Along Hotel Circle, you’ll find most major national discount hotel and motel chains, car rental agencies, dozens of restaurants and movie theaters and two major shopping centers, all within a three-mile stretch.
Most hotels and motels have swimming pools to keep the kids cool until you get a chance to hit the beach, some feature tennis courts and other recreational facilities. Riverwalk Golf Course sits near the center of Hotel Circle, offering 27 challenging hole - the nearest of more than 90 San Diego golf courses if you’re staying in the Mission Valley area.
From this centralized location, you’re literally surrounded by activities your entire family will enjoy: drive a few miles south on tree-lined Highway 163 to the zoo in Balboa Park, west on I-8 to Sea World Adventure Park, and to access seventy miles of spectacular shoreline from Imperial Beach to Oceanside. Just north, you’ll find Mission Bay Park, then beyond, the boutiques and beaches in the affluent community of La Jolla. If you’ve come to San Diego to support your favorite team, head a mile or two east to Qualcomm Stadium, home to the Chargers, San Diego State Aztecs, and, until they make their move dowtown, the Padres. Staying in Mission Valley truly does put every visitor right in the middle of the action!
Families may opt to stay in Old Town, another great spot for the kids. Old Town, on the western edge of Mission Valley, is an accessible option for families visiting San Diego. Old Town is the birthplace of San Diego, an area that regularly celebrates San Diego’s heritage and close relationship with the people and customs of Mexico.