El Cajon Travel Guide

El Cajon, situated within a valley covered in mountains, is located in San Diego County and over the years, has gotten the nickname “The Big Box”- a loose Spanish translation of el cajón” meaning “the box” or “drawer”. El Cajon prides itself on being business orientated but knowing how to have fun, offering a variety of exciting activities and residents who know how to let loose after a long day.

Things to Do in El Cajon

Visitors who come to El Cajon are pleasantly surprised with how many fun activities the city has to offer. Shopping is one of the most popular tourist activities, as El Cajon is home to the ever expanding Parkway Plaza Mall, which includes a variety of stores such as Walmart, Macy’s, and Kay’s. Also within Parkway Plaza is El Cajon’s Regal Cinemas- a cinema that offers both 3D and regular movie showings. Syucan Casino, open 24 hours a day, is a popular choice for guests who want to spend their evening playing slots or card games, and snacking on classic bar food. Visitors who prefer the great outdoors can enjoy the California sunshine by spending their time at The Water Conservation Garden, Summers Past Farms, and Lake Miramar which is only a few miles away in beautiful San Diego.

Best Places to Stay in El Cajon

Vacation rentals in El Cajon are plentiful. There are a number of great rental homes all across the city- some have a central downtown location, while others are a bit more out of the way and are located on larger properties. The downtown rentals are the most popular, as they allow guests to stay in the heart of the city where all of the action takes place and where the nightlife thrives after sundown. Each rental is kept up to date and features unique decor.

Best Time to Visit El Cajon

The best time to visit El Cajon is during the summer. The city, since it’s located so close to San Diego and La Mesa, can attract quite a few tourists during the peak summer months, however. If you’re looking to visit during a more quiet time, visit in the off months- near the end of summer or at the beginning of spring.

Best Events in El Cajon

El Cajon takes pride in offering fun annual events that cater to both residents and visitors. HauntFest takes place each year in October and features live entertainment, a haunted car show, local vendors, tasty food, and a costume contest. The Fourth of July Picnic and Fireworks is perfect for the whole family- it includes kids games, prizes, train rides, food vendors, live music, and of course, a firework show. Another popular event is the Spring Garden and Butterfly Festival which takes place at the Water Conservation Garden and honors everything greenery and butterfly related. It encourages participants to dress up as fairies and butterflies and has plenty of family-friendly activities to keep the children busy.

Things to Do for Families in El Cajon

Boomers, El Cajon’s most popular family fun center, has something to offer every member of the family. Boomers features mini golf, go-karting, rock climbing, video and arcade games, snacks, and other fun activities. Equinox Laser Tag, on the other hand, provides families with a way to earn bragging rights by taking their family members out in a friendly game of laser tag. Equinox offers kids and adult games, and a variety of themed games including Hostage Rescue and Tactical Medic.