Things to do in La Mesa

Activities, attractions and tours

Aerial View of the San Diego Suburb of El Cajon, California
Aerial View of the San Diego Suburb of El Cajon, California
View from Mount Helix, in La Mesa, near San Diego, California
Aerial view of house in La Mesa City in San Diego, California, USA
La Jolla cove is an awesome spot to catch site of hundreds of local wildlife including seals, cormorants, and Pelicans. The California Brown Pelicans can be found right next to the sidewalks roosting in La Jolla. December to February the males display a beautiful reddish to Olive green gullet. I love going in the early mornings to see these beauties roosting along the cliff side. They are literally 4ft from the sidewalk. As long as you don't make sudden movements it loud noises, they will happily allow you to take their photos. 😊. While there, you will see their 'neighbors', the Cormorants, mingling amongst the tribe! The male Cormorants might be seen bringing supplies to the Mrs. to build their nest! Absolutely an awesome 👏🏻 site to behold to see so much wildlife only a few feet away!
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Top places to visit

1. San Diego Zoo

San Diego Zoo welcomes around 5 million visitors every year, and it’s easy to see why. Spanning a huge site, the zoo houses about 4000 animals from over 650 different species and subspecies. All of these creatures live in realistic habitats, with most exhibits out in the open air.
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San Diego Zoo which includes zoo animals

2. SeaWorld

Ever since it first opened in 1964, SeaWorld® San Diego in Mission Beach has drawn kids and big kids alike. Visitors come here to get closer to the amazing marine animals on show. Why not head over to Dolphin Point where you can feed and even train the performing bottlenoses—these intelligent mammals love to do tricks. It is even possible to arrange to get into the water with the impressive beluga whales, but make sure you book in advance.
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beautiful creatures

3. Mission Bay

Spend summer days enjoying the calm waters and gorgeous scenes of Mission Bay, a saltwater lagoon just north of downtown San Diego. This 4,200-acre (1,700-hectare) bay features pristine beaches, water sports for all ages and park attractions that bring summer to life.
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Mission Bay featuring a sandy beach

4. Mission Beach

The first holiday homes were built along the shore at Mission Beach all the way back in the 1920s. The resort boomed in the 1960s with new developments re-invigorating the place. And ever since then the visitors have not stopped returning to lounge beneath the West Coast sun and wander along the boardwalk by the beach where street performers and artists, rollerbladers and skateboarders keep the atmosphere lively.
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Mission Beach featuring a bay or harbor, general coastal views and a beach

5. Petco Park

Experience America’s favorite pastime in San Diego’s Petco Park. Enjoy stunning views of southern California as you watch a baseball game, concert or other sporting event. The park is named after San Diego-based pet supplies retailer Petco.
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Petco Park

What to do in La Mesa

Popular places to visit

Mount Helix Park

Learn about the local history of Casa de Oro-Mount Helix with a stop at Mount Helix Park. Amble around this family-friendly area's waterfront or attend a sporting event.

Mount Helix Park

Computer Museum of America

You can spend an afternoon browsing the exhibits at Computer Museum of America during your trip to La Mesa. Attend a sporting event while in this walkable area or simply enjoy the top-notch restaurants.

Computer Museum of America

Areas of La Mesa

Cross on Mount Helix, in La Mesa, California.

Mount Helix

If you're looking for some top things to see and do in Mount Helix and surrounding area, you can visit Mount Helix Park and The Magnolia.

Mount Helix
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Windsor Hills

While there might not be top attractions in Windsor Hills, you can explore the larger area and discover places like Cal Coast Credit Union Open Air Theater and Viejas Arena.

Windsor Hills
Ocean Beach showing general coastal views and a coastal town

San Diego

Clustered rocks in El Cajon, California

El Cajon

Ripe lemon on tree - California

Lemon Grove

Frequently asked questions

Is La Mesa worth visiting?
Whether you're coming to enjoy the cultural attractions and local charm or try unique foods and explore the outdoors, there's no shortage of things to do in La Mesa.
How do I spend a day in La Mesa?
When you've checked off popular attractions like San Diego Zoo and San Diego Air and Space Museum, spend some time discovering La Mesa's shopping and food scene.
What is the top tourist attraction in La Mesa?
The top tourist attraction in La Mesa is San Diego Zoo, so be sure to include it on your agenda.
Is three days enough to stay in La Mesa?
Three days will give you enough time to check out many city highlights, including Mount Helix Park, Boomers El Cajon and Knox House Museum. The average stay in La Mesa is two days. If you have the time to extend your holiday, San Diego County isn't far away.
Is La Mesa a walkable city?
It depends on what you plan to do and see in La Mesa. Several key sights, like Mount Helix Park and Computer Museum of America, are reachable on foot. If you're up for a wander around some of La Mesa's neighbourhoods, Mid-City is 5 kilometres away from downtown, while Del Cerro is 5 kilometres away from the centre and also within walking distance.
What are some activities to do in La Mesa with kids?
Whether you're holidaying with hard-to-please teens or tiny adventurers, an itinerary filled with fun activities makes all the difference. Browse our ideas for what to do in La Mesa with kids.

What to do in La Mesa for adults?
Whether you're a culture enthusiast, avid foodie or outdoor explorer, there are plenty of things to do in La Mesa for adults including Hotel Circle and The Salvation Army Kroc Centre.
Are there free things to do in La Mesa?
From relaxing in parks to wandering around vibrant neighbourhoods, it's simple to find free things to do in La Mesa. If you need new ideas, ask for tips from a local tour guide. Mount Helix Park is a must for anyone planning to save on their sightseeing activities.