San Diego Music Scene for Teenagers

Teens on a San Diego vacation will enjoy all-ages music venues, record stores and a unique tour where teens can get caught up in San Diego’s local music scene.

• Teens can get an insider’s view of music at the Museum of Making Music. They'll have many hands-on opportunities to pick up and play a variety of instruments, and discover the innovative ways that the music industry has grown over the years.
• Established in 1986, SOMA in the Sports Arena area, located near downtown San Diego, is a huge all-ages venue that mentors young local bands and hosts national touring acts in an alcohol-free environment.
• Lou's Records in Encinitas sprawls through two buildings (one for new and the second for used music) and houses an impressive selection of vinyl, CDs and cassettes. Prices are cheap, and the store regularly hosts free in-store concerts.
• Located in Mission Hills, M Theory carries an excellent selection of local music plus vinyl and hard-to-find imports. They also host frequent in-store shows by local and national touring bands.
• Taylor Guitars, makers of legendary acoustic and electric guitars, is headquartered in El Cajon, located approximately 25 minutes east of downtown San Diego. Free factory tours are offered Monday through Thursday and appeal to both guitar enthusiasts and regular music buffs.