WPSA SAN DIEGO ENTERTAINMENT GUIDE
GENERAL INFORMATION
Directions to Manchester Grand Hyatt
From San Diego International Airport (Lindbergh Field): approximately 3 miles.
When exiting the
terminals, follow the signs to Downtown San Diego and Interstate 5. Stay in the right lane and this will
deposit you onto North Harbor Drive. Continue south on North Harbor Drive approximately 3 miles
along the waterfront. Go one block past the Seaport Village entrance (Kettner Boulevard). Turn right at
Market Place into the Hotel's main entrance of our San Diego CA resort hotel.
San Diego Directions from Points North:
Take I-5 South toward San Diego. Exit at Front Street (exit
17) toward the Civic Center. Continue straight to Front Street, and then turn right onto W. Market Street
and into the main entrance of our San Diego CA resort hotel.
San Diego Directions from Points South:
Take I-5 North to Cesar E. Chavez Parkway (exit 14B). Turn
left onto Cesar E. Chavez Parkway. Take a right onto East Harbor Drive, and then a left onto Market
Street and into the main entrance of our San Diego CA resort hotel.
San Diego Directions from Points East:
Take I-8 West to CA 125 toward CA 94. Keep left to take CA
94W. Turn left on 17th Street, and then right onto Market Street and into the main entrance of our San
Diego CA resort hotel.
San Diego Directions from Points West:
Follow Harbor Drive east along San Diego Bay to downtown.
Harbor Drive intersects with Market Street.
San Diego Transportation Information
Uber
The Manchester Grand Hyatt has partnered with Uber car services to make your traveling throughout San
Diego easier. It’s simple, by downloading the hotel app or the Uber app, you can have a car service in
minutes (https://www.uber.com).
Car Rental
The Manchester Grand Hyatt has a Hertz Car Rental service on-site. Other car rental services are
available at San Diego International Airport. Note: if you have traveled by air to San Diego before, note
that the airport has constructed a new, consolidated rental car facility.
San Diego Taxi
San Diego taxi service is available from the lower level curb of all terminals at San Diego International
Airport. Approximate cost from SAN International to Manchester Grand Hyatt San Diego is $10.00 -
$13.00. San Diego taxi service is also available from the hotel.
San Diego Airport Shuttle Service
The Manchester Grand Hyatt does not provide shuttle service from the airport. Several San Diego airport
shuttle companies are available at the Airport for an approximate cost of $8.00 per person. These options
include Super Shuttle (http://www.supershuttle.com/Locations/SanDiegoSAN), Advanced Shuttle
(http://advancedshuttle.com), and Sea Breeze Shuttle (http://www.seabreezeshuttle.com).
San Diego Metro Transit System
San Diego has a good trolley and bus system. The nearest trolley station is located across the street from
the hotel. For more information on trolley and bus schedules, visit the San Diego Metro Transit System
webpage at: http://www.sdmts.com.
San Diego has a variety of other public transportation options. Many of these are located near the
Manchester Grand Hyatt. For more information on transportation options, please visit the San Diego
Public Transportation webpage at: http://www.sandiego.org/plan-your-trip/transportation/public.aspx.
Parking
Manchester Grand Hyatt San Diego offers parking for guests and visitors. The parking options include
valet or self-parking (fees apply):
Valet Parking
Overnight Guest: $47
First Hour: $10
After the first hour $8 per hour
Daily Maximum: $49
Self-Parking
Overnight Guest: $32
First Hour: $8
After the first hour $8 each additional hour
Daily Maximum: $35
There are many other parking options available for attendees who are not staying in the hotel. For general
information, visit the City of San Diego Parking website at: http://www.sandiego.gov/parking/. Other
parking options that are available near the Manchester Grand Hyatt include Seaport Village Parking
http://www.seaportvillage.com/entertainment/busker-festival/directions-parking) and a variety of ACE
parking lots located within five to ten minutes of the hotel (http://www.aceparking.com/find-parking/).
WALKING TOURS
Explore San Diego’s eight districts on foot with these free tours:
Walkabout International is a non-profit educational organization that offers more than
100 free guided walking tours of San Diego’s neighborhoods every month. You can find
a list of tours available at this site: http://www.walkabout-int.org/wcal.html
Old Town Tours Step back in time to the 1800s with costumed tour guides on a free
two-hour tour of Old Town. Starting at the McCoy House, tours depart during the week
at 11 a.m. and 2 p.m., and on Wednesdays at 10 a.m. and 2 p.m.
TROLLEY TOURS
• For over 25 years, Old Town Trolley Tours takes visitors through areas including Old
Town, Gaslamp Quarter, Embarcadero, Balboa Park, Coronado and more. Stay on the
trolley for the full two-hour tour to hear tons of fun and interesting facts about San Diego
or get off at any one of the 11 stops and strike out on your own. When ready to head to
the next location, just return to the stop and a trolley will swing by and pick you up. Save
money if you buy online, $35/adult, $17 child. http://www.trolleytours.com/
RESTAURANTS
The Department of Political Science and International Relations at the University of San
Diego offers you this list of recommended local restaurants, all a walk or short cab ride
from the hotel. The list is constructed alphabetically by neighborhood. San Diego has
hundreds of other great restaurants in nearby neighborhoods, including La Jolla, Hillcrest,
South Park, North Park, and Barrio Logan— do not hesitate to explore the city on your own.
Embarcadero/Downtown Area and Gaslamp Quarter
All within a 1 mile walk of the hotel.
