Nightlife in the Gaslamp
Gaslamp Quarter is a stunning blend of vintage and trendy. This picturesque neighborhood is home to one of San Diego’s hottest nightlife scenes, set among a backdrop of Victorian-era architecture. It’s the perfect place to visit for lovers of art, music, culture and excitement.
The Gaslamp Quarter is actually featured in the Best Attractions in San Diego!.
The Historic Gaslamp Quarter San Diego
Fun in the Historic Gaslamp Quarter
The historic Gaslamp Quarter is a part of downtown San Diego, running from Harbor Drive to Broadway along 4th and 5th Avenue. It has a rich history and countless modern amenities. No trip to San Diego is complete without spending at least a day in this vibrant entertainment district.
San Diego residents head to Gaslamp Quarter to have fun, which is one reason this area is known as San Diego’s playground. You can find over 100 different restaurants, shops, pubs and other hot spots, so it’s next to impossible to get bored. This incredible variety appeals to many different tourists, including families, couples and urban adventurers.
Bayside Boardwalk at Seaport Village in the Embarcadero near the Gaslamp Quarter
Visiting from a Cruise Ship?
If you are in town from a cruise ship, the Gaslamp Quarter is the perfect place to grab a bite to eat of head out for a drink. There is even a fun and historic walking tour around the Gaslamp called the Brothels, Bites and Booze: San Diego Gaslamp Walking Tour and we feature this among other things in our Best Things to Do Near the Cruise Port article.
Historic Buildings in the Gaslamp San Diego
History of the Gaslamp Quarter
If you’re looking for an exciting day trip, Gaslamp Quarter is filled with things to do, and it’s within walking distance of many of San Diego’s must-see locations. People who love photography can snap amazing Instagram pics at the waterfront or among the city's historic buildings.
Gaslamp Museum at the Davis-Horton House Museum that was built in 1850 in what was then called "New Town" and it is the oldest structure in Downtown San Diego to date. This historic house was one of the homes of Alonzo Horton who is considered the "Father of San Diego".
Alonzo Horton, a real estate developer, helped build "New Town" by purchasing 960 acres of land along San Diego Bay in 1867. He was responsible for transforming San Diego to what it is today.
The USS Midway Museum next to The Kiss Statue near the Gaslamp
Attractions near the Gaslamp San Diego
Seaport Village is less than a mile away in the Embarcadero District, providing incredible views of the San Diego Bay. Another popular location for tourists is the USS Midway Museum, just 1 mile from Gaslamp Quarter. You can reach famous Balboa Park, San Diego’s massive city park, by walking approximately 1.5 miles north.
The Beautiful Pendry San Diego Hotel in the Gaslamp Quarter
Hotels in the Gaslamp District
Whether you’re in the mood for romance, sports, art or great food, this neighborhood has it all. That’s one reason why picking a hotel located in the heart of the Gaslamp is such a great idea — and why you have to book well ahead of time. You can check out breathtaking beaches during the day, go back to the hotel to change into your finest and go out to party every night.
Hotel Indigo is a great option if you want to be in the thick of it. Its great location is on the border of the Gaslamp Quarter and East Village and just next to Petco Park making it a great hotel if you are looking to go to a San Diego Padres baseball game.
If your budget is a bit higher make sure to check out the beautiful 5 star Pendry San Diego known for its impressive location, attentive staff and beautiful hotel. Also Provisional Kitchen is one of our favorite restaurants downtown and it is attached to the Pendry San Diego.
Indulge in contemporary comfort at the AC Hotel by Marriott San Diego Downtown Gaslamp Quarter. Located in the heart of Gaslamp, surrounded by cafes and vibrant nightlife, our chic lodging is the perfect base to explore PETCO Park, the cruise ship port, Balboa Park, the Convention Center, and the USS Midway. Experience modern design and prime location for an unforgettable stay.
Most of the hotels in downtown San Diego have valet parking as it is a necessity.
Popular Hotels in Gaslamp Quarter
Dressing up as the Harry Potter Characters during Comic-Con San Diego
Getting to the Gaslamp District
Getting to the Gaslamp is easy. It’s only 3.5 miles from the San Diego International Airport. There are taxis, trolleys and shuttles to many of the hotels in the area.