Gaslamp Travel Guide
Gaslamp Quarter is the heart and soul of downtown San Diego. The perfect mix of historical sites, baseball, unique eateries, and vibrant nightlife, there’s plenty to see, do, and eat. I’ve been coming to Gaslamp since I was a kid, and it never gets old. Named after the gas lamps that once lined its streets, its history dates back to the 1850s, yet there’s a modern twist that makes it the perfect spot for all ages to explore and enjoy.
Whether you’re in town for a Padres game, convention, family vacation, or a weekend getaway, keep reading for my top recommendations - the best happy hours, things to see and do for all ages, and my favorite restaurants for early morning coffee, late night dinners, and everything in between.
gaslamp travel guide
best time of year to visit gaslamp
Like most metropolitan areas, there’s so much to do year-round, and you cannot beat San Diego weather. That being said, if you want mild, comfortable weather and minimum crowds, visit during the spring (March - May) or fall (September - November). One thing to note is that San Diego experiences a lot of coastal fog and cloudiness during May/ June (known as May grey and June gloom), so if you want true sunshine and gorgeous weather, fall is your best bet.
Peak travel season is during the summer - bars are busier, baseball season is in full-swing, and there are typically festivals or events a few times a month. For those in their 20s or 30s looking for vibrant nightlife, summer is your ideal travel time.
Winter is quieter and milder, although still festive - think holiday lights and events like the Gaslamp Holiday Market and Port of San Diego Holiday Bowl Parade.
best gaslamp parking
Whenever possible, I recommend buying your parking ahead of time, since the cheaper garages sell out quickly. I’ve used the ACE Parking website a LOT and never had a problem with security or ease of use. There is a non-refundable convenience fee, but you can receive a refund if you cancel 24 hours before your arrival time.
Cheapest parking:
6th and K - My go-to. It’s across the street from Petco, central to most of Gaslamp, cheap, and the spaces aren’t too tiny. This does sell-out on event days (baseball games, festivals, concerts, etc.) so reserve in advance if possible.
Park It on Market - The elevators aren’t always working, so you may have to climb a few flights of stairs, but it’s only a few blocks from most restaurants/ bars.
Horton Plaza Parking Garage - Skip this! It’s cheap, but spaces are VERY tiny (even in my tiny Mini Cooper), it’s dingier than other garages, and I’ve heard of people being overcharged when they leave.
Overnight parking:
Hotel valet will have the most secure option, even though it’s more expensive.
Cheaper option: Park it on Market.
For in and out privileges:
Ace Parking (most of the garages) doesn’t allow for in/ out privileges, so if you don’t want to have to find a new parking spot each time you leave/ return, use hotel valet.
You can also park away from downtown, then take the trolley to Gaslamp; it’s not as convenient, but fairly easy to do and worth looking into.
Note: As of September 2025, Gaslamp has increased their metered parking prices for major Petco Park events (including baseball games). I’s now $10 an hour and applies to every metered spot within half a mile of the ballpark.
where to stay in gaslamp
luxury hotels in Gaslamp
Horton Grand Hotel - Historic, so not everything is modern and up-to-date (think European-style balconies), but it’s still charming and staff is friendly and helpful.
Pendry San Diego - Located in the heart of Gaslamp, so everything is in walking distance. It can get loud, but the rooms (and gym) are clean, and the views from the rooftop pool are beautiful.
Omni San Diego Hotel at the Ballpark - Has bridge access to Petco Park, so it’s nice if you’re in town for a baseball game or special event. However, service can be hit or miss and the shower head is annoyingly low.
Granger Hotel Gaslamp Quarter - Modern and boutique-style, with elevated touches and stunning decor. Breakfast is free, but gym access unfortunately costs extra.
affordable hotels in Gaslamp
Hotel Z, A Staypineapple Hotel - Central location, and the bright, fun decor is great for kids and families. The rooms are a little small, but check-in is a breeze, you can’t beat the free bike rentals, and service is better than some of the fancy hotels just blocks away. Also pet-friendly.
Palihotel - Cute, European style historical hotel with an old-school elevator. Rooms/ bathrooms are tiny, but the rooftop view is lovely.
things to see and do in gaslamp
Museum of Illusions - Interactive museum with lots of photo opportunities (there’s staff stationed around specifically to help you get the shot). Book tickets in advance if possible to save a few dollars. Kids will love it, but my boyfriend and I enjoyed a quick date night here, too.
