San Diego Summer Fun

Whether you’re looking for something fun to do with the kids, an interesting night out with your special someone, or for a place to go meet new people, San Diego has it all. We all know about hitting up Comic-Con and going to games at Petco Park, but here are a few more lesser-known summer adventures for you to try.  

Overlooking Balboa Park

Free Twilight Concerts in Balboa Park

If you’re looking for something fun and free to do during the week, take a nice walk through Balboa Park to the Spreckels Organ Pavilion for their Free Twilight Summer Concert Series! It runs from June 21st through Aug 25th every Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday night from 6:30pm-7:30pm. A full calendar of the artists performing is available. Remember that the pavilion does not allow alcohol or smoking of any kind.  

Monet to Matisse

San Diego Museum of Art entry.
San Diego Museum of Art Source: Wikimedia Commons

For the art lovers, visit the San Diego Museum of Art to see an incredible exhibition of impressionist masterpieces. This is one of only two showcases in the United States of a collection that rarely leaves which rarely leaves its permanent home in France. The exhibition will only be running through August 7, so get your tickets to it soon.  

Del Mar Racetrack

Horse Racing at Del Mar race track.
Horse Racing at Del Mar race track August 2011 Source: Wikimedia Commons

Opening Day for the Del Mar Thoroughbred Club is July 22nd and it’s a magnificent affair! The most prestigious race, the Pacific Classic, will take place on September 3rd and it’s sure to excite everyone in attendance. Remember to purchase all your tickets in advance, pay attention to parking rules, and, if you’re attending a special event, adhere to dress codes (don’t forget your fascinator or hat!).  

World Bodysurfing Championships

Arial view of Oceanside Pier, near San Diego California.
View of Oceanside Pier, near San Diego California

If you’re looking for fun in the morning sun, look no further than the 45th Annual World Bodysurfing Championships held near Oceanside Pier on August 21st and 22nd. 350-400 bodysurfers will compete in their age divisions for trophies, prizes, and cool bragging rights. The heats start early, as it’s an all-day event, but with a view from the pier or the beach, you can easily make a fun and family friendly day of it.  

26th Annual Taste of Gaslamp

Gaslamp Quarter sign on the 5th Avenue, San Diego, California.
Gaslamp Quarter sign on the 5th Avenue, San Diego, California Source: Wikimedia Commons

San Diego’s longest running tasting tour returns to the Gaslamp Quarter on September 17th, 2022, from 1pm until 4pm. Explore the Gaslamp on this self-guided foodie tour of over twenty restaurants. You can even enjoy several complimentary beers at the Gaslamp Quarter Historical Foundation’s Davis-Horton House Park, but only if you’re over twenty-one years of age. Buy a ticket in advance to secure your spot at this culinary convention.  

Looking for more fun things to do in Southern California?