San Diego is a wonderful place for a road trip, approximately a hundred south of Los Angeles.
If you are considering visiting this city, you should include the downtown Gaslamp Quarter on your list of places to explore.
The Gaslamp Quarter is a neighborhood in downtown San Diego, California. The 161/2-block neighborhood stretches from Broadway to Harbor Drive and 4th to 6th Avenue.
The historic neighborhood was once a brothel and notorious gambling den but has since changed into a vibrant neighborhood.
It is listed on the National Register of Historic Places as Gaslamp Quarter Historic District. It comprises 94 historic buildings, many built in the Victorian Era and serving as shops, restaurants, nightclubs, and entertainment venues.
There are quite some fun things to do in Gaslamp Quarter. Here, you can walk down 5th Avenue, catch a movie at the Balboa Theater or have good laughter at the American Comedy Co.
The Gaslamp Quarter is also the site of numerous events and festivals, including the Mardi Gras and Street Scene Music Festival.
Here are some of the best things to do in Gaslamp Quarter, San Diego.
Things to Do in Gaslamp Quarter, San Diego
1. Observe the operations of the USS Midway Museum
USS Midway Museum
One of the best places to visit in Gaslamp Quarter, San Diego, is the USS Midway Museum, an aircraft from the 1900s until deactivated in 1992.
Step inside what was once regarded as the largest ship commissioned until 1955.
The Midway, named after the Battle of Midway of June 1942, is acknowledged for playing a vital role during the Cold War, becoming the first American carrier to face the sub-Arctic Zone.
Today, this aircraft-turned-museum is a well-known destination where visitors can explore exhibits from the engine room to the bridges.
Over 30 renovated helicopters and aircraft adorn the USS Midway, as well as flight, hangar, and below-deck exhibits that narrate the aircraft carrier’s history.
Roam around the hollow halls, tour the captain’s cabin, and commence a self-guided tour as you listen to Midway pilots narrate their experiences while running more than 20 aircraft on the flight deck.
Furthermore, you can try the museum’s exhilarating Air Combat 360 experience or see if you are brave enough to become an F/ 18 pilot through the Virtual Reality Flight Experience: Screaming Eagles simulator.
Address: 910 N Harbor Drive, San Diego, CA 92101, United States
2. Take a snapshot of the skyline from the Rooftop by STK
There is no better place to get an encompassing view of the city than Gaslamp’s biggest rooftop.
The Rooftop by STK, located on the seventh floor of Andaz San Diego, is among the best places to visit in Gaslamp Quarters, San Diego. It offers a panoramic view of the San Diego skyline.
Whether you go there in the afternoon or at night, you are guaranteed a fantastic time spicing up your Instagram feed by taking pictures of approximately 4,500 square feet of open space.
Indulge in various SoCal-inspired meals or sip a cocktail as you view the sunset from the roof.
You can also stay behind and wait for the deejay to play some of your preferred music and experience the downtown nightlife.
Address: 600 F Street, San Diego, CA 92101, United States
3. Have a burst of good laughter at the American Comedy Co.
Among the fun things to do in Gaslamp Quarter, San Diego, is to catch a comedy show at the American Comedy Co.
The American Comedy Co. is a well-known venue for those who enjoy a good dose of laughter.
If you are fortunate, you can catch nationally famous stand-up comedians visiting the bar or become a lover of up-and-coming comics.
A-list comedians like Kelvin Nealon, Bobby Lee, and Joe Rogan are among the headliners who have graced the bar.
You can also attempt cracking a few jokes on open mic night and uncover your raw talent at performing on stage.
American Comedy Co. features a 200-seating capacity, so you don’t have to worry about bringing a pal since there are more than enough seats for everyone.
However, the bar only allows visitors who are 21 years or older, and the staff also scans government-issued IDs before you are permitted to go in.
Address: 818 Sixth Avenue, San Diego, CA 92101, United States
4. Go on the Brothels, Bites, and Booze Gaslamp Quarter Tour
One of the top things to do in Gaslamp Quarter, San Diego, is to go on a guided walking tour of the quarter.
Experience the ambiance of San Diego’s historic Gaslamp Quarter on a 2.5-hour guided walking tour. You will have an opportunity to try many delicious ethnic food, along with alcoholic drinks.
Go on a tour of the Gaslamp Quarter, where the tour guides will tell you about the notorious Stingaree District, once a center of evil and scandal.
You will walk along streets that housed 120 brothels at one time and served as one of the main red-light districts in Southern California.
On this Brothels, Bites, and Booze Gaslamp Quarter Tour, you will hear stories from the past that are hilarious and difficult to believe.
During this tour, you will see how this area has been renovated and is now home to San Diego’s major nightlife and dining destinations.
