re looking to relax, explore, or have some outdoor fun, La Jolla Cove is the perfect spot to enjoy the holiday.

Torrey Pines State Reserve

This Thanksgiving, why not get away from the hustle and bustle of daily life and explore the beauty of Torrey Pines State Reserve in San Diego. Located just north of downtown, the reserve is a 2,000 acre oasis of unspoiled coastal wilderness. With miles of hiking and biking trails, coastal views, and abundant wildlife, it’s the perfect place to spend the holiday.

The reserve is home to a variety of flora and fauna that can be seen throughout the year. The namesake Torrey pines are a rare species of pine tree, only found in this reserve and a few other places in the world. Bird watchers will find a variety of species including the endangered California condor and the endangered least tern.

Thanksgiving Day is a great time to explore the reserve. With the weather in San Diego being mild this time of year, you can enjoy a leisurely stroll along the trails or a bike ride along the bluffs. The trails are well-marked and there are plenty of signs to help you find your way.

The views from the trails are breathtaking, with the ocean on one side and the reserve’s rolling hills on the other. As you explore, you’ll come across various species of plants and animals. If you’re lucky, you may even spot a coyote, fox, or bobcat.

If you’re looking for something a little more adventurous, the reserve also offers guided hikes and kayaking trips. The knowledgeable guides are able to offer insight into the local ecology and help you spot the reserve’s rare species.

No matter how you choose to spend your Thanksgiving at Torrey Pines State Reserve, it’s sure to be a memorable experience. “As I walked along the trails, the beauty of the reserve was breathtaking,” says one visitor. “It’s the perfect way to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life and spend some time in nature.”

Whether you come alone or with family and friends, Torrey Pines State Reserve is the perfect place to spend your Thanksgiving holiday. With its scenic trails, abundant wildlife, and stunning views, it’s an unforgettable experience.

Mission Beach

The beach itself is a wonderful place to spend the holiday. The weather is usually mild, allowing for a comfortable atmosphere. The beach is typically not crowded, making it a great spot to relax and spend some quality time with friends and family. For those looking for more of an adventure, there are plenty of activities to enjoy. From kayaking and surfing to stand-up paddle boarding and fishing, there are plenty of ways to get active during your stay.

Thanksgiving is also a great time to explore the local culture. Take a stroll down Mission Boulevard and explore the boutiques, cafes, and art galleries. Stop by the Mission Beach Boardwalk and catch a movie or take a ride on the roller coaster. There are also plenty of restaurants to choose from for a Thanksgiving feast.

For those looking for something a bit more low-key, there are plenty of scenic trails to explore. The Mission Trails Regional Park has nearly 8,000 acres of natural beauty, complete with hiking and biking trails and plenty of wildlife.

No matter what type of experience you are looking for, Mission Beach on Thanksgiving is sure to be a memorable one. From the relaxing beach atmosphere to the exciting attractions, there is something to do for everyone. So come to Mission Beach and enjoy a wonderful Thanksgiving holiday.

Coronado Beach

The Coronado Beach of San Diego is an idyllic destination for a Thanksgiving holiday. Located on Coronado Island, the beach is a popular destination for holiday makers, offering a tranquil and peaceful atmosphere. With soft white sand and breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean, Coronado Beach is the perfect place to relax and enjoy the holiday season.

Thanksgiving at Coronado Beach is a true experience of joy and celebration. The beach is surrounded by many restaurants and cafes which offer fantastic food and drinks. One can also enjoy the traditional Thanksgiving dinner with friends and family in the comfort of the beach. Many people also come to the beach to take part in the annual Turkey Trot, a 5K run that takes place on the day of Thanksgiving.

The best part of a Thanksgiving holiday at Coronado Beach is the chance to take in the breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean. The beach is a great spot to watch the sunset, as well as to enjoy the many activities available. From surfing and kayaking to beach volleyball and beach lounging, there is something for everyone to enjoy. For those looking for a more peaceful experience, there are plenty of walking paths and boardwalks to explore.

