Things to Do in Chula Vista California
Chula Vista, California offers outdoor enthusiasts, culture vultures and shoppers plenty of ways to unwind in its beautiful South Bay cityscape. From stateside Tijuana-esque markets and bustling farmers markets to world-class theatre productions – Chula Vista truly has something for everyone in this beautiful South Bay city.
Marina & Bayside Park
The Marina and Bayside Park provide a relaxing setting for a scenic walk or picnic, featuring a small marina, fishing pier, public art displays, and public art sculptures.
Kayak, row and boat rentals are among the many water sport activities available here, along with restaurants offering waterfront meals or beverages, such as kayaking. Additionally, Bayside Park features an interactive children’s play area and beach – perfect for an enjoyable afternoon outing!
Visit the Chula Vista Heritage Museum for an unforgettable cultural experience! It highlights the city’s history through photographs and historical objects; additionally, there’s an exhibit dedicated to lemon packing in Chula Vista and citrus industry here.
San Diego Bay National Wildlife Refuge is another popular spot for hiking, bicycling and bird watching in San Diego Bay. Situated next to Gunpowder Point, it protects native plants, animals and their habitats while offering prime viewing of migrating birds.
For an exciting nighttime experience in Chula Vista, visit Seven Mile Casino. This gambling facility features live entertainment, various types of games, a full service restaurant as well as coffee shop and an ice cream parlor on site.
Chula Vista Heritage Museum
Chula Vista boasts an exciting cultural scene with an abundance of experiences for art enthusiasts and history enthusiasts alike. Explore its past at the Chula Vista Heritage Museum by browsing historical exhibits that depict historic homes and buildings, daily life events, famous individuals as well as an exhibit about citrus and aircraft industries based here.
Discover Chula Vista’s vibrant food and culture at the Downtown Chula Vista Farmers Market, offering fresh produce, cheese, seafood and artisan products. Or for an authentic culinary experience head over to Italianissimo Trattoria where classic dishes such as bruschetta and fried calamari await, before moving on to pizzas, pastas, risotto and other delectable entrees.
San Diego Bay National Wildlife Refuge offers miles of hiking trails and plenty of opportunities for birdwatching and other nature activities, while Living Coast Discovery Center allows nature enthusiasts to get up close with sea turtles, touch bat rays, and witness performances at OnStage Playhouse before sampling local-brewed beers like Berry or Pumpkin Beer at Bay Bridge Brewing Company.
Otay Valley Regional Park
Chula Vista boasts plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy, including strolling through its many parks. A must-visit is Marina View Park on its bayfront for stunning harbor views and a walking trail perfect for visitors.
Nature enthusiasts should visit the San Diego Bay National Wildlife Refuge as one of their top travel destinations. Visitors to this sanctuary have the chance to hike trails and observe native birds and animals in their natural environments.
South Bay Salt Works, an historic attraction, provides visitors with an engaging tour through its salt production process through displays and hands-on activities. Both kids and adults will be fascinated by this fascinating exhibit.
Families also flock to Chula Vista’s latest big-ticket attraction: Sesame Place San Diego is the first and only Sesame Street-themed park on the West Coast and located at Entertainment Circle; featuring rides and shows throughout the year, visitors are drawn in.
Other popular outdoor attractions in Chula Vista include Friendship Park, which features four acres for visitors to walk or gather together with family and friends. Also nearby is Otay Ranch Town Center for shopping and dining opportunities for both residents and tourists alike.
Visitors interested in sport should visit Chula Vista Elite Athlete Training Center to tour and learn about former and current Olympic athletes who train there. The 153-acre training facility houses Olympic and Paralympic aspiring competitors; guests may take guided tours or attend events hosted at this center.
Chula Vista Nature Center
Chula Vista means “beautiful view,” and there’s plenty to see and do in this sunny city. Relax along the marina or bayside park; discover new artistic inspiration at an art gallery or museum; or find great bargains among its many retail outlets.
Chula Vista offers many great things to do, such as exploring its rich history at the Chula Vista Heritage Museum or camping and hiking through Sweetwater Summit Regional Park. At this museum’s exhibits and educational programs visitors learn more about Chula Vista’s early settlers, local industries, and significant events which have shaped it over time.
Visitors to Chula Vista can discover its natural treasures at the Living Coast Discovery Center, a non-profit zoo and aquarium with the mission of encouraging care for and exploration of coastal animals, plants, habitats, and their environments through connecting people to them through exhibits such as Turtle Lagoon, Raptor Row and Eagle Mesa.
Chula Vista offers an abundance of local breweries and bars offering refreshing beverages for visitors looking for something refreshing to drink. Beer enthusiasts can visit Chula Vista Brewery, Groundswell Brew Tasting Room and Thr3e Punk Ales Brewing Co for their favorite beers while cocktail enthusiasts have several choices as well.
Chula Vista Farmers Market
Chula Vista offers plenty of ways to enjoy an engaging and enjoyable visit, from visiting its heritage museum to perusing its Third Avenue Village Market or enjoying some delicious eats at Third Avenue Village Market. There are also amazing outdoor attractions, like Friendship Park, where visitors can stroll leisurely through nature while relaxing with their friends or family.
Chula Vista offers many other top attractions, such as visiting the Living Coast Discovery Center to view animals in their natural environments and learn about their lives and habitats. Otay Valley Regional Park also features hiking trails and picnic spots – camping is even available if desired!
Seven Mile Casino offers the ideal place for an exciting night on the town. Offering several gaming options such as blackjack and poker, with food and beverage service provided. In addition, live shows and events take place here regularly.
For visitors staying overnight in Chula Vista, there is an assortment of hotels and motels available to them. One such property is Holiday Inn Express Hotel which features free wifi as well as continental breakfast services. Another good choice would be Best Western Plus San Diego which can be found on a quiet street close to downtown area.
La Mesa Park
La Mesa Park offers something for every fitness fanatic or anyone seeking activities to get their blood pumping: walking trails, picnic areas and breathtaking water views are all included in its expansive waterfront setting. Plus you can go boating here or just take an afternoon stroll!
At the Living Coast Discovery Center, visitors will have an enjoyable and educational experience. Get up close and personal with sea creatures while learning more about their environment at this interactive attraction – perfect for both kids and adults alike.
Chula Vista Municipal Golf Course provides players of all skill levels a challenging 18-hole experience. After you finish playing, check out one of the many restaurants the city has to offer after your round.
Third Avenue Village offers an assortment of shops, restaurants, and attractions within its walkable district – making it an essential visit when traveling to Chula Vista. Onstage Playhouse hosts shows throughout the year.
Visit the South Bay Botanic Gardens on the campus of Southwestern College to take in four acres of trees, shrubs, flowers, ground covers, various turf grasses, and plant collections – free admission! These serene surroundings provide the ideal place for visitors to relax.
