POPULAR SAN DIEGO ATTRACTIONS NEAR THE HOTEL

There are so many great things to do in San Diego, all within minutes of Courtyard by Marriott San Diego.

Sea World San Diego - As everyone knows, Shamu is Sea World's biggest star. But Sea World San Diego is so much more. Experience Journey to Atlantis, an exciting ride that lets you rush through uncharted waters where mysterious mists and unpredictable drops lurk around every turn. In addition to its thrilling rides and incredible entertainment, Sea World is dedicated to protecting and preserving the environment and all its wildlife. No trip to San Diego is complete without a visit to Sea World -young or old, all visitors leave smiling and (sometimes) soggy. Check Sea World Ticket Prices

San Diego Zoo - Located in Balboa Park, which includes so many museums and other facilities it deserves a separate day of viewing, the San Diego Zoo is home to over 4,000 animals of over 800 different species. Here you'll find all your favorites including the hands-on Children's Zoo, the Polar Bear Plunge, Tiger River and the creepy Reptile Mesa. Be sure to visit the Giant Pandas and the Rainforest Aviary, a huge bird-filled Asian jungle with waterfalls and lush tropical foliage. Check San Diego Zoo Ticket Prices

Old Town San Diego - Step into San Diego of centuries past as you stroll through Old Town. Don't miss: San Diego House (originally a saloon owned and operated by a freed slave and a cornerstone of San Diego's Black American history), the Mason Street School (San Diego's first public school, still holding history classes for the public) and, of course, Bazaar Del Mundo. Bazaar Del Mundo is a permanent fiesta, with fabulous shopping and ethnic (not just Mexican) food. Visit Old Town San Diego

Gaslamp Quarter - Over the last few years, the Gaslamp Quarter has become San Diego's entertainment capital. There is always something to do in this trendy part of town where new nightclubs, restaurants and cafes seem to pop up weekly. The Gaslamp Quarter is 21 blocks of sidewalk cafes and open-air restaurants, jazz clubs, late night dancing, resident artists and micro breweries. "The Historic Heart of San Diego," as it is known, is in Downtown, just a short walk from the Convention Center. Visit the Gaslamp Quarter

San Diego Zoo Safari Park - With over 2,000 acres of park areas to explore, the San Diego Zoo Safari Park (formaly San Diego Wild Animal Park) offers a more natural setting to view the animals, birds and fish than the conventional cages of a zoo. Take the 45-minute train ride and see giraffes and rhinos or stop at the petting zoo to allow the kids to pet and feed gentle deer and goats. The bird show is not to be missed and don't forget to pay special attention to the carefully labeled landscape plantings. Visit the San Diego Zoo Safari Park

San Diego County Fair - Each year the San Diego County Fair has a wonderful theme that's integrated into the whole Fair. The Fair is open nearly every day over a few weeks in June-July. Visit the Fair

Del Mar Racetrack and Fairgrounds - Open July to September (except Tuesdays), this famous track is a haven for horse enthusiasts. Open to all ages. Visit Del Mar Racetrack

Camp Pendleton - Camp Pendleton covers over 125,000 acres and approximately 200 square miles of terrain. The stretch of shoreline along the base, 17 miles, is the largest undeveloped portion of coastal area left in Southern California. Camp Pendleton provides training facilities for many active-duty and reserve Marines, Army and Navy units, as well as national, state and local agencies. Over 60,000 military and civilian personnel work aboard the base every day. Visit Camp Pendleton