| Petco Park Quick Guide | Home of the San Diego Padres (MLB) |
|---|---|
| Opened | 2004 |
| Capacity | 40,209 |
| Best Value Seats | Toyota Terrace Infield (Sections 210–216) – Mid-level sightlines, solid value |
| Premium Seating | Lexus Home Plate Club, Gallagher Club, Premier Club, Suites |
| Top Ballpark Foods | Carnitas Snack Shack, Seaside Market Tri-Tip, Fish Tacos |
| Nearby Bars | The Blind Burro, Bub’s at the Ballpark, Social Tap San Diego |
| Closest Hotels | Omni San Diego, Hilton Gaslamp, Marriott Marquis San Diego |
| Transit Access | San Diego Trolley (Green Line to Gaslamp or 12th & Imperial), walkable downtown access |
🔍 Need a custom plan for your Padres gameday? Use our Gameday Guides chat tool to get personalized tips on where to sit, what to eat, and where to stay near Petco Park.
Best Seats at Petco Park
Petco Park is one of baseball’s most beautiful stadiums, and I’m not just saying that because San Diego weather makes every game feel like paradise. The ballpark sits downtown with the Western Metal Supply Co. building incorporated into left field—a 1909 brick warehouse that literally serves as the foul pole. This is one of my favorite parks in baseball. I’ve sat in multiple sections here and never had a bad experience. The field level seats near the dugout offer great sightlines and put you right in the action, but honestly, even the upper deck delivers clean views thanks to smart design.
Seating Guide
Petco Park opened in 2004 and seats 40,209, making it one of MLB’s mid-sized venues with an intimate feel despite modern construction. Home plate faces due north, which is rare—only Cleveland and Arizona share this orientation. This means the sun rises over right field, swings around home plate at midday, and sets behind left field, making the third-base side the “shade side” and first-base side the sun zone.
Best Non-Premium Seats: Sections 107-113 (Field Level Near Padres Dugout): These are some of the best seats in baseball, period. You’re sitting first-base side near the Padres dugout with unobstructed views of the entire field from ground level. The sightlines are legitimately great—you can see pitch sequences, defensive shifts, and player reactions up close. This is where I always try to sit when I’m at Petco Park (most recently for a Rockies game)
Rows 1-10 put you incredibly close to the action. You’ll see sweat, hear conversations, and feel like part of the game. Back rows (15-20) give you slightly more elevation to see over the protective netting without losing proximity. Expect to pay $80-150 for weekday games, $150-250+ for weekend matchups against the Dodgers or division rivals.
The trade-off: first-base side gets full sun during day games. You’ll roast during 1:05 PM starts in July and August. Bring sunscreen, wear a hat, and accept that you’re trading comfort for location. But the seats themselves are worth it—I’ve never regretted sitting here.
Best Value Seats
Toyota Terrace (200 Level): The 200 level offers padded seats, solid sightlines, and shade coverage during day games. Sections 201-210 behind home plate are the sweet spot—you’re elevated enough to see the entire field, read pitch locations, and understand defensive positioning.
These seats cost $50-100 depending on opponent and day of week, significantly cheaper than field level with arguably better views for watching baseball strategy unfold. The Toyota Terrace stays mostly shaded thanks to the overhang from the upper deck. You’re also close to some of the best concessions in the ballpark without fighting field-level crowds.
The trade-off: you’re farther from the action than field level. You won’t hear on-field chatter or see facial expressions, but you’ll see the game more clearly. This is the smart pick if you care more about watching good baseball than being close enough to get splashed by the Gatorade cooler.
The Western Metal Supply Co. Building (Left Field): This is one of baseball’s most unique seating areas. The 1909 brick warehouse was incorporated into Petco Park’s design and now serves as the left-field foul pole. The building features luxury suites on the third and fourth floors, the Budweiser Loft on the fifth floor, and rooftop seating with newly renovated premium amenities.
