El Cajon

Tourist places in El Cajon, El Cajon Travel Info

El Cajon City Overview

El Cajon is a city in San Diego County, California. The name means "The Box" or "The Drawer" in Spanish, referring to its location in a box-like valley surrounded by mountains. It is a diverse city with a strong aerospace manufacturing base and a vibrant community.

Location and Climate

El Cajon is located about 17 miles east of downtown San Diego. Its valley location results in a Mediterranean climate that is more extreme than the coast, with hotter summers and cooler winters. It is often significantly warmer than San Diego.

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit El Cajon is in the spring and fall when temperatures are moderate. Summers can be very hot, often exceeding 90°F or 100°F. Winter days are mild, but nights can be chilly.

Best Ways to Get Around

A car is the best way to navigate El Cajon and the East County area. The San Diego Trolley (Orange Line) and MTS buses serve the city, connecting it to San Diego and other communities. The city is also located along Interstate 8.

Top 5 Things to Do

  1. Visit the Olaf Wieghorst Museum: View the artwork and memorabilia of the famous Western artist Olaf Wieghorst in this museum and heritage center.
  2. Explore The Water Conservation Garden: Walk through nearly six acres of displays showcasing water-wise gardening and landscaping at nearby Cuyamaca College.
  3. Attend the Mother Goose Parade: Watch the largest parade in San Diego County, held annually on the Sunday before Thanksgiving.
  4. Shop at Parkway Plaza: Visit the only enclosed shopping mall in East County, featuring a variety of stores and a movie theater.
  5. Try Your Luck at Sycuan Casino Resort: Drive a short distance east to this large casino resort offering gaming, dining, and entertainment.