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Welcome to

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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Book online or call 1-800-350-6205 to speak with a local expert

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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Museum of Us Virtual Book Club

Feb 1 - ongoing

Celebrate the joy of reading with a virtual book club hosted by the Museum of Us! Enjoy books selected by Museum Educators and join monthly book club meetings to discuss, reflect, and share perspectives.  
 
Book Selections & Meeting Schedule: 
February 1 - All About Love by bell hooks 
March 7 - The Skin and Its Girl by Sarah Cypher 
April 4 - Flux by Jinwoo Chong 
May 2 - Warrior Girl Unearthed by Angeline Boulley 
 
Free to participate, registration required. Learn more and register online at museumofus.org/blog/book-swap-surprise. 

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San Diego Padres vs.Cincinatti Reds

Apr 29 - May 1, 2024

For Groups of Ten or More (10+), Hospitality Venues, and Premium Suite Options Email Tours@Padres.com.

Monday, April 29, 6:40 PM PT

Giveaway: Knit Beanie (with Removable Pom)

Presented by SDG&E || Perfect for cool San Diego nights, the first 40,000 fans in attendance will receive a Padres knit beanie, complete with a removable pom, presented by SDG&E.

 

 

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San Diego Padres vs. Colorado Rockies

May 13 - May 15, 2024

For groups of ten or more (10+), hospitality venues, or suite inquires, email tourism@padres.com.

Monday, May 13, 6:40 PM PT

Salute to First Responders: Firefighter Leadership

The Padres are proud to celebrate, honor and thank the first responders who serve and support the San Diego community. First Responders and their families receive 25% off tickets on dedicated First Responder Salutes and 10% off all other games, available online through verification by GovX.com.

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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

View More Events

Wonderfront Music & Arts Festival

May 10 - May 12, 2024
Discover

Museum of Us Virtual Book Club

Feb 1 - ongoing
Discover

San Diego Padres vs.Cincinatti Reds

Apr 29 - May 1, 2024
Discover

San Diego Padres vs. Colorado Rockies

May 13 - May 15, 2024
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Downtown on Instagram

 

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Accommodation

Breakfast Rate

Best Western Plus Island Palms Hotel & Marina
Valid: Nov 10, 2023 - ongoing

Treat yourself to the breakfast aromas and morning views that make our signature Bed & Breakfast package the perfect way to start your morning! For no additional cost, enjoy daily breakfast for...

Accommodation

Advance Purchase Rate

Best Western Plus Island Palms Hotel & Marina
Valid: Nov 13, 2023 - ongoing

Plan Ahead & Save! The early bird gets the worm! Plan in advance and save up to 14%! Must be booked at least 14 days in advance. You deserve a waterfront getaway at Island Palms!  ...

Accommodation

Advance Purchase Offer

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

Plan your perfect San Diego getaway in advance, and save! When you book and prepay your stay 7 or more days in advance, you’ll take advantage of these special savings today, and have no...

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