San Diego Symphony

Here are some tips for buying tickets to see the San Diego Symphony Orchestra.

How to Buy Tickets

The Symphony offers multiple ways to buy tickets.

You can buy tickets directly from the Symphony’s website, or you can download the San Diego Symphony app on your smartphone. This gives you digital access to your booking as long as you have your phone, so no more misplaced tickets!

Alternatively, call the Symphony Ticket Office at 619-235-0804.

Before a Show at the Rady Shell Theater

When to Visit

In my opinion, the concerts at The Rady Shell in Jacobs Park are the best way to see the Symphony. I highly recommend buying your tickets during the summer when these outdoor concerts are held, though watching a performance at the historic stage of the Jacobs Music Center is exciting too.

If you’re looking for free things to do in San Diego, you can even watch the Symphony practice at the Rady Shell for free on summer afternoons!

These open rehearsals are held throughout June, July, and August, with a schedule available on The Rady Shell’s website.

Long MTS Bus in Downtown San Diego

The Symphony’s permanent home is at 1245 Seventh Ave, San Diego, CA 92101. The Rady Shell venue address is 222 Marina Park Way, San Diego, CA 92101.

Both venues are accessible by public transit. Downtown San Diego has its own electric shuttle, the FRED Shuttle, which can be requested via app from anywhere in the service area.

I highly recommend the shuttle program when you’re in one of its current operation zones in place of a rideshare, as it’s typically cheaper and more eco-friendly too!

You can find the electric shuttles in Downtown, Pacific Beach, Oceanside, Carlsbad and Coronado.

Walking up to the Rady Shell Theater

Where to Park

There is no on-site parking at the Jacobs Music Center, but there are parking lots within a 5-minute walk of the venue.

On-site parking at The Rady Shell can be reserved ahead of time to guarantee your spot. Otherwise, consider taking the trolley, which has a Convention Center Station stop right outside the park.

The Box Office at the Rady Shell Theater

Accessibility Info

All sections of The Rady Shell seating are ADA accessible, and designated accessible seats are available upon request. The indoor symphony hall is also ADA-compliant.

On of the Best Swimming Pools in San Diego at the Hilton San Diego Bayfront

Close Hotels

You’re spoiled for choice when looking for hotels downtown, and we’ve got lists of the best of the best around the Convention Center which is about a 5-minute walk from The Rady Shell.

One of my top picks in the area is the Hilton San Diego Bayfront, as I love the view overlooking the bay from the rooms.

These tips will help you leave the stress behind so you can focus on the concert experience.

How Early Should You Get There?

Symphony tickets have reserved seats, so you don’t have to show up too early. We suggest planning to get there about 30 minutes before your show starts, which gives you some buffer time for any delays.

View of Seaport Village at the Embarcadero

What Amenities Are at The Rady Shell?

The Rady Shell has public bathrooms. Bringing outside food or drink into the park during a show isn’t allowed, but you can dine before your concert if you pre-order a meal.

Otherwise, plan to eat before the show; the restaurants around Seaport Village are great, as are those in Little Italy!

The Rady Shell Theater is Right on the Bay

See the Sights in the City

In addition to housing the Symphony, The Rady Shell also serves as a stage for touring musicians, major concerts, comedians, and other performances. Check the dates around your visit to see what shows are coming up.

We also suggest taking a tour of the city like the San Diego Walking Tour: Balboa Park with a Local Guide.