It is no wonder why San Diego is one of California's most popular vacation destinations. The year-round fair weather and the fabulous coastline with about seventy miles of beach front are already inviting enough. Add the extraordinary list of San Diego things to do, and you are sure to be planning a road trip to one of the biggest cities in California in no time.

If you are coming from Arizona, the best thing to do is to take AZ-85 and then I-8 West. The drive takes approximately seven hours, but you can count on the road trip to be well-worth it. Your San Diego adventure begins as soon as you step foot in the city. Going around San Diego is very convenient as the most popular attractions are located close to each other (and the ocean) and various pay parking areas.

Drive to Old Town for your first stop in this road trip. Old Town is called the birthplace of California due to its significant role in the state's past. You will see history coming to life all around you. Old Town does not only cater to the interest of history enthusiasts. The place also houses a number of restaurants and retail stores as well as performances by dancers, artisans, mariachis and other theatrical acts. Experience some more of San Diego's history as you see the beauty of nineteenth century avant-garde Victorian architecture along the Gaslamp Quarter, which covers sixteen blocks of Downtown San Diego. You will also find novelty shops as well as restaurants and bars that stay open until very late. From the antique ambiance of the Gaslamp Quarter, head next to the contrasting Horton Plaza where you would definitely be impressed by its modern architecture. Also, you will find yourself surrounded with hundreds of upscale retail stores in Horton Plaza as well as hip and trendy restaurants. Retire for the night at The Westin Horton Plaza San Diego.

A visit to San Diego Zoo is one of the top things to do included in every road trip planner's San Diego itinerary. The zoo is a major hit not only to kids, but also to those who are fascinated with wildlife (or simply remain kids at heart). You will find yourself with your hands full at the zoo. You do not only get to see both endangered and backyard animals, you also get to join various events such as Snow Day for Pandas (April 27), and participate in animal causes like Bear Awareness Days (May 8-11).

No road trip to San Diego is completer without having to spend time at one of the city's beautiful beaches. Aside from swimming and sunbathing, there are a lot of other things to you can do in the beach. You can also kayak, surf and sail. Or you can challenge San Diego locals or other visitors for a friendly game of volleyball, basketball, soccer or tennis.

Fun and sun - two things that America's Finest City guarantees. Check out more Things To Do in San Diego to get more ideas to include in your road trip planner.