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San Diego is California’s second largest city and strikes the perfect balance between laid-back cool and city sophistication. A layered mix of communities make up the vibrant and eclectic neighbourhoods of San Diego, from the ‘jewel’ of La Jolla to the buzzing bars of the Gaslamp Quarter, to the glimmering Pacific Beach and hipsters of North Park. Often referred to as the ‘capital of craft’ San Diego thrives as a centre of innovation, creativity and culture, discovering the newest food trends first and experimenting with flavours. Only 30 minutes from the Mexican border, Hispanic influence is evident across the city. San Diego also boasts world-famous family attractions, including the San Diego Zoo and SeaWorld as well as 70 miles of coastline to enjoy. San Diego is a destination for everyone with exciting activity and enviable climate all year round.
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26 Apr 24
NEWS
Discover what’s new in San Diego this summerSummer is just around the corner and the city of San Diego is ready to ...Read moreDiscover what’s new in San Diego this summer - News & announcementsSummer is just around the corner and the city of San Diego is ready to showcase an array of new attractions, hotels and dining. See what’s new for summer in SoCal. Attractions Belmont Park, San Diego’s historic beachfront amusement park, is gearing up to celebrate its 99th anniversary this summer. To celebrate, it is launching Shipwreck Cove, a new ride and play area in the park. The pirate-themed play area, opening this summer, will have a sunken ship featuring a slide, telescopes and other kid-friendly features. The Park’s new tower ride offers thrill seekers views of the ocean and Mission Beach boardwalk. Events Bay to Park Paseo, a visionary project in San Diego endorsed by World Design Capital 2024, started with a celebration walk on April 13. Envisioned by urban planner John Nolen, it enhances the connection between San Diego Bay and Balboa Park. The project features installations from 13 design teams along the 1.7-mile stretch of Park Boulevard. Bay to Park Paseo aims to generate more walking and enjoyment of public spaces. Free public guided tours start May 4, continuing the first and third Saturday through November, while self-guided tours are available anytime. Taste of Little Italy, a renowned food event in San Diego, returns on June 18-19, promising two nights of gastronomy across 48 blocks of the neighborhood. With over 20 participating restaurants offering pizza, pasta, burgers, and sushi, foodies can explore a range of flavors. Guests will receive a Taste Passport upon arrival, allowing them to sample culinary delights as they roam, while live music adds to the vibrant atmosphere at Piazza della Famiglia and Piazza Basilone. New Hotels & Renovations In March, Hotel La Jolla, Curio Collection by Hilton, a city landmark in the picturesque seaside community of La Jolla Shores, finished a multi-million-dollar property renovation with 110 guestrooms and suites and 1,600 square feet of meetings and events space. The extensive revitalization showcases a modern beach-inspired aesthetic, as well as an all-new penthouse level restaurant concept, Sea & Sky. Estancia La Jolla Hotel & Spa completed its property-wide, $26 million renovation in April as it celebrates its 20th anniversary. A nod to its heritage with historic touches combined with modern design, it includes a new lobby and pool complex and upgraded meeting and group spaces. Arts and Culture The Museum of Photographic Arts at The San Diego Museum of Art (MOPA@SDMA) welcomed three new exhibitions this spring. Picture This: Recent Acquisitions, open now through August 4, showcases a variety of important themes and genres, including Portraiture, Abstraction/Manipulation, and Modernism. Storyteller: Work by Holly Roberts, open now through August 18, is a symbolic reflection of Roberts’ life and. The Artist Speaks: Cara Romero, opens April 27 – October 20, featuring the work of Cara Romero, an enrolled citizen of the Chemehuevi Indian Tribe.. Comic-Con Museum will open three upcoming exhibits featuring the famous Betty Boop, award-winning comic creator and Afrofuturist John Jennings, and a bi-national exhibition as a participating World Design Capital San Diego Tijuana 2024 community initiative. Scheduled to open to the public in May and June, these exhibits are all world premieres and original to the Museum. Exhibits include “Becoming Betty Boop,”, “Border Blitz: Artistas del Cómic de Tijuana,” featuring the art of Charles Glaubitz, Alejandra Yépiz Portillo, and Urbano Mata, the exhibit will highlight the diverse stories and perspectives of these border artists as told through their art. Restaurants and Bars This spring, Postino, the all-day restaurant and wine-café known for its cult-like following, is doubling down in San Diego, debuting two flagship locations, in Little Italy and Del Mar’s One Paseo urban village. The wine-cafés will serve an ever-changing selection of boutique wines and a menu of bruschetta, paninis, salads and charcuterie boards and shareables. In June, Chef Drew Deckman, owner of Deckman’s en el Mogor in Baja’s Valle de Guadalupe, will debut his family’s very first US restaurant in San Diego’s North Park neighborhood called 31THIRTYONE. At 31THIRTYONE, Deckman's brings the tastes of Southern California and northern Baja. The cause-based concept will fund regenerative farming projects—pledging 1% of monthly revenue to help farmers implement carbon farming projects. Awards and Recognitions Tara Monsod, the executive chef at the upscale Asian fusion restaurant Animae in downtown San Diego, has become the first San Diego chef in 34 years to be named a final nominee for a 2024 James Beard Award in the category of Best Chef: California. Esquire, a popular men’s lifestyle magazine, named The Lafayette Hotel & Swim Club its 2024 New Hotel of the Year. The Lafayette leads Esquire’s top 41 new hotels in North America and Europe. Transportation San Diego International Airport (SAN) will welcome Breeze Airways this spring and will offer five new flight options in and out of San Diego. Starting in late April, Breeze Airways will offer nonstop flights to Raleigh-Durham, North Carolina, followed by Jacksonville, Florida; Norfolk, Virginia; Cincinnati, Ohio; and Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. San Diego International Airport (SAN) has increased its nonstop service with a second daily flight to London Heathrow Airport on British Airways.Related News Stories: What's New in Florida 2024: Unveiling the Sunshine State's ... What's New in Daytona Beach - TravelMole Punta Gorda / Englewood Beach - TravelMole Visit Lauderdale - TravelMole TravelTech Show 2024 | ExCeL London 19-20 June 2024 Universal Hollywood tram crash injures guests Discover the Timeless Allure: Why Mexico Beckons as the Ultimate ... Partner News - TravelMole Strong January for Solomon Islands visitation Discover Mrs. Doubtfire's San Francisco