The Gaslamp Quarter now contains over 100 restaurants and bars. You will be taken to some of the finest restaurants in the area to sample different ethnic cuisines and alcoholic drinks.
The provider of Brothels, Bites, and Booze Gaslamp Quarter Tour is So Diego, Inc.
Address: 3508 Lowell Way92106 San Diego, CA, United States
5. Go shopping for memorabilia at the Gaslamp Artisan Market
Every weekend, you will come across numerous tents lined up by the corner of Fifth and Island Avenues, comprising many crafted goods, foods, and other items from independent artisans.
The Gaslamp Artisan Market, run by Community Crops, has been held weekly since it began in 2018.
Since then, the Gaslamp Artisan Market has been inhabiting one more block to cater to the increasing demands for extraordinary San Diego finds.
Explore the booths and discover treasured items, from stylish clothing and handmade crafts to accessories and wellness products.
Find unique souvenirs while shopping, and when you are done, grab a quick bite from one of the best-selling restaurants downtown. Shopping at this Market is one of the best things to do in Gaslamp Quarter, San Diego.
Address: 599 Fifth Ave, San Diego, CA 92101, United States
6. Check out the Davis-Horton House
Davis-Horton House
Downtown San Diego has a lot more to offer besides nightlife fun. You will find the Gaslamp Museum at the Davis-Horton House on the corner of Fourth and Island Avenues.
The oldest standing edifice is home to numerous historical pieces that displays the area’s culture and early architecture.
Walk the carpeted floor and tour the hallways of the house that has been hanging since the late 19th century.
Davis-Horton House is typically open from Monday to Saturday.
Address: 410 Island Avenue, San Diego, CA 92101, United States
7. Tour the downtown area on a Trolley
Trolley
Although trolleys may serve as a means of transportation in San Diego, they are still among the cool things to try during your vacation in the city.
These original trolleys are affordable for one-way fares, which makes them an ideal way to sightsee without putting a dent in your pocket.
Along the way, you will be able to admire the beautiful sidewalks, gorgeous theaters, bustling restaurants, and quirky shops that make up this part of the city. The best part is that you get to sit down the entire way.
Address: San Diego, CA, United States
8. Take your kids to The New Children’s Museum
Free your child’s creativity by visiting The New Children’s Museum on Island Avenue. The museum was initially situated in La Jolla when it was opened in 1983 and was previously called The Children’s Museum of San Diego.
The museum was renamed “The New Children’s Museum” in 2008 to display the establishment’s mission of providing art installations for children to explore and enjoy.
Allow your children to immerse themselves in interactive art installations from a team of modern artists and uncover another world behind every door.
You can also partake in different family-friendly activities, such as taking clay art workshops, building something extraordinary in the innovator’s lab, and painting the flower truck, an ancient Dodge pickup from the 1950s.
Address: 200 W Island Ave, San Diego, CA 92101, United States
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9. Go and see life performances at the Balboa Theater
If you are looking for an excellent place to see a live performance, there is no other place to go than the Balboa Theater on Fourth Avenue.
This historic vaudeville and movie theater was opened to the public in March 1924 but ceased operating for 20 years.
After its refurbishment in 2008, the Theater welcomed visitors and performers again. It has continued to keep the marvels of performing arts active since then.
The theater has already been applauded as a work of art with its elaborate pillars, decorative patterns, and high ceilings.
The Balboa Theater, listed on the National Register of Historic Places, continues to fill its once-empty space with music, laughter, and tears from artists all over the globe.
Address: 868 Fourth Avenue, San Diego, CA 92101, United States
10. Visit the house of the San Diego Padres at Petco Park
If you love Major League Baseball, make sure you stop by Petco Park before leaving downtown San Diego.
The Park, named after the pet supply retailer Petco in 2004, is acknowledged as the home of the San Diego Padres.
In 2016, the historic Park was used to host Major League Baseball’s all-star games.
Thanks to its premier facilities and beautiful views of San Diego Bay, Petco Park was acknowledged as “The World’s Best Ballpark in America’s Finest City.”
The Park is also a famous venue for soccer games, concerts, and rugby.
Address: 100 Park Boulevard, San Diego, CA 92101, United States
11. Hear live underground music in Prohibition Lounge
As soon as you enter the Prohibition Lounge on Fifth Avenue, you will feel a 1920s vibe.
This speakeasy-style lounge, established in 1920, is located underground, making it even more extraordinary.
Step into the secret bar door marked “Eddie O’Hare’s Law Office” and discover yourself standing in a lounge from another era.
Experience the Great Gatsby era with the bar’s chic and red-lit interior.
Sip your delicious cocktail as you listen to live music in Prohibition Lounge.
