There’s never been a better time to visit San Diego. With consistently fluctuating fuel costs and a weakened economy, the hospitality community is rolling out incentives, freebies and travel deals to help make the most of your vacation dollar. Visitors come to San Diego for the mild Mediterranean climate, miles of sandy beaches and gorgeous sunsets. They also come for the rich array of parks, attractions, resorts and scenic adventures. The best part is you can experience America’s Finest City without breaking the bank.

With 70 miles of shoreline, there is plenty of room for everybody to swim, play, fly kites, and build sandcastles. You can take a long walk, pack a picnic and lounge or frolic to your heart’s content. Our breathtaking beaches, rolling waves and bayside playgrounds are abundant and always free.

Balboa Park offers a selection of cultural activities including Free Tuesdays, a weekly rotation of some of San Diego’s most popular museums including the Reuben H. Fleet Science Center, Centro Cultural de la Raza, Museum of Photographic Arts, Museum of San Diego History, San Diego Museum of Art, Museum of Man, Mingei Museum, Timken Museum and House of Pacific Relations International Cottages. There is also a free red tram that runs continuously throughout the day allowing you to rest your feet or take a quick tour.

Between mid-June and September 1st, SeaWorld Adventure Park puts on an elaborate light show each night as the park closes but you don’t have to be in the park to enjoy the magnificent display. Grab a blanket and head over to Mission Bay to scout out a perfect spot on the lawns that line the waterfront. Watch the boats dock in the harbor as the sun sets over the bay. Then lean back and cuddle up with your eyes focused skyward for the most magnificent show of fireworks.

One of the most popular events in San Diego is the Miramar Air Show. Spanning three days in early October, this spectacular display of rip roaring aeronautics features the amazing technology and delicate maneuvers of the world’s greatest flying machines. The show, parking and blanket seating are all completely free. You can pack lawn chairs and watch the Blue Angels soar through the San Diego skyline.

Old Town San Diego is said to be the birthplace of California. A colorful and lively spot to enjoy history, shopping and culture. This favorite location of locals and visitors offers free guided walking tours every day at 11:00 a.m. and 2:00 p.m. There is also a free weekly artisan market with jewelry, pottery, glass blowing and music Saturdays from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.

If music is your liking, San Diego has lots of free concerts in a variety of venues. The Spreckles Pavilion, Horton Plaza, San Diego Symphony, Powerhouse Park and Seaport Village all offer free concerts. You can also enjoy Concerts by the Sea in Encinitas and La Jolla.

Movie night takes on a whole new meaning when it’s not only free but enjoyed alfresco under the stars. Movie Night Season traditionally kicks off the first weekend in June and shows through late September at various San Diego parks throughout the county. Shows include box office hits like Transformers, Horton Hears a Who and Ratatouille. All are family friendly and shown in digital quality on a high-resolution 28-foot inflatable widescreen for large audiences.

Hillcrest is one of the hottest spots in San Diego, offering lots of free festivals, art tours, farmers markets and the ever popular Laughter Yoga, a weekly event requiring nothing more than a desire to stretch your body, mind and sense of humor. Every second Saturday from 6:00-9:00 p.m., you can experience Ray at Night featuring free wine, beer and nibbles plus special art exhibits celebrating local artists. You can make a whole weekend touring the farmers markets of Hillcrest, City Heights and the East Village.