College Reading & Learning Association

From beachside vibes to big city adventures, there is no shortage of fun to be had in San Diego. San Diego offers diverse coastal, urban and inland neighborhoods, each with its own flavor. Check out the list of below and find more San Diego highlights at The Official Travel Resource for the San Diego Region.

San Diego Sights:

Balboa Park

Balboa Park is a San Diego must-see destination, just minutes from downtown. The Park is home to 17 major museums, several performing arts venues, lovely gardens, and many other cultural and recreational attractions, including the San Diego Zoo. With a variety of cultural institutions laid out among its 1,200 beautiful and lushly planted acres, Balboa Park is the nation's largest urban cultural park.

San Diego Zoo

An urban paradise for all ages, the San Diego Zoo is a must-see in Southern California. Winding paths through the tropical oasis of a botanical garden bring you to more than 4,000 rare and fascinating animals, including koalas, Galápagos tortoises, leopards, roaming peacocks, and more. Explore Africa Rocks to discover penguins, baboons, the mysterious fossa, weaver birds, and others unique creatures. The festive, lively atmosphere makes the San Diego Zoo a great place for family fun and gathering friends. Discover the wonders of wildlife with animal encounters, interactive experiences, and exciting animal presentations and shows. A leader in animal care and conservation, the San Diego Zoo is at the heart of the San Diego experience. Hope to see you soon!

San Diego Zoo Safari Park

The San Diego Zoo Safari Park immerses you in an active, hands-on safari experience where herds of animals roam natural habitats in a vast reserve, and the only two platypuses in the US swim and splash. Choose from a variety of exciting safari expeditions by caravan truck, cart, zip line—there's even an overnight option. Everywhere you look, there are amazing views lions lounging in the grasslands, antelope and giraffes mingling, rhinos wallowing in waterholes, storks and cranes on the march, and more. Engage in close encounters with animal ambassadors, explore walking trails that lead to beautiful vistas and endangered species like the Sumatran tiger, and discover the adventure of conservation in action at this leading-edge wildlife park.

USS Midway Museum

A once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to explore a historic aircraft carrier. Activities for all ages including self-guided audio tours, theater, flight simulators, climb-in aircraft, ejection seats and cockpits, guided tours of the bridge and more. Audio tours are available in English, Spanish, Mandarin, Japanese, French and German. Spectacular flight deck views of the downtown skyline, San Diego Bay Bridge, and active U.S. Navy ships! Midway is an opportunity to experience the uniqueness of San Diego, original home of TOP GUN.

Mt Soledad National Veterans Memorial

One of the most unique Veterans Memorials in America. The only one to honor veterans, living and deceased, from the Revolutionary War to the current global "War on Terror." Black granite plaques include a picture of the veteran with a brief summary of their military experience.

Maritime Museum of San Diego

Enjoy a self-guided tour of the world's oldest active sailing ship, Star of India, 16th century galleon replica San Salvador, Victorian - era Steam Ferry Berkeley, USS Dolphin submarine and much more! The conference hotel is located in the historic Gaslamp Quarter. Below are food and night life options mostly within walking distance of the conference hotel. For more options, please visit https://www.gaslamp.org/listings/

Gaslamp Quarter Dinning

5TH & SKY ROOFTOP GARDENS & LOUNGE

Surrounded by beautiful views of downtown San Diego and the Coronado Bridge, 5th & Sky Rooftop Gardens & Lounge at Theatre Box offers a devine restaurant and bar experience in a Japanese-style garden setting. https://theatrebox.com/5th-sky/

AMERICAN JUNKIE

American pub style offering casual bites such as pizza, wings & tacos, plus beer, cocktails & games on TV https://www.americanjunkiesd.com/

ASTI RISTORANTE

Asti, located in the heart of San Diego’s Historic Gaslamp Quarter, offers outside dining for a pleasant shaded lunch and indulge in a candlelight dinner on the patio. Come inside to feel the warm, classy ambiance of the dining room. With its Victorian-style brick walls, shades of burgundy, and touch of white, this traditional Italian restaurant encompasses an inviting and intimate experience.. https://astisandiego.com/

BANDAR PERSIAN PRIME RESTAURANT

Bandar originally opened for business in 1996 under owner Behrooz Farahani, his wife Shokooh, and two daughters (Tiba & Golsa). The dual combination of Behrooz Farahani’s new cooking techniques and timeless architecture helped to make Bandar a staple in San Diego fine dining for over the past two decades. Bandar’s menu offers a classic variety of Fresh Prime Steaks, World Famous Chicken, Seafood, Vegetarian and classic Persian specialties. All entrees are charbroiled and prepared with the freshest ingredients, while being low in fat but flavorful. Bandar is best known for its use of fresh, gluten free, healthy ingredients and bold flavors. Eating at Bandar is truly eventful from the striking ambiance to the variety of signature entrees. https://www.bandarrestaurant.com/