Address: 548 Fifth Ave, San Diego, CA 92101, United States
12. Experience a flamenco show at Café Sevilla
Cafe Sevilla
Among what to do in Gaslamp Quarter, San Diego, is to try flamenco dancing at Café Sevilla.
Let art and the power of tapas haul you straight to Spain at Café Sevilla, one of the most original Spanish restaurants in San Diego.
Café Sevilla has been committed to providing the true essence of Spanish culture, cuisine, and music since 1987.
Café Sevilla offers the most original ambiance in restaurants, tapas bars, and nightclubs. Although it creates an enjoyable dining experience through its small plates, also known as tapas, food is not the primary event.
The café offers “The Art of Flamenco” dinner show experience on Saturdays at 6:30 pm, displaying the passionate, soulful dance that emanated in Andalusia, Spain.
Tickets comprise access to the two-part show, a three-course dinner, and access to the linked nightclub for unlimited fun.
Address: 353 Fifth Avenue, San Diego, CA 92101, United States
13. Party with your friends at Trailer Park After Dark
Gaslamp Quarter is notable for its thriving nightlife, and Trailer Park After Dark is proof of that.
Enjoy the night from an extraordinary, trailer park-themed bar on Fifth Avenue. Host your party from various trailers that give off a 60’s, 70’s, and 80’s vibe.
Enjoy live music and dance to engrossing tunes as you gulp signature cocktails.
If you want an outside feel, you can dine on the picnic tables while lying on pallets. Don’t hesitate to party with your buddies at Trailer Park After Dark.
Address: 835 Fifth Avenue, San Diego, CA 92101, United States
14. Visit Horton Plaza Park
Horton Plaza Park
Horton Plaza Park is an incredible place to visit with friends or family. It is among the most prominent outdoor entertainment venue in downtown San Diego. It encompasses five incredible levels.
At this Park, you will discover thrilling events like concerts and shopping nights that will keep you and your pals engaged for hours.
Since it is in the center of downtown San Diego, it is a gateway to many other fun adventures you can partake in around the area.
Horton Plaza Park has a free high-speed connection which is another plus.
Address: 900 4th Avenue Horton Square, San Diego, CA, United States
15. Buy a cigar from the Cuban Cigar Factory
Original Cuban cigars may be hard to find, but at Gaslamp Quarter, you can purchase one on Fifth Avenue.
The Cuban Cigar Factory, founded in 1995, offers top-notch hand-rolled cigars produced by cigar makers from Cuba and the Dominican Republic.
Cigars were previously produced on-site, but now, the factory gets its products from Honduras and the Dominican Republic.
Light a cigar and perceive the smell of Cuban-shredded tobacco from the Dominican Republic, Nicaragua, and Honduras.
To round off the experience, grab a glass of Belgian beer or micro-brewed and relax by the cigar lounge.
Address: 551 Fifth Avenue, San Diego, CA 92101, United States
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16. Engage in friendly chatter with locals at Gaslamp Tavern
Do you enjoy local beer and sports? If yes, head straight to Gaslamp Tavern at Fifth Avenue.
This friendly sports bar is one traditional destination where the locals of Gaslamp Quarter spend their nights.
Cheer on your preferred team while getting a few handcrafted cocktails from this well-known sports bar.
Sing along to some live music and assuage your cravings with their famous fried chicken and enormous burgers.
Address: 868 Fifth Avenue, San Diego, CA 92101, United States
17. Go with your kids to San Diego Comic-Con
San Diego Comic-Con
One of the fun things to do in Gaslamp Quarter, San Diego, is to attend San Diego Comic-Con.
It is held every year just around the junction from the Gaslamp Artisan Market, making it a fantastic thing to do before or after a day of shopping.
This well-known event is often held at the San Diego Convention Center at the end of July. It features special visitors like prominent comic writers and movie stars.
The costs of the tickets will not put a dent in your pocket, so you don’t have to worry about your budget.
So comic book lovers, make sure you go to the San Diego Comic-Con if you are vacationing in the city around the end of July.
Address: San Diego, CA, United States
18. Coin-Op Game Room
Grab your quarters and get ready to release your inner child at Gaslamp’s Coin-op Game Room.
As its name suggests, Coin-op Game Room is an adult-friendly coin-run arcade with the additional bonus of a fully stocked bar, focusing mainly on the 80s and 90s classics.
Prepare for a dose of nostalgia when you play throwback classics like Pac-Man and Galaga or have a mini workout on the classic Dance Dance Revolution board.
Recharge with a well-deserved slice of pizza or burger accompanied by your specialty “Super Smash” or “Princess Peach” mixed drinks.
Beer enthusiasts are not left out either, as there are 16 rotating brews on tap, mainly local San Diego microbrews.