Padres game - A must-do, even if you’re not a big baseball fan. Petco Park always has a lively vibe (sell-outs are pretty common) and it’s frequently named the #1 ballpark in America.
Petco Park tours - Available during the off-season as well, the tours are engaging and last about 1.5 hours.
Gaslamp Walking Tour - Perfect whole family, this lasts about 3 hours but will also show you Coronado and Balboa Park. Segway options are available, too.
Haunted GaslampTour - Entertaining and interesting. I’m not one for guided tours, and ghost tours in particular can be too cheesy, but this is a fun one. PS: I typically recommend supporting local non-profits, but based on my experience, skip the official historical foundation’s tours.
Arcade Monsters - For all ages, with a variety of retro and modern games. Not expensive at all, but it is card-only. If you want a 21+ vibe, check out Coin-Op Game Room.
The Escape Game - Escape rooms aren’t unique to San Diego, but I haven’t heard of a single bad experience here. Staff gives just the right amount of hints, and it’s the perfect group activity.
Tahiti Felix’s Master Tattoo Parlor & Museum Est. 1949 - The oldest family-owned parlor in America. There’s not much of a museum, though - just something to see while you’re walking around.
Bum Dog Burial Site - The name sounds really sad, but this is one of two bronze statues that exist (the other is in Edinburgh) and memorializes the official town dog of San Diego. Located in the Gaslamp Quarter Historical Foundation.
Davis-Horton House - The oldest house in Gaslamp, now a museum that offers self-guided tours.
Balboa Theater - Beautiful historic venue. Catch a show or concert here if your schedule aligns with something you’d want to see.
America Comedy Co. - The best comedy club in San Diego. It’s 21+, has two-drink minimum, and is card-only, but if you want an adults-only activity that doesn’t revolve around nightlife, this is a nice alternative.
best gaslamp nightlife: clubs, speakeasies, and bars
Noble Experiment - Elegant speakeasy with craft cocktails that’s tucked behind a secret door in The Neighborhood. Make a reservation ahead of time.
Youngblood - Upscale speakeasy, they’ll personalize drinks for you. Excellent service, and the entire place is gorgeous.
Prohibition Lounge - The OG speakeasy of San Diego; the door says Law Offices of Eddie O’Hare, which adds to the secretive vibe. It can get a little stuffy and crowded, but they take their drinks seriously. Cocktail attire is encouraged, and no cell phones at the bar. Fun fact: this was the morgue back in the 1800s.
Room 56 - Cozy, intimate speakeasy; reservations required. To get in, find the bookcase upstairs and pick up a red book (fun detail that adds to the experience). Go here if you want a well-crafted drink; I also like that they have mocktails on the menu.
Werewolf - Best dive bar. Warm, welcoming vibe for everyone. Great drink selection (including mocktails), super tasty food, and karaoke 9PM-1AM daily.
The Shout! House - Fun, live music (like dueling pianos). Can get crowded, but feels like “the more the merrier” instead of packed sardines.
Trailer Park After Dark - Don’t let the name throw you off, although everything is 100% on-theme. This bar is fun and lighthearted, and I always feel safe here. There’s also a few different spaces to sit/ hang out; it’s not just one big room.
Moonshine Flats - The country bar of Gaslamp. Has a youthful feel, live band, DJ, and line dancing.
Happy Does - Laid back bar with outdoor space and games to play. Better for groups or socializing than date night.
Knotty Barrel - Gastropub with over 100 types of beer and American bar food. I prefer other restaurants for dinner, but if you’re in Gaslamp for a night out, this is a nice starter spot.
Tivoli Bar - Dive bar where the locals go. No frills, straightforward.
Sidebar Nightclub - One of the more upscale clubs (they have a dress code). Staff is helpful if you have a larger group, so I always recommend this spot for bachelorette parties.
Parq - One of the biggest nightclubs in San Diego, definitely a party vibe.
Bloom, Nova - 2 separate nightclubs but I’m listing them together because they’re both hit or miss, to be honest. Nova hosts bigger EDM acts because it’s owned by Insomniac, but can get extremely crowded. Bloom is smaller/ has a basement vibe, yet feels more spacious.
Please skip American Junkie. I’ve heard quite a few horror stories of stolen phones (women specifically being targeted) and unhelpful/ uncaring security. Just not worth it.
where to eat in gaslamp
coffee shops
Chiefy Coffee - Tiny (mostly outdoor seating), but really cute. One of the best chais I’ve ever had, and it’s consistently good every time I go.