Aside from the stunning views and activities, a Thanksgiving holiday at Coronado Beach is also a great opportunity to explore the local culture. Tourists can take a stroll along Orange Avenue, the island’s main shopping street, and enjoy the bustling atmosphere. There are also plenty of art galleries and museums to visit, as well as charming boutiques and cafes.

Whether you’re looking for a peaceful getaway or an exciting holiday adventure, Coronado Beach is the perfect destination for a Thanksgiving holiday. With its stunning views and variety of activities, it’s an ideal spot to celebrate with family and friends. As the saying goes, “A Thanksgiving at Coronado Beach can be the most memorable experience of your life.”

For those who want to make the most of their visit, it’s best to book accommodation in advance. Hotels and resorts in Coronado Beach offer a range of options, from luxury suites to budget-friendly options. It’s also advisable to bring along plenty of sun protection, as the sun can be quite unforgiving during the summer months.

Whether you’re looking for a peaceful escape or a holiday adventure, Coronado Beach is the perfect destination for a Thanksgiving holiday. With its stunning views, vibrant culture, and variety of activities, it’s an ideal spot to celebrate with family and friends. So don’t wait any longer – start planning your Thanksgiving vacation today!

The USS Midway Museum

Characteristic	Description
Name	USS Midway Museum
Type	Museum in San Diego, California
Website	Go to website
Rating / Review count	5.04 / 39,923
Address	910 N Harbor Dr, San Diego, CA 92101
Phone	(619) 544-9600
Hours	Thursday - 10 AM–5 PM Friday - 10 AM–5 PM Saturday - 10 AM–5 PM Sunday - 10 AM–5 PM Monday - 10 AM–5 PM Tuesday - 10 AM–5 PM Wednesday - 10 AM–5 PM
Profiles

First commissioned in 1945, the USS Midway is the longest-serving aircraft carrier in U.S. Navy history. Guests can explore the flight deck, hangars, and engine room of the retired warship, as well as view more than 30 aircraft on display. In addition, the museum hosts a variety of educational programs, interactive exhibits, and special events throughout the year.

This Thanksgiving, the museum will be offering special holiday-themed events, including a turkey trot 5K run and a Thanksgiving-themed scavenger hunt. The scavenger hunt will take guests around the museum and its exhibits, giving them an opportunity to learn about the USS Midway’s history and its role in the Navy.

The museum also offers a unique opportunity to explore the ship’s famed engine room and its many fascinating artifacts, such as the ship’s massive steam turbines. Visitors can also learn about the history of the ship’s aircraft, including the F-4 Phantom and the F-14 Tomcat, as well as the Navy’s first female pilot, who was assigned to the USS Midway in 1976.

Thanksgiving at the USS Midway Museum is a great way to get the whole family involved in exploring military history and learning about the amazing stories of the brave men and women who served on the USS Midway. Whether you’re a history buff or just looking for something fun to do with your family this Thanksgiving, the USS Midway Museum is the perfect place to spend the holiday.

This Thanksgiving season, take a step back in time and explore the history of the USS Midway at the museum in San Diego. You’ll be sure to have a memorable experience, as you learn about the ship’s incredible past and the brave sailors who served aboard her. From the educational exhibits to the special events and activities, the USS Midway Museum is sure to be the highlight of your Thanksgiving holiday!

Birch Aquarium

For Thanksgiving, the aquarium is offering a variety of activities for visitors to enjoy. One of the most popular activities is the “Seal-abration”, which takes place each year on Thanksgiving Day. During this event, visitors can watch seals in their natural habitat, as well as learn about the importance of marine conservation.

Another great activity is the “Tidal Tunes” program. This program allows visitors to make music with the aquarium’s sea stars, sea urchins and other creatures. Visitors can create their own melodies or listen to a variety of pre-recorded songs.

The aquarium also offers a variety of educational programs for visitors to enjoy. During the “Dive into Marine Life” program, visitors can gain an in-depth understanding of the life found in the ocean. Visitors can also learn about the importance of protecting the ocean’s fragile ecosystems.

