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Downtown & Gaslamp Quarter

The hottest nightlife scene on the West Coast

Discover San Diego's Urban Side

The heartbeat of every city lives in its downtown, and San Diego is no exception. Located only minutes from the airport, San Diego's thriving urban center offers an abundance of options for accommodations, activities, dining and cultural attractions, all easily accessible by foot, bike, car or public transportation.

Gaslamp Quarter

In the historic Gaslamp Quarter, where modern architecture and Victorian Age buildings stand side by side, you'll discover eclectic galleries, chic boutiques, trendy nightclubs, rooftop bars, gastropubs, craft beer haunts and fine dining restaurants lining the streets.

> Learn More about the Gaslamp Quarter

Things to Do Downtown

During the day, families can enjoy compelling cultural attractions in San Diego's downtown such as The New Children's Museum; take in a baseball game at Petco Park, home of the San Diego Padres; or catch the San Diego Trolley to Balboa Park and the San Diego Zoo. With plenty of places to eat, shop and explore, families can enjoy a true California urban safari.

> Find More Things to Do in San Diego

Epic Nightlife

After dark, the city transforms into a sophisticated playground for adults. With an endless variety of posh nightclubs, sizzling music venues and sky-high rooftop bars, there are plenty of ways to enjoy a memorable night on the town.

> Learn More about San Diego's Nightlife Scene

Embarcadero

The waterfront Embarcadero (or “landing place” in Spanish) lines the western edge of downtown. Its boardwalk hugs the San Diego Bay, home to the cruise terminal, the Navy Pier, Seaport Village and The Rady Shell at Jacobs Park, the permanent outdoor home of the San Diego Symphony. Climb aboard to explore the ships at the USS Midway Museum, the Star of India at the Maritime Museum of San Diego. If a moving sea vessel is more your style, hop on a harbor cruise and explore the bay, while taking in the skyline views. For fun on land, head to the The Headquarters at Seaport to grab a gourmet bite or browse for one-of-a-kind take-home treasures.

> Learn More about the Embarcadero

Little Italy

If you're looking for some authentic local flavor, immerse yourself in San Diego's Little Italy district, just north of downtown, where you can grab a slice of pizza or an espresso and biscotti from a local café, or dine at one of the celebrity-chef restaurants located on bustling Kettner Boulevard, known as "Top Chef Alley".

> Learn More about Little Italy

East Village

Just south of downtown sits the vibrant East Village, a revitalized warehouse district with a hip social scene, plus trendy cafes, craft beer bars and a high-energy vibe.

> Learn More about East Village

Barrio Logan

East of downtown you'll find Barrio Logan, the epicenter of San Diego's Hispanic community, where art and food converge in a symphony of sights, sounds and tastes. The colorful murals and outstanding, flavorful fare are worth the trip.

> Learn More about Barrio Logan

Play San Diego: Downtown & Gaslamp

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Getting to Downtown & Gaslamp Quarter

Downtown is the heart of San Diego and there's not shortage of ways to get into the action. All major freeways go through the city including Interstate 5 and 805, and State Highway 163. Unlike many cities, traffic during rush hour flows away from the city in the morning, and into the city at night - so for tourists, the trip is quick! San Diego's public transportation system is efficient and cost-effective. The Red Trolley crosses the city in several key areas with major connections at downtown's Santa Fe Station. Amtrak and the Coaster rail service connects North County and its quintessential beach towns to downtown action. And once you are in the city, ride share and scooter programs including Circuit, Uber and Lyft provide great alternatives to move around town.

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Barrio Logan

For years, the Barrio Logan neighborhood has been one of San Diego's best kept secrets. An epicenter of the city's Mexican-American culture, this neighborhood is quickly becoming a hotspot for cutting-edge art and authentic local culture.

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San Diego's Embarcadero

A great place for a stroll along the water

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San Diego's Historic Gaslamp Quarter

Not only is this area the epicenter of San Diego’s nightlife scene, it is also rich with cultural offerings

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Wonderfront Music & Arts Festival

May 10 - May 12, 2024

A highly-anticipated 7+ stage, 80+ bands, 3-day music, culinary and arts festival will descend upon the stunning waterfront of downtown San Diego all along the Embarcadero. The festival offers diverse attractions including yacht parties, water sports, art installations, after-parties, a craft beer village and plenty of local flavors. Wonderfront festival’s re-entry policy encourages festival-goers to customize their weekend experience and truly integrates the city into the fabric of the festival.

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San Diego Padres vs. Toronto Blue Jays

Apr 19 - Apr 21, 2024

Friday, April 19, 6:40 PM PT

Party in the Park

Presented by Southwest Airlines || Join us for San Diego's largest happy hour with live music and pregame drink specials in Gallagher Square from gates open until first pitch.

Out at the Park

THEME GAME TICKET REQUIRED: Come together with the San Diego LGBTQ+ community for a night of fun and festivities, and take home a limited-edition Out at the Park hat! Tickets MUST be purchased through Padres.com/ThemeGames to receive the related item, available only while supplies last.

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California Tower

Jan 16, 2024 - ongoing

Enjoy a uniquely-San Diego experience at one of our city’s most iconic historic landmarks. Make the climb on a guided tour that highlights the origins of Balboa Park and the histories of some of the many diverse communities that call the region home. All tours culminate in breathtaking 360-degree views of San Diego from the Tower’s eighth-floor viewing deck–from the Pacific Ocean in the west to the Cuyamaca Mountains in the east, and beyond.

 Learn more about the California Tower, what to expect on a tour, and get a sneak peek of the views at CaliforniaTower.org.

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HALF OFF Arcade Play!

Aug 8, 2023 - ongoing

Every Monday-Thursday from 3pm-7pm, enjoy 50% off arcade play, plus Happy Hour specials!

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What's Hot

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Barrio Logan

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San Diego's Embarcadero

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San Diego's Historic Gaslamp Quarter

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What's On

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Wonderfront Music & Arts Festival

May 10 - May 12, 2024
Discover

San Diego Padres vs. Toronto Blue Jays

Apr 19 - Apr 21, 2024
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California Tower

Jan 16, 2024 - ongoing
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HALF OFF Arcade Play!

Aug 8, 2023 - ongoing
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Downtown on Instagram

 

Deals just for you

Team Building

Save on E-Bike Tours in San Diego

Another Side Of San Diego Tours
Valid: Jul 18, 2023 - ongoing

Our eBike tours in San Diego offer an unparalleled experience that combines the convenience of electric-powered bicycles with the breathtaking beauty of America's Finest City. With our tours, you can...

Museums

SD Model Railroad Museum: Show your Badge & Save

San Diego Model Railroad Museum
Valid: Aug 23, 2023 - ongoing

Show your badge and receive $2 off admission and 10% off in the gift shop at the San Diego Model Railroad Museum. Offer must be redeemed in person. Spanning over 27,000 square feet of trains,...

Activity

Holiday Shopping Package

Days Inn By Wyndham San Diego Hotel Circle
Valid: Nov 13, 2023 - ongoing

Stay 2 nights and receive a $25 gift card for Fashion Valley Mall right across the street! 

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