How to travel from Detroit to San Diego on the cheap

How to travel from Detroit to San Diego on the cheapPhoto: iStock
Hoodline
Published on June 06, 2019

Have you been craving a California getaway, without the congestion of LA? San Diego offers plenty of sandy beaches and sunny days, with an even more laid-back vibe and the best border town tacos you can find.

The city’s top-rated local craft brewing industry is a major draw, along with the famous San Diego Zoo, amusement parks and many historic sites from the city’s Spanish and Mexican heritage. And San Diego’s deep-water harbor supports a wide range of coastal activities, including sightseeing cruises, whale-watching and Southern California’s largest sport fishing fleet.

Whether you’re trying to jet set ASAP or you’re looking to plan your trip around the future’s cheapest fares, take a look at these forthcoming flights between Detroit and San Diego, which we pulled from travel site Skyscanner.

We've also included top-rated hotels, restaurants and attractions in San Diego to get you started on planning your ideal getaway. (Prices and availability are current as of publication and subject to change.)

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Flight deals to San Diego

The cheapest flights between Detroit and San Diego are if you leave on Sept. 1 and return from California on Sept. 4. Spirit Airlines currently has roundtrip tickets for $213.

There are also deals to be had in August. If you fly out of Detroit on Aug. 28 and return from San Diego on Sept. 1, Spirit Airlines can get you there and back for $214 roundtrip.

Top San Diego hotels

To plan your accommodations, here are two of San Diego’s top-rated hotels, according to Skyscanner, that we selected based on price, proximity to things to do and customer satisfaction.

The Hotel del Coronado (1500 Orange Ave.)

Photo: Trip by Skyscanner

If you're looking to treat yourself, consider The Hotel del Coronado. The hotel has a 4.6-star rating on Skyscanner, and rooms are currently available for $290.

"History and elegance describes it best. Some of the best flora in the San Diego area. A must see on any visit," wrote visitor Jack.

The U.S. Grant (326 Broadway)

Photo: Trip by Skyscanner

There's also the 4.7-star rated The U.S. Grant, which has rooms for $159/night.

Set in the heart of San Diego, this hotel is close to Westfield Horton Plaza, Petco Park as well as the San Diego Convention Center. Other attractions include the San Diego Zoo.

Local restaurant picks

San Diego has plenty of top-notch dining options. Here are a few of the most popular, according to Skyscanner.

The Prado at Balboa Park (1549 El Prado)

Photo: Trip by Skyscanner

One of San Diego's most popular restaurants is The Prado at Balboa Park, with 4.6 stars from 133 reviews.

Set in the rich landscape and finely manicured gardens, the Prado Restaurant is located at the historic House of Hospitality in the center of San Diego.

"One of our favorites in Balboa Park," wrote reviewer Sandra. "We love the fried green beans and the potstickers."

Mister A's (2550 Fifth Ave., 12th Floor)

Photo: Trip by Skyscanner

Also worth considering is Mister A's, which offers spectacular views and is just minutes from downtown.

"Came here to surprise my brother with a fancy lunch," wrote Makiah. "The place is beautiful, the view is gorgeous and the food is amazing!"

In-N-Out Burger (2005 Camino Del Este)

Photo: Trip by Skyscanner

Finally, there's In-N-Out Burger.

"Favorite place to grab a burger, and it is so cheap," wrote Kim."Freshly made fries and milkshakes made with real ice cream round out a great meal."

Featured local attractions

San Diego is also full of sites to visit and explore. Here are two popular attractions to round out your trip, again from Skyscanner's listings.

The San Diego Zoo (2920 Zoo Drive)

Photo: Trip by Skyscanner

First up is The San Diego Zoo, one of the most prolific and popular zoos in the world.

It houses over 4,000 animals from more than 800 species. At over 100 acres, the zoo offers exhibits that run the gamut of the world’s ecosystems: rainforest, savannah, desert, the list goes on. 

The Gaslamp Quarter (614 Fifth Ave.)

Photo: Trip by Skyscanner

Finally, consider checking out The Gaslamp Quarter.

The hippest area in San Diego, the Gaslamp Quarter is alive with activity almost every day (and night) of the week. From restaurants, bars and fashion to art, movies and playhouses, this really is the heart of fun in the city. Bordered by the water and downtown San Diego, the Gaslamp is home to some of the nicest hotels and swankiest hot spots San Diego has to offer.


This story was created automatically using flight, hotel, and local attractions data, then reviewed by an editor. Click here for more about what we're doing. Got thoughts? Go here to share your feedback.