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:
- 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.
- With over 1,400 miles of shoreline, the City in Motion has more coastline than any other city in the country.
- San Diego is home to the largest naval fleet in the world, with over 50 ships and submarines based in the harbor.
- 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.
- The original California burrito was invented here. It typically includes carne asada, French fries, cheese, and salsa.
- 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.
- The Del Mar Racetrack located north of SD hosts the annual summer horseracing event where “the surf meets the turf.”
- The city is home to the largest urban park in the United States, Mission Trails Regional Park. It encompasses nearly 6,000 acres.
- La Jolla Cove is known for its stunning sea caves and cliffs along with its resident colony of wild sea lions.
- San Diego’s idyllic climate boasts an average of 201 days a year with temperatures of 70°F or higher.
- Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve features one of only two locations in the world with the rare Torrey pine tree.
- The world’s first public Hedgehog signaling pathway research center called Sanford Burnham Prebys Medical Discovery Institute is located in La Jolla.
- LEGOLAND California, located in Carlsbad, is one of just 8 LEGOLAND theme parks in the world.
- The annual Comic-Con convention held in San Diego brings over 130,000 comic book fans each year.
- 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.
- The 101-foot rainbow flag located in Hillcrest is one of the largest LGBT pride flags in the world.
- Ronald Reagan was the first person to drive across the Coronado Bridge when it opened in 1969.
- 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.
- Petco Park, home of the San Diego Padres, features a grass playing field located outside the stadium that is accessible to fans year-round.
- The historic Gaslamp Quarter located downtown features Victorian-era buildings and houses more than 500 restaurants and nightclubs.
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