Anthony’s Fish Grotto, Seafood
1360 N. Harbor Dr. 619-232-5103
ZAGAT Rating: Food: 19 Décor: 16
Service: 18
Cost: $30
YELP Rating: Overall: 3 stars. Price Range: $$ Distance from Hotel: 0.9 miles.
A flashback to traditional 1950s fish restaurants. Not the crown jewel it once was, but a
classic bit of San Diego’s heritage as a global fishing center.
Athens Market Taverna
109 W. F St (1st Ave.)
619-234-1955
www.athensmarket.com
ZAGAT Rating: Food: 20 Décor: 15
Service: 18
Cost: $27
YELP Rating: Overall: 4 stars. Price Range: $$ Distance from Hotel: 0.4 miles.
Very good, family-run Greek restaurant.
Bandar
825 Fourth Ave. 619-238-0101 wwww.bandarrestaurant.com
ZAGAT Rating: Food: 23 Décor: 18
Service: 19
Cost: $32
YELP Rating: Overall: 4 stars. Price Range: $$$ Distance from Hotel: 0.7 miles.
Good Persian food.
Blue Point Coastal Cuisine, Seafood
565 Fifth Ave. 619-233-6623 www.cohnrestaurants.com
ZAGAT Rating: Food: 24 Décor: 22
Service: 21
Cost: $50
YELP Rating: Overall: 4 stars. Price Range: $$$ Distance from Hotel: 0.5 miles.
Interesting décor; you will feel like you are in a Frank Sinatra movie with the round leather
seats. The food is good, but a bit pricey.
Café 222
222 Island Ave. (near 2nd) 619-236-9902
www.cafe222.com
ZAGAT Rating: Food: 22 Décor: 15
Service: 18
Cost: $17
YELP Rating: Overall: 3 stars. Price Range: $$ Distance from Hotel: 0.4 miles.
American. Good for breakfast. Pumpkin waffles among the odder specialties.
De’Medici, Italian/Seafood
815 Fifth Ave. 619-702-7228 www.demdicisandiego.com
ZAGAT Rating: Food: 24 Décor: 22
Service: 23
Cost: $49
YELP Rating: Overall: 4 1/2 stars. Price Range: $$$ Distance from Hotel: 0.7 miles.
Good upscale Italian.
Dick’s Last Resort, American
345 Fourth Ave.
619-231-9100 www.dickslastresort.com
YELP Rating: Overall: 3 stars. Price Range: $$ Distance from Hotel: 0.5 miles.
A classic Gaslamp Quarter eatery, known for waiters with attitude (it’s all part of the act).
Dobson’s Bar and Restaurant
956 Broadway Circle 619-231-6771 www.dobsonrestaurant.com
ZAGAT Rating: Food: 24 Décor: 19
Service: 22
Cost: $45
YELP Rating: Overall: 4 stars. Price Range: $$$ Distance from Hotel: 0.7miles.
Solid, if somewhat pricey, California-Continental cuisine.
Dussini Loft Bar
275 Fifth Ave.
619-233-4323
www.dussini.com
ZAGAT Rating: Food: 21 Décor: 25
Service: 22
Cost: $37
YELP Rating: Overall: 3 1/2 stars. Price Range: $$ Distance from Hotel: 0.6miles.
Mediterranean bistro.
Eddie V’s
789 W. Harbor Dr. 619-615-0281
www.eddiev.com
YELP Rating: Overall: 4 1/2 stars. Price Range: $$$ Distance from Hotel: 0.2 miles.
In the Old Police Station, almost next door to the Hyatt.
Good seafood.
The Field
544 Fifth Ave.
619-232-9840
www.thefield.com
ZAGAT Rating: Food: 17 Décor: 22
Service: 23
Cost: $58
YELP Rating: Overall: 4 stars. Price Range: $$ $ Distance from Hotel: 0.6 miles.
Classic Irish pub. Much of the pub’s interior was shipped over from Ireland and reassembled
in the heart of the Gaslamp Quarter.
The Fish Market
750 North Harbor Drive
619-232-3474
www.thefishmarket.com
ZAGAT Rating: Food: 20 Décor: 17
Service: 18
Cost: $35
YELP Rating: Overall: 3 1/2 stars. Price Range: $$ Distance from Hotel: 0.5 miles.
Arguably the best classic, local seafood option near the hotel. The upstairs (Top of the
Market) is quieter and more expensive than downstairs. Oyster bar. Reopened after a kitchen
fire shut it down for several months.
Fleming’s Prime Steakhouse & Wine Bar
380 K St.
619-237-1155
www.flemingssteakhouse.com
ZAGAT Rating: Food: 26 Décor: 23
Service: 24
Cost: $54
YELP Rating: Overall: 4 1/2 stars. Price Range: $$$ Distance from Hotel: 0.5 miles.
Closer, and somewhat cheaper, alternative to Morton’s.
Greek Islands Café
879 W. Harbor Dr. 619-239-5216 www.greekislandscafe.com
YELP Rating: Overall: 3 1/2 stars. Price Range: $$ Distance from Hotel: 0.4miles.
Greek food, with lots of vegetarian options. In Seaport Village. Moderate prices.
Greystone the Steakhouse
658 Fifth Ave. 619-232-0225
www.greystonesteakhouse.com
ZAGAT Rating: Food: 23 Décor: 21
Service: 22
Cost: $62
YELP Rating: Overall: 4 stars. Price Range: $$$ Distance from Hotel: 0.3 miles.
Excellent steakhouse in the Gaslamp Quarter.
