Free tourist sites in San Diego

If you're looking for a coastal locale for your vacation, San Diego is an excellent choice. History buffs will be drawn to the strong military heritage of the area, while those looking for a little activity can take to the beach for some water adventure. As the second-largest city in the state, a stay here generally requires that visitors have San Diego rental cars to get them around. Fortunately, you can look to Thrifty Car Rental for money-saving San Diego deals on a wide array of vehicles. You can also stick to your budget by taking advantage of these free attractions:

Mission Bay Park

You can leave your San Diego car rental behind for the afternoon, because there's plenty to do at Mission Bay Park. Spanning more than 4,000 acres, it's the biggest man-made aquatic park in the nation. Put on your hiking shoes and make your way through the winding paths, fly a kite or join in on a game of volleyball. And, of course, you can take a relaxing dip or catch some sun out on the sands. If you've brought the little ones along, there are plenty of playgrounds and other kid-friendly features. Bring along some food to prepare in the barbecue area so that you and your guests can enjoy a pleasant picnic.

Old Town

Park your San Diego rental car on a side street and explore the delightful neighborhood of Old Town. This area of the city is home to a wide variety of affordable eateries, boutique stores and historic landmarks. You can window shop at establishments such as Fiesta de Reyes, the Old Town Market and Bazaar del Mundo as you stroll the grounds, or plan out a tour of the top attractions. Popular spots include the Mormon Battalion Historic site, Whaley House, Cygnet Theatre and State Historic Park.