From Los Angeles: USS Midway, Old Town San Diego Tour

A Practical Look at the From Los Angeles: USS Midway, Old Town San Diego Tour

If you’re considering a day trip from Los Angeles to explore some of southern California’s most iconic sights, this private tour could be worth a look. It promises a full-day adventure, with visits to San Diego’s historic Old Town, the impressive USS Midway aircraft carrier, and Balboa Park, all tailored for a small group of up to five people.

What stands out immediately are the professionalism of the guides—they’re described as extremely experienced and skilled drivers, which really makes a difference on a long day like this. Plus, the convenience of pickup and a mobile ticket helps streamline your experience. That said, the price point of $975 per group might seem steep for some, especially considering there’s no included admission beyond the free stops, but for those who value comfort and personalized attention, the value can still add up.

One thing to keep in mind is that the tour is quite packed—spending around 10 hours on the go might be tiring, especially if you’re traveling with children or prefer a more leisurely pace. But if you’re eager to see the highlights without the hassle of planning each stop, this could suit you well. This tour suits travelers wanting a curated, hassle-free day with expert guidance, especially those who enjoy historical sites and urban parks.

Key Points

• Private, personalized experience: Only your group participates, which means more attention from guides.
• Comfortable transportation: An air-conditioned vehicle and skilled drivers ensure a smooth ride.
• Flexible itinerary: Multiple stops with free admission, making it easy to focus on what interests you most.
• All-in-one day: Combines history, culture, and iconic views in a 10-hour span.
• Cost considerations: The price covers transportation, guide expertise, and water, but not admissions or meals.
• Ideal for: Travelers with a full day to explore, curious about San Diego’s historic and naval sights, and comfortable with a busy schedule.

Exploring the Itinerary in Detail

Start: Los Angeles Pickup and Drive to San Diego

The journey begins with a 3-hour drive south from LA, giving you a chance to relax and get excited about the day ahead. The tour’s guides are praised for their professionalism—skilled drivers who make the long drive less tiring, allowing you to enjoy the scenery or chat comfortably. This part of the trip is straightforward and well-managed, which is crucial when you’re covering nearly 150 miles in a day.

Stop 1: Old Town San Diego

First up is Old Town San Diego, a neighborhood that offers a snapshot of California’s earliest days. It’s a laid-back spot where you can soak in the look and feel of what life was like centuries ago. The inclusion of Old Town San Diego State Historic Park and Presidio Park, both on the National Register, means you’re walking through sites with genuine historical significance.

We loved the chance to stroll around at our own pace. The stop lasts about 45 minutes, enough for a quick walk, some photos, or a bit of souvenir shopping. Since admission is free, it’s a low-cost way to get a feel for San Diego’s roots. But keep in mind, if you’re a history buff or traveling with kids interested in engaging exhibits, you might want to allocate more time or explore nearby museums separately.

Stop 2: USS Midway Museum

Next, the star of the tour—the USS Midway aircraft carrier. This ship is a real marvel, with an incredible story. Commissioned shortly after WWII, it served in Vietnam and the Gulf War, and is now a floating museum. Exploring the Midway offers a tangible connection to American naval history, with plenty of exhibits and aircraft on deck.

We were told that the USS Midway is the only remaining inactive U.S. aircraft carrier that isn’t an Essex-class, which adds to its uniqueness. The visit typically lasts about 1 hour and 15 minutes, giving you enough time to explore the decks, view aircraft, and snap some photos. The experience is free to enter, which adds value to the overall package, even if you might want to spend more than the allocated time if you’re especially interested.

Stop 3: Balboa Park

After the military marvel, you’ll head to Balboa Park, a sprawling urban oasis. At 1,200 acres, it’s packed with attractions—museums, gardens, and the famous zoo. The tour allocates around 2 hours here, giving you time to stroll through the gardens or visit a few museums if you like.

What makes Balboa Park special is its architecture and variety of scenic spots. It’s an excellent spot for a relaxed break amid your busy day. We found the park to be a perfect way to soak in some local culture and enjoy stunning views—especially if the weather’s clear.

Return to Los Angeles

After a full day of exploring, the tour wraps up with a 3-hour drive back. The guides’ ease and professionalism help make the return comfortable, even after a long, activity-packed day. You’ll be dropped off at your original pickup location, ready to reflect on a day well spent.

Is It Worth the Price?

At $975 for a group of up to five, the tour isn’t cheap, but it includes transportation, guide expertise, bottled water, and all fees for the included stops. Considering the cost of renting a vehicle, booking separate guides, and paying for admissions individually, it could be a reasonable choice for those who value comfort, local knowledge, and convenience.

However, keep in mind that you’re paying for a curated experience. If you’re the kind of traveler who prefers to explore independently, with more flexibility, this might seem pricey. But if you enjoy having someone handle logistics and want a guided overview of some of San Diego’s highlights, it’s a solid option.

The Experience from Reviews and Our Take

Although the tour currently has no reviews, the description suggests a smooth, well-organized day. The emphasis on experienced guides and skilled drivers indicates a focus on quality. The fact that all stops are free to enter makes the experience more accessible, and the inclusion of bottled water keeps you refreshed.

The main drawback is the intense schedule—nearly 10 hours of activity in a single day. For some, this might feel rushed, especially at busy sites like Balboa Park or the USS Midway. But if you’re eager to see these sights without planning each detail yourself, the guided approach offers a lot of value.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is best suited for travelers who want a comprehensive, hassle-free day trip from LA. It’s ideal for history buffs, naval enthusiasts, or anyone curious about San Diego’s culture and military history. If you’re traveling with a small group seeking personalized attention and don’t mind a tight schedule, this tour could be a winner.

On the other hand, if you prefer a more relaxed pace or are traveling with children who might tire quickly, you might want to either extend your stay in San Diego or look for more flexible options.

FAQ

Is pickup included in the tour?
Yes, the tour offers pickup service, making it convenient to start your day without worrying about transportation.

How long is the drive from LA to San Diego?
The drive takes about 3 hours, giving you a comfortable window to relax or enjoy the scenery.

Are admission fees included?
No, the stops at Old Town San Diego and the USS Midway are free to enter, but any additional museum fees or optional activities are not included.

What should I bring?
Bottled water is provided, but it’s wise to bring sunscreen, comfortable shoes, and perhaps a hat or sunglasses for the outdoor visits.

Is this tour suitable for children?
The description doesn’t specify age restrictions, but the stops are generally family-friendly. Keep in mind the long day might be tiring for younger kids.

Can I customize the itinerary?
Since it’s a private tour, there’s some flexibility, but modifications are subject to guide availability and schedule constraints.

What if the weather is bad?
You’ll be offered a different date or full refund if the tour is canceled due to poor weather.

Final Thoughts

This private, guided tour from Los Angeles to San Diego offers a practical way to experience some of southern California’s most compelling sights without the stress of planning. It balances history, culture, and scenic views, all with the convenience of a dedicated guide and comfortable transport.

While it’s not the cheapest option out there, the focus on personalized service and expert guidance can make it well worth the price, especially if you value a smooth, curated experience. It’s perfect for travelers who want to maximize their day with minimal fuss, and who are eager to see key highlights in a single, well-organized trip.

For those who love history, naval stories, or simply want to enjoy some of San Diego’s most iconic spots without the worry of logistics, this tour could be a strong contender on your travel list. Just keep in mind the long hours—pace yourself and come prepared for a busy day filled with memorable sights.