Speaking of romance, if you want to sweep your honey off her feet, check out my two favorite date spots. First, bring her to Balboa Park, a San Diego staple. The beautiful cultural hub features 15 museums, art venues, gorgeous gardens, and the well-known San Diego Zoo. Top off your day-trip at The Prado Restaurant.
My second date pick offers stunning city views free of charge. You’ll feel on top of the world at Mount Soledad, San Diego’s Veterans Memorial honoring those who have served our country. Scoping out the 29-foot grandiose cross is fitting as you celebrate the holiday weekend; so pack a picnic, bring a blanket, and soak in the 360-degree sights amidst the 822 foot mountain.
If you’re look for a healthy holiday weekend stocked with working out, take a hike at my all-time favorite “Zen” spot of San Diego. Located next to the popular golf course stands Torrey Pines State Park, one the most peaceful places on earth. (Yes, I’m biased.) Walk, jog, or run through the beautiful brush cliff-side, then work your way to the beach where you’ll wrap up your hike. No doubt, you’ll be tempted to get your feet wet, and depending on the temps, you just might end your exercise with a dip in the ocean.
However, if you prefer a leisurely run, head to the harbor. Consider the Embarcadero’s 1 ½ mile stretch a self-guided tour through Marina Park and Seaport Village. You’ll also catch sights of the USS Midway, San Diego’s famed aircraft museum. The scenery is simply surreal.
But for many of us, this holiday weekend is all about “chillaxing,” as we say in California. Beach bums and day-drinkers can plant themselves at Pacific Beach’s sandy beach bar, Lahaina’s. It’s one of my favorite places to get a summertime buzz.
Ok, I’ve saved the best for last. My all-time favorite area of San Diego is Little Italy, the neighborhood I once lived in with my best friend.
During my 2-year stint in San Diego, my BFF and I resided one block away from India Street, the small strip of Little Italy. The picturesque district is full of Italian restaurants and cafes, including my all-time favorite Frank Sinatra inspired fine eatery, Po Pazzo (meaning “a little crazy”). The alluring and comfortable indoor and outdoor atmosphere offers anyone a delightful evening full of red vino, great food, and live music. (Tell Nino and Joey I sent you.)
Following our many four-hour meals at Po Pazzo (and countless bottles of wine), my San Diego posse and I would head around the corner to my #1 pick for a night-time hot spot: The Waterfront. The dive bar is one of San Diego’s oldest taverns—established in 1933! It’s where locals go to down a few beers; a place you’re sure to create memories even a buzz won’t let you forget.
The community of San Diego boasts the laid-back spirit of Southern California. Despite being happy and proud to call the Valley home, San Diego will always have a sliver of my heart.
Stay classy.
(Torrey Pines with my girls)
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