With lively neighborhoods, an internationally renowned craft beer scene, and one of the world’s most beautiful urban parks, there’s a whole lot of San Diego to explore beyond its famous beaches. As you explore Southern California, you have a wide range of possible things to do in San Diego, whether you want to experience its culinary scene, prowl the vibrant Gaslamp Quarter, or see the exotic animals at the famed San Diego Zoo.
Stay in a stylish downtown San Diego hotel
To find the most happening spots in San Diego, sometimes you have to look up. That’s certainly true at the Pendry San Diego, where the rooftop Pool House lets you bask in the city’s perfect weather by day and a cool lounge scene after dark. Stop into Provisional, the hotel’s combination restaurant and marketplace, for all-day dining and to shop for housewares.
Explore the Gaslamp Quarter, San Diego's hottest entertainment district
Proving that the hip and historic are hardly incompatible, the Gaslamp Quarter combines beautifully restored 19th-century buildings and 21st-century nightlife. Dine on chef Leyla Javadov’s innovative (and healthy!) cuisine at Café 21, which features live music every day. Or check out the action on all three levels at The Tipsy Crow, a sports bar, pub, and club all in one.
Stroll El Prado and museums in Balboa Park
Lined with museums housed in elaborate Spanish Colonial Revival buildings inspired by landmarks in Spain and Mexico, El Prado is the romantic heart of Balboa Park. The dazzling films at the San Diego Natural History Museum’s Giant Screen Theater will transport you into the planet’s most spectacular natural settings, while the exhibits at the Comic-Con Museum explore layers of pop culture.. Or lose yourself in an exotic world of cycads, orchids, and ferns at the historic Botanical Building—and don’t forget to take a selfie along its lily pond.)
See wildlife at the San Diego Zoo
Sure, you’ll find lions and tigers and bears, but the San Diego Zoo also has its beloved koalas, viewable at eye-level from an elevated walkway as they munch on eucalyptus. Catch glimpses of African penguins, baboons, crocodiles, and leopards at the Africa Rocks exhibit, and for one of San Diego’s best views, ride high on the Skyfari Aerial Tram—also a great way to get across the zoo’s lush and verdant 100 acres.
Eat fried chicken made by a celebrity chef
Proving that there’s more to the Little Italy district than pasta, former Top Chef winner Richard Blais takes fried chicken and eggs to a whole new level at The Crack Shack. Hang out on the patio at this rustic chic spot and play some bocce, then bite into such irresistible sandwiches as the Coop Deville (fried chicken, pickled chilies, lime mayo on brioche) or The Royale (chicken sausage, egg, and smoked Cheddar on an English muffin). And don’t forget the deviled eggs and biscuits.
Raise a glass at Ballast Point and more San Diego craft breweries
Celebrated for its West Coast–style Double IPAs, San Diego is consistently ranked as one of America’s top craft beer cities. Order up a flight and taste your way through some of the city’s best brews at Ballast Point’s Little Italy brewery, tasting room, and restaurant. Make a reservation in The Kettle Room, where the prix fixe menu features dishes perfectly paired with Ballast Point beers.
More tips for your trip to San Diego
Looking for more ways to play in San Diego? Peruse these tips on the must-see attractions of San Diego, the top family-friendly things to do in San Diego, and—for one of the best natural wonders in town—the best places to see the sunset in San Diego. If you travel by your stomach, start your adventure by checking out San Diego’s best taco shops.