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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 downtown area 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 in Downtown, San Diego

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

Downtown San Diego 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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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.

Discover Downtown & Gaslamp Quarter

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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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What's Hot

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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 16 - May 18, 2025
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San Diego Padres vs. Tampa Bay Rays

Apr 25 - Apr 27, 2025
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The Rocket Man Show

Apr 6, 2025
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Space Oddity

Apr 12, 2025
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Downtown on Instagram

Photo by @cmonboardsd
Photo by @geo371
Photo by @patricktoth.photography
Photo by @kimleacooper
Photo by @cfbauer
Photo by @andrew.pummell
Photo by @francisco_chavira
Photo by @eyeswideopen2012
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Photo by @llcooljennings
Photo by @roadtrippher
Photo by @michaeldavidbejarano
Photo by @natrat_swain
Photo by @sdblockparties
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Deals just for you

Activity

$10 Historic Bay Cruise with General Admission*

Maritime Museum of San Diego
Valid: Jan 10 - ongoing

Purchase general admission to the Maritime Museum of San Diego and add a 45-minute narrated Historic Bay Cruise for only $10 more! MOST DAYS. SCHEDULE MAY VARY Daily tours at 11:00 a.m., 12:45 p.m.,...

Accommodation

Parking Is On Us

Marriott Marquis San Diego Marina
Valid: Jul 22, 2024 - ongoing

From now until the end of the year, book a room and parking package to park on-site for free while you take in the sites. Set in the heart and waterfront of San Diego's bay, our ideal...

Accommodation

AAA Hot Deals

Marriott Marquis San Diego Marina
Valid: Jul 22, 2024 - ongoing

AAA members who book to stay at Marriott Marquis San Diego Marina will receive complimentary self-parking for one vehicle. This offer is valid on all days and for all stay lengths, but please note...

Related Articles and Features

Explore theNeighborhood

Areas of Interest

Where to Stay

Activities

1. Show Your Badge & Save at Pali Wine Co.

Get 10% Off Wine in Little Italy!

Pali Wine Co
Valid: Aug 26, 2024 - ongoing
Neighborhood: Little Italy
Bars

2. 10% Off CincoDeMayoSD.com Tickets | May 2, 3 & 5

San Diego #1 Cinco de Mayo Frida Themed Fiesta!

Gaslamp Event Management (GEM) - Club VIP SD - Downtown Dolls
Valid: May 2 - May 3, 2025
Neighborhood: Gaslamp Quarter
Entertainment

3. Show your badge and Save 1/2 off admission

Go Back in Time in San Diego's most unique museum

J.A. Cooley Museum
Valid: Apr 1 - ongoing
Neighborhood: Downtown
Event Planners

4. Show Your Convention Badge and Receive 10% Off

At Ghirardelli Ice Cream & Chocolate Shop!

Ghirardelli Ice Cream & Chocolate Shop
Valid: Apr 1, 2025 - ongoing
Neighborhood: Downtown
Restaurants

5. HAPPY HOUR AT ALLEGRO

AVAILABLE SUNDAY-THURSDAY FROM 4-6PM

Allegro Restaurant and Bar
Valid: Apr 18, 2024 - ongoing
Neighborhood: Little Italy
Event Planners

6. Luxury on the Bay - Exclusive Charter Deal

Unforgettable Moments, Exclusive Savings

Zolna Yachts
Valid: Apr 2 - Jun 30, 2025
Neighborhood: Point Loma Peninsula

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