If your from out of town, Seaport Village really speaks volumes about San Diego. Whether you’re looking for a gift that has San Diego written all over it, or you’re looking to have a romantic meal right next to the bay…Seaport Village will cater to all your needs.
This place is loaded with fun. You’re sure to get lost walking the four miles of meandering paths…or enjoying San Diego’s Embarcadero. You’ll also find the Embarcadero Marina Park where you can have a picnic or fly a kite. Whatever your reasons are…you’re sure to have a good time. Be sure to grab your hat and sunscreen.
An Evening At Seaport Village:
When my son was just 4-months old, my wife and I brought him to Seaport Village for an evening stroll. The weather was quite fair…now that I think about it, I should have listened to my wife to bring a light jacket.
In the distance we saw a mix of both Victorian and Traditional Mexican architecture. This is how we knew we were arriving.
As we entered the Village, we pulled the parking voucher, and we pulled into the parking area. We then remembered that it was a Saturday evening…one of the busiest days for Seaport Village. After looping around the parking area a few times, we were finally able to find a spot to park.
We were so excited because it was Alex’s first evening stroll by the Harbor. We had our digital camera…and I’m sure we took more pictures of him that day than any Paparazzi could ever take. As we put Alex in the stroller, my wife and I could not help but notice the excitement on his face…it was as if he knew that he was about to experience something new.
First thing we did was stop at Ben & Jerry’s for a sugar cone ice cream. We remembered to get our parking voucher validated so we wouldn’t have to pay on our way out. Anyways, my wife really loves Ben & Jerry’s…well, so do I. We then took a walk over to the Carousel. It was quite interesting to see my 4-month old son follow the riders circle around.
As we wandered around all the neat little souvenir shops, we passed by a small pond. There were some ducks…so we took advantage of this candid moment, and took some pictures.
We walked around the bay and winding park paths until the sunset came down. It was quite an experience. I must say, it has been one of the nicest evenings my wife and son have spent together, and I would really like to revisit Seaport Village as soon as Alex starts to walk.
What to do in a nut shell
Shopping
I will be dead honest with you, if you’re looking to do some major shopping…look elsewhere. You will be highly disappointed if you’re looking for a Gucci Bag, or the latest Prada Shoes.
But if you’re looking for some really cool San Diego Post Cards, Mugs, Shot Glasses, Smooched Pennies, or even Wind Chimes…then you’re in the right place! You’ll even find specialty stores entirely dedicated to hot sauce, music boxes, hammocks, and kites.
The good thing is most items are quite small…so you wont have to go out of your way to buy an extra suitcase!
Another must see is the Wyland Gallery. If you’re not sure who this guy is…well, he is one of California’s best known marine artists. When you go, just pretend you’re thinking of buying something…or you can just buy something if you really can afford it.
Dinning
You’ll also find four bay-view restaurants here
…the Harbor House restaurant, Edgewater Grill, Buster’s and the Pier Cafe. You may also be interested to know that the Pier Cafe is the only one on the waterfront. Not only can you get a good meal while you take in the view…but you can also get some sun while you eat.
If you’re not looking to spend a whole lot on dining in, head over to the food court. I’m sure you’ll find a snack or drink to satisfy your appetite.
For the Kids
…and head over to the old carousel with your kids when shopping gets to be too much for them. This is sure to keep them entertained for some time.
I’m also sure they won’t be disappointed when they find out there’s a video arcade.
Also, don’t miss out on San Diego’s Aircraft Carrier Museum (about half a mile or so away). You can take a tour of the USS Midway, which use to be a real aircraft carrier until it was retired. Now it caters to thousands of San Diego lovers who visit us every year.
The Embarcadero Marina Park is also a great place to walk the dog or fly a kite. This can be jammed packed with people on the weekends…so come early.
Take A Tour
From Seaport Village you can catch some great sights of Coronado and the Coronado Bridge. But don’t just stand there and stare…get over there and visit this awesome location.
You can also take a carriage tour in a Cinderella Carriage. If you’re planning a romantic evening with your honey, be sure to include this in you itinerary.
The San Diego SEAL Tours is another recommended tour to take. You’ll be riding in an amphibious vehicle both on land and sea.
There are also Pedicab drivers that can take you just about anywhere in the are for a small fee. This is a great option when walking just seems too much.
Staying Nearby
If you plan on staying near Seaport Village or close to the Gaslamp District…you can either choose to stay at the nearby Marriott or the Hyatt (which has some really cool views of the bay from the top floor lounge).
Additional Tips
Make sure to Pick up a brochure of Seaport Village on your way in. You’ll find an event schedule and discount coupons.
You can also take advantage of the free public concerts, which happen mostly on weekends and some weekdays. That brochure you’ll pick up will have all the details.
Directions to the Village
So how do you get to and from >Seaport Village? Well, you actually have a few options here…
Drive
You can take Harbor Drive, and drive past the Embarcadero. Go past the USS Midway, and continue along Harbor Drive until you see Seaport Village to the right. But be sure to get a map with proper directions before going in case you get lost.
Water Taxi
Water Taxis can be found near Greek Islands Cafe. Call (619) 235-8294.
Pedicab
Pedicab’s are good for getting around the nearby area relatively quickly, while avoiding the hassles of traffic and parking. They charge a flat fee, but rates are sometimes negotiable when they’re not too busy.
San Diego Trolley Tour
The San Diego Trolley Tours makes a stop at Seaport Village (as well as other sights). Make sure to buy some tickets ahead of time if you do opt-in for this option.
Seaport Village
849 W Harbor Dr
San Diego, CA 92101
(619) 235-4014 Hours
Daily: 10 am-9 pm
Summer hours: Varies
Tags: embarcadero, gaslamp district, harbor house, Seaport Village