If you’re looking for a unique Thanksgiving experience, the Birch Aquarium at Scripps in San Diego is the place to be! The aquarium is open from 9 am to 5 pm on Thanksgiving Day, so there’s plenty of time to explore and enjoy all that the aquarium has to offer.

If you’re looking for a special way to show your appreciation for the ocean, consider visiting the aquarium on Thanksgiving. Not only will you get a chance to see some amazing creatures, but you’ll also be helping to protect the ocean’s fragile ecosystem.

The Birch Aquarium at Scripps in San Diego is a great place to spend Thanksgiving. Whether you’re looking to get up close and personal with some of the world’s most fascinating marine life, or just want to show your appreciation for the ocean, the aquarium is the perfect place to visit. So come on down to the Birch Aquarium at Scripps in San Diego this Thanksgiving and experience all that the aquarium has to offer.

Old Town San Diego State Historic Park

Thanksgiving in Old Town San Diego State Historic Park is a truly special experience. Guests can explore the many historic sites throughout the park, including the old-fashioned buildings, which have been preserved since the mid-1800s. The park offers a range of activities, from horse-drawn carriage rides to demonstrations of traditional Mexican culture, such as mariachi and folkloric dancing. Guests can also learn about the history of the area by taking a guided tour of the grounds, which will bring to life stories of the past.

For those looking for something to do on Thanksgiving, Old Town San Diego State Historic Park offers a variety of activities to enjoy. Guests can explore the different museums and galleries housed in the park, such as the Whaley House Museum and the Adobe Chapel. There are also a number of unique shops and restaurants, such as the Casa de Reyes, where guests can find traditional Mexican fare and crafts. And, of course, no Thanksgiving Day outing would be complete without a visit to the popular Old Town San Diego State Historic Park Farmers Market, where guests can enjoy local produce, handmade goods, and a variety of other delicious treats.

For those looking for a more hands-on experience, Old Town San Diego State Historic Park offers a range of educational programs that can help bring the history of the area to life. Guests can take part in a variety of workshops, such as cooking classes, pottery making, and basket weaving, or take a guided tour of the area's historic sites. There are also a number of interactive exhibits, such as the Rancho de Los Encinos Nature Center, where guests can learn about the plants and animals found in the area.

For a truly unique Thanksgiving experience, guests can visit the Old Town San Diego State Historic Park's annual Thanksgiving Faire. This event celebrates the culture and history of the area and features a variety of activities, including traditional dances, storytellers, and artisans. The event also features a special Thanksgiving feast complete with traditional Mexican dishes such as pozole, tamales, and chiles rellenos.

No matter what type of experience you're looking for, Old Town San Diego State Historic Park has something to offer on Thanksgiving Day. From historical sites and educational programs to unique shopping and dining experiences, the park is the perfect place to spend a day of gratitude and celebration. So come and enjoy the sights, sounds, and flavors of this unique area of San Diego and make this Thanksgiving one to remember.

Cabrillo National Monument

Characteristic	Description
Name	Cabrillo National Monument
Type	Park in San Diego, California
Website	Go to website
Rating / Review count	5.05 / 10,504
Address	1800 Cabrillo Memorial Dr, San Diego, CA 92106
Phone	(619) 523-4285
Hours	Thursday - 9 AM–5 PM Friday - 9 AM–5 PM Saturday - 9 AM–5 PM Sunday - 9 AM–5 PM Monday - 9 AM–5 PM Tuesday - 9 AM–5 PM Wednesday - 9 AM–5 PM
Profiles

Visitors to the monument will enjoy a variety of outdoor activities, including hiking and exploring the tide pools. The visitor center has a variety of programs that run throughout the day, and a museum that details the history of the monument. Guided walks and ranger-led programs are also available.

