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!
  • find price illustration

    Explore activities

    Explore thousands of experiences from activities and attractions to day tours and transfer.
  • calendar shield illustration

    Book with ease

    Skip the line- book tickets online in minutes to top attractions with free cancellation on many activities.
  • trophy illustration

    Treat yourself

    Members save % or more when you book activities.

Most popular experiences in La Mesa

Tours & day trips

See all 188 activities
San Diego SEAL Tour by Land & Sea

San Diego SEAL Tour by Land & Sea

Activity duration is 1 hour and 45 minutes
9.2 out of 10 with 216 reviews
Free cancellation available
Price is €45 per adult
San Diego SEAL Tour by Land & SeaOpens in new tab

History & culture

See all 82 activities
USS Midway Museum with Direct-to-Gate

USS Midway Museum with Direct-to-Gate

Activity duration is 1 day
9.8 out of 10 with 1485 reviews
Free cancellation available
Price is €35 per adult
USS Midway Museum with Direct-to-GateOpens in new tab

Private & custom tours

See all 63 activities
Essential San Diego 5 Self Guided Walking Tours Bundle

Essential San Diego 5 Self Guided Walking Tours Bundle

Activity duration is 8 hours
Free cancellation available
Price is €25 per adult
Essential San Diego 5 Self Guided Walking Tours BundleOpens in new tab

Food, drink & nightlife

See all 40 activities
City Cruises San Diego: Premier Bottomless Mimosa Brunch Cruise

City Cruises San Diego: Premier Bottomless Mimosa Brunch Cruise

Activity duration is 2 hours
9.0 out of 10 with 24 reviews
Price is €96 per adult
City Cruises San Diego: Premier Bottomless Mimosa Brunch CruiseOpens in new tab

Adventure & outdoor

See all 20 activities
Two Flight Indoor Skydiving Experience

Two Flight Indoor Skydiving Experience

Activity duration is 1 hour
10.0 out of 10 with 3 reviews
Free cancellation available
Price is €106 per traveller
Two Flight Indoor Skydiving ExperienceOpens in new tab

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
Default Image

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

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.

Explore a world of travel with Expedia