Spill the Beans Coffee and Bagels - This coffee shop is open the latest out of all the Gaslamp shops (6PM, 7PM on Fridays/ Saturdays) and centrally located on Market St. The chai is a little sweet for me, but it’s a cool aesthetic and the baristas are awesome. That said, if you’re from the east coast, the bagels won’t compare.
Achilles Coffee Roasters - If you want more than a pasty to go with your coffee, go here as they have made-to-order sandwiches and burritos (not reheated!). Located in the 4th + J Apartments building, just a block from the Pendry hotel.
breakfast and brunch
6th and G Breakfast Co. - Best breakfast in Gaslamp. This has the aesthetic you want in a downtown spot plus great food, attentive service, and isn’t too expensive. Even if you prefer a savory breakfast, the waffle pop sampler is a must-have.
Werewolf - A true Gaslamp staple. The daily brunch menu isn’t huge, but the food is really good. If you want a lively, boozy brunch, this is the place to go.
Chocolate Cafe - Straightforward breakfast spot with a full coffee and tea selection. The prices are fair ($13 for a plate of pancakes), so I recommend it if you’re on a budget or have kids.
Tiger Cafe - Some consider this a coffee shop, but I’m including it under breakfast because their menu is a little more extensive (plus the food is fresher). It’s a little pricey and service can be slow, but their waffles are some of my all-time favorites.
Lucky’s Lunch Counter - Traditional diner-style brunch spot right by Petco Park. Ideal if you want a no-fuss breakfast, or have a few picky eaters in the mix (you can build your own burrito or salad, or opt for cereal). Indoor seating is just at the counter, but there are normal tables (with big umbrellas) outside.
Cafe 222 - Hometown-style diner that serves huge portions. The peanut butter and banana stuffed French toast is a fan favorite and Bobby Flay included it on “Best Things I Ever Ate” on Food Network.
Cloud 9 Deli - Located a few blocks away in the East Village, but I'm mentioning it because it’s perfect if you have kids or want something that isn’t too processed. There are tons of hot/ cold sandwiches and deli staples plus a full kid’s menu - truly something for everyone. You order then seat yourself, so it’s no frills but they’re open from 8AM - 8PM (except Sundays), so it’s nice if you’re hungry at an in-between hour.
lunch and dinner
Places marked with an (*) are open late (think 12AM or later) in case you want a post-game or after-hours meal.
The Waves Taco Club - #1 spot for fish tacos/ surf and turf burritos as well as vegetarian options (plus everything else, honestly). I usually side-eye places that charge for chips, but their food is so good that they get away with it. Don’t skip the pistachio crushed churros!
(*) Tacos el Gordo - Always busy and a little chaotic to order; go here if you want adobada, but if you want a mix of tacos, I recommend The Waves instead. Always crowded, but there’s additional upstairs seating (just behind the salsa bar).
(*) Werewolf - Dive bar vibes, but the service is spot-on and it’s way better than traditional bar food. Get the werewolf nugs (order them sticky) and waterfront sliders; I’m obsessed, but everything is good to be honest. There’s karaoke nightly, so it’s one of the more lighthearted bars in Gaslamp, which I prefer over anything pretentious or those “see and be seen” bars.
(*) barleymash - Traditional American food in a bar setting; loved by locals and tourists alike. Bourbon-BBQ burger is a 10/10 and the fries are perfectly seasoned.
Water Grill - Upscale seafood restaurant with gorgeous open-window seating. This is where I take my parents, but they also have a kid’s menu and ample space for large groups. The fish is fresh; they’re known to update the menu daily.
Mimoza Mediterranean Restaurant - Modern Turkish menu, warm atmosphere, attentive service. The other Gaslamp Mediterranean restaurant (Mezé) is more about drinks/ the nightlife atmosphere; this where you go for a delicious meal.
Manna Heaven BBQ - $30 all-you-can-eat Korean BBQ; friendliest service. It almost feels like a local’s secret, but they’ve definitely earned all the rave reviews.
(*) Chocolate Cafe - While I prefer their breakfast menu, this cafe is open until midnight and has a full-service dinner menu featuring flatbreads, savory/ sweet crepes, salads, and pasta. Leave room for dessert; their gelato is made in-house daily and Limoncello cheesecake is a local favorite.
