San Diego International Airport is located four kilometres from Downtown San Diego, California. Its proximity to the city makes it the ideal area in which to vacation or explore. A short drive or bus ride from all the main attractions of San Diego, it has every landmark right on its doorstep.
The terminal facilities within the airport are substantial with a vast number of shops, food and beverage locations. However, with a location so close to central San Diego it would be a shame to miss out on the city’s big ticket attractions. Before departing the airport zone, visitors with interest in aviation history should take a stroll to Dutch Flat a few minutes’ walk away. It is where famous aviator Charles Lindbergh tested the Spirit of St. Louis before his solo nonstop transatlantic journey from New York to Paris in 1927. A short distance north of the airport on Interstate 5 is SeaWorld San Diego with aquatic shows and themed rides. Alternatively, visitors heading towards the city can enjoy a day at San Diego Zoo in Balboa Park. It’s famous for breeding endangered species and home to rare animals such as the Giant Panda. There are several further attractions in Balboa Park including San Diego Natural History Museum, Fleet Science Centre and The Old Globe theatre. Entering Downtown, Gaslamp Quarter has a blend of Victorian-era houses and skyscrapers creating an interesting backdrop. With independent boutiques, museums and over 100 fine dining restaurants, gastro pubs and bars, this is the place to explore during daytime or after dusk.
Reaching Downtown San Diego from the airport is possible via several modes of transport. Taxi services and Uber and rideshare options are also available. Airport Flyer Buses take around 25 minutes to travel into the Downtown district of San Diego. There are bus two stops in front of the airport terminal buildings and one more at the commuter terminal. Visitors preferring to drive into the city should stay on North Harbour Drive from the airport.
San Diego began to construct the city airport in 1928 encouraged by famous aviator Charles Lindbergh. The airport was named in his honour. Today, the busy international airport is the gateway to Southern California and a focus airport for Southwest Airlines. The airport operates both domestic and International flights accommodating over 20 million passengers each year.