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15 Feb 24
NEWS
Springtime in San DiegoSpring into the SoCal vibe in San Diego. Springtime welcomes a host of new attractions ...Read moreSpringtime in San Diego - News & announcementsSpring into the SoCal vibe in San Diego. Springtime welcomes a host of new attractions across the city, new bars, eateries and arty events. Check out the best spring happenings in San Diego: Attractions & Events LEGOLAND California is gearing up to celebrate its 25th birthday ("brickday") in a big way. The park will introduce Dino Valley, a new land with three rides, a wholly transformed dino-dig space, and character meet and greets this spring. The new attractions include DUPLO Little Dino Trail, Explorer River Quest, and Coastersaurus. SeaWorld San Diego invites guests to experience the world of jellyfish in a new and interactive way with the debut of Jewels of the Sea: The Jellyfish Experience this spring. Visitors can see striking habitats, from one of the largest jelly cylinders in the country to an iconic walk-through arch and a giant viewing wall. San Diego and Tijuana have been named the 2024 World Design Capital. This distinction gives a platform to and celebrates the cities’ contributions to art and design. From May 1-5, The World Design Festival will take place in Tijuana. The festival will engage the cross-border community and international visitors to experience design in Tijuana through multiple activities, which include lectures, design exhibitions, public design workshops, and design studio open houses. New Hotels & Renovations Sheraton San Diego Hotel & Marina’s renovation of the Marina Tower will launch in early 2024. The redesign of the Marina Tower focuses on the hotel’s public spaces, guest rooms and suites. The resort will also welcome four new concepts: Rumorosa, a Cali-Baja-inspired dining outlet, the first San Diego Brewery X location, Sunglow harborside bar and cabana club, and Strada, a casual grab-and-go eatery. Arts and Culture The Japanese Friendship Garden is celebrating the annual Japanese tradition of Hanami with the 2024 Cherry Blossom Festival from March 7-10. The garden will host a variety of daily performances and fun activities for the entire family, including taiko drummers and a cosplay contest. Visitors will be able to stroll the upper and lower garden to experience the various features of the property and enjoy Cherry Blossom Trees. In celebration of the San Diego Natural History Museum's 150th birthday in 2024, the museum is offering free, one-time admission during the visitor's birthday month. The museum continues the party with a new outdoor Nature Trail, opening in spring 2024, showcasing varieties of beneficial plants native to the San Diego and Baja regions. The NTC and Cygnet Theatre recently broke ground in the Liberty Station Arts District for The Joan and Irwin Jacobs Performing Arts Center. The space, anticipated to open in spring 2025, will include a 289-seat proscenium theatre and a 150-seat flexible studio space, as well as state-of-the-art back-of-house support spaces such as dressing rooms, two green rooms, a costume shop, dedicated rehearsal and orchestra spaces and more. Restaurants and Bars Award-winning chef Phillip Esteban is adding to his growing list of fast-casual restaurant concepts with the opening of the long-awaited Wildflour in Liberty Station this spring. Influenced by hustling and bustling deli services from around the world, and integrating a mix of Southern California vibes, Wildflour will offer an all-day menu for a casual sit-down or takeout experience. From its namesake in the Philippines, the restaurant will focus on local ingredients, seafood and provisions. Following a 10-year closure, the Whaling Bar will reopen in early 2024. Opened in the 1940’s, the Wailing Bar was a favorite among notable locals and luminaries like Tom Hanks and Robin Williams. The new rendition will incorporate a new design but will bring back some original nautical-themed paintings and cocktails. The cocktail lounge will continue as part of the hotel, with its cocktail and bar menu managed by the SDCM Restaurant Group. The historic Lafayette Hotel recently revealed the latest installment of its transformation with Lou Lou's Jungle Bar. The bar brings a New York jazz nightclub atmosphere and live music, as well as prix fixe dining and elevated craft cocktails. The property is also set to debut Le Horse, a European-style restaurant that will pay homage to early 20th-century hotel fine dining, later this spring. Transportation San Diego International Airport (SAN) recently announced it will welcome Breeze Airways this spring and will offer five new flight options in and out of San Diego. Starting in late April, Breeze Airways will offer nonstop flights to Raleigh-Durham, North Carolina, followed by Jacksonville, Florida; Norfolk, Virginia; Cincinnati, Ohio; and Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.Related News Stories: What's new in Pasadena, CA Summer X Games coming back to SoCal San Diego Tourism Authority and Tripadvisor Launch First-of-its ... Visit California San Diego to shine bright In 2024 Chicago's newest openings and attractions for 2024 American Tours International News from Marriott International's Caribbean properties: Property ... Discover Mrs. Doubtfire's San Francisco Norse Atlantic Airways
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19 Sep 23
NEWS