BARLEY MASH

Barley mash is the fun, high-energy downtown restaurant and bar that draw heavily from two barroom staples: beer and bourbon. What results from this pairing is a excluse dining experience and aesthetic that remind all of two simple ideas: life is meant to be sipped and savored, and good times should always be shared. Barley mash is the downtown place-to-be for locals and tourists alike. The garage-door style windows open up the interior space to the Gaslamp’s sunny nature. Best of all, though the evening may get started in Barley mash, this top-notch eatery also encourages patrons to visit Ginger’s, located downstairs. Ginger’s is a sophisticated, yet laid-back lounge where vodka takes center stage. For martinis, mixing and mingling, this lounge is where it’s at. http://www.barleymash.com/

CAFÉ 21 GASLAMP

As one of the most novel restaurants in San Diego, we are committed to changing the way our guests think about their usual dining experience. Everything we do is hand made from scratch and with love. From our signature breads to our fruit-infused sangrias, something is always cooking at Cafe 21 San Diego. https://www.cafe-21.com/

CAFÉ SEVILLA RESTAURANT AND TAPAS BAR

Cafe Sevilla has is dedicated to providing the true essence of Spanish culture, music and cuisine since 1987. Located in the heart of downtown San Diego in the Gaslamp Quarter, Cafe Sevilla offers the most genuine Spanish ambiance in their tapas bar, restaurant and nightclub. http://sandiego.sevillanightclub.com/ CIRO’S PIZZERIA & BEERHOUSE The original Ciro’s Pizzeria opened in January of 2003 in the historic Gaslamp Quarter. Using the freshest ingredients, they take pride in making their dough, pizza sauce, marinara sauce and garlic knots from scratch. https://cirossd.com/

FOGO DE CHÃO BRAZILIAN STEAKHOUSE

This West Coast location resides in the historic Gaslamp Quarter, serving all San Diegans and visitors as they enjoy the sights, sounds and festivals held in this lively district. Beautiful private and semi-private rooms can accommodate group dining needs from business meetings and presentations to family events and celebrations. https://fogodechao.com/location/san-diego/

FULL MOON

Refined under the tutelage of master sushi luminaries, Chef Sung’s Full Moon will be exceptionally displayed in the Gas Lamp District, where it will debut as the first Kaizen sushi restaurant in San Diego. https://www.fullmoonsandiego.com/

GARAGE KITCHEN + BAR

Park it at Garage for brunch and dinner and enjoy a rustic experience while indulging in craft burgers and beer. The Dinner menu focuses on burgers, paninis, flatbreads, and salads. The Brunch menu has many traditional breakfast items as well as some lunch specialties. Every Friday and Saturday night, you can enjoy music while dining starting at 8pm. Don’t miss the ultimate Happy Hour experience - 51% OFF 4-6 pm Tue- Sun.

GASLAMP BBQ & SPORTS BAR

Gaslamp BBQ, in the middle of San Diego's Gaslamp Quarter, highlights a succulent tri-tip, pulled pork, burgers, ribs, brews, blues, good food and great times. http://www.gaslampbbq.com/

GASLAMP BREAKFAST COMPANY

Offering a unique twist on breakfast staples like S'mores Waffles, Tiramisu Pancakes and Churro French Toast. https://breakfast-company.com/gaslamp/

GASLAMP BURGER

Offering up 100% grass-fed burgers with no antibiotics or hormones in the historic heart of San Diego. http://gaslampburger.com/

GASLAMP FISH HOUSE

Gaslamp Fish House, formerly known as Spike Africa’s, is the first restaurant in the historic Gaslamp Quarter, Located in the center of San Diego. This is the site of the city’s leading nightlife, bars and theaters. You can find us on the corner of Fourth and Broadway, between Horton Plaza and the US Grant Hotel, just minutes away from the Convention Center and Petco Park. https://www.gaslampfishhouse.com/

GASLAMP TAVERN

Gaslamp tavern is a sports bar! Plain and simple, located in the heart of San Diego's Historic Gaslamp District, home of the Padres, all sports games, and live music + events. https://www.gaslamptavern.com/

METL BAR, RESTAURANT & COCKTAIL CREAMERY

Metl is a casual American restaurant offering pub fare known for savory soups, stuffed pasta shells, juicy burgers and steaks, boozy ice creams and not-to-be-forgotten pies and bread puddings packed with flavor. https://metlsd.com/

Gaslamp Quarter Night Life

CASABLANCA

Hookah lounge and restaurant with patio seating. https://casablancasd.net/

BANG BANG

Established in 2013, Bang Bang re-opened its doors under new ownership in 2021, updating it’s iconic Asian-fusion restaurant and re-designing the nightlife experience. Bang Bang’s signature style, true to traditional and contemporary Asian culture, is the ultimate experience for unforgettable memories. With years of experience in hospitality and the event industry, they provide unique sounds combined with outstanding food and drink selections. Bang Bang aims to bring world-renowned producers to the scene while also introducing new and underground artists. https://www.bangbangsd.com/

