5 Unique Places to Visit in San Diego (Part I)

5 UNIQUE PLACES TO VISIT IN SAN DIEGO

** PART I **

San Diego is a beautiful city.  It is home to numerous picturesque beaches and alluring coastal landscapes.

If you are a fan of the city, then you will definitely want to check out the surrounding county as well.

The smaller towns throughout San Diego County offer visitors a unique opportunity to see and explore several hidden locations off the beaten path.  These locations may not necessarily be hidden from the road, but what you find inside are hidden gems.

Just take a peak…

Taylor Guitars in El Cajon

Taylor Guitars is one the country’s best known guitar makers.  Did you know that they also offer FREE guided tours of their factory ever Monday – Friday at 1 p.m.  The maximum group size is 10 people.  Reservations are not required.  You just show up and go!

Spruce Street Suspension Bridge – San Diego

Spruce Street Suspension Bridge was originally designed to provide pedestrian passage across a deep canyon, which isolated developing neighborhoods from the newly built trolley lines on Fourth and Fifth avenues.  Located just west of First Avenue, it is the only one of its kind in San Diego.

The beautiful 375 feet walkway floats among treetops and sways with the way of the wind.  The bridge is attached to steel suspension cables which are then anchored to massive concrete piers hidden beneath the soil at both ends.  From the center of the bridge you can see San Diego’s downtown skyline.  It is FREE to walk across the bridge anytime except when it is closed between 10 pm – 6 am.

Petco Park in San Diego

Petco Park is not necessarily a hidden gem in San Diego.  But the arena’s walking tour is new to some.  When you take a behind-the-scenes guided tour of Petco Park, you will have the opportunity to visit the press box, learn about the historic Western Metal Supply Co. Building and explore the Padres dugout.  Tours are available seven days a week for individuals, families or groups smaller than 25.  Tickets are available online.

Lions, Tigers and Bears Sanctuary in Alpine

The Lions, Tigers & Bears Sanctuary in Alpine is home to 17 species of animals located on a ranch with a rich history to explore, including a historical adobe.  All visits to the sanctuary are by appointment only.  You can choose from being a member-for-a-day, feed a big cat or bear of your choice or plan a school field trip.  They also offer patrons the option to stay the night at their exclusive White Oaks private retreat.  Advance reservations are required.  Check out Groupon from time to time for discounts for this location.

Deering Banjo Company in Spring Valley

All banjos made by the Derring Banjo Company are exclusively hand-built by the owners, Janet and Greg Deering, and their team of 48 dedicated banjo specialists.  Over the last 39 years they have made more than 100,000 banjos.  They love visitors and welcome folks to take a tour of their factory anytime by calling (800) 845-7791.

Stay tuned for our next installment of 5 Unique Places to Visit in San Diego Part II coming soon!

Happy Field Tripping,

Jilleen

Disclosure:  This is not a sponsored post.  All opinions are our own.  Images used by permission.