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Things to do in San Diego at night

Gaslamp Quarter San Diego

San Diego maybe isn’t as well known as LA or San Fran for its nights out and things to do. But you’d be very surprised what is on offer in which we’ve listed below.

San Diego is situated along the Pacific Ocean coastline and is the 2nd most populated city in California after Los Angeles. It also borders Mexico to the South and you can take the blue line Trolley route to the last stop – San Ysidro which is about 30- 45 mins from San Diego.

You simply pay a few dollars and have the right paperwork, you can then walk over a pedestrian bridge and find yourself in Mexico which is certainly a cool thing to do while in San Diego but it doesn’t make the list on a technicality.

Right, let’s get down to business by telling you the best things to do in San Diego at night!

1. Eating and drinking in the Gaslamp Quarter

This was my favourite thing to do when I visited San Diego. The area has such a good buzz about it but also when I was there I met some colourful characters at the bar and had a few drinks with them.  

One bar I would recommend is Gaslamp Tavern, certainly to start the night once you’ve had food.

This historic district in downtown San Diego is known for its lively nightlife. You can stroll along Fifth Avenue and explore the vibrant atmosphere, indulge in delicious cuisine, enjoy live music, or dance the night away. I would say to go Mexican for food as whenever I’ve had this in San Diego it’s been amazingly good and tasty.

I don’t think you need to plan and make reservations and instead just see what take your fancy at the time and just walk in for food or drink as the vibe is very laid back.

Sunset Cliffs San Diego

2. Sunset Cliff

Who doesn’t love a sunset and the best thing about this suggestion is that it’s free to enter. The only cost is your food and drink that you can pick up at a supermarket. Sit back and relax as you watch the sun go down. Witness a breathtaking sunset at Sunset Cliffs Natural Park. This scenic coastal area offers stunning views of the Pacific Ocean and picturesque cliffs. 

It is such a beautiful part of San Diego that people get married here so if you fancy tying the knot, you can invite up to 50 guests. But guessing you just want to see the sunset as a first step.

3. Night time Harbor Cruise

Embark on a harbour cruise and experience San Diego’s stunning waterfront at night. You can enjoy dinner cruises, sunset cruises, or even a tour focused on observing bioluminescence in the water. These cruises offer unique perspectives of the city’s skyline and landmarks.

I think the best option is to do a sunset one with food so that when you finish it’s still early enough in the evening to head out on the town or a rooftop bar. 

4. Rooftop Bar

Always a good option when in a major city that normally has warm evenings and clear skies. There are a few different ones you can head to but would certainly recommend Altitude Sky Lounge. It can be pretty busy here and also smart casual dress code most of the time. 

The views are great with panoramic views of the skyline and Petco Park and the atmosphere is very lively in the evening. When I was there the music was really good and seemed to be a good mix of locals and tourists.

Balboa Park San Diego

5. Balboa Park After Dark

Balboa Park, home to many museums and attractions, offers various nighttime events and activities. You can attend outdoor concerts, theatrical performances, art exhibitions, or simply take a leisurely stroll through the park’s beautiful gardens.

The park grounds are open 24 hours a day and are completely free. You just need to do some research about what’s on or open at the time you are looking to head in there.

6. Beach Bonfire

Many of San Diego’s beaches allow bonfires, providing a cosy and memorable way to spend an evening. You can gather with friends or family, roast marshmallows, and enjoy the sound of crashing waves under the starry sky. 

Some popular beaches for bonfires include Mission Beach, Ocean Beach and Coronado Beach. Again a cheap night out as you can just buy your food and drink beforehand.

7. San Diego Ghost Tour

Something you can certainly do at night is a ghost tour and why not in San Diego. This will take place in  old town San Diego. You will visit different locations where you will be told stories and encounters with these supernatural beings. 

I guess the question is, do you believe in ghosts or want to make your mind up based on a spooky tour.

8. Brewery Tour

San Diego has many microbreweries so why not do a tour of them and take in many locally brewed drinks and pair with food. You can book one in advance or even try and get one locally where some testers will be free or cost a reasonable fee. 

Panda San Diego Zoo

9. San Diego Zoo

San Diego Zoo is great to see during the day but seems maybe a little different to see it at night. Now this only happens right at the end of May until the beginning of September and is known as the Nighttime Zoo. So outside of this time it won’t be possible to visit at night. 

Entertainment starts at 4pm and is fun for the whole family plus you get to see the many animals too as the sun goes down and darkness happens.

10. Eat a pizza in Little Italy

I would go for a pizza but feel free to eat pasta or what other dish floats your boat. As you can imagine a lot of the community have Italian links and so you can bank on the food being to the standard you would get from being in Italy. 

There are a number of places to check out. One that has a great reputation is Filippi’s Pizza Grotto.