Thins I like in San Diego, I've been able to accumulate some knowledge of local landmarks -- places and things that in some way or another signify the essence and character of San Diego. Now, I don't mean your obvious, popular tourist attractions or destinations such as Sea World or the San Diego Zoo. Or even areas like the Gaslamp Quarter or Old Town.

What we're talking about here are entities which call out your attention while traveling through the city. For visitors, it's exemplified by the "What's that?" factor -- when you see it, you say "What's that?" So here's a list of some of San Diego's more significant -- and not-so-significant -- landmarks.

The Trolley
You see them while downtown, crossing the San Diego Riverbed, speeding by as your caught in freeway gridlock. San Diego may not have a subway system like New York City, but we have our bright red trolley system. With its major hub in downtown and branching off both to the south all the way to the U.S.-Mexico border, and to the east to Santee in the east county and also through Mission Valley, the San Diego Trolley is a popular mode of public transportation and as much a symbol of San Diego as red tile roofs. A major eastern expansion through Mission Valley up to San Diego State University and on to Grossmont is in progress and is slated to begin operation in 2004.

Cabrillo National Monument/Point Loma Lighthouse
In honor of Juan Rodriguez Cabrillo, who sailed into what is now San Diego Bay in 1542, this National Park is situated at the tip of Point Loma, a long, scenic peninsula that forms San Diego Bay. The park offers one of the most incredible views of the harbor, Pacific Ocean and the city, and you can get some history to go along with the view at the visitors center and old Lighthouse.