Address: 3926 30th Street, San Diego, CA 92104, United States
19. Go on a Gaslamp Ghost Tour
On your checklist of what to do in Gaslamp Quarter, San Diego, should be to go on a ghost tour.
Stroll around San Diego’s Gaslamp Quarter and get familiar with the creepy side of the city on a history-filled tour.
This walking tour reveals some famous haunted locations on the West Coast. You will encounter your guide by the Balboa Theatre, a prominent place in downtown San Diego since the 1920s.
You will head to eight scary, haunted sites, including the notorious Davis-Horton House.
You will explore many of the Gaslamp Quarter’s most famous local hauntings while learning of diseases, sinister spirits, murder, and espionage.
Look for the eyeless ghost of a small child at the Carriage Works, discover what lies behind the front door of Eddie O’Hare’s Law Office, or investigate a 50-year-old unresolved murder at Old City Hall.
If you are up for it, complete your tour with a delicious treat at the Ghirardelli Ice Cream and Chocolate Shop.
This shop is not an ordinary ice cream shop. You can hear an old movie theater staff yelling for something other than ice cream.
Suppose you are interested in learning more about the local area but still want to keep things exciting and fun. In that case, the Gaslamp Ghost Tour is a perfect option.
Address: San Diego, CA, United States
20. See a show at Capley Symphony Hall
Copley Symphony Hall was established in November 1929 as the Fox Theatre, a lavish movie palace catering to over 2,500 visitors.
After a shutdown in the late 1970s and early 1980s, the theater was donated to the San Diego Symphony in 1984 and re-christened Copley Symphony Hall.
The building is gorgeous inside and has housed the San Diego Symphony since 1984.
They play many impressive shows every year. Stepping inside the beautiful interior is worth the price of any entry ticket.
If you are confused about what to watch, go over to the event section of their website, which they update constantly.
Whether you want to watch a symphonic performance or explore the place, visiting Copley Symphony Hall will undoubtedly blow your mind.
Address: 750 B Street, San Diego, CA 92101, United States
21. Get tattooed at Tahiti Felix’s Master Tattoo Parlor and Museum
Getting a cool tattoo to celebrate your Gaslamp Quarter adventure seems impressive.
And the best place to get a tattoo in Gaslamp Quarter is no other place than Tahiti Felix’s Master Tattoo Parlor and Museum.
This parlor on Fifth Avenue is the oldest running tattoo parlor on the west coast.
It was founded by the iconic tattoo artists Tahiti Felix Lynch in 1949. It specializes in traditional American and custom tattoos.
The parlor also serves as a museum, displaying a remarkable collection of antique tattoo machines and artifacts and a collection of authentic, hand-painted vintage flashes dating back to the 1930s.
Address: 924 Fifth Ave, San Diego, CA 92101, United States
22. Pendry San Diego
For a hotel experience that is simply unrivaled, head to Pendry San Diego. It is one of the top things to do in Gaslamp Quarter, San Diego.
This boutique hotel caters to visitors with refined tastes. Since its location is in the Gaslamp Quarter, it puts you right in the center of the action.
You will see what sophisticated elegance means when you enter the stylish lobby.
Attention to detail is obvious in the architectural details and coastal California design in the rooms and the common areas.
Traveling to a new place does not mean you should give up your comfort and style. In that regard, the deluxe rooms at Pendry Hotel will satisfy even the most selective visitor.
The suites and the rooms are pretty large and contain the amenities you would expect at such a premier hotel.
With the elegant views of San Diego Bay or the downtown skyline, you will experience a feeling of peace in your own private space.
Address: 550 J Street, San Diego, CA 92101, United States
23. Learn about Chinese history at The San Diego Chinese Historical Museum
Kearney Mansion Museum
The museum has a stunning exhibit collection and garden, recording Chinese history in the Gaslamp Quarter.
The San Diego Chinese Historical Museum features two facilities in San Diego’s Asian Pacific Historic District.
The first facility is their Mission building, a historic church that was moved, renovated, and now houses their permanent exhibition.
The second facility is the Dr. Sun Yat-Sen Memorial Extension, where they host special exhibitions.
Address: 404 3rd Ave, San Diego, CA 92101, United States
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Plan your Trip to Gaslamp Quarter
Gaslamp Quarter, occasionally called the Gaslamp District, is a must-visit for tourists visiting San Diego for the first time.
Throughout its vibrant history, the Gaslamp Quarter has been called various names and has seen several changes.
Suppose you are thinking of visiting the neighborhood for the weekend. In that case, you may want to extend your stay because two days would not be enough to check out everything the area offers.
So what are you waiting for? Start planning your trip to Gaslamp Quarter, San Diego, today.