Sunset at downtown San Diego
Michael had to return to San Diego to manage his old business. The downtown area has so much to do and see. Over the years, the city has continued to improve and rebuild itself. It is the eighth largest city in the United States. Its economy is heavily dependent on military/defense and tourism. Its main attractions are the miles of sandy beaches and a mild climate.
US Grant Hotel
The hotel was built in 1910 by the son of Ulysses S. Grant, in honor of his father. It is located in the heart of downtown San Diego and was remodeled and reopened its doors in 2006.
Gaslamp
The Gaslamp Quarter is located next to the Convention Center, Petco Park, and Horton Plaza.
It is approximately 16 blocks of bars, restaurants, entertainment and shopping centered around Fifth Avenue.
Homeless
Downtown San Diego has the 4th largest homeless population in the United States. There are approximately 8,700 living in the streets, alleys and parks.
The homeless are most prevalent downtown. This man passed away next to a Starbucks on a busy weekday.
Downtown San Diego
Midway
Spend at least 2 hours at the Midway. There is a lot of history and so many restored airplanes.
Pride Week
Formed in 1974 as a sponsored program of The Center for Social Services, they produced the first Lesbian and Gay Parade in San Diego to celebrate the 1969 Stonewall Rebellion on New York’s Christopher Street. Over the years, the event has grown with thousands attending. Pride starts this weekend with parades and music events.
Comic-Con
It starts next week and launched in 1970 at the US Grant Hotel. It has grown every year. Over 130,000 attend. Comic-Con has outgrown the downtown San Diego Convention Center and spills over into many of the nearby hotels. Attendees dress up in elaborate outfits. Some Star War fans were out early. Even if you can’t get tickets, just walking the streets near the Convention Center is entertaining.
Star of India
It was built in 1863 in the Isle of Man and is a full-rigged iron windjammer ship. She is seaworthy and a museum.
Walking
Downtown San Diego is easy to walk.
La Playa
Located in Point Loma, it was an anchorage for San Diego. Goods were unloaded then transported to the settlement of San Diego. The sailors camped on the beach at La Playa and hunted for wood and rabbits in the hills of Point Loma.
I met our good friend Teresa and her dogs for a nice walk along the water. She let me borrow her car to visit my dad in Escondido.
Shirley and Jim are best friends. They enjoy a glass of wine every afternoon with a spirited conversation.
