What is there to do in San Diego on a rainy day?
San Diego has some of the best weather around, so when the odd rainy day occurs we can feel quite lost. That’s why we decided to put together a list of 20 spots to visit during the next rainy day in America’s Finest City!
1. Birch Aquarium
This popular aquarium is a favorite spot for both locals and tourists alike. You can escape a rainy day in this aquatic wonderland and admire one of the most beautiful coral exhibits you’ll ever see!
Location: 2300 Expedition Way, La Jolla, CA 92037
2. Natural History Museums
The San Diego Natural History Museum is located in the iconic Balboa Park. It was founded back in 1874 and is actually the second oldest scientific institution west of the Mississippi and the oldest in SoCal!
Location: 1788 El Prado, San Diego, CA 92101
3. Geisel Library
This landmark is an excellent piece of architecture and San Diego history.
Location: 9500 Gilman Dr, La Jolla, CA 92093
4. AleSmith Brewing Company, Miramar
This artisanal microbrewery is a great hiding spot from the odd San Diego rainy day. They have an outstanding rotating draft menu, tasting room & free tours of the facilities!
Location: 9990 AleSmith Ct, San Diego, CA 92126
5. Museum of Us
This anthropology museum is found in Balboa Park, in the historic landmark buildings of the California Quadrangle, to be exact. The museum has many fantastic exhibits on many exciting topics.
Location: 1350 El Prado, San Diego, CA 92101
6. Museum of Contemporary Art San Diego
This museum is on the smaller size, and it makes for a beautiful and intimate art experience.
Location: 1100 Kettner Blvd, San Diego, CA 92101
7. San Diego Air & Space Museum, Balboa Park
This San Diego Air & Space Museum is a great spot to learn more about all things celestial. The museum is in Balboa Park, and it’s right next to the San Diego Automotive Museum.
Location: 2001 Pan American Plaza, San Diego, CA 92101
8. La Jolla Playhouse, La Jolla
This La Jolla theater won an American Theatre Wing TONY, which you can see displayed in the lobby.
Location: 2910 La Jolla Village Dr, La Jolla, CA 92037
9. Map and Atlas Museum, La Jolla
This lovely La Jolla museum aims to educate guests on the geography, history, politics, and artistic beauty of antique collectible maps and atlases.
Location: 7825 Fay Ave, La Jolla, CA 92037
10. The Comic-Con Museum
The brand new Comic-Con Museum is fast becoming one of San Diegan’s favorite spots. They have many events and exhibitions, so keep an eye out to learn more about your favorite fandom.
Location: 2131 Pan American Plaza, San Diego, CA 92101
11. Old Town Model Railroad Depot, Old Town
This 50’s theme train museum is a unique and wonderful spot to marvel at these intricate train models. The various trains travel throughout the 2,000 sq. ft. layout, which models a city at night with over 100 buildings, flashing neon signs, a ballpark, a zoo, and even a Drive-In Theatre!
Location: 2415 San Diego Ave Suite 107, San Diego, CA 92110
12. Legends Gallery
If you’re a fan of Dr. Seuss, then head over to this beautiful gallery. You’ll find unique works here, such as prints from the Green Eggs and Ham writer.
Location: 1205 Prospect St, La Jolla, CA 92037
13. Old Globe Theatre, Balboa Park
If you love the theatre, why not plan on seeing a show on a cloudy and rainy day?
Location: 1363 Old Globe Way, San Diego, CA 92101
14. Mormon Battalion Historic Site, Old Town
This historic Old Townsite honors those who served in the United States Army’s Mormon Battalion during the Mexican–American War of 1846–1848. The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints runs the museum and visitor’s center.
Location: 2510 Juan St, San Diego, CA 92110
15. The New Children’s Museum
This is a perfect spot to take your kids out of the house and somewhere fun during a rainy day. We guarantee they’ll have a wonderful time.
Location: 200 W Island Ave, San Diego, CA 92101
16. Mary, Star of the Sea Catholic Church
This beautiful little church is a great spot to visit if you are a fan of church architecture. They also have a lovely garden with unique outdoor sculptures.
Location: 7713 Girard Ave, La Jolla, CA 92037
17. Timken Museum of Art, Balboa Park
The Timken Museum of Art is the place to go if you are an admirer of the European old masters. They also have fantastic American art and Russian icons.
Location: 1450 El Prado, San Diego, CA 92102
18. San Diego Museum of Art, Balboa Park
This stunning museum is right in the heart of Balboa Park. They have so much wonderful art to look at so you can easily spend the afternoon here.
Location: 1450 El Prado, San Diego, CA 92102
19. Green Flash Brewing Company
This brewery has a fantastic tasting room with more than a dozen brews on tap. It’s a great way to discover a new favorite beer and is one of our go-to spots.
Location: 6550 Mira Mesa Blvd, San Diego, CA 92121
20. San Diego Automotive Museum, Balboa Park
This Automotive Museum in Balboa Park features a collection of cars and motorcycles that highlight automotive culture throughout history.
Location: 2080 Pan American Plaza, San Diego, CA 92101
Featured image: Shutterstock