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Welcome to

East County

San Diego's wild and wonderful backyard

San Diego's East County wilderness is one of the most diverse areas in the county featuring rolling hills, majestic mountains, sparkling lakes, deep canyons and desert landscapes plus Indian casino gaming. 

Photo By Lou Mora

Get outside and discover your wild side

In sharp contrast to San Diego's beaches to the west, the rolling hills, majestic mountains, sparkling lakes and deep canyons make east county one of the most diverse areas in San Diego County to explore. The area offers hiking, mountain biking, rock climbing, fishing and camping in the vast and beautiful wilderness. Spend an afternoon hiking Cowles Mountain, mountain biking through Mission Trails Regional Park, strolling along Lake Murray or fishing on El Capitan Reservoir. For flower lovers, don’t miss the spring wildflower bloom in Anza-Borrego Desert State Park, where a blanket of color covers the desert floor.  

In addition to outdoor adventures, East San Diego County boasts plenty of entertainment. Sizzling Las Vegas-style Native American casinos, luxurious resorts tucked right into the rugged landscape, challenging golf courses built around natural obstacles, historic sites and highways, and annual festivals and rodeos can be enjoyed, all within the expansive landscape of this California wilderness country.

A favorite day trip in East San Diego is to the historic mining town of Julian. Set against the backdrop of the Cuyamaca Mountains and countless apple orchards, this friendly, walk-back-in-time town is as famous for its apple pie as it is for its collection of gold mines (several offer tours geared toward children). Julian has a variety of restaurants, bed & breakfast hideaways, antique stores, art galleries, nearby hiking and nature walks, along with the California Wolf Center for conservation.

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Book online or call 1-800-350-6205 to speak with a local expert

Getting to East County

East County is an expansive region, encompassing more than three quarters of San Diego County. The area can be accessed by heading east on Interstate 8, and California highways 94 and 52, 78 and 76. If you have a few hours, head up to the mountains and into the desert - Julian and Borrego Springs can be accessed from Highways 78 (off Interstate 15) and 79 (off Interstate 8). A bit closer to the city center, Lemon Grove, La Mesa, El Cajon and Santee can be reached via the Orange or Green lines of the San Diego Trolley.

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San Diego Casinos

Try your had with lady luck at one of the many Indian Las Vegas style gaming casinos.

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Explore Julian

This historic mountain hideaway is rich with natural beauty and entertaining adventures, whether you want to take a day trip in search of sublime apple pie or get away for a romantic weekend in the tranquility of the great outdoors.

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Wine Tasting in Ramona

Eight great Ramona Valley wineries that are worth a try.

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Santa Train North Pole Limited

Nov 24 - Dec 18, 2023

The fun begins at the lighted Campo Depot. Pick up your tickets from the Ticket Agent in our restored passenger waiting room. We recommend you plan on arriving at the Campo Depot at least 45 minutes before your train departs to allow ample time to park, get your tickets, and pass through our gift shop. Don’t forget to stop by the Hobo Camp next to the Depot to hear tales from railroading’s past.
Once onboard the North Pole Limited, Santa’s elves will sing our favorite Christmas carols, read a popular Christmas story to all of our young ones, and pass out cookies and hot chocolate to all passengers. The North Pole Limited will stop at Santa’s Workshop to pick up Santa and Mrs. Claus who will visit with all passengers on the train on our way back to the Campo Depot.

The train ride lasts for approximately 90 minutes depending on the number of passengers Santa needs to visit with.

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Enchanted Village

Dec 15 - Dec 22, 2023

The Enchanted Village will welcome thousands of visitors from San Diego and beyond. For the price of a movie ticket, guests will be walking through acres of brilliantly lit trees, magical cottages, light tunnels, live entertainers, hundreds of giant candy canes, over a million lights, interactive displays and other festive decorations.

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Lights at the Lakes, A Holiday Light Show

Dec 7 - Dec 28, 2023

Join us this holiday season, for a dazzling drive-thru light show event on select dates from December 1 - December 28, 2023!

This one mile drive-thru event will feature colorful twinkling light displays set to music through your car radio.  The show will feature unique winter scenes that blink, swirl, and dance to holiday tunes.
Best of all, the combination of lights and music change, creating a unique experience each visit.

This is a ticketed event, you must purchase your tickets before attending. 

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Viejas Outlet Center Ice Rink

Nov 3, 2023 - Jan 8, 2024

Lace up your skates and take in the holiday splendor as you relive a cherished piece of your childhood or take your very first spin at the Viejas Ice Rink!

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San Diego Casinos

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Explore Julian

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Wine Tasting in Ramona

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What's On

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Santa Train North Pole Limited

Nov 24 - Dec 18, 2023
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Enchanted Village

Dec 15 - Dec 22, 2023
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Lights at the Lakes, A Holiday Light Show

Dec 7 - Dec 28, 2023
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Viejas Outlet Center Ice Rink

Nov 3, 2023 - Jan 8, 2024
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East County on Instagram

 

Deals just for you

Museums

La Mesa Depot Museum

Pacific Southwest Railway Museum
Valid: Jul 26, 2023 - ongoing

Join us:  Hours for the La Mesa Depot Museum in La Mesa, CA Admission to the La Mesa Depot Museum is always free.  Donations are accepted. Train Display: Open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week...

Tours & Sightseeing

Save 20% on an Amazing Scavenger Hunt Adventure

Amazing Scavenger Hunts by Urban Adventure Quest
Valid: Aug 7, 2023 - ongoing

Turn San Diego's Old Town or Balboa Park into a giant game board with this fun Scavenger Hunt Adventure. Combine the excitement of the Amazing Race with a three-hour city tour. Guided from any smart...

Caterers

College Student Discount!

Smokey & the Brisket
Valid: Feb 24, 2023 - ongoing

Save 10% off at Smokey & the Brisket every day (including promotions!) with valid college student ID.

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