Are you searching for the best things to do in the Gaslamp Quarter, San Diego? If so, we have the ultimate list of suggestions for you!
Gaslamp is one of those neighborhoods in San Diego, that you simply have to visit!
And there are so many fun things to do in Gaslamp to enjoy!
There are so many great things to do in Gaslamp, San Diego, that it’s an area you’ll want to spend plenty of time in during your visit!
This is one of the busiest neighborhoods in the city, and there’s such a great vibe in Gaslamp, so you’ll definitely want to soak it all in.
So anyway, let’s get into our list of things to do in the Gaslamp Quarter, San Diego!
30 fun things to do in the Gaslamp Quarter, San Diego!
Take the Brothels, Bites and Booze Gaslamp Quarter Tour
First up on our list of the best things to do in the Gaslamp Quarter, San Diego, it’s the amazing Brothels, Bites and Booze Gaslamp Quarter Tour.
This is one of the most popular visitor tours in the area, and it’s so much fun. It includes a bit of history, lots of exploring, and lots of food (and drinks) too!
All in all, it’s a really fantastic local tour, and one we had to include on our list of fun things to do in Gaslamp, San Diego!
Click here to book your tickets!
Have cocktails at Rustic Root
Next on our list of things to do in the Gaslamp Quarter, San Diego, it’s visiting the amazing rooftop bar… Rustic Root.
We chose to include this particular rooftop bar by name, because it’s probably one of the city’s most famous and loved rooftop bars.
But don’t worry. If Rustic Root is busy, there are plenty of other rooftop bars in Gaslamp San Diego too.
Sipping a drink and enjoying views over Gaslamp has to be one of the best things to do in the Gaslamp Quarter, San Diego.
Grab a round at The Deck at Moonshine Flats
Next on our list of things to do in the Gaslamp Quarter, San Diego, it’s an alternative to rooftop cocktails.
If rooftop cocktails aren’t really your ‘thing’ and you’d prefer to drink somewhere a little more casual and chilled out, then we recommend grabbing a drink are The Deck at Moonshine Flats.
This indoor / outdoor bar is super fun, has a really chilled vibe, and it’s loved by locals and visitors alike.
It’s a great choice for laid-back and fun things to do in Gaslamp!
Visit the Gaslamp Quarter Sign
The Gaslamp Quarter Sign is an iconic spot in the city of San Diego, so obviously we had to include it on our list of things to do in the Gaslamp Quarter, San Diego.
Head over to the sign, and grab a selfie, because if you didn’t get a photo, it doesn’t count, right?
There’s not anything to do at the sign so to speak, but you simply need to go and see it if you’re in the area! It’s such a big part of the city and a really iconic choice for things to do in the Gaslamp Quarter, San Diego.
Read more San Diego inspiration: 45 Unusual and unique things to do in San Diego!
Lou & Mickey’s Steakhouse
Lou & Mickey’s steakhouse is a bit of an icon in Gaslamp, so we definitely needed to include it in our list of things to do in Gaslamp San Diego.
If you’re looking for somewhere to eat come evening time, then Lou & Mickey’s is a pretty great choice.
You can even dine al fresco – which we love. There’s nothing quite as nice as dining outdoors in the perfect San Diego weather.
This is a great place for people watching too – so obviously it had to make our list of the best things to do in Gaslamp San Diego.
Read more San Diego ideas: Top 11 places for deep dish pizza in San Diego!
Ride a trolley
Although trolleys are more of a transportation system in the city, they’re still one of the best things to do in Gaslamp, San Diego! You can even take sightseeing trolley tours, which we love!
These authentic trolleys cost just $2.50 for one-way fares, making them the perfect way to sightsee without shelling out a fortune for a guided tour.
Along the way, you’ll be able to take in the gorgeous sidewalks, stunning theaters, quirky shops, and bustling restaurants that characterize this part of town.
And the best part? You get to sit down the whole way!
So, you can see why it’s among our top things to do in the Gaslamp Quarter, San Diego, right?
Read more about San Diego: Top 20 best restaurants in San Diego with a view!
The Escape Game San Diego
The Escape Game San Diego is our next suggestion for things to do in Gaslamp, San Diego.
Escape games and escape rooms are always so much fun, and if you’re visiting San Diego with friends or family, it’s a great activity choice right in the heart of town.
A chance for team building and lots of laughter, we couldn’t miss it from our list of things to do in the Gaslamp Quarter, San Diego.