The rooftop recently underwent a $7 million renovation including a 4,000-square-foot raised deck with improved sightlines, increased capacity, private restrooms, a covered trellis providing shade during day games, premium lounge seating, and two 16-foot videoboards. It’s a completely different experience from traditional seating—more social, more architectural, more San Diego.
This works best for groups who want a unique backdrop and don’t mind angled views. You’re watching from left field, so you’ll miss some right-field action, but the experience is memorable.
Budget Option
Park at the Park (Beyond Center Field): This grassy berm beyond center field costs $10-20 depending on the game and offers a picnic-style experience. You’re sitting on grass or beach chairs with a giant video board showing every play. Kids love the “Beachers”—a sand area with beach buckets, shovels, and chairs that feels like being at the actual beach.
The trade-off: you’re far from home plate and watching most of the game on the video board rather than live action. But for families with young kids who won’t sit still for nine innings anyway, this is the move. Your kids can play in the sand while you watch baseball in perfect weather. Hard to beat that value.
Premium Club Sections (Field Level Infield): Sections 108-112 behind home plate and along the infield feature extra-padded seats with in-seat wait service and access to the upscale indoor Premier Club. These aren’t all-inclusive—food and drinks cost extra—but you’re getting premium comfort and service in the best locations.
Weather & Shade Reality
Third-base side (even-numbered sections) gets shade earlier and stays cooler during day games. Sections 201-210 on the 200 level stay shaded most of the game thanks to the upper deck overhang. Field level sections 107-110 have overhead cover providing shade in back rows, but front rows bake in the sun.
First-base side and right field (sections 121-137 and 227-235) stay in direct sunlight for most afternoon games. If you’re attending a 1:05 PM day game, sit third-base side in the 200 level or higher unless you want a full tan. Upper deck sections 300-320 benefit from roof coverage and stay mostly shaded.
For evening games, the sun sets before 8:00 PM during summer months, so sunlight is less of an issue. Sections behind right field may catch sun in the first few innings, but by mid-game you’re in the shade regardless of where you sit.
What to Avoid
Right Field Corners (Sections 135-137): These corner seats angle so severely that you’re turning your head constantly to see home plate. They’re cheap for a reason—you’ll spend the entire game with a stiff neck watching the action unfold sideways.
Back Rows of Park at the Park: If you’re sitting on the grass berm way in the back, you’re basically watching the video board. At that point, you might as well stay home and watch on TV. Sit closer to the fence if you’re doing Park at the Park.
Front Rows in Full Sun Sections: Rows 1-5 on the first-base side during day games are brutal. You’re cooking in direct sunlight with no escape for three hours. Save yourself the misery and sit in the shade or come to an evening game.
Park at the Park (Beyond Center Field): The grassy berm beyond center field is a unique Petco Park experience—bring a blanket, sprawl out on the lawn, and watch the game on a giant HD screen. Tickets are dirt cheap ($10-$20), and it’s a laid-back, picnic-style vibe.
Great for families with kids who can’t sit still, groups who want to socialize, or fans on a tight budget who just want the ballpark atmosphere. You’re not watching from a seat, but the experience is fun.
Premium Seating Options
Petco Park offers several premium club options with the Lexus Club being the most exclusive. The club scene here is solid but not overly corporate—you’ll find a mix of season ticket holders and fans treating themselves to a nicer experience.
The Best Club: Home Plate Club
Sections behind home plate | $855+ per seat: This is the most exclusive experience in Petco Park. All-inclusive food and drinks (actual good stuff, not concourse garbage), plush padded seats, and access to a private lounge just steps from the field. Climate-controlled comfort matters significantly during San Diego’s warm days, even though the weather is generally perfect compared to humid Midwest cities.
What’s included: Unlimited premium food and drinks, climate-controlled lounge, dedicated restrooms, in-seat service, preferred entry.
The lounge: High-end buffet with quality options beyond standard ballpark fare. Full-service bar with real bartenders. The atmosphere is upscale but not stuffy—you’ll see regulars who’ve been coming for years mixed with corporate groups.
