USS Midway, Old Town San Diego City Tour from Los Angeles

Experience the Best of San Diego in One Day: USS Midway, Old Town, and More

If you’re looking for a hassle-free way to see some of San Diego’s top sights without the hassle of planning, this group tour from Los Angeles offers a convenient package. For $234 per person, you’ll enjoy a full day of exploration, including visits to Old Town San Diego, a scenic Harbor Cruise, the impressive USS Midway Museum, and a stroll through Balboa Park. With a tour length of around 8 to 10 hours, it’s a long but well-packed day that lets you sample the city’s most iconic spots.

What we love most about this experience is how it balances guided narration with free time at each attraction—making sure you get both insight and the flexibility to explore on your own. The second highlight is the variety of sights, from historic neighborhoods to maritime marvels, giving you a well-rounded taste of San Diego. However, be aware that the duration at each stop varies, and some guests have noted time constraints—especially at Old Town and Balboa Park—that might make a longer visit more satisfying.

This tour is best suited for travelers who want a comprehensive day-trip experience without the stress of driving or figuring out logistics. It’s especially appealing if you appreciate authentic historic neighborhoods and stunning waterfront views, but note that some reviews mention inconsistent guide communication and traffic delays that could impact your experience.

Key Points

• Comfortable transportation from Los Angeles makes the trip stress-free.
• Includes tickets for the Harbor Cruise and USS Midway Museum, saving you money and hassle.
• Balanced itinerary offers historic, maritime, and cultural highlights.
• Flexible sightseeing allows for some free exploration at key stops.
• Time management can be tight, especially at Old Town and Balboa Park.
• Guide quality varies, with many travelers praising engaging narration, though some note language issues.

A Deep Dive Into the Day Trip to San Diego

When you book this tour, you’re signing up for a mostly smooth ride from Los Angeles to San Diego, with several key stops that illuminate the city’s character. We’ll walk through each part of the itinerary, what to expect, and how it caters to different types of travelers.

Starting Point and Transportation

The tour begins with pick-up options from multiple LA locations, which is a real convenience. The actual transportation is via professional vehicles, with the type depending on how many guests are on the day. This means most travelers will enjoy a comfortable ride, avoiding LA traffic and the logistics of self-driving. But be aware that roundtrip travel takes about 3-4 hours depending on traffic, which is a chunk of your day, so plan accordingly.

Old Town San Diego: Step Into California’s Past

Our first stop is Old Town San Diego, a historic area that captures the look and feel of early California settlements. It’s a compact 30-minute visit, offering a quick but meaningful glimpse into the past. You’ll find Old Town San Diego State Historic Park and Presidio Park here—both listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

Many reviews praise this stop, noting how “Oude binnenstad had something longer” would be better, indicating that an hour or more might satisfy history buffs. But for most, the 30-minute window provides enough time to walk around, snap photos, and soak in the ambiance. Remember, this isn’t an in-depth tour—more of a taste, but one that leaves many travelers wanting to return for a deeper dive.

San Diego Harbor Cruise: Scenic Waterways and City Views

Next is a Harbor Cruise, included in your ticket for an hour of relaxing sightseeing. Expect professional narration about military boats, local landmarks, and the harbor’s history. Depending on the day, the cruise company might vary, so don’t be surprised if the type of boat or narration style differs slightly.

Many guests describe this as “fun, history, and relaxation”, noting the beautiful views and fascinating vessels. One reviewer mentioned that the “scenic beauty” and “storied landmarks” made this a highlight. It’s a great way to see San Diego’s waterfront and get a sense of its maritime importance.

USS Midway Museum: A Piece of Naval History

The USS Midway is a centerpiece of this tour. As a towering aircraft carrier that served in WWII, Vietnam, and Desert Storm, it’s an impressive sight and offers a rare glimpse into naval life. The visit lasts about 80 minutes, giving you time to explore the decks, aircraft, and exhibits.

Some reviews find this “amazing” and “superb”—with many mentioning that the guided tours and self-exploration options make it a worthwhile experience. The USS Midway is unique—not many cities have a decommissioned aircraft carrier open to visitors—and it’s a must-see for military history fans or those interested in large-scale engineering.