Take a Gaslamp Ghost Tour
Next on our list of things to do in Gaslamp, it’s the Gaslamp Ghost Haunted Walking Tour!
If you want to learn more about the local area, but you also want to keep things fun and interesting, this is such an underrated tour in Gaslamp!
You’ll explore several of the Gaslamp Quarter’s most popular local hauntings (yes, there are many to learn about!) while learning of sinister spirits, disease, death, espionage, and murder. It’s such an awesome choice for things to do in the Gaslamp Quarter, San Diego!
There’s so much history in Gaslamp, and so much to learn about – and this tour is the best way to do it!
You can book your tickets by clicking here!
Watch a show at House of Blues San Diego
The House of Blues, San Diego is just a couple of blocks north of Gaslamp (officially anyway). But we wanted to include it on our list of things to do in Gaslamp, San Diego anyway.
It’ll take you approximately only 2-3 minutes to walk from the official boundary of Gaslamp, to the House of Blues, so it’s worth mentioning!
This amazing and iconic music venue is simply incredible, and if you want to experience live music whilst in San Diego, it’s a must-visit.
This is such an amazing choice for things to do in the Gaslamp Quarter, San Diego.
Things to do in Gaslamp, San Diego: Grab some icecream
Next on our list of things to do in Gaslamp San Diego, it’s grab ice-cream!
There are so many great little ice-cream stores in Gaslamp, so when you’re getting a little hot and sweaty from the sightseeing… Ice-cream is the best idea!
Visit Chocolate Cremerie, Cali Cream Homemade Ice Cream and Ghirardelli Ice Cream & Chocolate Shop for the best creamy flavors. Those three locations are our recommendations!
Read more about San Diego: Top 15 bed and breakfasts in San Diego
Visit the Gaslamp Museum at the Davis-Horton House Museum
To kick off our list of things to do in Gaslamp, San Diego with a bang, we have the Gaslamp Museum!
This sprawling museum is tucked inside the Davis-Horton House which is the oldest structure in the downtown area.
This spot was once home to Alonzo Horton who was an important real-estate mogul who helped develop the San Diego Bay in the 1860s. Now, it’s a museum dedicated to teaching visitors about how the town came to be.
In addition to audio tours of the historic house, you’ll often be able to book candlelit tours through the Victorian-era property that give things a ghostly feel!
It’s a great option for things to do in the Gaslamp Quarter, San Diego!
Downtown and Gaslamp Loop Scooter Tour
Next up on our list of things to do in Gaslamp, San Diego, it’s a Downtown and Gaslamp Loop Scooter Tour.
If you’ve never taken a scooter tour before, we have a feeling you’re going to LOVE it. Oh, and don’t worry about navigation around the city because the scooter’s talking GPS always knows where you need to go!
It’s a bit like a walking tour, but a bit less strenuous, and a lot more fun!
You can book tickets by clicking here!
Art of Tim Cantor
Next on our list of things to do in the Gaslamp Quarter, San Diego, it’s something for the art and culture lovers.
The Art of Tim Cantor is a gallery located in gaslamp San Diego, at 527 Fourth Avenue. If you want to learn more about Tim Cantor, and his work, you’re going to absolutely love it here.
Watch a sports game at Mr. Tempo Sports Bar / Tempo Cantina
Next up on our list of things to do in Gaslamp San Diego, it’s the Mr. Tempo Sports Bar!
If you happen to be in San Diego on a game day, there’s no better place to immerse yourself in the game than here.
It’s lively, fun, and full of atmosphere. And the perfect choice for things to do in Gaslamp San Diego.
Try some Japanese BBQ
Next on our list of things to do in Gaslamp San Diego, it’s trying some delicious Japanese BBQ.
If you haven’t tried Japanese BBQ before, maybe now is the time!
Gyu-Kaku Japanese BBQ is located in the heart of Gaslamp, and it’s a fantastic place to enjoy some traditional Japanese BBQ! Yum!
You’ll even find the traditional on-table BBQ grills for a super authentic experience. It’s such a fun choice for things to do in Gaslamp, San Diego.
Read more San Diego food ideas: Where to find the best Seafood Boil in San Diego!
Catch a show at the American Comedy Co.
If you’re a fan of open mic nights and belly laugh-worthy jokes, then you’ll appreciate the next spot on our list of things to do in Gaslamp, San Diego.
It’s the American Comedy Co.!
This spot has been a local favorite for years, and it holds up to 200 people. So, don’t worry about squeezing in last minute.
Although the open mic is a popular choice for seasoned jokesters, newbies to the San Diego comedy scene might prefer to book in to watch a famous comedian instead.
