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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. 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.

During the day, families can enjoy compelling cultural attractions in San Diego's downtown, like The New Children's Museum, take in a baseball game at Petco Park, home of the San Diego Padres, or catch the 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.

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

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 and Seaport Village. Climb aboard to explore the ships at the USS Midway Museum, the Star of India, or 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 Headquarters at Seaport Village to grab a gourmet bite or browse for one-of-a-kind take-home treasures.

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

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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 programs including Car-To-Go, DecoBike, and FRED (Free Ride Everywhere Downtown) 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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Big Bay Boom!

Jul 4, 2019

The Big Bay Boom July 4th Fireworks Show is back, promising another spectacular display over San Diego Bay. Fireworks will be discharged simultaneously from barges placed strategically around the Bay off Shelter Island, Harbor Island, Embarcadero North, Seaport Village, Embarcadero South Marina Park and Coronado Ferry Landing. The impeccably choreographed display will last approximately 17 minutes.

Come down to the bay and enjoy the biggest fireworks show in San Diego!

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25th Annual Taste of Gaslamp

Jun 15, 2019

Join us for the 25th Annual Taste of Gaslamp presented by Karl Strauss, San Diego's original culinary tour! On Saturday, June 15, 2019, the Gaslamp Quarter will be showcasing the excellent dining options available in our vibrant district. General Admission tickets are $35 pre-sale ($45 day-of) and allow you to sample 25+ different restaurants from 1:00 to 4:00 PM on a self-guided walking tour with a beer garden featuring different brews from the Karl Strauss brewery. But the fun doesn't have to stop then. For only $65 ($75 day-of), you can upgrade to a VIP Ticket and experience 6 additional fine dining restaurants serving larger bite portions with a cocktail at each location, a Gaslamp Goodie Bag and an exclusive VIP reception!

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Comic-Con International: San Diego

Jul 18 - Jul 21, 2019

Comic-Con International is the largest comics and pop culture event in the United States, attracting thousands of artists, celebrities and fans of comic books, movie memorabilia and all things related to pop culture.

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Nighttime Zoo at the San Diego Zoo

Jun 16 - Sep 2, 2019

Stay after dark and help us celebrate summer during Nighttime Zoo! Come “rock and roar” every day this summer with live music, fun shows, and special animal encounters. The fun begins before the sun goes down with an amazing trampoline act, Dr. Zoolittle’s special performances, and African-themed entertainment for the whole family. Musicians will serenade and engage guests with tunes ranging from classic rock riffs to jaunty brass band sounds to sweet beats from throughout Africa. A procession of larger-than-life animal puppets headline and end-of-the-evening performance that is sure to wow viewers of all ages.

There’s so much to do, see, and hear at Nighttime Zoo—it’s a good thing summer hours are longer!

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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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Big Bay Boom!

Jul 4, 2019

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25th Annual Taste of Gaslamp

Jun 15, 2019

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Comic-Con International: San Diego

Jul 18 - Jul 21, 2019

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Nighttime Zoo at the San Diego Zoo

Jun 16 - Sep 2, 2019

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Tours & Sightseeing

Family Friendly- Amazing Scavenger Hunt Adventure

Amazing Scavenger Hunts by Urban Adventure Quest

Valid: Nov 26, 2018 - ongoing

Enjoy an Amazing Race type adventure with your family and Save 20% when you use Promo Code SDFUN. Only $39.20 for a Team of 2-5 people. Have fun and do something unique!

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Accommodation

Long Weekender Package

Hilton La Jolla Torrey Pines

Valid: Jan 1 - ongoing

Turn your weekends into mini vacations with the Long Weekender package and save up to 40% on Sunday nights with a 3+ night stay. Rediscover where you live or explore some place completely new. ...

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Activities

Cruise Ship Passengers Discount

San Diego Sailing Tours

Valid: Aug 13, 2018 - ongoing

Passengers on Cruise Ships with San Diego as a Port of Call can enjoy 10% off of their sailing excursion with San Diego Sailing Tours! Enjoy a private sailing tour of the San Diego Bay or join one of...

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