Celebrating Hispanic heritage in San DiegoSan Diego’s history is deeply intertwined with Hispanic influences including artists, athletes and others. Hispanic ...Read moreCelebrating Hispanic heritage in San Diego - News & announcementsSan Diego’s history is deeply intertwined with Hispanic influences including artists, athletes and others. Hispanic Heritage Month is under way through October 15 and recognizes the contributions the American Latino community. San Diego Tourism Authority is celebrating by showcasing San Diego based luminaries in the arts, sports music and more. Rafael Payare Music Director, San Diego Symphony The Venezuelan-born Payare is an internationally renowned conductor who is now in his fourth season as San Diego Symphony’s Music Director. Among his many career milestones, Payare presided over the opening of the Rady Shell at Jacobs Park, the symphony’s outdoor venue on San Diego Bay. Under his leadership, the symphony will make its first-ever concert appearance in Tijuana, Mexico, in November 2023. Roxana Velásquez Maruja Baldwin Executive Director and CEO, San Diego Museum of Art Since she took over leadership, the Mexican-born Velásquez has played a key role in the institution’s rise as one of the top art museums on the West Coast. She has brought in high-profile exhibitions and led the acquisition of nearly 1,000 artworks, significantly increasing San Diego Museum of Art’s collections. Paola Villaseñor (aka Panca) Muralist Hailing from San Diego’s South Bay and now dividing her time between the U.S. and Mexico, Panca — born to an immigrant family — is known for her colorful murals with fantastical faces and eye-catching elements. Among her most notable works in San Diego are “SMILE,” a 48-foot mural spanning an interior bridge at the New Children’s Museum; and the towering painting of a melting ice cream cone (complete with distressed-looking face) on the side of Bread & Salt in Barrio Logan. Melanie Barcenas Forward, San Diego Wave FC A San Diego native and soccer prodigy, Barcenas made history at age 15 when she took the field for the San Diego Wave, becoming the youngest-ever player in the National Women’s Soccer League. It was just the latest groundbreaking moment for the Mexican-American athlete, who also was the first high-school player to sign a “name, image and likeness” (NIL) deal. She appeared on the cover of Time magazine at age 9. In 2023, Barcenas’ team is also embracing Hispanic heritage with a new line of Wave merchandise inspired by the city’s Latino community. The Wave’s home venue, Snapdragon Stadium, also celebrates Mexican Independence Day and Hispanic Heritage Month with special September events. San Diego Padres The Padres, San Diego’s MLB team since 1969, have a rich history of fielding Hispanic talent both from the U.S. and other countries, and three of the team’s biggest present-day stars — Manny Machado, Juan Soto and Fernando Tatis Jr. — are all of Dominican heritage. The team celebrates its multicultural makeup with its colorful City Connect uniforms, which pay homage in part to the vibrant colors of Baja California. The Padres also celebrate Hispanic heritage during September with multiple events. Ricardo Breceda Sculptor Ricardo Breceda’s larger-than-life sculptures of horses, sea serpents and more are a vibrant sight near San Diego County’s Anza-Borrego Desert State Park, where the Mexican-born artist maintains an outdoor studio open to the public. Over the past 25 years, he has created 130 of the metal sculptures, many of them depicting mythical or fanciful creatures. His most well-known work is a 350-feet-long sculpture of a serpent, which is layered with more than 1,000 metal scales. Mario Torero Muralist A legendary local muralist who pairs activism with art, Mario Torero has been painting and creating since the early 1960s. Torero, who is of Peruvian heritage, is a founding member of Centro Cultural de la Raza and of Chicano Park in Barrio Logan. Torero’s art has in turn been preserved by the Library of Congress, which purchased 20 of his works for its collection of Chicano art. For more about Hispanic heritage in San Diego, visit San Diego Hispanic Heritage Experiences and browse Hispanic-Owned Businesses . -
21 Jun 23
NEWS
Pride in San Diego all year roundYear-round, San Diego supports and celebrates the rich cultural diversity of its neighborhoods. During July ...Read morePride in San Diego all year round - News & announcementsYear-round, San Diego supports and celebrates the rich cultural diversity of its neighborhoods. During July San Diego’s fabulousness shines bright for San Diego Pride 2023. Held July 8-16, the annual event attracts more than 250,000 attendees each year and is the largest civic community event in the city. LGBTQIA+ participants and guests are invited to be a part of a rainbow-filled mile-long parade through Hillcrest and a two-day festival in Balboa Park over the weekend. The multi-day event boasts a full schedule including the Spirit of Stonewall Rally, Pride of Hillcrest Block Party, SheFest, the annual Pride 5K Race and more. Visitors can enjoy a creative city; 70 miles of coastline and pristine beaches, including the well-known, queer-friendly Black’s Beach. Here are some of the fun ways travelers can celebrate pride and support local businesses year-round. Drink and Eat The uptown neighborhood of Hillcrest is the heart of San Diego’s LGBTQIA+ community. Hillcrest's diverse dining scene offers a myriad of tastes. At the Hillcrest Brewing Company, the world’s first gay brewery, guests can feast on pizzas named BBQueer Chicken, the Meatballer and Sissy Shrimp Pesto while drinking brewery favorites like the Crotch Rocket Irish Red and Banana Hammock Scotch Ale. Travelers looking for Cali-Baja cuisine can indulge at Ortega's, A Mexican Bistro. Must-trys include the signature pomegranate margarita, savory queso fundido and zesty Baja shrimp ceviche. The LGBTQIA+-owned urban winery, Négociant Winery, offers a neighborhood wine experience with local craft food focused on sharing. Nightlife Hillcrest is also the LGBTQIA+ after-dark hub, with nightlife for practically every interest and style. Urban Mo’s Bar & Grill draws a boisterous nighttime (and afternoon) crowd and is especially popular on Thursday nights for line dancing. Rich’s San Diego is the largest and most popular gay nightclub, while Gossip Grill is a woman-owned LGBTQ+ Bar known for strong drinks and sassy service. Shopping Adjacent to Hillcrest, North Park is a trendy neighborhood that is popular with LGBTQIA+ travelers and locals alike. Shopping opportunities range from hip urban boutiques to one-of-a-kind stores to established retailers. LGBTQIA+ shoppers love Rufskin for sexy underwear, swimwear, sportswear and denim. Pigment is known for products that are organic, modern and homegrown, while Connect San Diego is a place where walls are lined with paintings, clothes and other merchandise artists are selling. The space is free to enter for non-members 11 a.m.