Explore
Balboa Park
Just minutes from downtown, this stunning 1,200-acre cultural park houses world-class museums, beautiful gardens, and the renowned San Diego Zoo. Experience the breathtaking Spanish Colonial Revival architecture, including the iconic California Tower, while strolling through diverse botanical gardens and the free-admission Botanical Building. Whether you’re interested in art at the San Diego Museum of Art, catching a performance at The Old Globe theater, or simply enjoying a peaceful walk through the grounds, Balboa Park offers something for every traveler.
USS Midway Museum
Step aboard America’s longest-serving aircraft carrier of the 20th century, now transformed into an immersive floating museum at Navy Pier. Explore over 60 exhibits and dozens of restored aircraft across nearly 10 acres, guided by former Midway sailors who bring naval history to life. From the bridge to the engine room, this unique experience engages all your senses as you discover what life was like aboard this symbol of American freedom.
Petco Park
Home to the San Diego Padres and acclaimed as America’s #1 Ballpark, Petco Park combines spectacular baseball sight lines with breathtaking views of the San Diego skyline. The architecturally magnificent stadium celebrates the region’s natural beauty and cultural diversity in an intimate setting with state-of-the-art amenities. Take a behind-the-scenes guided tour to learn about the ballpark’s history and design, even when games aren’t in session.
Shop
Seaport Village
This charming waterfront destination along San Diego Bay offers a relaxed shopping experience featuring unique, locally-owned boutiques and specialty shops. Browse through San Diego-themed apparel, nautical gifts, and handcrafted souvenirs while enjoying stunning bay views and the gentle ocean breeze. Perfect for leisurely strolling, you can easily combine shopping with waterfront dining or simply soak in the scenic harbor atmosphere.
Little Italy
This vibrant neighborhood buzzes with boutique stores, art galleries, and specialty markets along India and Kettner Streets. Discover unique finds at trendy shops like Vitreum for home décor and plants, love & aesthetics for creative gifts and jewelry, and Rosamariposa for handcrafted treasures from international artisans. The walkable district perfectly blends authentic Italian culture with modern San Diego style.
Gaslamp Quarter
San Diego’s historic 16-block entertainment district offers an eclectic mix of chic independent boutiques and recognizable retail chains. From fashionable clothing at Wild Dove Boutique to beachwear at Gaslamp Garage and nostalgic collectibles at Super7, the pedestrian-friendly quarter provides excellent window shopping and browsing opportunities. Plan your visit to coincide with an evening out, as the area transforms into the city’s premier nightlife destination after dark.
Eat
For an exceptional dining experience without leaving the hotel, discover Bonne Vie Brasserie & Bar, where Executive Chef Fabrice Hardel masterfully blends authentic Northern French recipes with fresh California coastal ingredients. This vibrant neighborhood brasserie celebrates life’s little moments with a menu designed to inspire and delight, making every meal a reason to toast to the good life. From morning through evening, Bonne Vie offers the perfect setting to savor French-inspired coastal cuisine in an atmosphere of refined comfort.
Tacos El Gordo
Experience authentic Tijuana-style tacos at this family-owned establishment that has been perfecting their craft for over 40 years. Each taco features handmade corn tortillas filled with top-grade meats, complemented by fresh guacamole and salsas made from scratch daily. This beloved local favorite brings genuine border flavors to downtown San Diego with generous portions and uncompromising authenticity.
At this innovative ice cream artisan in Little Italy, every scoop tells a story through bold, unexpected flavor combinations. Salt & Straw’s ever-changing menu features small-batch creations crafted with local ingredients from San Diego farmers and artisans, transforming ice cream into an art form. Their fearless approach to flavor and commitment to community partnerships make this more than just dessert—it’s an experience that connects you to the creative spirit of the city.
