Things to Do in Downtown San Diego
As the eighth largest city in the United States with more than 35 million visitors annually, Downtown San Diego and the Embarcadero offer some of the city’s best things to do.
Take the bridge of ferry across San Diego Bay to visit Coronado Island, a world-class playground for the wealthy during the Golden Age of Hollywood, and the iconic Hotel del Coronado for a glimpse into its glamorous past.
GASLAMP QUARTER
The heart of downtown San Diego is the Gaslamp Quarter, a 16.5-block National Historic District where the city’s colorful past reveals itself in Victorian architecture, fine art galleries, theaters and museums. Explore the streets on a walking tour admiring buildings dating back to the mid-1800s such as the Old City Hall, Keating Hotel and Louis Bank of Commerce. Step back in time at the Gaslamp Museum at the Davis-Horton House built in 1850, the Gaslamp’s oldest and most haunted building. In addition, the Gaslamp Quarter is home to more than 100 restaurants, 100 shops and 40 bars and nightclubs.
EMBARCADERO
Located in the Marina District along the waterfront of San Diego Bay, the Embarcadero features miles of bayside promenades and bikeways along with dozens of parks, restaurants, shops and marinas. We recommend dedicating an entire day of your vacation to exploring the Embarcadero to visit must-see attractions like the USS Midway Museum, Seaport Village and the Maritime Museum of San Diego.
BIKE AND SURREY RENTALS
Visit some of downtown San Diego’s most popular areas in on bikes, E-bikes or Surreys for up to 6 and glide by the marina, Seaport Village, the Gaslamp Quarter, Balboa Park and more. Wheel Fun rentals makes it easy with locations in San Diego and Coronado.
USS MIDWAY MUSEUM
Enter a floating city and walk in the footsteps of 200,000 Midway sailors who were aboard the longest-serving American aircraft carrier of the 20th century. The USS Midway Museum, housed in the retired USS Midway, is an unforgettable adventure for the entire family. Browse more than 60 exhibits with a collection of 30 restored aircraft.
SEAPORT VILLAGE
Go for a stroll along four miles of meandering cobblestone walkways bordered by San Diego Bay, lakes, fountains and lush landscaping. Seaport Village recreates a California harbor setting from a century ago in a 14-acre waterfront shopping, dining and entertainment complex. Enjoy more than 50 diverse shops, 17 restaurants and nightly live music.
MARITIME MUSEUM OF SAN DIEGO
The Maritime Museum of San Diego preserves one of the world’s finest collections of historic ships, including the world’s oldest active sailing ship – the Star of India. Climb aboard more than 10 historic vessels including the B-39 submarine and PCF 816 Swift Boat and enjoy a variety of interactive exhibits.
THE NEW CHILDREN’S MUSEUM
Unlock your child’s innate creativity through contemporary art and engaging hands-on experiences. This children’s museum features one-of-a-kind room-sized art installations, immersive art studios and workshops that stimulate imagination, creativity and critical thinking in children and families.
PETCO PARK
Home of the San Diego Padres Major League Baseball team, Petco Park is known as “the world’s best ballpark in America’s finest city.” Take in breathtaking views of the San Diego skyline and bay as you attend an action-packed Padres game, concert, music festival, expo or other event. Perfect for Padres fanatics, behind-the-scenes guided tours of Petco Park are available.
MUSEUM OF CONTEMPORARY ART SAN DIEGO
Founded in 1941, the museum is the preeminent contemporary visual arts institution in San Diego County. Presenting exhibitions by international contemporary artists and site-specific installations, its collection includes more than 4,700 works of art created since 1950.
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