The El Cajon center is about the area of Winter Gardens and 1 mile east of Bath Gallery.
The best time to visit any community in San Diego County is in the spring or fall. From March through May, you're more likely to avoid crowds of local families on vacations as they rush to San Diego's attractions. The weather is also quite nice, with highs hovering in the 60s. You'll even enjoy some great hotel rates during the spring, which is ideal for travelers on a budget.
Fall is a little warmer but still offers the same benefits of spring. School is back in session so you won't be competing with locals at the San Diego Zoo or other site, plus you'll enjoy high temps in the 70s, which is ideal for hiking.
Winter brings the best hotel rates, but keep in mind that while San Diego County doesn't experience snow or blustery weather, it is the region's rainy season. When visiting El Cajon from late November through February, be sure to pack some rain gear.
Summer is unsurprisingly El Cajon's peak tourist season. Travelers from all over the world come to San Diego for the surfing, swimming, attractions, and culinary delights, and you can expect hotel rates even in El Cajon to spike. To save a few bucks off your hotel rate during the summer, be sure to book as early as late winter or early spring to take advantage of seasonal discounts.
If you plan your trip carefully, you can save even more money on your trip to El Cajon by taking advantage of discounts. Seniors, AARP members, AAA/CAA members, government workers, military families, and rewards members can save as much as 20 percent at most area hotels, including Rodeway Inn & Suites El Cajon San Diego East. Simply book your room at the appropriate rate and present proof of eligibility at check-in.
Certain hotels, including Relax Inn & Suites, provide quotes for prospective guests looking to score the best deal. It never hurts to ask for a discount when posted rates reflect a price higher than you'd prefer to pay.
Properties like Heritage Inn La Mesa will occasionally offer their own specials and packages. These can include romance packages that provide flowers, a box of chocolates, and a bottle of champagne. Package offers tend to come with a minimum stay requirement, but they're a great way to get a good deal with some extra perks.
El Cajon offers many mid-range hotels that give travelers plenty of value for their dime. Super 8 El Cajon CA is located 15 miles from Downtown San Diego and features an outdoor pool, a business center, free parking, and a free continental breakfast served in the dining area. Kids 17 and under also stay free. Guest rooms include cable TV, free Wi-Fi, in-room safes, microwaves, and mini-fridges, while upgraded quarters add private Jacuzzis.
Best Western Plus La Mesa San Diego is a contemporary property 12 miles from Balboa Park. Guest rooms are modern and nicely appointed, offering cable TV, coffee makers, mini-fridges, microwaves, high-pressure shower heads, and free Wi-Fi. Suites add separate living areas with pull-out sofa beds, and kids 19 and under stay free with an adult. Additional amenities include an outdoor pool and whirlpool, a free hot breakfast, a fitness center, a business center, and free parking.
While most visitors are looking for a convenient location near San Diego, El Cajon itself offers some great attractions that are worth visiting. The Water Conservation Garden is the city's most popular spot. Whether you're looking for landscaping ideas, hope to learn how to make your own garden flourish, need a great backdrop for some family photos, or you'd like to take a class or docent-led tour of the facility, The Water Conservation Garden is a must-see.
Sycuan Casino is a great local casino offering slots, table games, concerts, and delicious dining options. In fact, Sycuan Casino is home to five top-notch restaurants offering everything from a sports bar and typical buffet fare to deli favorites and eclectic Asian specialties.
If you prefer nature to gaming, head to Summers Past Farms. This beautiful farm not only provides workshops and classes, but it's also home to a coffee bar, soap shop, nursery, gardens, and gift shop. It's such a wonderful place that Summers Past Farms has been featured in Country Living Gardener magazine.
Exploring everything this beautiful valley has to offer is a tall order, but it's well worth the effort. Whether you're looking for luxury accommodations near San Diego or budget-friendly lodgings close to the interstate, you can find the perfect hotel in El Cajon to meet your needs and budget.
Below are reviews of the city of El Cajon, CA from an actual visitor's perspective.
My stay was great!
Appreciated that an eating establishment was close.
The hotel is really close to the highway.
I visited the local casinos!
It was close to Interstate 8 and restaurants.
It's about 15 minutes from the casino that my daughter was having her 10 year cancer free party at.
Quiet, easy check in, great breakfast, friendly staff.
We did not explore city of El Cajon. Only stayed at hotel as part of room block
There was a large mall nearby, with a movie theater in it and a number of nice stores. A lot of fast food places all over the place, and even a couple of Starbucks, but not much for finer food. The drive to tourist areas in San Diego was actually rather short and convenient.