From a tea shop to one of the city’s most recognized landmarks, Musement shares 11 of the most Instagrammable places in San Diego.
Home to great weather, cultural buildings, and some of the best beaches in America, San Diego is a year-round gem. Providing a laidback lifestyle vibe, this photogenic city attracts both tourists and those looking to escape the colder winter months.
Known as “America’s Finest City”, for good reason, the city is filled with epic landscapes, colorfully designed architecture, and beautiful sunsets worth capturing. Here, we share 11 of the most Instagrammable places in San Diego.
1. Greetings from San Diego Mural
Why not give all of your Instagram followers a nice “greeting” from sunny San Diego? The mural on Belching Beaver Brewery’s sidewall in North Park is the perfect place to do so. Designed by Lisa Beggs and Victor Ving, the “Greetings from San Diego” mural includes the city’s famous landmarks in each of its gigantic letters. Make a bucket list with these landmarks to cross off if you’re not sure where to go next. One of the most Instagrammable places in San Diego when visiting.
2. The Nolen Rooftop
This 14th-floor rooftop bar in San Diego’s Gaslamp Quarter has the best views in the house. From the Coronado Bridge to Petco Park and Point Loma, the Nolen Rooftop offers breathtaking views no matter where you decide to sit. Its relaxed vibe is accompanied by a cocktail menu and a choice of food sure to please the palate. Be on the lookout for some of the seasonal specials to really give you a taste of San Diego. Whether it’s your tasty food, delicious glass of wine, or the scenery, you will have plenty to share with your followers.
3. Holy Matcha
Love at first sip. Stepping foot into this wonderland will have you channeling your inner Mean Girls “pink” moment. Pink and green colors are aplenty while tropical leaf prints line the shop’s walls. Holy Matcha, known for the ancient Japanese Matcha tea, hence the name, also serves other healthy snacks. From gluten-free vegan donuts to its iced strawberry matcha, Holy Matcha has plenty to capture for the gram.
4. Balboa Park
San Diego’s Balboa Park is loaded with places for great photo ops. The 1,200-acre park is home to over 16 museums, a zoo, majestic gardens, and so much more. If you’re not catching a show at the amphitheater or strolling along its paths, make sure to head over to the Lily Pond. With the Botanic Building’s Spanish Colonial architecture in the background, the reflection of the palm trees makes for the perfect backdrop. While you’re at the park, a visit to the next place should also be on your agenda.
5. San Diego Zoo
Even though it’s part of Balboa Park, the most visited zoo in the country deserved its own spot on the list. A must-visit for those visiting San Diego, the San Diego Zoo houses over 3,500 animals and is spread over 100 acres. You can visit the Artic tundra, African rainforest, and other cageless exhibits that let the animals roam around. You can’t go wrong snapping selfies while feeding a giraffe or add some color to your feed with the zoo’s beautiful Flamingos.
6. Artelexia
Located in the Arts District, the Mexican craft store Artelexia is a real beauty inside and out. The “You Are Radiant” mural outside is one of the most popular Instagram worthy spots for photos. Inside, there are a variety of gifts from handbags, art, toys, and even handmade jewelry to choose from. Take pics of the one-of-a-kind souvenirs and vibrant interior to pair with your pics from the outside. Also, it would be a shame if you left without purchasing a souvenir to help remember your stay in San Diego.
7. Hotel Del Coronado
It should come as no surprise that one of the most Instagrammable places in San Diego happens to be one of the most famed buildings in the city. Built back in 1888, the historic Hotel del Coronado is a large beach resort that attracts many visitors. Whether you want to relax on the beach or lounge at the pool, the scenery is magical. The hotel’s exquisite exterior, white sands and palms swaying in the wind make for a perfect photoshoot.
8. Scripps Pier at La Jolla Beach
Nothing says “Southern California” more than a photo from underneath the Scripps Pier. It’s perfectly lined pillars make it the picture-perfect location for those wanting to have memories to look back on. The pier, over 100 years old, is one of the nation’s largest research piers. You will encounter plenty of wildlife and surfers during a stroll along La Jolla Beach, providing plenty of photo ops. Pro tip: Arrive around sunset and if you time it up right, get your shot when the sun is in the middle of the pillars.
9. Old Town San Diego
Filled with remarkable museums, historic buildings and picturesque squares, Old Town San Diego will make you feel like you’ve went back in time. This former Mexican town turned to an American settlement after the Mexican American War in 1848. Today, a large Mexican culture is present in the area. Countless Mexican restaurants and local food vendors are scattered throughout, you can’t go wrong wherever you decide to eat. If you’re looking to taste the city’s delicious Mexican food scene then this neighborhood is the place to be.
10. LEGOLAND California
Calling all Lego fans! Just a short 30 minutes from downtown San Diego awaits LEGOLAND California, bringing your childhood dreams to reality. Over 60 attractions, interactive rides, and shows await you and your family. Step foot in The LEGO Movie World, have a splashing time at the water park or admire the animals at the park’s aquarium. Take pics with your favorite Lego characters and share them on the ‘gram to help remember your visit to this fantasy land.
11. San Diego Bay
There’s nothing like hitting the water on a hot, sunny day. And it’s hard to top breathtaking views of the city from a boat with a drink in hand. There’s never downtime on the San Diego Bay, it’s bustling with activities and live entertainment. Stroll along the nearby boardwalk or head to one of the beaches to soak up some sun. And don’t forget, share your extravaganza with your followers!
Looking to head to other photogenic cities in the States? Then check out the most Instragrammable places in Miami, Dallas, San Francisco, and Nashville!