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University Town Center (UTC)

A little bit of everything San Diego

Foodies, art lovers, shoppers, hikers and adventure-seekers will be delighted at all this neighborhood has to offer.

San Diego's ideal weather, outdoor lifestyle and laid-back vibes have shaped the culture of the region, inspiring activities and enclaves suited to fit the needs of its vibrant communities. An example can be found in the neighborhood of UTC – an area just east of La Jolla. Rich with options to get outside, a thriving art culture, popular eateries and ample shopping opportunities, UTC is a burgeoning neighborhood and San Diego hotspot.

An Elevated Entertainment Experience

Westfield UTC is more than your traditional mall – this posh, open-air destination has become a gathering place for locals to mix, mingle and relax set against a backdrop of cool outdoor spaces, luxury shopping, fun dining and cocktail options, entertainment, art installations and more.

A Hidden Cocktail

Looking to imbibe? One of San Diego’s most exciting and renowned cocktail spots is in the heart of the Westfield UTC mall. Head behind the revolving door at Raised by Wolves to experience the opulent and unexpected bar, boasting creations like the Iron Ranger – an homage to San Diego’s craft culture composed of bourbon, lemon, pineapple, falernum and angostura bitters.

A Hike with a View

A visit to San Diego isn’t complete without scoping the world-class views of the Pacific Ocean, and the Torrey Pines State Reserve, located nearby, is home to some of the top views in the region. Take a hike through the area rife with natural beauty to experience the unique coastal wilderness, filled with family-friendly and advanced trails. Thrill-seekers can head to the Torrey Pines Gliderport to experience the breathtaking views from up-high via hangliders, paragliders and tandem flight options

A Haven for Sea Life

Nestled into the cliffs overlooking the Pacific Ocean sits the Birch Aquarium at Scripps Institution of Oceanography, a sanctuary for more than 5,000 fish and sea creatures. Engage with La Jolla Shores “locals” at the hands-on tide pool touch tank, or learn how the Aquarium is revitalizing seadragon breeding programs. Attendees can also interact with the animals through educational experiences ranging from behind-the-scenes tours, expert-led tidepooling expeditions and, if you’re feeling bold, snorkeling with leopard sharks. 

A Cottage Perched on the Corner of a Building

UC San Diego is more than an innovative hub for science and technology – it’s also home to the Stuart Collection, a truly noteworthy collection of 20 sculptures built into the campus environment. The curated collection hosts creations from some of the world's top contemporary artists, each begging for its own photo op. But perhaps the most head-turning of all is “Fallen Star, 2012 Do Ho Suh.” This arresting piece features a little blue cottage, perched precariously on the seventh floor-roof of a university building.

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Deals just for you

Accommodation

Hotel Indigo Senior Discount

Hotel Indigo - San Diego Gaslamp Quarter
Valid: Apr 19, 2024 - ongoing

Seniors 62 years and older receive up to 15% off when booking in advance.  No additional room charge for grandchildren under 18 years of age.  No deposit of fee for your furry companions....

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Show Your Badge and Save

Hilton San Diego Gaslamp Quarter
Valid: Aug 23 - ongoing

Present your citywide badge at the Wild Hare Bar Garden and save 20% on your bill.  (Not applicable for breakfast or alcohol) Just a short walk from the San Diego Convention Center, located in...

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Accommodation

BAY, BREAKFAST & BUBBLES

Humphreys Half Moon Inn
Valid: Jun 26 - ongoing

Cheers to Breakfast with Bay Views    Wake up to San Diego's sunshine and savor a gourmet breakfast with breathtaking bay views at  Humphreys SoCAL Dining & Music. Enjoy...

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Events to check out

Event

San Diego International Auto Show

Dec 28, 2024 - Jan 1, 2025

Where the cars are the stars! The San Diego International Auto Show features the widest variety of new vehicles under one roof.

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Event

San Diego Bird Festival

Feb 26 - Mar 2, 2025

The San Diego Bird Alliance invites you to the San Diego Bird Festival, which celebrates the birds and habitats of San Diego County. Our region truly offers some of the best birding in the United...

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Event

Play Day: Magical Paper Lanterns

Museum of Contemporary Art San Diego - La Jolla
Dec 8, 2024

Bring the entire family to Free Second Sunday for our free family series, Play Day! Join us for a light-filled art activity inspired by the Light and Space movement and artists in MCASD’s...

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