-8 p.m. Occurring every Thursday during 3-7 p.m., the North Park Thursday Market showcases locally grown produce, artisan grocery items, prepared foods and hand-crafted goods. Sand, Waves and the Outdoors A visit to one of San Diego’s beaches is a must. Located beneath the bluffs of Torrey Pines State Nature Reserve in La Jolla, the clothing-optional Black’s Beach is often considered one of the most beautiful gay friendly beaches. Coronado Beach offers miles of white sand beach and the added allure of being the official training grounds of the local U.S. Navy SEALs. Visitors who prefer to work up a sweat on land can play volleyball in Balboa Park, bike along Mission Bay’s picturesque bike paths or hike in the scenic Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve. Arts and Culture San Diego is also a hot spot for theater. The Diversionary Theatre is one of the oldest gay and lesbian theaters in the country. San Diego is also home to two Tony Award®-winning theaters: The Old Globe in Balboa Park and the celebrated La Jolla Playhouse. . Entertainment Travelers looking for a laugh should swing by Finest City Improv, San Diego's premier club for professional improv comedy. Offering another opportunity for laughs and entertainment, Lips San Diego provides the ultimate experience in "drag dining" and is excellent for special occasions. Events and Festivals In addition to Pride, San Diego offers a variety of exciting LGBTQIA+ community events throughout the year. During Halloween, Hillcrest comes back from the dead during Nightmare on Normal Street. This annual trick-or-treat bash is the traditional starting place for the LGBTQIA+ community's Halloween festivities. Every February, food, beer, entertainment and beads galore are part of the festive Mardi Gras in Hillcrest. During FilmOut San Diego every spring, acclaimed LGBTQIA+ filmmakers bring cutting-edge cinema to the community with movies, panel discussions and festive parties. -
25 May 23
NEWS
Family fun in San DiegoThere is an abundance of exciting new additions at some of San Diego’s top attractions. ...Read moreFamily fun in San Diego - News & announcementsThere is an abundance of exciting new additions at some of San Diego’s top attractions. In theme parks and attractions, LEGOLAND California, SeaWorld San Diego, the San Diego Zoo and Sesame Place San Diego all have new experiences this year. LEGOLAND California debuted Miniland San Diego this year. Created over thousands of hours, Miniland San Diego features LEGO versions of iconic landmarks inspired by the Gaslamp District, the San Diego Convention Center, Coronado Bridge, Petco Park, Balboa Park and more. SeaWorld San Diego’s highly anticipated roller coaster, Artic Rescue, launched in the spring, taking the title of longest and fastest straddle coaster on the West Coast. The multi-launch ride invites guests to hop on a snowmobile for a chilly adventure. Also new this summer is Rescue Jr, a kid-friendly play area where children become park heroes while learning about animal rescue. The San Diego Zoo’s all-new Wildlife Explorer’s Basecamp is now open, inviting children to “go wild” as they learn about nature. Basecamp blends learning with physical activity and play. Belmont Park has big plans in motion for its 100th anniversary in 2025, including opening a new ride. In the meantime, a new interactive climbing tower called Sun Kid Tower will debut this summer, offering thrill seekers views of the Pacific Ocean and Mission Beach boardwalk. The park recently replaced its Control Freak ride with Flip Out, and expanded its Lazerblast Arcade. Sesame Place San Diego is home to family-friendly rides and water slides, shows and parades, and this summer the park will debut Dine with Elmo & Friends. This interactive adventure includes a buffet-style meal and entertainment. Sesame Place is an accredited Certified Autism Center, with team members trained in sensory awareness and program development. To celebrate the Fourth of July, the USS Midway Museum is hosting a fireworks viewing party from the flight deck of its historic aircraft carrier. In addition to the best view in town for the Big Bay Boom, guests will enjoy live entertainment, barbecue, photo opps and more. All the latest in San Diego entertainment and attractions -
06 Apr 23
Partner News
San Diego Tourism Authority and Tripadvisor Launch First-of-its-Kind Immersive Mural Art ExperienceSDTA and Tripadvisor to deliver an innovative art campaign "The Sunny Side of Things" to ...Read moreSan Diego Tourism Authority and Tripadvisor Launch First-of-its-Kind Immersive Mural Art Experience - News & announcementsSDTA and Tripadvisor to deliver an innovative art campaign "The Sunny Side of Things" to entice travel to San Diego As wanderlust travelers begin to plan their spring and summer getaways, the San Diego Tourism Authority (SDTA) has partnered with Tripadvisor to attract visitors to San Diego through an innovative art installation and augmented reality filter that captures the destination's sunny optimism and positivity. Running now through April 30, "The Sunny Side of Things," a first-of-its-kind immersive mural art campaign will appear in three of the largest U.S. cities: New York, Los Angeles and Chicago. Created by Wanderlab, Tripadvisor's in-house creative and content studio for the SDTA, the street murals were hand-painted by local San Diego artists Channin Fulton (New York Mural), Hanna Gundrum (Los Angeles Mural) and Phoebe Cornog (Chicago Mural). Each of the murals provide a unique view into the vibrant culture, beaches, attractions and outdoor activities that await visitors in America's Finest City. Complementing the artfully created masterpieces are augmented reality filters that capture the city’s optimistic outlook on life. By scanning QR codes, viewers can unlock an array of experiences that will entice them to discover all the incredible attractions and experiences San Diego offers and book a trip. Not only will mesmerizing visuals reveal the experience that awaits travelers, but through the QR codes, visitors are invited to enter and have a chance to win the San Diego Sunshine Kit Sweepstakes. Showcasing San Diego's iconic sights, products and brands, the San Diego Sunshine Kit offer a delightful collection of local companies that are making their mark with their own SoCal flair and sustainable practices. The kit will inspire visitation to San Diego with a variety of products from Vuori, Coola, Chuoac Chocolatier, ALOHA Collection, 1502 Candle Company and tickets to experience San Diego’s attractions with admission to the San Diego Zoo, LEGOLAND California and Petco Park. "We are excited to join forces with Tripadvisor and bring the San Diego brand to life through beautiful visuals, creative expression and cutting-edge technology," said SDTA COO Kerri Verbeke Kapich. "Our partnership with Tripadvisor empowers the San Diego Tourism Authority to propel our beloved destination towards greater heights and