How to Enjoy San Diego in Fall

San Diego is an inviting locale all year long--with its sunny rays, bounty of beaches, world-famous zoo--and much more. Autumn visitors have the added allure of a number of seasonal attractions and special events that make this superb city even more enticing. Here is how to celebrate San Diego.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Light clothing
• Comfortable walking shoes

1. A short and very worthwhile side trip is the popular Annual Julian Fall Apple Harvest, held from mid-September to mid-November. Thousands of visitors annually flock to this old mining town in the Cuyamaca Mountains to relish the fresh, crunchy apples, homemade pies and ciders--and acres of colorful fall foliage.

2. On a larger scale, the Harvest Festival, held in late October at the Del Mar Fairgrounds, is one of the most massive art and gift shows in the West. The celebration includes an array of food samplings, live tunes, a pumpkin patch and over 300 artists and craftspeople featuring everything from handmade jewelry to ceramics to clothing.

3. Football fans should consider taking in a Chargers game at Qualcomm Stadium for some big-time NFL excitement, or watch the Aztecs in action at San Diego State, where the stadium rocks with collegiate enthusiasm.

4. An autumn evening out in the Gaslamp Quarter is a must. When it comes to dining here, Chive is a haven of Asian-inspired California Cuisine; the hip and sleek setting is sure to add to the experience as well. Try the delectable crab macaroni and cheese if it’s on the menu!

5. The handsomely refurbished district also hosts a daylong shindig in early November--the Gaslamp Quarter Fall Back Festival--that showcases the local heritage for young and old alike. The fest offers entertainment, casual eats and plenty more, and is normally held on Island Avenue between Fourth and Fifth streets.

6. See what’s on stage at the La Jolla Playhouse for its fall season. The heralded non-profit has received great acclaim for its mix of classic plays and new works, and the setting in the nearby seaside gem of La Jolla couldn’t be much better.

7. Those seeking some Halloween chills won’t find a city with a more "spirited" approach to the spooky holiday. An awesome Haunted Trail is created at Balboa Park, an extremely well-done Haunted Hotel spooks its guests in the Gaslamp Quarter, and the popular Scream Zone rocks the Del Mar County Fairgrounds every weekend in October.

8. Thanksgiving visitors--or jazzed-up music lovers--should consider checking out the annual San Diego Thanksgiving Dixieland Jazz Festival. The late-November event has been around for decades and has grown into a nationally recognized showcase of dozens of bands from all over North America.

Tips & Warnings

• Even in autumn you should plan ahead for your first choice of lodging and event options.
• As in any good-sized city, exercise caution walking alone or at night.

[smilesatme1]

on 10/29/2008 Great tips Zach!