Harbor House
831 W. Harbor Dr. 619-232-1141 www.harborhousesd.com
YELP Rating: Overall: 4 stars. Price Range: $$ Distance from Hotel: 0.2 miles.
Zagat Rating: Food: 18 Décor: 19 Service 18 Cost: $35
Hard Rock Cafe
801 Fourth Ave. 619-615-7625 www.hardrock.com
YELP Rating: Overall: 3 ½ stars. Price Range: $$ Distance from Hotel: 0.6miles.
Zagat Rating: Food: 13 Décor: 19 Service: 15 Cost: $27
Music-themed chain. American cuisine.
Henry’s Pub
614 Fifth Ave. 619-238-2389 www.henryspub.com
YELP Rating: Overall: 3 ½ stars. Price Range: $$ Distance from Hotel: 0.6 miles.
Zagat Rating: Food: 16 Décor: 17 Service: 17 Cost: $22
Pizza and pub food. Live music, sports TV, dance nights. Moderate prices.
Karl Strauss, Brewing Company
1157 Columbia St.
619-234-2739
www.karlstrauss.com
YELP Rating: Overall: 4 ½ stars. Price Range: $$$ Distance from Hotel: 0.6 miles.
ZAGAT Rating: Food: 18 Décor: 16
Service: 18
Cost: $25
Good local brewpub. Started the craft brewing revolution in San Diego many years
ago. Tower 10 IPA is especially tasty. Good, inexpensive food. Excellent beer burger and
salads. Moderate prices.
Lou & Mickey’s
224 Fifth Ave.
619-237-4900
www.louandmickeys.com
YELP Rating: Overall: 4 stars. Price Range: $$$ Distance from Hotel: 0.6 miles.
ZAGAT Rating: Food: 23 Décor: 22
Service: 22
Cost: $45
Good steak and seafood in the Gaslamp Quarter.
Morton’s The Steakhouse
285 J St.
619-696-3369
www.mortons.com
ZAGAT Rating: Food: 26 Décor: 22
Service: 24
Cost: $62
YELP Rating: Overall: 4 stars. Price Range: $$$$ Distance from Hotel: 0.4 miles.
Classic seafood/steak.
Nobu, Japanese
Hard Rock Hotel San Diego
207 Fifth Ave. (L St.)
619-814-4124 www.noburestaurants.com
YELP Rating: Overall: 3 ½ stars. Price Range: $$$$ Distance from Hotel: 0.6 miles.
Hip Japanese restaurant, sushi.
Oceanaire Seafood Room
400 J St.
619-858-2277
www.theoceanaire.com
ZAGAT Rating: Food: 25 Décor: 24
Service: 24
Cost: $57
YELP Rating: Overall: 4 stars. Price Range: $$$ Distance from Hotel: 0.5 miles.
Upscale seafood.
Puesto Mexican Food
789 W. Harbor Dr. 619-233-8880 www.eatpuesto.com
YELP Rating: Overall: 4 stars. Price range: $$. Distance from hotel: 0.1 miles.
In the Old Police Station. Up-market street tacos. Not the best Mexican restaurant in town,
but arguably the best option nearby.
Rama
237 Fourth Ave.
619-501-8424
www.ramarestaurant.com
ZAGAT Rating: Food: 26 Décor: 25
Service: 21
Cost: $38
YELP Rating: Overall: 3 1/2 stars. Price Range: $$ Distance from Hotel: 0.5 miles.
Thai food.
Rei do Gado
939 Fourth Ave.
619-702-8464
www.reidogado.com
ZAGAT Rating: Food: 21 Décor: 16
Service: 20
Cost: $42
YELP Rating: Overall: 4 stars. Price Range: $$$ Distance from Hotel: 0.7 miles.
Brazilian steakhouse.
Richard Walker’s Pancake House
520 Front St.
619-231-7777
www.richardwalkers.com
ZAGAT Rating: Food: 21 Décor: 15
Service: 17
Cost: $17
YELP Rating: Overall: 4 stars. Price Range: $$. Distance from Hotel: 0.3 miles.
Good breakfast option.
Roy’s Waterfront
333 W. Harbor Dr. 619-239-7697 www.roysrestaurant.com
YELP Rating: Overall: 4 stars. Price Range: $$$ Distance from Hotel: 0.3 miles.
Up-market Hawaiian fusion seafood.
Sevilla, Café
555 Fourth Ave.
619-233-5979
www.cafesevilla.com
ZAGAT Rating: Food: 20 Décor: 20
Service: 19
Cost: $34
YELP Rating: Overall: 4 stars. Price Range: $$ Distance from Hotel: 0.6 miles.
Good tapas restaurant. Flamenco and salsa dancing.
Sushi Bar Nippon
532 Fourth Ave.
619-544-9779
ZAGAT Rating: Food: 24 Décor: 15 Service: 16 Cost: $43
YELP Rating: Overall: 3 1/2 stars. Price Range: $$ Distance from Hotel: 0.5 miles.
Sushi, sashimi.
Taka Restaurant
555 Fifth Ave. 619-338-0555
YELP Rating: Overall: 4 stars. Price Range: $$$ Distance from Hotel: 0.5 miles.
Sushi, sashimi, other traditional Japanese cuisine.
Top of the Market Seafood
750 N. Harbor Dr. (Tuna Harbor) 619-234-4867 www.thefishmarket.com
ZAGAT Rating: Food: 24 Décor: 23
Service: 21
Cost: $49
YELP Rating: Overall: 4 stars. Price Range: $$$ Distance from Hotel: 0.5 miles.
The upstairs part of the Fish Market (see above).
