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Loehmann’s, Nordstrom Rack, and Macy’s Home & Furniture are just a few of the stores that carry items seen at higher-priced department stores. Budget shoppers flock to Target, Bed, Bath & Beyond, and more than 100 other stores. Don’t confine your shopping to the center: across the street is Saks Off Fifth Avenue’s outlet store.

This motel is located near shops, restaurants, and Moonlight Beach, one of the county’s most highly rated beaches. All rooms have kitchenettes and the third-floor rooms offer great views.

The temple of the Church of the Latter Day Saints is an ornate, futuristic structure. The golden trumpet-playing angel, Moroni, crowns one of towers and points the way to Salt Lake City. Interiors are closed to the public.

The parking is free, as are local phone calls. Kids under 17 stay free with parents; there’s a pool, coin-operated laundry, and free HBO. Motel 6s in Chula Vista and San Ysidro are even cheaper.

Floats, equestrian units, clowns, marching bands, and drill teams make up only part of the 200 entries in the largest single-day event in San Diego County, attended by about 400,000 people annually. A tradition since 1947, the parade changes its theme every year but always revolves around a celebration of children.

San Diego’s most glorious view takes in Coronado, Point Loma, downtown, the valleys, and Mission Bay.

In July and August, the Maritime Museum presents nautical-themed movies aboard the 1863, full-rigged merchant vessel, Star of India. Folding chairs are set out on deck, and movies such as 20,000 Leagues Under the Sea are projected onto a special sail. There’s usually a fireworks display over the harbor at night (see San Diego Maritime Museum).

Over a dozen carved Tiki gods welcome you aboard a Polynesian culinary adventure. A wide variety of pupus, crusted mahi mahi, and pineapple pork “pago pago” style, can only be accompanied by a tropical rum drink in a Tiki glass.

Pylons of the Coronado Bridge are canvasses for 40 murals exploring Hispanic history.