San Diego, California is a vacation destination known and loved for its sunny climate, beautiful scenery, options for downtown fun, and beaches in between. Whether you’re one for the great outdoors or a visitor that can’t get enough of time hopping from one landmark location to the next, San Diego is a versatile locale where traveler interests and passions of all types can definitely be satisfied! When you’re here with a heart for maritime history, a stop at the Maritime Museum of San Diego near Portside Pier is a must. Put it at the top of your must-see list and enjoy bringing the past to life on the waves!
A Destination Dedicated to Telling the Maritime Story
The Maritime Museum of San Diego is located at 1492 N. Harbor Drive and is open to the visiting public daily between 10:00 am and 5:00 pm. The museum was first established in 1948 and today, continues to be a place that draws guests in who are looking to learn more about maritime history while getting a hands-on look at how vessels have transformed through time. The Maritime Museum of San Diego is a locale committed to the restoration, maintenance, and operation of historic vessels and enjoys a world-class reputation for excellence in each category. From tours of stationary historic ships to live sails, this museum makes learning about the past interactive and a decidedly impressive experience too. The museum is home to one of the globe’s largest collection of historic ships and houses the Star of India which holds the title as the world’s oldest acting ship!
Planning a Visit to Maritime Museum of San Diego
No matter when you arrive at the museum, the fun and education that awaits are sure to please. Tickets can be purchased on-site or in advance online and tours range from self-guided excursions through vessels and submarines to guided experiences that come with the insight many guests crave! Book a historic bay cruise during your visit when you’re excited to get out on the water and learn too. Swift Boat Naval History boat tours are also available upon request.
Nearby Attractions to Enjoy
While a stop at the Maritime Museum of San Diego near Portside Pier is sure to please travelers headed this way with a heart for history and hands-on learning—time spent at this destination also puts you in proximity to nearby attractions that are just intriguing and fun! Making the most of a trip to sunny San Diego begins with expanding on an itinerary that’s likely already brimming over with tantalizing stops. When you’re ready for more, the following are just a few of the many surrounding locales that are worth checking out when you’re in the area.
Explore Little Italy
Whether you’re craving an immersive cultural experience or fantastic flavors to enjoy, Little Italy is a section of San Diego that promises to bring both in abundance! Situated within walking distance of the Maritime Museum of San Diego near Portside Pier, Little Italy is a vibrant destination to explore. Here, guests can fill time strolling along streets dotted with delicious restaurants and shops that highlight the best of Italian heritage. This area is also home to the iconic Little Italy Farmers Market where vendors set up stands featuring everything from handcrafted goods to produce and gourmet food items available for purchase.
Those traveling to San Diego with a favorite canine companion in tow will love every moment spent in Little Italy thanks to it’s dog-friendly approach to shopping, dining, and life in general. Little Italy hosts a spacious dog park where your pooch can meet up and enjoy time with other four-legged friends from afar or those that call this neighborhood home.
Savor Time at Waterfront Park
Sitting just behind the Maritime Museum of San Diego at 1600 Pacific Highway, Waterfront Park provides visitors to San Diego with a scenic and fun space to enjoy the city. Waterfront Park is open to the public daily between 6:00 am and 10:00 pm and includes access to exciting water fountains and features as well as ample green areas for settling in and simply enjoying the sunny view. Play equipment abounds at Waterfront Park making it a favorite stop for families traveling with little ones who inevitably have plenty of energy to burn after time at the museum. Surrounded by towering buildings on one side and boats sailing by on the other, Waterfront Park offers up a unique balance of tranquility within a bustling urban setting. While you’re here, make sure to take some time to admire the colorful sculptures that add splashes of color to your surroundings.
Enjoy Time on the Water
There’s no reason not to make the most of every moment on the waves. Reach out to Carefree Boat Club today to learn more about becoming a member, our added services and conveniences, and putting the fun back into boating around the greater San Diego area!