National City,
National City is a diverse city located in the state of California, United States. It is known for its rich cultural heritage and vibrant community events. The city is situated near San Diego and offers easy access to beautiful beaches and popular tourist attractions.
National City is also home to a variety of dining options, shopping centers, and parks for residents and visitors to enjoy.
Places to visit
Day plans
Spend a day exploring around
Exploring the City
morning:Start your day with a stroll through Kimball Park to appreciate its tranquil atmosphere. Don't miss out on the delicious breakfast burritos and coffee at Gourmet Baja. Afterward, visit the National City Depot to delve into the city's rich history and culture.
afternoon:Head to the Pepper Park to enjoy the scenic waterfront views and have a picnic by the waters. For lunch, indulge in authentic Mexican cuisine at Tita's Kitchenette, known for their mouthwatering enchiladas. Later, explore the National City Mile of Cars for some car shopping or window-shopping.
evening:For a delightful evening, savor sumptuous seafood at Seafood City, followed by a lively night-out at Prohibition Pub National City to enjoy live music and craft cocktails.
Cultural Immersion
morning:Immerse yourself in art at the National City Arts Center, where you can admire local artworks and engage in creative workshops. Grab a delightful pastry and latte from Cafe La Maze to fuel your morning. Next, take a guided tour of the National City Cemetery, a historical burial ground telling unique stories.
afternoon:Enjoy an enriching afternoon at the National City Public Library, where you can find a wide range of literary works and resources. You can grab a quick bite at Tita's Kitchenette, known for its delectable Filipino dishes. Afterward, explore the Kimball Park to relax amidst the lush greenery.
evening:End your day by sipping on craft beers at Machete Beer House, renowned for its diverse selection of brews, to enhance your evening experience.
Nature's Retreat
morning:Embark on a refreshing morning hike at Sweetwater Marsh National Wildlife Refuge and revel in the captivating birdwatching opportunities. Relish a hearty breakfast at Karen's Kitchen, renowned for its cozy ambiance and delicious pancakes. Afterwards, head to Las Palmas Park to enjoy the serene surroundings and lush foliage.
afternoon:Explore the beautiful Paradise Valley Community Park, offering various recreation opportunities amidst picturesque landscapes. Indulge in a leisurely lunch at the Mangia Mangia Mobile, known for its mouthwatering Italian cuisine. Afterward, take a leisurely stroll along the Sweetwater River Bike Path.
evening:Savor a delightful dinner at Aunt Emma's Pancakes, followed by a serene evening walk at the Pepper Park to cherish the breathtaking sunset views and unwind amidst nature.
Historical Journey
morning:Embark on a historical journey by visiting the National City Historic Railcar Plaza to admire vintage railcars and learn about the city's railroad history. Stop by at Emil's Bakery for a delectable pastry and hot beverage to kick start your day. Next, explore the National City State Historic Park for a glimpse into the city's heritage.
afternoon:Enjoy a cultural afternoon at the South Bay Salt Works, where you can discover the process of salt production and its significance to the region. For lunch, savor authentic Vietnamese cuisine at Pho 87, known for its flavorful pho and delectable spring rolls. Afterwards, visit the San Diego Electric Railway Museum to explore vintage streetcars and trolleys.
evening:Relish a mouthwatering dinner at Niederfrank's Ice Cream, followed by a captivating evening performance at the Starlight Bowl to enjoy live entertainment under the stars.
National City Famous Food
Must-Try local dishes
Fish Tacos
A must-try dish in National City, featuring fresh fish, cabbage, and a tangy sauce wrapped in a warm tortilla. Visit Mariscos Nine Seas for authentic fish tacos.
Must-Try!
Carne Asada Fries
Indulge in this flavorful dish consisting of french fries topped with grilled steak, cheese, guacamole, and sour cream. Don't miss out on trying this at Tacos El Gordo.
Food Markets & Street Food
A food market and street food guide
Mile of Cars Way Food Trucks
Explore a variety of food trucks along Mile of Cars Way offering delicious street food ranging from gourmet hot dogs to fusion tacos.
National City Farmers' Market
Experience a lively market where you can sample locally sourced fruits, vegetables, artisanal products, and enjoy diverse street food offerings.
Things to do in National City
Unique local experiences...
Pet sitters in National City
Relax and unwind while your furry friend enjoys making a new companion!