DOUBLE DEUCE

Entertaining country bar complete with mechanical bull and dancing on bars. Food is offered through Jack's Fire Pit, serving delicious American barbecue featuring savory pulled pork, sausage, BBQ shredded chicken, brisket, salads, nachos, quesadillas and more. https://doubledeucesd.com/

207

207 is a novel bar/lounge located on the ground floor of the hard rock hotel San Diego. http://www.hardrockhotelsd.com/207-best-downtown-san-diego-bar.php

ALTITUDE SKY LOUNGE

Perched 22 stories above the historic Gaslamp Quarter, ALTITUDE Sky Lounge is an high-end rooftop bar in San Diego, offering a stunning panoramic views and a sleek, modern ambiance complete with a blazing fire pit. Bottle service; a fine selection of wine, beer & cocktails are provided with premium service. Among San Diego’s rooftop bars, ALTITUDE Sky Lounge offers an unforgettable view, overlooking Coronado Island, Coronado Bridge, Point Loma, and even Petco Park for a superior viewing of a Padres game. Come see what Buzzfeed deems as one of the “13 Things You Only See in the Gaslamp Quarter” at the multi award-winning ALTITUDE Sky Lounge. https://altitudeskylounge.com/

AMERICAN COMEDY CO.

Headlining comedians plus emerging talent perform at this comfortable club in an underground setting. https://americancomedyco.com/

F6IX

Located at F Street and Sixth Avenue, F6ix’s simple entrance highlights a staircase that descends to reveal the hidden treasure below. The 6,000 square-foot electrifying venue, glows with vibrant colors and radiates hip-hop beats. Once below street level, the movement, and energy of F6ix comes to life with metallic, mirrored and wood textures paired with the artfully designed lighting system by SJ Lighting Inc.. https://f6ixsd.com/

GINGER’S

Ginger's is an underground escape from the active nightlife found on Gaslamp's hottest corner of Fifth and Market. With a wide selection of Gin and Vodka, ginger's believes that for conventional style and subtle sophistication, nothing beats a martini. The with a cozy décor and lighting unique, the atmosphere dynamic and comfortable. Sip to great music in a relaxed environment, where the diverse crowd and friendly staff make for an ideal place for friends to meet and enjoy. http://www.gingersgaslamp.com/

ILLUSIONS THEATRE & BAR

Illusions Theatre & Bar, in the famous Gaslamp District, is proud to present an exclusive magic experience! Come to an intimate close-up show at Illusions for the magic, laughter and fun, and stay for a drink at 7pm and 9pm on Friday and Saturday nights. With all ages welcome, there may be adult themed comedy and tricks, as well as alcoholic beverages being served. Each show time will seat up to 46 guests and tickets are limited to first come, first serve. https://illusionstheatre.com/

MINA LOUNGE

Hip hangout with unique decor for hookah & cigars, plus craft beer, select wine, coffee & dessert. http://www.minalounge.com/index.html

MYST LOUNGE

Inspired by the lively nightlife venues and restaurants in Las Vegas, Myst Lounge brings the ultimate dining and entertainment experience to downtown San Diego's historic Gaslamp District. Envision an evening of mouth-watering Modern Mediterranean and American cuisine, created from the phenomenal mind of one of San Diego's most talented culinary artists, Executive Chef Joey Holtz. Myst Lounge also offers a selection of high quality handcrafted, signature cocktails and a variety of the top local brews. https://mysthookahlounge.com/

NASON’S BEER HALL

A new addition to San Diego’s iconic craft beer scene, Nason’s features a sizeable selection of local and international beers, globally inspired comfort food, and vintage bar games.. https://www.pendry.com/san-diego/entertainment/nasons-beer-hall/

OXFORD SOCIAL CLUB

The avant-garde nightclub, located at Pendry San Diego in the heart of the Gaslamp Quarter, is a chic boutique nightclub that brings the energy, attitude and culture of the lively 5th Avenue indoors. https://theoxfordsd.com/

PARQ RESTAURANT & NIGHTCLUB

From the décor, to the ambiance, to the food, Parq Restaurant delivers nothing but the ultimate fine dining and the highest standard in nightlife - bringing the best of Vegas nightclubs to downtown San Diego. https://parqsd.com/

PROHIBITION

Upon spotting our hidden entrance, you’ll walk into our exclusive venue and into a haven of 1920s atmosphere, brilliantly-crafted cocktails and stylized live music. Here at the original San Diego speakeasy bar, Prohibition, we go unseen by most people in our underground, secret bar. It is the perfect venue for those who do not simply desire to read or watch films about the Great Gatsby lifestyle; but instead, they’d rather live it. https://prohibitionsd.com/

THE SHOUT! HOUSE – DUELING PIANOS

Laugh, Sing & Shout the night away at San Diego’s BEST Live Music Venue. Our dueling piano show consists of two piano players, performing at two face-to-face grand pianos with the performances consisting of high energy audience participation, staff dancing on stage, comedy and fun, and a whole lot of sing-along songs. YOU REQUEST IT, THEY’LL PLAY IT! 21+ All Day, Every Day. No Exceptions! https://theshouthouse.com/