LITTLE ITALY
All within 1-3 miles of the hotel. A longer walk or short cab/uber ride.
Ballast Point Tasting Room and Kitchen
2215 India St. 619-255-7213 www.ballastpoint.com
YELP Rating: Overall: 4 stars. Price Range: $$ Distance from Hotel: 1.3 miles.
Excellent beer and good pub food. The Sculpin IPA is world-class.
Blue Water Seafood
3667 India St.
619-497-0914
ZAGAT Rating: Food: 23 Décor: 10
Service: 15
Cost: $19
YELP Rating: Overall: 4 stars. Price Range: $$ Distance from Hotel: 2.6 miles.
Mexican-style seafood.
Buon Appetito
1609 India St.
619-238-9880 www.buonappetito.sandiego.com
ZAGAT Rating: Food: 25 Décor: 21
Service: 21
Cost: $33
YELP Rating: Overall: 4 stars. Price Range: $$ Distance from Hotel: 2.9 miles.
Well-regarded Italian restaurant.
Café Zucchero
1731 India St. 619-531-1731
www.cafezucchero.com
ZAGAT Rating: Food: 20 Décor: 17
Service: 19
Cost: $27
YELP Rating: Overall: 3 1/2 stars. Price Range: $$ Distance from Hotel: 1.0 miles.
Tied to Trattoria Fantastica. Especially good gelato/desserts.
Davanti Enoteca
1655 India St. www.davantienoteca.com
YELP Rating: Overall: 4 stars. Price Range: $$ Distance from Hotel: 0.9 miles.
Little Italy. Good food, happy hour. Patio.
El Indio
3695 India St
(619) 299-0333
www.el-indio.com
YELP Rating: Overall: 3 1/2 stars. Price Range: $ Distance from Hotel: 2.4 miles.
Old San Diego establishment. Mexican food since 1940!
Indigo Grill
1536 India St.
619-234-6802
www.cohnrestaurants.com
ZAGAT Rating: Food: 24 Décor: 22
Service: 22
Cost: $40
YELP Rating: Overall: 4 stars. Price Range: $$ Distance from Hotel: 0.8 miles.
American-Latin fusion.
Ironside
1654 India St. (619) 269-3033 www.ironsidefishandoyster.com
YELP Rating: Overall: 4 stars. Price Range: $$ Distance from Hotel: 0.9 miles.
Seafood fare & cocktails offered in a renovated warehouse with quirky,
nautical design accents.
Karen Krasne’s Extraordinary Desserts
1430 Union St
619-294-7001
ZAGAT Rating: Food: 27 Décor: 21
Service: 17
Cost: $19
YELP Rating: Overall: 4 stars. Price Range: $$ Distance from Hotel: 0.8 miles.
The name says it all, and it lives up to its name.
Kettner Exchange
2001 Kettner Blvd. 619-255-2001 www.kettnerexchange.com
YELP Rating: Overall: 4 stars. Price Range: $$ Distance from Hotel: 1.4 miles.
Eclectic American cuisine and cocktails.
Queenstown Public House
1557 Columbia St. 619-546-0444
YELP Rating: Overall: 4 stars. Price Range: $$ Distance from Hotel: 0.9 miles.
Interesting New Zealand pub. Excellent lamb burgers.
Trattoria Fantastica
1735 India St. 619-234-1735 www.trattoriafantastica.com
ZAGAT Rating: Food: 20 Décor: 16
Service: 18
Cost: $29
YELP Rating: Overall: 3 1/2 stars. Price Range: $$ Distance from Hotel: 1.2 miles.
Very good traditional pizza and pasta. Tuscan Tuesday offers half-priced wine. Tied to Café
Zucchero.
Waterfront, The
2044 Kettner Blvd.
619-232-9656
www.waterfrontbarandgrill.com
YELP Rating: Overall: 4 stars. Price Range: $$ Distance from Hotel: 1.1 miles.
Classic dive bar, with good beer and burgers. For many decades, the
traditional watering hole for tuna fishermen and local politicians.
BANKERS HILL
2 miles.
Bankers Hill Bar and Restaurant
2202 Fourth Ave 619-231-0222 www.bankershillsd.com
American comfort food; good happy hour in rustic-chic setting.
YELP Rating: Overall: 4 ½ stars. Price Range: $$ Distance from Hotel: 1.7 miles.
HILLCREST
3 miles/short car ride.
Snooze
3940 5th Ave, San Diego, CA 92103 snoozeeatery.com
Vibrant, retro spot serving a seasonal menu of creative breakfast & lunch fare, plus
cocktails. Delicious breakfast and brunch and opens early (6:30am!)
YELP Rating Overall: 4 stars Price Range: $$ Distance from Hotel: 3.1 miles.
Hash Hash A Go Go
3628 5th Ave, San Diego, CA 92103 hashhouseagogo.com
Long standing and popular spot serving creative, market-fresh American brunch & dinner fare, plus
signature Bloody Marys.
YELP Rating Overall: 4 stars Price Range: $$ Distance from Hotel: 3.2 miles.
Lemonade
3958 Fifth Ave
lemonadela.com
Healthy and quick cafeteria-style chain serving a seasonal comfort-food menu paired with many types
of lemonade.
YELP Rating Overall: 4 stars Price Range: $$ Distance from Hotel: 3.1 miles.
Kous Kous Moroccan Bistro
3940 4th Ave #110 kouskousrestaurant.com
Tasty Moroccan offerings, including small plates & hearty stews, in nice intimate setting.
YELP Rating Overall: 4.5 stars Price Range: $$ Distance from Hotel: 3.2 miles.