Note: On holidays like Thanksgiving and Christmas, this stop is replaced with a visit to the Hotel del Coronado.

Balboa Park: Culture and Gardens

The final stop is Balboa Park, a sprawling 1,200-acre cultural hub with 17 museums, lush gardens, and architecture. You’ll spend about two hours here, enough time to walk around, visit some gardens, or explore the famous San Diego Zoo if you wish (though zoo entry isn’t included).

Guests have praised Balboa Park for its beauty and variety, but some expressed a desire for more time. As the last major stop, it’s a perfect chance to stretch your legs and enjoy the green spaces and cultural attractions. Keep in mind that the traffic on your return trip can be heavy, sometimes extending your travel time back to LA.

Practicalities and Tips for the Trip

• Pace and Duration: The tour covers a lot in one day, making it a long experience. Be prepared for some tight pacing—particularly at Old Town and Balboa Park—so bring comfortable shoes and snacks.
• Guide and Commentary: Many reviews commend guides like Hank and Jack for their helpfulness and humor, making the experience more engaging. However, some travelers report language barriers or less engaging guidance, so manage expectations accordingly.
• Timing Flexibility: The itinerary is subject to change based on traffic, weather, and attraction hours. For example, if the USS Midway is closed, you’ll visit the Hotel del Coronado instead.
• Cost and Value: At $234, the tour includes tickets to the harbor cruise and USS Midway, which can save you money and hassles. But some reviews find it overpriced given the limited time at some attractions.
• Who Is This Tour Best For? It’s ideal for first-time visitors wanting a rundown of San Diego in a day. Perfect if you want guided convenience and don’t mind a packed schedule.

Final Thoughts

This San Diego day trip offers a well-organized way to see some of the city’s highlights, especially if you’re short on time. The combination of historic neighborhoods, military history, and scenic water views makes it a compelling choice for travelers eager to experience San Diego without the hassle of planning everything themselves.

You’ll love the knowledgeable guides and stunning vistas, especially if you’re interested in maritime history or California’s early days. The inclusion of tickets for major attractions provides good value, and the flexibility at each stop allows some personal exploration. Just keep in mind that time constraints might mean missing out on a deeper experience at each site.

If you’re comfortable with long days on the road and want a cost-effective, guided tour that hits the main spots, this trip is a solid choice. It’s especially suited for those who enjoy history, scenic views, and cultural sights without the stress of driving or detailed planning.

FAQ

Is transportation provided?
Yes, you’ll travel in a professional vehicle from LA to San Diego and back, depending on group size and day.

What attractions are included in the ticket price?
Tickets are included for the San Diego Harbor Cruise and USS Midway Museum. If the USS Midway is closed, it’s replaced with a visit to the Hotel del Coronado.

How long is each stop?
Old Town is around 30 minutes, the harbor cruise is one hour, Midway is about 80 minutes, and Balboa Park is two hours. The total tour lasts 8–10 hours.

Can I explore the attractions freely?
Yes, at certain stops like the USS Midway and Balboa Park, you have some free time for personal exploration.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, sun protection, cash, and drinks for hydration. Remember, parking at the meeting point isn’t included.

Are the guides helpful?
Most reviews praise the guides’ humor and helpfulness, but some mention language issues or less engaging narration.

Is it suitable for children?
Yes, most travelers under 18 are required to be accompanied by an adult. Pregnant women up to 24 weeks can join.

What if attractions are closed?
The tour operator will substitute alternative sites like the Hotel del Coronado if certain attractions are unavailable.

How is traffic on the return trip?
Traffic can be heavy, sometimes extending the return to LA until late evening, so plan accordingly.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, cancellations are free if made at least 24 hours in advance, with a full refund.

This tour offers a practical, engaging way to experience the essence of San Diego in a single day. It’s best for curious travelers who want a guided experience with a good mix of history, culture, and spectacular views. Just be prepared for a full day, and you’ll come away with plenty of memorable moments—no matter your pace.