engage travelers to plan a visit to San Diego through experiential activations." The San Diego artists chosen for this campaign convey diverse, yet complementary styles that connect to one another through joyous exuberance in their portfolios. New York Mural (102 Ludlow, Lower East Side, New York City) Channin Fulton (@channinfulton) is a San Diego-based illustrator with a knack for mural painting, lettering, and other playful curiosities. Her methods, aesthetics, and conceptual motivations and inspiration are driven by the California beach and Mexican street culture that surrounds her. She brings a “California vibe” into her work through bold shape and vibrant color. Los Angeles Mural (600 N La Brea Avenue, Los Angeles) Hanna Gundrum (@littlehouseink) is a bold commercial artist with 15 years of experience painting murals in a variety of styles. Her work brings the share-worthy “funshine” as the quintessential photo opp – it is playful, memorable, and interactive. About her art, “There’s something about arranging visual information that’s always soothed my anxious soul. The thread that ties all of my work together is color. Bright, bold “pay attention to me!” color and juicy black lines.” Chicago Mural (740 W Randolph, West Loop, Chicago) Phoebe Cornog (@phoebecornog) is a San Diego-based artist known for her intricate letters, funky color palettes, bold statement pieces and interesting sense of humor. She believes that “it’s not work if it’s fun,” and she strives to breathe that motto into all of her projects. When not painting murals or creating art installations, Phoebe likes to try the new restaurants in town (especially if they have oysters) and spend time at the beach. To help share the joy of San Diego, a collection of animated GIFS were created from elements of murals and made them available as "stickers" for social media posts on Instagram and Facebook. -
10 Feb 22
NEWS
San Diego Museum Month is backSan Diego's Museum Month is returning and offering half-price admission and in-person experiences at 45+ ...Read moreSan Diego Museum Month is back - News & announcementsSan Diego's Museum Month is returning and offering half-price admission and in-person experiences at 45+ local museums and cultural attractions. Following a scaled-back and largely virtual version in 2021 due to COVovidID-19 closures, this popular program, which the San Diego Museum Council oversees, will offer in-person visitation again as it celebrates its 33rd year promoting San Diego. Long-time partner Macy's has returned as the event's community engagement program sponsor. Major funding is also provided by the California Arts Council, the San Diego Commission for Arts and Culture, and the County of San Diego. "Museum Month is the perfect time to get out and discover something new in San Diego," said San Diego Museum Council Executive Director Bob Lehman. Julie Coker, president and CEO of the San Diego Tourism Authority, said Museum Month provides another reason for visitors to come to San Diego, especially during what is traditionally a slower time for the local tourism industry. "San Diego Museum Month highlights our destination's rich and diverse cultural offerings and gives travelers another reason to come here." During San Diego Museum Month, residents and visitors enjoy special half-off admission at over 45 local museums, historic sites, gardens, aquariums and other cultural destinations throughout San Diego County. It covers every age and interest, including visual art and design, children and families, science and nature, history, music and cultural heritage. The Museum Month pass is available for free at all Macy's store locations in San Diego County. Each Museum Month pass can be used for up to four half-priced admissions at any of the participating museums. Museum Month pass can be used at all eligible museums through February 28, 2022. A full list of participating museums, upcoming exhibitions and special events, can be found at www.sandiegomuseumcouncil.org. -
29 Jan 22
NEWS
Seven ways to experience San DiegoHolidays always seems to be about trade-offs and choices. The beach or the mountains? Or ...Read moreSeven ways to experience San Diego - News & announcementsHolidays always seems to be about trade-offs and choices. The beach or the mountains? Or the desert instead? Small town ambiance or big city vibes? Family friendly or action-packed nightlife? When it comes to San Diego, travellers don't have to choose only one option because it's all right here. As a biodiverse region, San Diego has the beaches, bays, mountains, lakes and deserts within a short drive. But it is not just about the landscape, San Diego can deliver a variety of experiences. Here is how to have a have the perfect multi-faceted holiday. 1. Beaches and Bays Even along its 70-miles of coastline, San Diego delivers diversity. For those looking for high-end accommodations and fashionable restaurants coupled with pristine sandy beaches, La Jolla is the place to go. Just south of La Jolla is Pacific Beach, which offers expansive beaches and a boardwalk along with a nightlife that will appeal to those who want a plethora of party options. For a more laidback, classic beach town vibe, visitors can head a little farther south to Ocean Beach to enjoy funky bars, surf and antique shops. 2. Lakes While San Diego's beaches and bays often get the attention, the region is also a land of lakes, with 20 freshwater lakes and reservoirs. One local favourite is Lake Murray in the centrally located Mission Trails Regional Park. There are options to fish, motorboat, rowboat, kayak or pedal boat. Located just 25 minutes northeast from downtown San Diego is the San Vicente Reservoir, the city's largest. There are places to picnic and barbecue, but the real draw is fishing as the clearwater reservoir. It is also a great spot for boating, kayaking, waterskiing and wakeboarding. 3. Mountains For the rustic feel of a mountain retreat, San Diego's East County provides majestic ranges to explore. Located less than an hour from downtown San Diego is the Cuyamaca Rancho State Park, which is home to more than 100 miles of hiking trails, many open to horseback riders, as well as campgrounds and picnic sites. On a clear day, the park's highest viewpoint, Cuyamaca Peak (6,512 feet), reveals views of Mexico, mountain ranges near Los Angeles and wide expanses of desert. A little farther east is the pine-studded Laguna Mountains, located within the Cleveland National Forest's 8,600-acre spread. It offers opportunities for hiking, biking, camping, fishing, and mountain climbing during the summer months and sledding and tobogganing in the winter. 