OLD NAVAL TRAINING CENTER (LIBERTY STATION)
4 miles/short car ride.
Stone Brewery and Bistro at Liberty Station
2816 Historic Decatur #116
www.stonelibertystation.com
YELP Rating: Overall: 4 stars. Price Range: $$ Distance from Hotel: 4.3 miles.
A leader in the local craft brewing scene. Amazing “slow-food” menu with great vegetarian
options.
Corvette Diner
2965 Historic Decatur Rd. 619-542-1476 www.cohnrestaurants.com
YELP Rating: Overall: 3 ½ stars. Price Range: $$ Distance from Hotel: 4.1 miles.
Fun 1950’s-style American diner. A must if you have younger kids along.
CORONADO
Take the ferry (Broadway Pier), hotel shuttle, or cab over to the “island” of Coronado. The
best views of the San Diego harbor and skyline are here, along with a couple of very good
restaurants that take full advantage of the view.
Candelas on the Bay
YELP Rating: Overall: 3 ½ stars. Price Range: $$ Distance from Hotel: 1.5 miles.
Ferry Landing Marketplace 619-435-4900 www.candelas-coronado.com
Eclectic Mexican fusion cuisine with an impressive view of the city.
Il Fornaio
Ferry Landing (1/2 block South) 619-437-4911 www.ilfornaio.com
YELP Rating: Overall: 3 ½ stars. Price Range: $$ Distance from Hotel: 1.5 miles.
Very good Italian food in a wonderful setting. Try to eat here at sunset, and stay until after
dark for the best city views. Reserve a window seat, or eat outside if you can. Take a postdinner stroll along the pleasant waterside path.
Peohe’s
Ferry Landing (1 block South) 619-437-4474 www.peohes.com
YELP Rating: Overall: 3 stars. Price Range: $$$ Distance from Hotel: 1.5 miles.
Good seafood, with almost the same view as Il Fornaio.
HARBOR ISLAND
3 miles/short car ride.
Coasterra
880 Harbor Dr. 619-814-1300 www.cohnrestaurants.com
YELP Rating: Overall: 4 stars. Price Range: $$ Distance from Hotel: 3.3 miles.
Expensive Mexican food; great views of the harbor and city.
Island Prime
880 Harbor Dr. 619-298-6802
www.cohnrestaurants.com
YELP Rating: Overall: 4 ½ stars. Price Range: $$$ Distance from Hotel: 3.3 miles.
Expensive seafood; great views. Next to Coasterra.
PUB CRAWL
There are more than one hundred small craft breweries and independent brewpubs in San
Diego county. San Diego was a pioneer of craft brewing, and is probably most famous for
developing what most people now call Double IPA or West Coast IPA. Here are some nearby
brewpubs and local breweries for you to consider in your quest for San Diego’s best beer.
Ballast Point www.ballastpoint.com
YELP Rating: Overall: 4 stars. Price Range: $$ Distance from Hotel: 1.3 miles.
Little Italy: 2215 India St
Also: Scripps Ranch, 10051 Old Grove Rd
Half Door Brewing Co.
www.halfdoorbrewing.com
YELP Rating: Overall: 4 stars. Price Range: $$ Distance from Hotel: 0.8 miles.
Nearby: 903 Island Ave.
Stone
www.stonebrew.com
Nearby: Tasting Room 1202 Kettner Blvd
Nearby: Tasting Room 795 J St.
Also: Liberty Station (see above) and Escondido
YELP Rating: Overall: 4 stars. Price Range: $$ Distance from Hotel: 0.6 miles.
Karl Strauss www.karlstrauss.com
YELP Rating: Overall: 4 stars. Price Range: $$ Distance from Hotel: 0.6 miles.
Nearby: Brewpub 1157 Columbia Street
Also: Sorrento Valley (set in a beautiful Japanese garden)
Mission Brewery
www.missionbrewery.com
YELP Rating: Overall: 3 stars. Price Range: $ Distance from Hotel: 1.2 miles.
Nearby: 1441 L St. (near Petco Park)
QUAD AleHouse www.quadalehouse.com
YELP Rating: Overall: 4 ½ stars. Price Range: $$ Distance from Hotel: 0.8miles.
Nearby: 868 Fifth Ave.
White Labs
Not nearby, but worth a journey if you are curious to see where
much of the lager and ale yeast for the country comes from. www.whitelabs.com 9495
Candida St.
YELP Rating: Overall: 4 stars. Price Range: $ Distance from Hotel: 15.4 miles.
If you want to go further afield, here is the best Google map, ever:
https://www.google.com/maps/d/viewer?mid=z5MHuxGEQH6g.kq0Bdx5MkXWA (or just
Google “The Best San Diego Brewery Map”)
Among the most highly regarded: AleSmith, Coronado Brewing Co., Green Flash, Pizza Port,
Port Brewing/Lost Abbey, Societe Brewing Co.,
CHEAP EATS
Within 1 mile of the hotel.
Filippi’s Pizza Grotto
1747 India St. www.realcheesepizza.com
YELP Rating: Overall: 4 stars. Price Range: $$ Distance from Hotel: 1.0 miles.
Cheapish good pizza in Little Italy. Can get busy.
Kansas City BBQ.
600 W. Harbor www.kcbbq.net
YELP Rating: Overall: 2 1/2 stars. Price Range: $$ Distance from Hotel: 0.1 miles.
The food isn’t always great, but it is reasonably priced, and it served as the “sleazy bar” in Top
Gun.
