Things to do in La Mesa

Activities, attractions and tours

La Mesa
La Mesa
Photo by Michele Butts
Photo by Michele Butts
Photo by Michele Butts
Photo by Michele Butts
Photo by Toby Scriba
Photo by Toby Scriba
  • find price illustration

    Explore activities

    Explore thousands of experiences from activities and attractions to day tours and transfer.
  • calendar shield illustration

    Book with ease

    Skip the line- book tickets online in minutes to top attractions with free cancellation on many activities.
  • trophy illustration

    Treat yourself

    Members save % or more when you book activities.

Top places to visit

1. San Diego Zoo

Prepare to be amazed and enchanted by the diversity of animal life on display at San Diego Zoo, which welcomes 5 million visitors a year. The 100-acre (40-hectare) site is home to around 4,000 animals from more than 650 species and subspecies. Most exhibits are open air, and designed to be as close to the natural habitats of the animals they house as possible.
Learn more
San Diego Zoo which includes zoo animals

2. SeaWorld

SeaWorld® San Diego, located in trendy Mission Beach, has been pleasing crowds ever since it opened in 1964 and is a must for anyone traveling with children. Kids and adults alike flock to the many exhibits offering opportunities to interact with marine animals. Touch, feed and give training signals to the performing bottlenose dolphins at Dolphin Point. With prearranged permission, you can even don a wetsuit and jump into the water with the majestic beluga whales.
Learn more
beautiful creatures

3. Mission Bay

Spend summer days enjoying the calm waters and gorgeous scenes of Mission Bay, a saltwater lagoon just north of downtown San Diego. This 4,200-acre (1,700-hectare) bay features pristine beaches, water sports for all ages and park attractions that bring summer to life.
Learn more
Mission Bay which includes a beach

4. Balboa Park

This is one of the largest urban parks in the United States, and one of the most diverse in the world. You could spend a week exploring its 1,200 acres (486 hectares) of walking trails and gardens, museums and galleries, theaters, restaurants, and world-famous zoo. This wealth of year-round entertainment makes it a popular location for both locals and tourists.
Learn more
Balboa Park which includes a pond

5. Petco Park

Experience America’s favorite pastime in San Diego’s Petco Park. Enjoy stunning views of southern California as you watch a baseball game, concert or other sporting event. The park is named after San Diego-based pet supplies retailer Petco.
Learn more
Petco Park

What to do in La Mesa

Popular places to visit

Mount Helix Park

Learn about the local history of Casa de Oro-Mount Helix with a stop at Mount Helix Park. Amble around this family-friendly area's waterfront or attend a sporting event.

Mount Helix Park

Computer Museum of America

You can spend an afternoon browsing the exhibits at Computer Museum of America during your trip to La Mesa. Attend a sporting event while in this walkable area or simply enjoy the top-notch restaurants.

Computer Museum of America

Areas of La Mesa

Default Image

Mount Helix

If you're looking for some top things to see and do in Mount Helix and surrounding area, you can visit Mount Helix Park and The Magnolia.

Mount Helix
Default Image

Windsor Hills

While there might not be top attractions in Windsor Hills, you can explore the larger area and discover places like Cal Coast Credit Union Open Air Theater and Viejas Arena.

Windsor Hills
San Diego

San Diego

Photo by Sabrina Hendrikx

Lemon Grove

Photo by Aly Anaya

Spring Valley

Frequently asked questions

Is La Mesa worth visiting?
Whether you're coming to enjoy the cultural attractions and local charm or try unique foods and explore the outdoors, there's no shortage of things to do in La Mesa.
How do I spend a day in La Mesa?
When you've checked off popular attractions like San Diego Zoo and San Diego Air and Space Museum, spend some time discovering La Mesa's shopping and food scene.
What is the top tourist attraction in La Mesa?
The top tourist attraction in La Mesa is San Diego Zoo, so be sure to include it on your agenda.
Is three days enough to stay in La Mesa?
Three days will give you enough time to check out many city highlights, including Mount Helix Park, Boomers El Cajon and Knox House Museum. The average stay in La Mesa is two days. If you have the time to extend your holiday, San Diego County isn't far away.
Is La Mesa a walkable city?
It depends on what you plan to do and see in La Mesa. Several key sights, like Mount Helix Park and Computer Museum of America, are reachable on foot. If you're up for a wander around some of La Mesa's neighbourhoods, Mid-City is 5 kilometres away from downtown, while Del Cerro is 5 kilometres away from the centre and also within walking distance.
What are some activities to do in La Mesa with kids?
Whether you're holidaying with hard-to-please teens or tiny adventurers, an itinerary filled with fun activities makes all the difference. Browse our ideas for what to do in La Mesa with kids.

What to do in La Mesa for adults?
Whether you're a culture enthusiast, avid foodie or outdoor explorer, there are plenty of things to do in La Mesa for adults including Hotel Circle and The Salvation Army Kroc Centre.
Are there free things to do in La Mesa?
From relaxing in parks to wandering around vibrant neighbourhoods, it's simple to find free things to do in La Mesa. If you need new ideas, ask for tips from a local tour guide. Mount Helix Park is a must for anyone planning to save on their sightseeing activities.