When the US Navy officially closed the San Diego Naval Training Command in 1997, Liberty Station was born in its wake. Now a massive 361 acre collection of shopping districts, a waterfront park, monuments, residential areas and restaurants, Liberty Station is an impressive development that offers something for everyone.
Parking and public transportation at Liberty Station
The Liberty Station Community Association (LSCA) manages and maintains the numerous parking lots throughout the area. Parking can be found near the shopping districts or in the area surrounding the NTC Park. Bus and trolley access is also available to and from Liberty Station.
Best and worst time to go to Liberty Station
Hours for specific restaurants or shops will vary, but the best time for visiting the NTC Park, monuments, and waterfront are 8am-10pm. At night, expect a surprisingly cool breeze along the bay front.
Admission to Liberty Station
Liberty Station is free for visitors to park and explore, although you will need money at the various shops and restaurants.
Must see and do at Liberty Station
NTC Park Waterfront Walk
This 46 acre waterfront park includes playgrounds, jogging paths, and various monuments. The immensity and spaciousness of this well-maintained park is worth the visit to Liberty Station itself.
USS Recruit
Located in the hotel district, at the end of the NTC Park waterfront walk is the ship that the Navy used to use to train recruits. This massive replica of a real frigate was built into the concrete, and is a truly impressive structure.
Explore the art, architecture, and history
Throughout Liberty Station are signs of its past as a Naval base, specifically, a base that housed and trained thousands of recruits. With barracks now serving as classrooms, and a command center that has been repurposed into a visitor information center, Liberty Station presents a rare opportunity to see interesting art and architecture in a historical setting.
Other places to visit near Liberty Station
Stone Brewing World Bistro and Gardens
Of the hundreds of businesses within Liberty Station's Shopping District, Stone Brewing World Bistro and Gardens is the largest. With 23,500 square feet of indoor and outdoor dining, outdoor theaters, bars, and bocce ball courts, this restaurant entertainment complex features local organic cuisine.
Oldest Golf Course in San Diego
Founded by Albert Spalding, the Sail Ho Golf Course has a rich history in San Diego. Lessons are currently still taught by former golf professionals, and legends like Phil Michelson have played on the 9-hole course.
Fig Tree Café
For a breakfast or lunch in an inviting atmosphere from 7am – 3pm, or to try traditional or creative coffee beverages, Fig Tree Café at Liberty Station offers a highly unique setting with outdoor dining and menu options that provide something for everyone.
Insider tip for visitors to Liberty Station
With shopping districts, restaurants, monuments, and a massive park, there is a lot to explore at Liberty Station. If you want to get your bearings while learning about the rich history of the former Naval Training Command, you can request a map at the visitor's center, and call 619.342.8021 for a guided audio tour. This will help you gain familiarity with the many attractions and rich history of Liberty Station.
Author's bio: After a seven year career in the US Navy, Nicholas Napier completed his MBA and settled in California. He's published over 40 articles as the San Diego Fitness Trends Examiner, and regularly contributes as a freelance writer to various companies.