14 Best Things to Do in Chula Vista, CA: A Local's Guide

Living in Chula Vista offers a unique blend of urban amenities and natural beauty, making it a premier destination in Southern California. This guide, based on local business insights, outlines the top 14 activities, from exploring the revitalized downtown to enjoying world-class entertainment and outdoor spaces. Whether you're considering moving to Chula Vista or are a long-time resident, this list provides a comprehensive plan for experiencing the best of the city.

What are the best activities in Downtown Chula Vista?

The heart of the city revolves around its downtown, particularly Historic Third Avenue. This area is a hub for local culture, featuring unique boutiques, diverse restaurants, and popular breweries. "Visit the unique shops, restaurants and breweries or attend one of the many festivals held on Third Avenue throughout the year," recommends Marissa Salviano of Modern Yardz. For a creative experience, Craft on Third offers workshops and art classes, making the downtown village a perfect starting point for your exploration. This mixed-use development—a term for an area that combines residential, commercial, and cultural spaces—is a key reason people love living here.

Where can you find entertainment and major events?

Chula Vista is home to significant venues that draw visitors from across the region. The North Island Credit Union Amphitheatre is a major outdoor concert venue with a capacity of 20,500, hosting top musical acts. Looking ahead, the Gaylord Pacific Resort and Convention Center, set to open in 2025, will become a landmark destination with a convention center, restaurants, and a 4.25-acre water park. For performing arts, the community-driven OnStage Playhouse offers an intimate setting for plays and musicals, showcasing local talent.

How can you enjoy the outdoors and nature in Chula Vista?

The city's location on the San Diego Bay provides ample opportunity for outdoor recreation. The Chula Vista Marina & Bayside Park offers picturesque walking paths, picnic areas, and kayak rentals with stunning waterfront views. For wildlife enthusiasts, the Living Coast Discovery Center is a unique zoo and aquarium—a facility that houses and displays live animals for education and conservation—focusing specifically on Southern California's native species. Additionally, the Otay Valley Regional Park features miles of trails for hiking and biking through diverse natural habitats.

What are the top family-friendly attractions?

Families have numerous options for a fun day out. The Chula Vista Elite Athlete Training Center, a training ground for Olympians, offers inspiring tours and public sports clinics. The Chula Vista Waterpark provides a classic summer experience with water slides and pools for all ages. For shopping and community events, the Otay Ranch Town Center is a premier outdoor mall that also hosts weekly farmers' markets on Tuesdays and Sundays, creating a vibrant gathering spot.

Where can you learn about local culture and history?

To deepen your understanding of the community, visit the Chula Vista Heritage Museum to explore the city's history through exhibits and artifacts. Sports fans can appreciate the legacy of champions at the Chula Vista Elite Athlete Training Center, while the Living Coast Discovery Center provides valuable lessons on local environmental conservation. These institutions highlight the city's rich cultural fabric.

To make the most of your time in Chula Vista, prioritize a walk through Downtown Third Avenue, catch a show at the amphitheatre, and spend a day by the bay at Bayside Park. Exploring these highlights will give you a genuine feel for the community and lifestyle that makes this city a desirable place to live and visit.