Things To Do in The Gaslamp Quarter
When you visit the Gaslamp Quarter, your biggest challenge isn’t wondering if there’s anything to do. Your biggest challenge is what to do first.
Take your pick! Even though it only comprises a few blocks of the downtown waterfront area, the Gaslamp Quarter always goes off with one thing or another.
Thousands of fans flock to the Gaslamp Quarter every spring and summer to take in San Diego Padres games at PETCO Park. Many people come early and hit dozens of bars and restaurants for pre-game activities or head for those same places for a meal or late-night drinks while the traffic empties out. PETCO also hosts several headliner concerts and other events throughout the year, and the Gaslamp Quarter packs them in until the last call at 1:30 am.
The San Diego Convention Center is also adjacent to the Gaslamp Quarter. It is one of the busiest and largest convention centers in the nation, hosting millions of visitors who come for trade shows, consumer events, and various other activities. Comic-Con is the biggest of these and transforms the entire area for a week every July with devoted pop culture junkies who take in more than 700 panels, shows, exhibits, and VIP events.
The annual San Diego Scavenger Hunt and ShamRock St. Patrick's Day Block Party are other big events that pack people in.
The nearby waterfront is the perfect complement to a food a drink excursion in the Gaslamp Quarter. Visitors are within walking distance of the USS Midway Museum, the New Children’s Museum, ferry service to other parts of San Diego Bay, shops, pubs, parks, and gardens that dazzle in a breathtaking waterfront setting anchored by Seaport Village. Several music festivals and events also keep things loud and lively year-round.
Shopaholics will live out a bucket list fantasy when they stroll among the dozens of boutiques, designer stores, and well-known larger destinations. Cutting-edge offerings from emerging local designers and one-of-a-kind signature clothing pieces are abundant.
Art aficionados will also enjoy a little slice of heaven, too. There are dozens of galleries in the area, ranging from modern art and pop culture mediums at the Chuck Jones Gallery and others, to classic masterpieces from the past and present. You can also go to the Sunday artisan's market to browse through intricate handcrafts made by local artists. The downtown Museum of Contemporary Art is a highlight for art lovers offering changing exhibitions, lectures, and special events year round.
History lovers can tour the Gaslamp Quarter to learn about the area’s storied past and take in many of the district’s restored Victorian buildings. Food, drink, shopping, and unique Segway tours are also popular activities.