(*) La Puerta - If you want Mexican food but prefer table service, go here, although it’s definitely still a bar environment. I recommend the mix-and-match street tacos, but you can’t go wrong with an order of carne asada fries for the table, either.
(*) Taco Centro - You order at the counter and then seat yourself. The salsa bar is one of the best, and although the tacos are made fresh, they’re not always served hot. That being said, highly recommend the hot churros - sometimes we stop here just for dessert.
(*) Prince St. Pizza - Skip it if you’re from the east coast (you guys have the best pizza), but this local favorite is worth the wait. They have vegan options as well.
Cowboy Star Restaurant & Butcher Shop - East Village, but go here if you’re looking for a steakhouse. I’ve never known anyone to have a bad experience here. Perfect service, all the food is delicious (not just the steak), and it’s my family’s go-to for special events and celebrations. The ambiance is elevated without feeling uppity, if you know what I mean.
(*) Houston TX Hot Chicken - A chain, but they have the best chicken sandwich in Gaslamp. However, when they say hot, they mean hot, so talk to the server before ordering!
(*) The Melt - Classic American food with a modern twist. I love their shakes, especially since they don’t serve anything with high-fructose corn syrup or preservatives/ artificial colors. There’s a kid’s menu, and while they don’t reinvent the wheel, it’s a solid spot if you’re in the mood for a good burger.
best happy hour in gaslamp
Happy Hour specials change often, so while I try to keep this post as current as possible, please double check just in case.
Taste and Thirst - 2 separate happy hours every day. Traditional happy hour is 3-8PM; 1/2 off all drinks and $3 beers, plus select food discounted. Second, late night happy hour is 8PM-12AM.
Werewolf - 3-6PM Monday through Friday.
Garage Kitchen and Bar - 51% off most alcohol and $3 off appetizers. 3-6PM daily and from open to 6pm on NFL Sundays.
Happy Does - $3 crispy chicken sliders or happy sliders, discounted beer and wine, 3-6PM Thursday and Friday. Discounted brunch menu 11AM-2PM Saturday and Sunday.
The Field Irish Pub - 3-6PM Monday through Friday. Discounted brunch menu/ drink specials 9AM-1PM Saturday and Sunday.
Zama San Diego - 5-7PM Sunday through Thursday, I wouldn’t go here outside of happy hour, but they’re one of the few places that offers a happy hour on Sunday.
dessert
SugarBears Sweet Provisions - I have a love-hate relationship with specialty cupcake stores because the flavors sound great but are often dry and not worth the price. When the owner told me their carrot cake cupcake is the best in San Diego, I was skeptical, but I have to say that he was right. The cupcakes are moist and flavorful but not so sugary-sweet that you feel sick afterwards.
Cali Cream - A must-try for ice cream lovers, with plenty of gluten-free/ vegan options. Highly recommend getting the ice cream flight; you can try 4 flavors for under $10, but it’s not so much that you won’t finish it. If you’re familiar with Handel’s Ice Cream, this is essentially their sister shop.
Ghirardelli Ice Cream & Chocolate Shop - Split a chocolate sundae, or pick from a huge selection of chocolates and treats to go. Open until midnight daily (1AM on Fri/ Sat) with plenty of seating for larger groups.
best rooftop bars and restaurants with a view in gaslamp
ALTITIUDE Sky Lounge - Best rooftop view of downtown, and service is phenomenal. Safe, welcoming environment. No smoking/ vaping.
The Pool House - Weekends are a party; weekdays are much more relaxing. Beach club vibe; service can be a slow.
Lumi - Upscale dinner spot, the sushi is fresh but overpriced.
Rustic Root - Chill, prime people watching spot. Go for the view, not the food/ drinks or service, which can be very hit or miss.
best shopping in gaslamp
While Gaslamp isn’t known as a shopping hotspot, you won’t want to skip these boutiques and specialty stores:
IT’SUGAR - Fun, modern candy store that has new novelties (ex: sour pickle straws) and old-school classics (Big League Chew, Pop Rocks, etc.)
Native Star - Features all Native American-made items from tribes across the United States - a truly unique shopping experience (with a gallery next door).
Wotown Vintage - California-cool, fairly priced vintage shop with has a large men’s selection.
Bards and Cards - Board games, D&D, collectibles, accessories, plus a den for card games.
San Diego Padres Team Store - Open year-round, so even if you can’t make it to a game, you can still pick up Padres gear, collectibles, and memorabilia.
