Free things to do in San Diego for fun
SAN DIEGO (FOX 5/KUSI) — Having fun in San Diego doesn’t have to break the bank; there are so many activities to enjoy and adventures to be had for absolutely free.
For those looking to enjoy America’s Finest City while also sticking to a budget, FOX 5/KUSI has complied a list of free things to do in the area:
Plan a beach bonfire at one of several city firepits
Catch the sunset while sitting in front of a fire at one of San Diego’s beaches. The fire pits are free to use, the only thing you’ll need to bring is the firewood. With the warmer months setting in, you may want to claim a pit early in the day. City fire rings are located in areas like Mission Bay, Vacation Isle, Fiesta Island, and more.
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Designated a National Historic Landmark, Chicano Park is home to the largest collection of outdoor Chicano murals. Take a walk and embrace over 100 paintings across 7 acres. There are also sculptures and picnic areas to be enjoyed for free. The famous park is located beneath the San Diego–Coronado Bridge in Barrio Logan.
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Take advantage of “Resident Free Days” at select museums in Balboa Park
Get free admission to several museums, gardens and other centers by visiting them on select days. Residents of the City and County of San Diego are given free entry on rotating days throughout each month. This includes places like the Fleet Science Center, Japanese Friendship Garden, Comic-Con Museum, San Diego Natural History Museum, and more.
Go on a hike at Torrey Pines State Reserve
Though the parking lots at the park cost money, there is limited free parking along Highway 101, north of the reserve. For those who don’t mind some extra walking to save some cash, the trek up the steep hill to the start of the hiking trails will be well worth it. Don’t forget to bring some water along because there is no place to get it while wandering the reserve.
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Visit the Self-Realization Fellowship Meditation Gardens
Located in the North County city of Encinitas, visitors can take a quiet stroll through the center’s meditation gardens. There are koi ponds, ocean views, colorful plants, as well as peaceful sitting areas. You can take a seat to read or meditate in the serene environment at no cost. The meditation gardens are open during varying hours, Tuesday through Saturday.
Who said fun had to be expensive?
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