4. Deserts The San Diego region also offers up the dramatic beauty of the desert for visitors to explore. To the east is the 600,000-acre Anza-Borrego Desert State Park, California's largest state park. Filled with sweeping landscapes of cacti and other unique desert vegetation, the park is also home to roadrunners, golden eagles, kit foxes, desert iguanas and lizards. For those looking for more pampering, the nearby desert community of Borrego Springs is home a number of hotels and resorts. 5. Small town San Diego might be the country's eighth largest city, but the region boasts a number of small towns for those looking to escape the hectic pace. To the east there is the historic town of Julian, which dates back more than a century and was home to the only gold rush in Southern California. The town is known for its apple pies, quaint shops, art galleries, wine tasting rooms, and charming hotels and inns. For those looking for small town beach feel, Encinitas to the north is worth checking out as it harkens back to the historic Highway 101 beach culture of yesteryear.. 6. Urban For the more metropolitan-type traveller, downtown San Diego offers all the hustle, bustle and culture. The historic Gaslamp Quarter is home to a diverse line-up of restaurants, shops and entertainment venues as well as spas, art galleries and artisan shops. Nearby Little Italy has a lively neighbourhood feel fuelled by outdoor cafés, international restaurants, craft breweries, art galleries, and the festive Piazza della Famiglia. 7. International The most distinctive destination that the region has to offer is that of Baja California, Mexico — allowing visitors the chance for a two-nation holiday. A short drive or trolley ride from downtown San Diego is the US-Mexico border providing access to Tijuana, Rosarito, Ensenada and Guadalupe Valley, a cluster of cities known for their rich artistic and culinary offerings. Tijuana is an energetic hub of activity day and night with duty-free shopping, Mexican cuisine and a tremendous arts and culture scene. Rosarito is a resort community known for its beaches, oceanfront hotels, aquatic adventures, shopping, seafood dining and nightlife. Ensenada, which is a 90-minute drive from San Diego, offers ocean vistas as well as taco shops, seafood carts, craft breweries and mescal and margarita bars. Just outside Ensenada is the Valle De Guadalupe, considered the Napa Valley of Mexico as it produces 90% of the country's wine and features over 100 wineries. -
27 Jan 22
Partner News
San Diego Launches New “Happy and You Know It” Brand CampaignTo stimulate demand during the upcoming spring and summer season, the San Diego Tourism ...Read moreSan Diego Launches New “Happy and You Know It” Brand Campaign - News & announcementsTo stimulate demand during the upcoming spring and summer season, the San Diego Tourism Authority (SDTA) is launching a new brand advertising campaign – “Happy and You Know It” – with the TV commercial debuting on national TV on Jan. 29 during the Farmers Insurance Open. The SDTA plans to spend $8 million promoting San Diego through the end of June, with $6.27 million dedicated to “Happy and You Know It.” The SDTA designed the multi-layered campaign to inspire visitation by reinforcing that happiness comes naturally in San Diego with everyone able to express that joy in their own unique way. Using new music from Michael Franti & Spearhead, the theme song for the campaign modernizes the catchy nursey rhyme song with upbeat sounds to evoke the fun, vibrant and inviting characteristics of the destination. Julie Coker, SDTA’s president and CEO, said the new campaign builds on the “Sunny Outlook” brand that the organization has been cultivating for more than a decade and which has helped make San Diego one of the country’s top destinations. “Now more than ever travelers are looking for places with diverse communities and people where they can escape and explore, and San Diego fits the bill for so many would-be travelers,” Coker said. “Our natural beauty, our outdoor offerings, world class arts and cultural attractions, and our near-perfect weather makes for a vacation that is both happy and healthy.” She pointed to recent findings from Destination Analysts, a market research firm that surveys U.S. travel attitudes and behaviors, that showed over the next 12 months, Americans are most interested in enjoying scenic beauty, warm weather outdoor activities, road trips, dining in regional restaurants, visiting historical sites and enjoying street food during their travels. “Those type of experiences is exactly what San Diego has to offer, and this campaign will be key in getting that message out to potential visitors to ensure San Diego has strong visitation throughout the busy spring and summer months so our tourism industry can continue its ongoing recovery,” Coker said. The spring media buy for “Happy and You Know It” will focus on sports programming as it aligns with San Diego’s outdoor and wellness attributes. Aside from the Farmers Insurance Open golf tournament held at Torrey Pines, TV programming highlights will include two spots in the Super Bowl’s pre-game coverage, the Beijing 2022 Winter Olympics, NCAA March Madness, NBA regular season as well as other primetime programming in select markets. The “Happy and You Know It” campaign will use a multi-media approach including television, digital, radio, and billboards that will reach western regional and national audiences with a focus on the key markets of Los Angeles, Phoenix, San Francisco and Sacramento. The SDTA expects the campaign to deliver 250.4 million impressions over the course of the next five months. The development of the new “Happy and You Know It” campaign is the product of extensive brand research that the SDTA and its advertising agency, The Shipyard, conducted over the last year. Focus groups consisting of leisure travelers in California, the West, Northeast, Southeast and Midwest were interviewed to determine how attitudes and perceptions of the San Diego brand have evolved throughout the pandemic. The clear findings were that San Diego has a well-defined brand with focus group participants describing the destination as a “feel-good, friendly, vibrant place that is both laidback and lively,” said Kerri Kapich, SDTA’s chief operating officer who oversees its marketing efforts. “The vibe and the product are in complete alignment with consumers sentiment, travel motivators and what is emotionally connecting them with a destination,” Kapich said. “San Diego’s brand has emerged stronger than it was before the pandemic, which means we have an opportunity to attract more visitors with our sunny skies and positive outlook.” The below links can be used to view the “Happy and You Know It” campaign assets: -
