USS Midway, Old Town San Diego City Tour from Los Angeles

This tour promises a full day of exploring some of San Diego’s most iconic sights, all conveniently from Los Angeles. We’ve looked into it to give you an honest, detailed picture of what to expect—so you can decide if it’s the right day trip for your California adventure.

What drew us in were the variety of experiences—from historic Old Town to a scenic harbor cruise and the impressive USS Midway aircraft carrier museum. The guided narration adds depth to the sights, and the balanced itinerary offers a good mix of history, scenery, and fun. One thing to keep in mind? It’s a packed schedule for just one day, so if you’re looking for a more relaxed pace, this might feel a bit rushed. Still, it’s perfect for those eager to tick off multiple San Diego highlights in a single trip.

This tour suits travelers who love a blend of history, scenic cruising, and culture. If you’re short on time but want a comprehensive San Diego experience, this day trip hits many high points and includes some standout attractions.

Good To Know

• All-in-One Day Trip: Combines Old Town, harbor cruise, USS Midway, and Balboa Park into a single day.
• Expert Guided Experience: Guided narration enhances understanding and adds personality to each stop.
• Authentic Historic Sights: Includes the oldest settled area in San Diego with preserved sites and parks.
• Impressive Museum Ship: The USS Midway offers a hands-on look at a historic aircraft carrier.
• Great Value: Price includes transportation, admission tickets, and guided commentary.
• Limited Flexibility: The schedule is tight, so plan for an active day with minimal downtime.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Introduction: Why This Tour Stands Out

Travelers who want a comprehensive snapshot of San Diego without the hassle of planning multiple visits** will find this tour appealing. It packs in several of the city’s top attractions into just one day, making it ideal for those with limited time. The price point of $254 per person reflects what’s included—transportation, guided insights, and entry to key sites—giving a good sense of value considering the logistics handled for you.

We love the way this tour balances history and scenery, with each stop designed to give a well-rounded picture of San Diego’s charm. The guided narration brings each site to life, especially on the harbor cruise, where the captain’s stories help you spot landmarks and understand their significance. Plus, the USS Midway is a highlight for those interested in naval history and aircraft carriers, presenting an authentic, up-close perspective.

One thing to keep in mind is that the schedule is quite full, with only about 30 minutes at Old Town and 1.5 hours at the USS Midway, so you’ll want to be ready for a day of walking and exploring. For travelers who prefer a more relaxed pace, this might feel somewhat rushed—but for those eager to see a lot in one go, it’s a solid choice.

A Detailed Breakdown of the Itinerary

Departure from Los Angeles

The tour departs early from various pickup locations in Los Angeles, starting as early as 7:00 AM. This allows for a full day of sightseeing, so you’ll need to set your alarm and be ready for a busy but rewarding experience.

Old Town San Diego (30 Minutes)

Your first stop is Old Town San Diego, the birthplace of California. Here, you’ll step into a neighborhood that preserves the look and feel of early San Diego, with historic buildings, quaint shops, and parks. The Old Town San Diego State Historic Park and Presidio Park are both listed on the National Register of Historic Places, so expect to see well-preserved architecture and informative displays.

This brief stop is about soaking in the atmosphere, taking some photos, and perhaps grabbing a quick snack from local eateries. Visitors have noted that the guided commentary helps bring context to what you’re seeing, making a short visit surprisingly enriching.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

San Diego Harbor Cruise (60 Minutes)

Next, the tour includes a scenic cruise of San Diego Harbor, which takes approximately an hour. The boat ride offers spectacular views of the city skyline and waterfront, with narration about notable landmarks, ships, and history. It’s a relaxing way to see the city from a different perspective and enjoy some fresh sea air.

Travelers have commented positively on the professional narration, which makes the cruise engaging rather than just a boat ride. Expect to see military vessels, the Coronado Bridge, and perhaps spot dolphins or sea lions depending on the day.

USS Midway Museum (80 Minutes)

The centerpiece for many visitors is the USS Midway, a massive aircraft carrier that served for nearly 50 years. As a museum, it offers an immersive experience with guided and self-guided tours through the ship’s hangar decks, flight deck, and control towers.