The Kebab Shop
630 Ninth Ave. www.thekebabshop.com
YELP Rating: Overall: 4 1/2 stars. Price Range: $ Distance from Hotel: 0.8 miles.
Inexpensive Middle Eastern food.
La Puerta
560 Fourth St.
YELP Rating: Overall: 4 stars. Price Range: $$ Distance from Hotel: 0.6 miles.
Tacos and tequila. Taco Tuesdays. Music after hours some nights.
Lucy’s Taco Shop
109 W. C 619-233-0917
YELP Rating: Overall: 3 1/2 stars. Price Range: $ Distance from Hotel: 0.7 miles.Microrestaurant serving tacos, burritos, and other Mexican food.
Monello
750 W. Fir www.lovemonello.com
YELP Rating: Overall: 4 stars. Price Range: $$ Distance from Hotel: 1.0 miles.
Good pizza and pasta, with free finger food with drink purchase.
Napizza
1702 India, Little Italy www.na-pizza.com
YELP Rating: Overall: 4 stars. Price Range: $$ Distance from Hotel: 1.0 miles.
Pizza by the slice, good salads. Paired with Bencotto, 750 Fir St.
Prepkitchen
1660 India St. Little Italy
YELP Rating: Overall: 4 stars. Price Range: $$ Distance from Hotel: 1.1 miles.
Mostly tapas and American food. Long, late happy hour.
Underbelly
750 W. Fir St. 101 www.godblessunderbelly.com
YELP Rating: Overall: 4 stars. Price Range: $$ Distance from Hotel: 1.0 miles.
Japanese noodle and craft beer in Little Italy
ENTERTAINMENT GUIDE
FAMILY ACTIVITIES
The New Children’s Museum- Kids from toddler-aged to elementary school will love the
hands-on art “museum” at 200 West Island Avenue (near the Gaslamp Quarter and across from
the San Diego Convention Center). Adults $12, Children (1+): $12.
http://www.thinkplaycreate.org/
Fleet Center science museum, Balboa Park- Science exhibitions aimed at upper-elementary
aged children, plus upstairs an interactive playroom especially for kids five and under, and create
and invent in the Tinkering Studio. 875 El Prado, San Diego, CA 92101 Adults $19.95, Children
(3+) 16.95 http://www.rhfleet.org
Sea World- The first and still largest of the three Sea World Parks in the United States. Tickets
range from $69-$89 https://seaworldparks.com/en/seaworld-sandiego/
San Diego Zoo, Balboa Park-This 100 Acre, 3,500+ animal zoo is also a non-profit with a
mission statement of saving species world wide.Tickets range from $40-$50
http://zoo.sandiegozoo.org
San Diego Safari park-The hidden, fantastic partner to the San Diego zoo. On hundreds of acres
in northeastern San Diego, elephants, giraffes, and cheetahs roam in large enclosures on a
simulated savannah. Check them all out. Tickets range from $40-90
http://www.sdzsafaripark.org/plan-your-day
Legoland- This 128 Acre park is meant to inspire creativity and play. Designed for children 212. Tickets from $80-$89 http://california.legoland.com/en/plan/Days-and-Hours/
Citypass to other Southern California attractions-Get discounts on some of Southern
California’s highest visited tourist attractions including Disneyland and Universal Studios.
http://www.citypass.com/southern-california
Birch Aquarium at Scripps-In addition to the displays of aquatic life, Birch Aquarium strives
to provide ocean science education. Tickets are $12.50 to $17.00 Children under 2 get in for free.
http://aquarium.ucsd.edu
MUSEUMS
Balboa park-549 El Prado, San Diego, California, 92101
Often referred to as, “The Jewel of San Diego” Balboa Park began development in 1868 and has
grown ever sense. A home to 17+ museums, 19+gardens, and 1200 acres to explore-this is a
must see. http://www.balboapark.org
Midway Museum -10 N Harbor Dr, San Diego, CA 92101
Maritime Museum on the Navy Pier http://www.midway.org
Museum of Contemporary Art San Diego 1100 & 1001 Kettner Boulevard, San Diego, CA
Leading Art museum on San Diego, founded in 1950 http://www.mcasd.org
California Surf Museum 312 Pier View Way Oceanside, CA 92054
Drive up to Oceanside to learn about how the special interest sport transformed the Southern
California lifestyle, and continues to shape and influence the region's culture today.
http://surfmuseum.org
BEACHES
Mission Beach: Popular with college students. Iconic Southern California beach with wooden
roller coaster and boardwalk.
Pacific Beach: More popular with locals and college students.
Coronado Beach: Pristine sand, popular with everyone.
Moonlight Beach: Further north but great for families with restrooms, playground, parking,
picnic area.
Ocean Beach: Proudly funky. Drum circles and sunset gatherings.
La Jolla Shores: Also great for families and water sports. Playground and ample restrooms.
Some parking.
Note: Winter storms sometimes bring “high surf warnings.” Do take heed, as strong, high surf
and rip currents can be dangerous on the beach or in the water. Also, after high surf or rain,
beaches sometimes experience bacterial contamination. Before going in the water, it is best to
check the website maintained by San Diego Coastkeeper. They also have a downloadable app,
the “Waterkeeper Swim Guide”.
SHOPPING
Gaslamp Garage 305 5th Ave
San Diego, CA 92101 A place to find all the perfect souvenirs.
Seaport Village 849 West Harbor Drive, San Diego, Seaport Village has 50 unique (touristy)
shops and 17 dining opportunities.
Westfield Horton Plaza-324 Horton Plaza
San Diego, CA 92101 This is a large indoor mall. A 5 floor, 6 and a half block shopping center
in downtown.