26 Jan 22
Partner News
Seven Destinations in OneWhen it comes to San Diego, travelers don’t have to choose. With vacations, it ...Read moreSeven Destinations in One - News & announcementsWhen it comes to San Diego, travelers don’t have to choose.With vacations, it always seems to be about trade-offs and choices. The beach or the mountains? What about the desert instead? Small town feel or big city vibes? Family friendly or action-packed nightlife? Arts and culture offerings or outdoor activities? When it comes to San Diego, travelers don’t have to choose. It’s all right here. As the most biodiverse region in the country, San Diego has the beaches, bays, mountains, lakes and deserts within a short drive. But it is not just about the landscape, San Diego can deliver a variety of experiences. Here is how to have it all in just one vacation. 1. Beaches and Bays Even along its 70-miles of coastline, San Diego delivers diversity. For those looking for high-end accommodations and fashionable restaurants coupled with pristine sandy beaches and to-die-for views, La Jolla is the place to go. Just south of La Jolla is Pacific Beach, which offers expansive beaches and a boardwalk along with a nightlife that will appeal to those who want a plethora of party options along la playa. For a more laidback, classic beach town vibe, visitors can head a little farther south to Ocean Beach to enjoy funky bars while surveying souvenir, surf and antique shops. 2. Lakes While San Diego’s beaches and bays often get the attention, the region is also a land of lakes, with 20 freshwater lakes and reservoirs. One local favorite is Lake Murray in the centrally located Mission Trails Regional Park. Fishing is at its best December through September when black crappie, bass, bluegill and catfish abound. But for those uninterested in catching their own dinner, there are options to motorboat, rowboat, kayak or pedal boat. Located just 25 minutes northeast from downtown San Diego is the San Vicente Reservoir, the city’s largest. There are places to picnic and barbecue, but the real draw is fishing as the clearwater reservoir is home to crappie, sunfish, channel catfish and Florida strain largemouth bass. It is also a great spot for boating, kayaking, waterskiing and wakeboarding. 3. Mountains For those looking for the rustic feel of a mountain retreat, San Diego’s East County provides majestic ranges to explore. Located less than an hour from downtown San Diego is the Cuyamaca Rancho State Park, which is home to more than 100 miles of hiking trails, many open to horseback riders, as well as campgrounds and picnic sites. On a clear day, the park’s highest viewpoint, Cuyamaca Peak (6,512 feet), reveals views of Mexico, mountain ranges near Los Angeles and wide expanses of desert. A little farther east is the pine-studded Laguna Mountains, located within the Cleveland National Forest’s 8,600-acre spread. It offers opportunities for hiking, biking, camping, fishing, and mountain climbing during the summer months and sledding and tobogganing in the winter. 4. Deserts The San Diego region also offers up the stark and dramatic beauty of the desert for visitors to explore. To the east is the 600,000-acre Anza-Borrego Desert State Park, California’s largest state park. Filled with sweeping landscapes of cacti and other unique desert vegetation, the park is also home to roadrunners, golden eagles, kit foxes, desert iguanas and lizards. During the spring, the dry rugged landscape is transformed by winter rains into a kaleidoscope of colorful flowers. For those looking for more pampering, the nearby desert community of Borrego Springs is home a number of hotels and resorts, including La Casa del Zoro, which offers high-end accommodations, swimming pools, a spa, tennis and pickleball courts, and yoga sessions. 5. Small town San Diego might be the country’s eighth largest city, but the region boasts a number of small towns for those looking to escape the hectic pace of city life. To the east there is the historic town of Julian, which dates back more than a century and was home to the only gold rush in Southern California. The town is known for its apple pies, quaint shops, art galleries, wine tasting rooms, and charming hotels and inns. For those looking for small town beach feel, Encinitas to the north is worth checking out as it harkens back to the historic Highway 101 beach culture of yesteryear. Its main street features high-end shops, chic restaurants and coffee shops while its nearby beaches are among some of the most coveted in the region. 6. Urban For the more metropolitan-type traveler, downtown San Diego offers all the hustle, bustle and culture they could desire. The historic Gaslamp Quarter is home to a diverse line up of restaurants, shops and entertainment venues as well as spas, art galleries and artisan shops. Nearby Little Italy is perfect for any urban enthusiast with its lively neighborhood feel fueled by outdoor cafés, international restaurants, craft breweries, wineries, art galleries, unique shops, boutique hotels, and the festive Piazza della Famiglia. 7. International But the most distinctive destination that the region has to offer is that of Baja California, Mexico — allowing visitors the chance for a two-nation vacation. A short drive or trolley ride from downtown San Diego is the U.S.-Mexico border providing access to Tijuana, Rosarito, Ensenada and Guadalupe Valley, a cluster of cities known for their rich artistic and culinary offerings. Tijuana is an energetic hub of activity day and night with duty-free shopping, Mexican cuisine, a tremendous arts and culture scene — highlighted by the Tijuana Cultural Center. Rosarito is a resort community known for its beaches, oceanfront hotels, aquatic adventures, shopping, seafood dining and nightlife. Ensenada, which is a 90-minute drive from San Diego, offers breathtaking ocean vistas as well as taco shops, seafood carts, craft breweries, and mescal and margarita bars. Just outside Ensenada is the Valle De Guadalupe, considered the Napa Valley of Mexico as it produces 90% of the country’s wine and features over 100 wineries. It also home to outstanding restaurants, serving gourmet farm-fresh cuisine and local seafood. -
15 Jan 22
NEWS
