Belmont Park

Overview

Belmont Park is a historic oceanfront amusement park located in San Diego's Mission Beach community. Established on July 4, 1925, by sugar magnate John D. Spreckels, the park was originally called the Mission Beach Amusement Center.

Its main goal was to provide recreation while promoting land sales in Mission Beach. Over the decades, Belmont Park has evolved into a beloved destination, attracting millions of visitors annually.

Iconic Attractions

The centerpiece of Belmont Park is the famous Giant Dipper roller coaster, a wooden marvel thrilling riders since its inception. Designed by Frank Prior and Frederick Church, this coaster symbolizes classic amusement park engineering.

The Giant Dipper was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1978 and became a National Historic Landmark in 1987.

Rides and Entertainment

Beyond the Giant Dipper, Belmont Park offers a wide range of attractions for all ages. Classic rides include the Tilt-A-Whirl, Bumper Cars, and the Liberty Carousel.

Thrill-seekers can enjoy modern additions such as the Beach Blaster, Tiki Typhoon, and Flip Out. Unique attractions include the Sky Ropes obstacle course, a 7D interactive theater named Xanadu, and a three-level Tron-themed Laser Tag arena.

Dining Options

Belmont Park also features diverse dining choices to satisfy visitors:

• Cannonball – the largest oceanfront rooftop sushi bar in San Diego
• Beach House Grill – serves Baja classics and handcrafted margaritas
• Draft Belmont Park – offers local brews and shareable plates
• Quick-service eateries such as Belmonty's Burgers, Hot Dog on a Stick, and the Sweet Shoppe known for its Monster Waffle Cone

Community and Events

The park's commitment to community is evident through events like "Belmont in Bloom," a spring festival featuring floral art, sculptures, and local performances.

Belmont Park also hosts seasonal events and promotions, ensuring new experiences for visitors year-round.

Location and Access

Belmont Park is located near Mission Beach, providing easy access to the beach and other recreation.

Key details include:

• Free admission with pay-per-ride or unlimited wristband options
• Parking available in four free public lots
• San Diego International Airport is approximately five miles southeast, making it accessible for visitors
• Primary location: San Diego, CA, USA

Summary

Belmont Park remains a cherished San Diego landmark, blending historical charm with exciting modern attractions.

Its rich history, variety of entertainment, and community focus make it a must-visit destination for locals and tourists alike.