Fashion Valley Mall 7007 Friars Road. Upscale mall shopping and eateries. Anchored by
Macy’s, JC Penney’s, Bloomingdale’s.
Kobey's Swap Meet
3500 Sports Arena Blvd
The largest outdoor market in San Diego since 1976. The first meet had 13 vendors and has now
grown to over 800.
Shops at the Del-Hotel Del Coronado 1500 Orange Ave., Coronado. Browse pictures of
previous visitors to Hotel Del Coronado including Marilyn Monroe while shopping for unique
beauty products, clothing, and home goods.
Shamrock Group/ Outlets at the Border 4463 Camino De La Plaza, San Ysidro. new-only 1
year old.
SHOWS
There are over 150 performing arts venues in San Diego County. Below are some of the
“destination venues” famous in San Diego.
Old Globe-1363 Old Globe Way, San Diego, CA 92101 http://www.theoldglobe.org
Balboa Theatre-868 4th Ave, San Diego, CA 92101 http://sandiegotheatres.org
San Diego Civic Theatre-1100 3rd Ave, San Diego, CA 92101 http://sandiegotheatres.org
National Comedy Theatre-3717 India St, San Diego, CA 92103 http://www.nationalcomedy.com
Spreckles Theatre-121 Broadway #600, San Diego, CA 92101 http://www.spreckels.net
House of Blues-1055 5th Ave, San Diego, CA 92101 http://www.houseofblues.com
The Casbah-2501 Kettner Blvd, San Diego, CA 92101 http://www.casbahmusic.com
DAY TRIPS
TRAVELING TO LOS ANGELES and points north:
The LA area is about a 1 ½ hour drive at the best of times, however, travel time can vary greatly
by day and time of day.
Train to Los Angeles.
The train ride takes just under 3 hours and prices range from $35-$70. Visit
https://tickets.amtrak.com/itd/amtrak to plan your trip.
TRAVELING TO TIJUANA:
About Tijuana: Downtown San Diego is just a short drive from Tijuana (about 20-30 minutes),
the largest and most dynamic Mexican city on the border. In the prohibition era, Tijuana grew
from being a sleepy ranch town to become a major attraction for U.S. tourists seeking alcohol,
gambling, and vice. In the post-war era, Tijuana began to emerge as a major center of Mexican
industry, and today is known especially for its electronics, medical devices, automotive, and
aerospace manufacturing and assembly plants or maquiladoras. Now home to over 1.3 million
inhabitants and reputed to be the "world's most visited city," Tijuana still has much to offer
tourists interested in shopping, traditional and innovative cuisine, and nightlife. For those with
more than a day to spare, Tijuana also provides a convenient point of access to the incredible
beaches, deserts, and natural areas throughout the rest of Baja California.
How To Get There: Before you go to Mexico, make sure you have your passport—and, if a
foreigner, your U.S. visa information (an I-94 and a multiple-entry visa)—in order to cross the
border back to the United States. No Mexican visa is needed to enter Tijuana, provided that you
will stay for less than 72 hours and plan to stay within 90 miles of the border. If you are traveling
by car, you will need to obtain Mexican driver's insurance, which can be done in advance or once
you cross to Tijuana. If you wish to park your car on the U.S. side and walk across into Mexico
on foot, you can take the last exit for the town of San Ysidro and pay a reasonable sum (~$1020/day) at one of the nearby lots, then following the signs to the border. If you do not have a car,
you can take the San Diego trolley to its last stop at the town of San Ysidro, and then follow
signs to the border.
What to Do: Most first-time visitors make a point of visiting Avenida Revolución, which is
lined with bars and shops that cater to tourists from around the world. Avenida Revolución is
located within walking distance (about 15-20 minutes) or a very short (~$5 cab ride) from the
San Ysidro port of entry. For a different cultural experience, other visitors head to the Centro
Cultural de Tijuana and the nearby Mercado Hidalgo, an outdoor market with fruits, vegetables,
cookware, and handicrafts. Tijuana has increasingly attracted more adventurous travelers
because of its exquisite restaurant scene.
Recommended Restaurants:
—Mission 19 (elegant): http://mision19.com
—Cebichería Erizo (casual): http://www.streetgourmetla.com/2010/05/cebicheria-erizotijuanabc-top-ceviche.html
—Las Ahumaderas (street food): http://www.yelp.com/biz/las-ahumaderas-tijuana-3
---La Diferencia (casual): http://www.ladiferencia.com/
---El Rodeo (casual): http://www.restauranteelrodeo.com/
---Tacos y Tortas Ahogadas El Tio Pepe (Street food): http://www.yelp.com/biz/tacos-y-tortasahogadas-el-t%C3%ADo-pepe-tijuana *best birria and carnitas in TJ.
---La Moresca (elegant): http://lamoresca.com/
Precautions: The primary concern for most first time visitors is safety, and visitors should
review U.S. State department warnings to evaluate the risks. Tijuana developed a reputation for
crime and violence because of its role as a conduit for drug trafficking and because of the
dramatic surge in homicides that occurred there in 2008-2009. However, with proper precautions
tourists have little to fear, as these problems have subsided substantially and tourists are
generally not targets for major violent crimes. Indeed, New Orleans, Kansas City, St. Louis,
or Washington, D.C. all have homicide rates much higher than Tijuana's. As elsewhere in the
world, tourists are certainly vulnerable targets for other kinds of crime, so travelers should take
sensible precautions to avoid petty crimes, swindling, and sexual assault.