Oh, and don’t forget to grab a few $5 drinks if you’re around for Happy Hour!
However you choose to spend your evening, you’re bound to agree that this is one of the best things to do in Gaslamp, San Diego!
Things to do in the Gaslamp Quarter: Grab some amazing food
Next on our list of things to do in the Gaslamp Quarter, San Diego – it’s grabbing food.
There are so many wonderful restaurants around the Gaslamp Quarter. We’ve already mentioned a couple, but we think some other places deserve a mention too!
One of the best places for an authentic Italian bite is Osteria Panevino which is regarded as one of the finest eateries in the downtown area.
If you’re not feeling pizza or pasta, why not check out exciting spots like GARAGE Kitchen + Bar for classic American fare?
Regardless of whether you’re feeling local cuisine or international favorites, you won’t regret adding a culinary blowout to your list of things to do in Gaslamp, San Diego.
Explore the USS Midway Museum
If you’ve ever wanted to explore a legendary army carrier, then you’ll love the next item on our list of things to do in Gaslamp, San Diego.
The incredible USS Midway Aircraft Carrier was once the largest that was ever commissioned (until 1955, that is!), and it was named after the Battle of Midway that took place in 1942.
It was the first carrier to hit sub-Arctic waters, so it’s certainly a powerful beast!
The carrier is now a museum that allows you to explore the entire structure with the help of a self-guided audio tour.
Although you can skip the audio tour, it’s worth grabbing to hear the personal stories of Midway pilots that you won’t otherwise get!
Go shopping
Next on our list of things to do in Gaslamp, San Diego, it’s shopping!
Whilst you won’t find loads of stores in Gaslamp (it’s not the MAIN shopping destination in San Diego), you will find lots of little independents and brands scattered amongst the bars and restaurants.
Shopping might not be the most exciting suggestion for things to do in the Gaslamp Quarter, San Diego, but it’s still loads of fun!
Check out the New Children’s Museum
Our next pick for amazing things to do in the Gaslamp Quarter, San Diego – it’s the New Children’s Museum!
This place is dedicated to empowering children through thought with engaging installations and interactive exhibits.
Everything is bursting with color and kids will be able to do everything from clay art to playing around with paint.
This is one of the things to do in Gaslamp, San Diego that’s reserved for parents and kiddos, but it’s a total slam-dunk if you’re in the right demographic!
Marvel at the incredible architecture
If we’re being honest, one of the best things to do in the Gaslamp Quarter, San Diego is to simply take a walk around and marvel at the breathtaking architecture.
Many of the buildings date to the Victorian era, but there are also several Baroque structures including the Louis Bank of Commerce.
As you’re strolling through town, keep an eye out for the Old City Hall, the Hubbell Building, the Spencer Ogden Building, and the dazzling Bijou Theater.
There are a few more hotspots to hit up, but these are the main ones you’ll want to focus on if you’re an avid Instagrammer!
It’s an amazing choice for things to do in the Gaslamp Quarter, San Diego.
Read more San Diego food recommendations: Top 20 places for Mexican food in San Diego
Take a Trolley tour
Speaking of the area’s glorious architecture, you may want to make the most of it by booking yourself onto a tour of the area, preferably by trolley!
If you only have a day in town, this is one of those things to do in Gaslamp, San Diego, that won’t disappoint.
It’s so nice to sit back and relax, and watch the sights go by! It’s a great choice for things to do in the Gaslamp Quarter, San Diego.
Click here to book tickets to our favorite Gaslamp tour!
Head to the Gaslamp Artisan Market
We couldn’t write a list of things to do in Gaslamp, San Diego without mentioning the iconic Gaslamp Artisan Market!
Seriously, it’s a doozy and remains a popular attraction with locals and visitors alike!
This is one of the best things to do in Gaslamp, San Diego if you’re on the hunt for artisan souvenirs from independent vendors.
You’ll find everything from handcrafted edibles to arts and crafts that’ll quickly earn pride of place on your mantelpiece.
If you’re not feeling the crafts, why not check out the wellness stands that sell all the lotions and potions you could ever wish for?
Whatever you choose to buy, this is one of the things to do in the Gaslamp Quarter, San Diego, that’s not to be missed!
Read more about San Diego: 26 things to do alone in San Diego
Catch a game at Petco Park
If you’re an avid sports fan, then you’ll want to hold onto your horses for the next spot on our list of things to do in the Gaslamp Quarter, San Diego.
