Gaslamp Quarter, the best area to stay in San Diego
This downtown neighborhood of San Diego close to the City Convention Center has made a name for itself for its vibrant nightlife. Visitors will find plenty of clubs and bars that attract a young crowd, so it is the best area to stay for visitors who enjoy a night on the town. More sedate activities include the Spreckels and Balboa Theaters offering music as well as comedy and drama. The restaurants include both independents and national chain alternatives. Horton Plaza Park is a great place to relax by day before the night activities with shopping alternatives to satisfy everyone.
The neighborhood’s name relates to the traditional feel that the Quarter has retained from a time when the Gas Lamps lit the streets. Once called Stingaree, it was home to many bars and brothels. Its 19th Century architecture is certainly a feature, yet the district is thoroughly modern in the facilities and accommodation available for visitors. The Convention Center’s proximity has guaranteed plenty of good hotels within Gaslamp Quarter.
Wyatt Earp was once in business here and walking tours are available by day to explain more about Gaslamp’s rich history and by night for those not interested in night clubs.
Hotels in Gaslamp Quarter
Other areas to stay in San Diego
Downtown
Around Gaslamp quarter, the downtown area has many activities on offer. The central place to go here is the Horton Plaza, a massive outdoor shopping complex featuring restaurants, shops and cafes as well as a great nightlife scene. The further away from the Gaslamp quarter, the cheaper hotels become, but prices are quite steep because of the central nature of the location.
This is a perfect area for all kinds of holidays as there are family friendly activities including a Children’s Museum, as well as fun bars and clubs for younger travellers. The area is charming with its Victorian architectural styles and there is always plenty to see and do here.
Hotels in Downtown San Diego
Coronado
If the hustle and bustle of downtown or the Gaslamp quarter is too much, this is a luxurious alternative location to take respite. A ferry ride across from or a short drive to the mainland, this island has a very relaxed vibe. The beaches are clean and there are quaint shops and al fresco style eateries in the main street. Hotels are a little more fancy and little more expensive, but well worth it if you’re looking for a relaxing San Diego holiday.
Hotels in Coronado
Mission Valley
This is a very budget friendly area with cheaper hotels available. The location is still fantastic and has easy access to the main city centre. T
he upscale Fashion Valley mall will delight shopaholics and there are plenty of walking tracks to get out and enjoy the sunshine.
Hotels in Mission Valley
Old Town
Close to Mission Valley is the first Spanish settlement on the U.S West Coast. Old Town retains the early Spanish heritage and celebrates it, which makes it a very vibrant place to stay. It features a well-preserved state historic park and 12 acres of insightful museums, art galleries and shops. The Mexican cuisine here is unbeatable. Accommodation in hotels here is affordable and relaxed, and most hotels offer discounts on Old Town Heritage Tours to learn more about the Spanish settlement and ongoing culture.
Hotels in Old Town
Pacific Beach
For the younger crowds looking for a party destination, this is the place. Staying fit and active while on holiday is easy here with stunning water side paved tracks perfect for walking, jogging or skating. Surfing is a lot of fun here for beginners through to experienced surfers. Belmont Park has amazing carnival rides and a 100-year old roller coaster called the Giant Dipper.
Staying here is affordable and fun and there are hotels and hostels to cater for a range of budgets.
Hotels in Pacific Beach
East Village and Little Italy
East of the Gaslamp quarter, this is an emerging cultural precinct that features fantastic restaurant choices and live music venues. It has a very vibrant atmosphere and multicultural elements to it. It boasts the best Italian cuisine in the city. Hotels are plentiful and affordable here and access to the main city centre is easy to achieve through public transport.
Hotels in East Village
Balboa Park
North of the downtown area, this is one of the city’s most visited neighbourhoods. The parklands offer beautiful garden spaces which make for a perfect atmosphere for an afternoon stroll or family picnic. This is also where the San Diego Zoo is which houses nearly 4,000 animals. Other attractions include the Old Globe Theatre and popular San Diego museums.
Accommodation here is comfortable and affordable. Even if you don’t stay in this area, you will certainly pay it a visit while in San Diego.
Hotels in Balboa Park
La Jolla
This is a more affluent stretch of the coastline that features calm waves crashing into the beautiful serene shore. Luxurious hotels are available with upscale rooms and designer boutiques making it appealing for a romantic getaway or indulgent vacation. The La Jolla Playhouse and the Museum of Contemporary Art make this a cultural experience as well as a relaxing one. The best area to stay in La Jolla is the village itself as this area is where most of the action happens.
Barrio Logan
South of downtown, this is the home of Hispanic culture and community which creates a vibrant multicultural atmosphere. There are plenty of authentic Mexican eateries and a flourishing arts scene in Chicano Park.
Staying here will be an excellent cultural immersion experience and a unique way to spend a holiday in San Diego.
Hotels near Chicano Park
Hillcrest
North of the downtown district, this is a lively and active area to stay in. It is very pedestrian friendly making it easy to get outdoors and enjoy the sunshine while staying fit and healthy while on holiday. Hotels are in close range to a number of eateries from fancy restaurants and more casual dining. There is a great shopping culture with vintage clothing stores as well as chic boutiques. This area has something to please anybody, and still easy to access the main city centre.
Hotels in Hillcrest
Point Loma
The highlight of this rugged peninsula where Europeans first landed is the Cabrillo National Monument which is a park including trails, pools and historical landmarks including the Point Loma Lighthouse. Watch the lovely sunset in Sunset Cliffs Natural Park before heading for Liberty Station known for its restaurants and shops. Seafood is the top choice on the Shelter and Harbor islands with Humphreys Concerts by the Bay the place for live music. Point Loma is just two miles from San Diego International Airport making it easily accessible for visitors who will find good accommodation alternatives. All in all, a nice neighborhood to stay.
Hotels in Point Loma
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