20 Fun Facts About San Diego California

San Diego is more than just sunny beaches – this Southern California city has a fascinating history and culture all its own. Here are 20 fun facts about America’s Finest City:

1. San Diego was the site of the first Europeans landing on the west coast of the present-day United States when Portuguese explorer Juan Rodriguez Cabrillo arrived in 1542.
2. With over 1,400 miles of shoreline, the City in Motion has more coastline than any other city in the country.
3. San Diego is home to the largest naval fleet in the world, with over 50 ships and submarines based in the harbor.
4. The world-famous San Diego Zoo is one of the top zoos in the world. It opened in 1916 and was one of the first cages-free zoos. It is home to more than 3,500 animals, with just one lion, named Rex.
5. The original California burrito was invented here. It typically includes carne asada, French fries, cheese, and salsa.
6. San Diego is one of the top craft beer cities in America, with over 150 breweries in the metro area. Popular local breweries include Stone Brewing and Ballast Point.
7. The Del Mar Racetrack located north of SD hosts the annual summer horseracing event where “the surf meets the turf.”
8. The city is home to the largest urban park in the United States, Mission Trails Regional Park. It encompasses nearly 6,000 acres.
9. La Jolla Cove is known for its stunning sea caves and cliffs along with its resident colony of wild sea lions.
10. San Diego’s idyllic climate boasts an average of 201 days a year with temperatures of 70°F or higher.
11. Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve features one of only two locations in the world with the rare Torrey pine tree.
12. The world’s first public Hedgehog signaling pathway research center called Sanford Burnham Prebys Medical Discovery Institute is located in La Jolla.
13. LEGOLAND California, located in Carlsbad, is one of just 8 LEGOLAND theme parks in the world.
14. The annual Comic-Con convention held in San Diego brings over 130,000 comic book fans each year.
15. Nicknamed the Birthplace of California, is home to the largest collection of ships in the U.S. Navy Pacific Fleet at Naval Base San Diego.
16. The 101-foot rainbow flag located in Hillcrest is one of the largest LGBT pride flags in the world.
17. Ronald Reagan was the first person to drive across the Coronado Bridge when it opened in 1969.
18. With 70 miles of beaches and a perfect climate, nicknamed Silicon Beach, it is one of the top surfing destinations in California and the U.S.
19. Petco Park, home of the San Diego Padres, features a grass playing field located outside the stadium that is accessible to fans year-round.
20. The historic Gaslamp Quarter located downtown features Victorian-era buildings and houses more than 500 restaurants and nightclubs.