That’s right folks – it’s catching a San Diego Padres game at Petco Park!
Although this is going to be a mecca for Major League Baseball fans, even sporting newbies will appreciate the raucous atmosphere and delicious stadium food.
Seriously – this is one of the things to do in Gaslamp, San Diego that deserves a place on anyone’s itinerary.
It’s right on the edge of downtown, so you can whizz through the artisan stalls at the market before heading down for an exciting evening game.
A classic pick for things to do in the Gaslamp Quarter, San Diego!
Watch a show at Copley Symphony Hall
Next on our varied list of things to do in the Gaslamp Quarter, San Diego, we have a trip to Copley Symphony Hall!
This spot is beautiful inside and has been the home of the San Diego Symphony since 1984.
They play several impressive shows each year and stepping inside the stunning interior is worth the price of any admission ticket – trust us!
If you’re not sure what you want to watch (or if anything is on during your visit!), simply head to the events section of their website which they update regularly.
Whether you’re here for a symphonic performance or just want to look around, this is one of the best things to do in Gaslamp, San Diego for culture buffs.
Read more about San Diego: 24 things to do in Old Town, San Diego
Take a segway tour
Another fun choice for things to do in Gaslamp, San Diego, is touring the city using a Segway.
This is something super unique and quirky, and it’s a really fun way to explore a neighborhood like Gaslamp in San Diego.
And don’t worry! You’ll have plenty of opportunities to get used to the controls and riding the Segway before setting off onto the streets!
It’s such a fun choice for things to do in the Gaslamp Quarter, San Diego!
You can click here to book your tickets!
Hit a club or bar
If you’ve still got plenty of youthful stamina, then you’ll adore the next suggestion on our list of things to do in Gaslamp, San Diego.
San Diego has a killer nightlife scene, and you can easily trail through the 50 bars and 10 nightclubs that are right in Gaslamp.
If you fancy doing an organized bar crawl, then we really recommend booking this one!
The Tipsy Crow and Prohibition Lounge are two of the finest bars in the area, but you dance the night away with a trip to Onyx Room or Bottle Service San Diego.
Regardless of which spot you pick, you won’t regret adding a nightlife adventure to your list of things to do in the Gaslamp Quarter, San Diego.
Read more about San Diego: 38 fun things to do in San Diego at night!
Go to San Diego Comic-Con
If you’re in town at the right time of year, then you’ll want to add San Diego Comic-Con to your list of things to do in Gaslamp, San Diego.
It’s held annually just around the corner from the Gaslamp Artisan Market, making it a fabulous thing to do after (or before!) a day of shopping.
This uber-popular event is usually held at the end of July at the San Diego Convention Center and usually includes visits from special guests (usually movie stars and influential comic writers!).
Tickets aren’t ridiculously expensive and will set you back around $75 for each day of the festivities. So, comic book fans – make sure you add this to your list of things to do in the Gaslamp Quarter, San Diego, this year.
Take in a show at the Balboa Theater
It doesn’t matter whether you love classic movies or want to catch the latest blockbuster, a visit to Balboa Theater is one of the top things to do in the Gaslamp Quarter, San Diego.
This longtime independent movie theater has been around for decades, and it specializes in screening indie movies and recent releases.
It has a charming, old-school vibe that’s oh-so-appealing. And the endless range of snacks certainly doesn’t hurt either.
So, if you’re looking for chilled-out things to do in Gaslamp, San Diego that won’t break the bank – give this place a whirl!
Visit Horton Plaza Park
To round off our list of things to do in Gaslamp, San Diego, we have a visit to Horton Plaza Park!
This spot is essentially the largest outdoor entertainment venue in downtown San Diego, and it spans an incredible five levels.
At Horton Plaza Park, you’ll find exciting events like concerts and shopping nights that’ll keep your party occupied for hours-on-end.
As it’s right in the heart of downtown San Diego, this is one of those things to do in the Gaslamp Quarter, San Diego that you can easily tack onto another adventure.
Oh, and they also have free Wi-Fi, which is always a plus!
We hope this epic list of things to do in Gaslamp, San Diego has been useful! And given you lots of ideas!
As you can see, there are so many awesome things to do in the Gaslamp Quarter, San Diego, you could easily spend a day, or two exploring just this neighborhood.
So, which of these things to do in the Gaslamp Quarter, San Diego will you be doing first? Let us know in the comments!
Know some more things to do in Gaslamp, San Diego that we’ve missed off this list? Let us know by email, we love receiving extra ideas!