San Diego: What’s new in 2022Here's a quick look at new happenings, attractions, food, art and more in San Diego ...Read moreSan Diego: What’s new in 2022 - News & announcementsHere's a quick look at new happenings, attractions, food, art and more in San Diego this year. Attractions and Events The 3.2-acre Denny Sanford Wildlife Explorers Basecamp at the San Diego Zoo, which opens February 2022 on the former Children's Zoo site, will blend innovation with opportunities to explore a variety of species, ranging from leafcutter ants and orb weaver spiders to prairie dogs and sloths. Opening March 2022, Sesame Place San Diego will feature seven Sesame Street-themed rides, an interactive musical play area and 11 water attractions, including a 500,000-gallon wave pool—one of the largest in Southern California. The park will also have an interactive Sesame Street Neighbourhood complete with the iconic 123 Stoop, live character shows, daily parades, photo opportunities, and, of course, everyone's favorite Muppet characters. Arts and Culture Now its 33rd year, San Diego Museum Month is returning from February 1 to February 28, 2022, with half-off admission and in-person museum experiences at 45+ local museums and cultural attractions. The Museum Month pass is available for free at all Macy's store locations in San Diego County. Visitors can use each Museum Month pass all month long for up to four half-priced admissions at any of the participating museums. Reopening April 2022, the Museum of Contemporary Art San Diego will be expanding its La Jolla campus, allowing for the dedicated display of the permanent collection alongside the presentation of temporary exhibitions. The expansion includes clarifying the entry sequence to the building and expanding gallery space. A large, flexible multipurpose gallery on the lower level will provide capacity for public programs, artist talks, performance art, music and other educational activities. Restaurants and Bars Opened December 2021 in University Heights, San Diego's first absinthe bar and bistro Wormwood showcases more than 30 absinthes sourced from Europe and the United States, which are served in slow-drip fountains with a cube of sugar. The bistro's French-influenced fare revisits classic dishes and features small plates and shareable entrees prepared with local ingredients. Coco Maya, by Miss B's Coconut Club, set to open on Little Italy's buzzing India Street in March of 2022, will offer an open-air aesthetic designed to reflect the boho chic vibes of Tulum, Mexico. Its main cocktail bar will sit under a massive skylight and the roof will be removed to create a 900 square foot deck. The restaurant's Caribbean-inspired menus will feature tequila drinks and modern takes on Jamaican coal pot cooking from a Josper Charcoal oven-powered kitchen. Getting Around In November 2021, the San Diego Trolley opened its expanded UC San Diego Blue Line that now runs all the way from the U.S.-Mexico border to UC San Diego in La Jolla to the UTC Transit Center, adding nine new Trolley stations. The Trolley has on three color-coded lines connecting San Diego's east, south and north county communities with downtown San Diego. San Diego International Airport (SAN) launched the 'San Diego Flyer,' a free electric shuttle bus service between the airport and Old Town Transit Center in November 2021. The shuttle operates seven days a week, with an average arrival every 20 to 30 minutes. For more information on San Diego's offerings, travel packages and coupons for attractions, restaurants and more, visit the San Diego Tourism Authority's website at www.sandiego.org -
07 Jan 22
NEWS
Taco tasting by San Diego TrolleySan Diego recently extended its Trolley system so that the Blue Line now runs all ...Read moreTaco tasting by San Diego Trolley - News & announcementsSan Diego recently extended its Trolley system so that the Blue Line now runs all the way from the U.S.-Mexico border to La Jolla in the north. This $2.2 billion expansion also opens up opportunities for sight-seeing, shopping and taco tasting—a favorite local pastime. San Diego's proximity to Mexico, plus abundance of fresh ingredients, have made the region a must-visit destination for foodies and taco lovers everywhere. With an adult day pass costing as little as $6, the Trolley also provides a low-cost way to see the sights and taste the bites that make San Diego such a unique destination. Every day can be a Taco Trolley day: A perfect place to start is at the new UTC Trolley station, which not only offers easy access to some of the region's best shopping at the Westfield UTC but is also home to Tocaya Modern Mexican, a casual eatery known for its healthy fare that offers up plenty of vegan options. The pina pastor is a standout with its inventive mix of adobo tofu, vegan chipotle jack cheese, grilled pineapple salsa, red peppers, onions and arbol salsa. Eight stops down is the Clairmont Drive Trolley station where a short walk leads to Mike's Red Tacos food truck. This new addition to Bay Park neighborhood, serves up its acclaimed birria tacos featuring locally sourced, fresh tortillas dipped in chili oil and crisped up for their signature red color. A few stops further south is the Old Town Trolley station, so named for the nearby Old Town San Diego State Historic Park, which features preserved buildings and museums. It also has more than 30 neighboring restaurants that offer a wide range of cuisines, including traditional and contemporary Mexican dishes. The new Old Town Urban Market, an outdoor dining and entertainment complex six blocks from the station, is home to the Michelin-recognized Tuetano Taqueria, which specializes in slow-cooked, Tijuana-style beef birria tacos. The very next trolley station is the Washington Street stop, where just up the hill sits Lucha Libre Taco Shop. The restaurant's decor is inspired by the bright colors and distinctive masks of Mexican wrestling and the menu features dishes like the "undefeated seafood taco" and the "birria quesa taco" with beef birria, melted cheese, onions, cilantro and salsa muerta. A couple stops south on the Blue Line is the County Center/Little Italy station where visitors can easily walk to King and Queen Cantina, a hip, art-filled eatery in the heart of San Diego's lively Little Italy district. The eclectic menu features all kinds of specialty tacos, including a Hot Cheetos asada taco, which comes with melted cheese, Flamin' Hot Cheetos, chipotle aioli, lime crema, green cabbage, and topped with serrano sauce, red radish and cilantro. This is just the tip of the taco tastings available in San Diego. For more information on San Diego's offerings, including exciting vacation packages, visit the San Diego Tourism Authority's website at www.sandiego.org.