Thanksgiving is the perfect time to explore the monument. The autumn weather is mild and the views are even more breathtaking during this time of year. Visitors can take a leisurely stroll along the Harbor Trail, which winds along the cliffs of the peninsula. The trail offers excellent views of the harbor and the skyline of San Diego.

In addition to exploring the trails, visitors can also take part in a variety of Thanksgiving-themed activities. The park hosts a harvest festival on the Saturday of Thanksgiving weekend. The festival features activities like apple bobbing, pumpkin decorating, and cider tasting. There is also a special Thanksgiving dinner at the visitor center, where visitors can enjoy a traditional Thanksgiving meal.

For those looking for a more historical experience, the monument offers an array of historical exhibits and programs. The Visitor Center has a variety of displays that tell the story of Cabrillo’s exploration of the area, as well as the history of the monument itself. Visitors can also tour the Old Point Loma Lighthouse, which was built in 1855 and is now part of the National Park Service.

San Diego Bay

San Diego is a beautiful coastal city that offers a variety of activities and attractions for visitors to enjoy on Thanksgiving. Located on the Pacific Ocean, San Diego Bay is an ideal spot to spend the holiday, with its stunning views and abundant wildlife. From kayaking to whale watching, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

If you’re looking to get out on the water, kayaking is a great way to explore San Diego Bay. With the mild temperatures and calm waters, the bay is perfect for novice and experienced kayakers alike. There are plenty of tour companies offering guided kayaking trips that will take you around the bay, where you’ll see a variety of wildlife, including sea lions, dolphins, and even whales.

For those looking to stay dry, whale watching is another popular activity on San Diego Bay. From late November to early April, you’ll have the chance to see the majestic gray whales as they migrate south along the coast. The best time to spot the whales is in the morning, when the light is just right for spotting them in the water.

If you’d rather stay on land, there are plenty of activities to enjoy along the San Diego Bay. Spend the day strolling along the boardwalk, admiring the views of the bay and the city skyline. Or, hop aboard the USS Midway Museum and take a tour of the iconic aircraft carrier.

Thanksgiving in San Diego is also a great time to sample some of the local cuisine. From seafood to Mexican dishes, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. For a unique experience, head to Seaport Village for their annual Thanksgiving Day feast. Here, you’ll find a variety of restaurants serving up traditional Thanksgiving dishes, along with live entertainment.

Whether you’re looking to get out on the water or stay on land, San Diego Bay offers something for everyone on Thanksgiving. With its stunning views and abundance of wildlife, it’s an ideal spot to spend the holiday. So, head to San Diego Bay this Thanksgiving and make some special memories.

Belmont Park

Thanksgiving Day at Belmont Park is a special experience. The park opens at 10:00 am and closes at midnight, giving visitors plenty of time to enjoy the attractions. On Thanksgiving Day, the park hosts its annual Turkey Trot 5K race. This fun event begins at 8:00 am and allows visitors to enjoy the scenery of the park while getting in some exercise.

Visitors can also enjoy the traditional Thanksgiving Day feast at the park’s Wave House. Guests can enjoy a variety of dishes to choose from including turkey, stuffing, mashed potatoes, and more. After the meal, visitors can enjoy some of the many rides and attractions in the park. The park also has an arcade with classic arcade games and a laser tag arena where visitors can test their skills against one another.

For those looking to relax, Belmont Park has two beautiful beaches. Mission Beach and North Beach allow visitors to take a break from the hustle and bustle of the park and take in the beautiful San Diego coastline. For a more active experience, visitors can try their hand at sand volleyball or rent a surrey bike and explore the area.

If you’re looking for a way to explore the area, Belmont Park offers a variety of sightseeing tours. Visitors can take an aerial tour of the city or a boat tour of the San Diego Bay. For a more leisurely experience, visitors can take a horse-drawn carriage ride through the area.

Thanksgiving Day at Belmont Park is a unique experience. With plenty of activities to choose from, visitors can enjoy a day filled with fun and relaxation. Whether you’re looking for an exciting adventure or a day of relaxation, Belmont Park has something for everyone.

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