General Tips:
—Many people in Tijuana speak English, but try to remember you are not in the United States
and act accordingly.
—Whether a taxi or a vendor, always ask about prices (twice!) before entering into a deal.
—In addition to their passports, travelers enrolled in trusted travel programs (e.g., SENTRI,
GOES) should bring their cards with them for expedited return across the border.
—Don't forget your passport and/or U.S. visa.
—Remember that coming back to the United States may involve substantial wait times for both
vehicles and pedestrians.
—Review the U.S. Customs regulations: http://www.cbp.gov/travel/us-citizens/cbp-reqs-mexico
---Be patient upon re-entry to the United States. Unfortunately, customs agents are sometimes
testy and are not themselves always informed of the most up to date regulations, and may
confiscate items imported legally.
SPECIAL EVENTS AND ATTRACTIONS
Also check out http://www.sandiego.org/what-to-do/ if you’re looking for guided kayak, hiking,
biking, and other outdoor recreational activities.
Whale & Dolphin Watching Adventures
Hornblower Cruises & Events
December - on-going
Price: Starting At $40 *Price subject to change Tax, service charge and landing fee additional
Whale Watching Adventures depart twice daily.
Morning Sail on the San Diego Bay
San Diego Sailing Tours
August 1, 2015 - on-going
Price: $79 per person + 16% port tax & surcharge
Enjoy a two hour sailing charter on the San Diego Bay with a Captain and steward to serve you
drinks and snacks while you are aboard. Breakfast is available for an additional charge.
Thursday Gaslamp Architectural Tour
Gaslamp Museum at the Davis-Horton House
Price: Adults - $25 Seniors, college students, active military - $20 Students age 13-17 - $15
Students age 8-12 - $10 Age 7 and under - Free
Opening a window to San Diego's past, the Gaslamp Quarter Historical Foundation showcases
the history of the William Heath Davis House built in 1850, as well as walking tours of the
historic Gaslamp Quarter.
The Dinner Detective Murder Mystery Show
Price: $59.95-$64.95
Venue: Courtyard by Marriott
Solve a hilarious murder case while you feast on a fantastic four-course plated dinner.
Ed Ruscha Then & Now
Museum of Contemporary Art San Diego - La Jolla
Jan 30 - Apr 24, 2016
Price: General Admission - $10 Seniors - $5 Students 26 and over (with ID) - $5 25 and under
Free (with ID) Military and their families Free (with ID)
An innovator of West-Coast Pop and Conceptual Art, Ed Ruscha's work defies and exceeds both
categories, drawing upon popular media, commercial culture, and the landscape of Los Angeles
Harbor Cruises & Sea Lion Adventures
Hornblower Cruises & Events
Price: Adults Starting at $24-$29 Prices subject to change. Tax, service charge and landing fee
additional.
For the best views of San Diego, get onboard for a one or two hour Harbor Cruise & Sea Lion
Adventure. You'll see natural wonders, marine wildlife, historic military landmarks and amazing
city views!
Whales: Giants of the Deep
San Diego Natural History Museum
March 19, 2016 - on-going
Price: $11-27
Whales: Giants of the Deep is an experience that brings adults and children eye to eye with some
of the world’s most elusive creatures. Developed and presented by the Museum of New Zealand
Te Papa Tongarewa.
Sunday Champagne Brunch Cruise
Flagship Cruises & Events
January 10, 2016 - on-going
Price: Adult: $64.50 Child: $38.70 Taxes, service charge and landing fee additional.
A beautiful, relaxing way to enjoy a Sunday in San Diego. Join us for a delicious gourmet
brunch with a scenic tour of the waterfront's best sights.
San Diego Sunset Dinner Cruises
Hornblower Cruises & Events
January 1, 2016 - on-going
Price: Starting at $78.95 per guest Tax, service charge and landing fee additional. Price Subject
to Change.
Venue: Hornblower Landing at Grape Street Pier
Three-hour dinner cruise with dancing and views of the city lights.
Breweries of San Diego - Beer Train Trolley Tour
San Diego Beer and Wine Tours
Price: Only $88 per person. Does not include trolley day pass ticket which is $7 per person.
Drink, don't drive. Hop aboard the San Diego Beer Train Tour and enjoy ample tastes of local
craft beer, behind the scenes guided brewery tour. Travel by rail, enjoy brewery lunch, awesome
beer, games and prizes. No need to drive, take the train.
Álvaro Blancarte: Marking the Present
Museum of Contemporary Art San Diego - La Jolla
Jan 30 - Apr 24, 2016
Price: General Admission - $10 Seniors - $5 Students 26 and over (with ID) - $5 25 and under
Free (with ID) Military and their families Free (with ID)
For more than six decades, Álvaro Blancarte has been mining the topography of Baja California
and defining the artistic landscape of this region.
San Diego Wine Country Chauffeured Vineyard Tour
San Diego Beer and Wine Tours
May 10, 2015 - on-going
Price: $149 per person, does not include tour guide gratuity.
Enjoy a tasty tour of San Diego's beautiful wineries. Only 35 minutes from downtown San
Diego.
Winery Train Tour
San Diego Beer and Wine Tours
October 15, 2015 - on-going
Price: Only $98 per person. Does not include train ticket or tour guide gratuity.
Travel Green with the comfort and convenience of rail. Save gas on the guided Winery Train
Tour of San Diego. Taste about 15 different local wines.
CHILD CARE:
The hotel contracts with two nanny agencies that are licensed, bonded, and highly reviewed
online. Marion’s Childcare, 619-303-4379, and Destination Sitters, 858-336-1999.