The USS Midway was commissioned shortly after WWII, was the largest ship in the world for several years, and served in major conflicts like Vietnam and Operation Desert Storm. Today, it’s the only remaining inactive U.S. aircraft carrier that isn’t an Essex-class vessel, making it a special piece of military history.

Visitors have praised the knowledgeable guides, who make the visit lively and informative. One reviewer shared that their guide, who went above and beyond, made their last day in San Diego memorable. Expect to see aircraft, learn about naval life, and perhaps even sit in a cockpit or two.

Balboa Park (120 Minutes)

Finally, the tour includes Balboa Park, a sprawling 1,200-acre cultural hub. It’s home to 17 museums, gardens, and the famous San Diego Zoo—though the zoo isn’t part of this tour. You’ll have enough time to stroll through gardens, admire architecture, or visit a couple of museums.

Travelers have found that Balboa Park is a peaceful contrast to the busy ship and harbor, offering a chance to breathe and enjoy some nature or culture. The park’s beautifully maintained grounds and diverse attractions make it worth a leisurely exploration if time permits.

Return to Los Angeles

After a full day, the group departs back to Los Angeles, arriving in the evening. The early start and packed schedule mean you’ll want to rest afterward, but most agree it’s a satisfying whirlwind of San Diego highlights.

Practical Details & Experience Insights

Transportation is provided from various convenient pickup points in LA, with options from downtown to surrounding neighborhoods. The guided tour is led by a professional driver and guide, with live narration in English, adding a personal touch to each stop.

The admission tickets to the harbor cruise and USS Midway Museum are included, which simplifies planning and adds value. During the holidays—specifically Thanksgiving and Christmas—the USS Midway is closed, replaced by a shorter stop at the Hotel del Coronado, which offers a different scenic experience.

For comfort, travelers should bring comfortable shoes, sunscreen, water, snacks, and perhaps a camera. The tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users, and pregnant women are advised to check their eligibility depending on their stage of pregnancy.

Price-wise, $254 per person covers the all-inclusive experience, and reviews confirm it’s a good value considering the convenience of transportation, guided commentary, and access to major sites.

What Travelers Say

A reviewer from the United States shared that they had a personal guide who went above and beyond to make their last day special, highlighting the tour’s flexibility and attentiveness. Another noted that the guided narration made the harbor cruise particularly engaging, helping them appreciate the city’s waterfront in a new way.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour for You?

This day trip offers a comprehensive look at San Diego’s most iconic sights, making it ideal for first-time visitors or those short on time. The combination of historic neighborhoods, scenic views, and impressive military museums ensures a varied and engaging experience.

If you’re someone who appreciates guided insights and well-organized logistics, this tour will likely meet your expectations. It’s perfect for travelers who enjoy a full day of activity, but if you prefer a slower pace or have mobility concerns, it might feel a bit tight.

For families, history buffs, or anyone wanting a taste of San Diego’s diverse attractions, this tour packs in a lot of value. The inclusion of expert guides and seamless transportation makes it a hassle-free way to maximize your day.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
The entire experience lasts approximately 12 hours, starting early in Los Angeles and returning by evening.

What stops are included in the tour?
It includes Old Town San Diego, a San Diego Harbor cruise, the USS Midway Museum, and Balboa Park.

Are admission tickets included?
Yes, tickets for the harbor cruise and USS Midway are part of the package. On holidays like Thanksgiving and Christmas, the USS Midway is replaced by a visit to Hotel del Coronado.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, sunscreen, water, snacks, and cash are recommended. Note that pets, smoking, and alcohol are not allowed.

Is the tour suitable for children or pregnant women?
Children under 18 must be accompanied by an adult. Pregnant women should consult their health provider, especially after 24 weeks.

How do I book and pay?
You can reserve now and pay later, with full cancellation allowed up to 24 hours beforehand.

Is wheelchair access available?
No, this tour is not suitable for wheelchair users.

To sum it up, if you’re looking for an efficient, guided way to see San Diego’s highlights from LA, this tour offers a lot of value. It’s a well-organized, engaging experience suitable for history lovers, scenic admirers, and anyone wanting a full day of California coastal exploration. Just be prepared for a busy schedule, and you’ll likely come away with a new appreciation for San Diego’s diverse attractions.

You can check if your dates are available here: