From Live Flamenco Shows to Adult Arcades and Rooftop PoolsāThese Activities Wonāt Disappoint
If someone asked you to go out downtown tonight, what picture pops into your mind? Probably something that resembles clubbing, dancing, barsā¦and more clubbing. Though dancing the night away in your most-frequented dark basement may seem like the easiest, most proven way to have a blast this weekend, weāre here to debunk that theory. Read on for the rundown on the best activities in San Diegoās Gaslamp Quarter that donāt involve a nightclub. Itās about time you trade in those stilettos for sneakers (at least just for tonight) and expand your horizons! Things to Do in the Gaslamp Quarter
See a Show at Balboa Theatre

Recognized as a historic vaudeville/movie theatre by the National Register of Historic Places, Balboa Theatre has played a crucial role in keeping alive San Diegoās performing arts community. After 22 years of closure to the public, the space was refurbished and reopened in 2008, continuing to delight audiences just as effortlessly as back in the day. Showcasing everything from stand-up comedy to classic ballets and plays, enjoy really getting to know your performer in the fairly intimate space of 1,300 seats. Check the theaterās calendar, snag those tickets and support the artsāthe show must go on!
Things to Do in the Gaslamp Quarter
Visit Trailer Park After Dark
Look, youāre already ditching the fancy clothingā¦why not fully commit? Come as you are to Trailer Park After Dark, the string-light filled, fully-themed underground bar that looks exactly as it sounds. Order your favorite all-American beer (served beautifully wrapped in a paper bag) and bring it along as you socialize among the questionable yet delightful decor. The space features three fully decked out trailers, but donāt be surprised if they fill upāthese campers can be reserved for parties of eight or more, so plan ahead. Otherwise, enjoy open seating in the main bar area and order yourself a luxurious TV dinner of meatloaf and Jell-O shots. (We arenāt kiddingācheck the menu!)
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Enjoy a Taste of Spain and a Flamenco Show at Cafe Sevilla
Allow art and the power of tapas to transport you straight to Spain at Cafe Sevilla, one of San Diegoās most authentic Spanish restaurants. Small but mighty, the authentic Spanish share plates, (otherwise known as tapas) create a fun, communal dining experienceābut food isnāt the main event. Cafe Sevilla offers āThe Art of Flamencoā dinner show experiences every Saturday night starting at 6:30 p.m., showcasing the passionate, soulful style of dance that originated in Andalusia, Spain. Tickets include access to the two-part show, a three-course dinner and entry to the attached nightclub for a nonstop night of fun. (We know we said no nightclubs, but heyāthis one comes as an added perk!)Ā
Play in an “Adult Arcade” at Coin-Op Game Room

Grab your quarters and embrace your inner childāitās time to unlock one of lifeās greatest joysticks at the Gaslampās Coin-Op Game Room. Much like the name suggests, itās an adult-friendly coin operated arcade with the added bonus of a fully stocked bar. Focusing heavily on the 80ās and 90ās classics, prepare for a knock of nostalgia when you play throwback classics like Galaga and Pac-Man, or break a sweat on the classic Dance Dance Revolution board. Re-fuel with a well deserved slice of pizza or burger paired with your specialty āPrincess Peachā or āSuper Smashā mixed drink! Beer lovers can also rejoice: there are 16 rotating brews on tap, which are mostly local San Diego microbrews.
Things to Do in the Gaslamp Quarter
Unlock an Escape Room

Behold: a brain game unlike any other. Put your relationships to the test at The Hour Room Gaslamp, where youāll find yourself in an abandoned basement escape room with up to 11 of your closest friends. The only way out? Piece together all of the clues in your space, seemingly left behind from those who fought their way out before you. This thrilling, mysterious escape room is a race against the clockāyou have to get it all done in an hour before the clock strikes zero. Book your escape room experience any day of the week, with prices ranging depending on party size. Decide your fate ahead of timeāweekend spaces fill up quickly!
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Things to Do in the Gaslamp Quarter
Sip Cocktails by a Rooftop Pool

Discover your new favorite daytime destination: The Pool House, Pendry San Diegoās premier rooftop pool. Lounge luxuriously Thursday through Sunday in your previously reserved private daybed, sipping on as many signature cocktails as your heart desires. Pair that with the poolside lunch service beginning at 11 a.m, and youāve got yourself a straight-up dream. Once youāve properly established a base tan, take a dip in the pool as you take in the contemporary, open-air space surrounded by views of Downtownās iconic high-rises. The laid-back atmosphere among the city space perfectly embodies the Southern California lifestyle, making it the ideal space to relax and recharge. Reservations are recommended for popular pool-house Sundays.
Jaclyn is a sunshine chasing San Diego native with an extensive writing background. When she isnāt word-smithing, you can find her playing beach volleyball, skating the boardwalk, or on a rooftop enjoying a drink in the sunshine with her pals.
- Jaclyn Keagyhttps://localemagazine.com/author/jaclyn-keagy/
- Jaclyn Keagyhttps://localemagazine.com/author/jaclyn-keagy/
- Jaclyn Keagyhttps://localemagazine.com/author/jaclyn-keagy/
- Jaclyn Keagyhttps://localemagazine.com/author/jaclyn-keagy/