If you’re a fan of the Olympic summer games, then you need to check out the U.S. Olympic training facility in Chula Vista.

The 150-acre training center sits adjacent to Lower Otay Lake where you may see rowers and kayakers training on the lake. Athletes in soccer, rugby, field hockey, cycling, track and field, and beach volleyball, among others, all have training facilities for their use.

There are hour-long guided tours available on Saturday mornings only, but you can take a self-guided tour either using a map or by calling 619-215-9070 on your cell phone for an audio tour. Of course, there’s a small gift shop in the visitor center.

What You Need to Know

Location: 2800 Olympic Pkwy, Chula Vista, CA 91915

Hours: 9 a.m.–5 p.m.

Cost: Free

Website: http://www.teamusa.org/About-the-USOC/Training-Centers-and-Sites/Chula-Vista

Tips: Plan on walking 1.5–2 miles to go through the majority of the facility. Most of the walking will be done in the open sun and temperatures at the facility will likely be warmer than along the coast. Wear good walking shoes, lots of sunscreen and/or a hat, and bring water. Don’t be disappointed if the Olympic flame is not burning. I’ve only seen it burning during the 2012 summer games.

Gallery

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