Who this is for: Corporate entertainment, celebrating major milestones, playoff games, or anyone who wants the absolute best Petco Park experience. Not for budget-conscious fans or families with young kids who won’t appreciate upscale amenities.
Reality check: You’re paying $855+ per seat for premium everything. You’re getting the best views, best food, best service, and climate control. If you’re going to one Padres game all season and want the VIP treatment, this justifies the cost. For casual fans, save your money and sit in the Toyota Terrace.
Best Value Club: Premier Club
Sections A-L behind home plate and along infield | $139+ per seat : These padded seats offer extra comfort with in-seat wait service and entry to an upscale indoor club space. Food and beverages are not complimentary—you’re paying for location, comfort, and service, not all-inclusive dining.
What’s included: Padded seating, in-seat wait service, access to Premier Club lounge, dedicated restrooms.
The vibe: More relaxed than Home Plate Club with a mix of season ticket holders and fans upgrading for special occasions. The lounge feels connected to the stadium rather than isolating you from the energy.
Who this is for: Fans who want premium seating and service without Home Plate Club pricing. Great for anniversaries, birthdays, or anyone attending multiple games per season.
The math: You’re paying $139+ versus $80-100 for comparable Toyota Terrace seats. You’re getting padded seats, in-seat service, and club access. Worth it if you value comfort and convenience, but remember food and drinks cost extra.
Other Notable Clubs
Lexus Club (Third Base Line) – Private club accessible to guests in First Base VIP, Jerome’s Home Plate Box Seats, Premier Club Loge Box, 3rd Base Coach’s Box, Terrace Luxury Boxes, and Terrace Tables. Food and beverages are not complimentary. The menu is a collaboration between Petco Park’s Executive Chef and features upscale options.
Suites & Group Options
Luxury suites at Petco Park are considered among MLB’s best for group premium experiences. Prices vary by location and opponent but expect $3,000-$8,000+ per game depending on suite size and matchups. All suites include food, drinks, private restrooms, and dedicated entrance. Book directly through Padres group sales or work with suite brokers for secondary market availability.
Petco Park Seating Chart
Petco Park boasts a capacity of approximately 42,445 seats, providing a captivating environment where fans can immerse themselves in the excitement of Padres games and various events. For a detailed view of the seating options and layout, explore the seating chart here.
San Diego Padres Tickets
Here are some different ways to snag ticket to games at Petco. If you plan in advance its usually pretty easy to get tickets and seats to most events you want and this is a great stadium with good sightlines.
- Get Your Tickets to San Diego Padres Games Here. For Padres Games, Concerts, The Holiday Bowl, our partnership with Vivid Seats has you covered.
- Season Tickets: Secure a package for the entire regular season, offering the same seat for each home game and potential access to exclusive benefits and events.
- Partial Season Plans: Enjoy a selection of games with flexibility by opting for partial season plans, which provide a curated set of games that fit your schedule.
- Group Tickets: Gather friends, family, or colleagues for a group outing to the ballpark, with discounts available for groups of a certain size.
Remember to check the official Padres website for the most up-to-date information on ticket availability, pricing, and any special offers or promotions.
Petco Park Bag Policy
Petco has a pretty strict bag policy. Clear bags 12 x 6 x 12 inches maximum. Single-compartment only. Alternatives:
- Small clutches/purses 5 x 7 inches (do not need to be clear)
- Infant and medical bags (subject to search)
Backpacks are prohibited unless they’re clear and meet the 12 x 6 x 12 size requirement. Petco Park does NOT have bag check, so if your bag doesn’t meet the policy, you’re not getting in.
Other Key Policies
Here are some additional policies, for a full list check out the Padres A to Z guide.
Re-Entry Allowed: This is fairly unique among MLB parks these days. Yes, you CAN leave and come back. Petco Park allows in-and-out privileges during Padres games, which is rare in MLB. Just get your hand stamped or ticket scanned at the exit gate before leaving, and you can re-enter through the same gate.
This is huge for smokers (since the park is smoke-free) or fans who want to hit Gaslamp Quarter bars mid-game and come back. Note: Some sources say re-entry is NOT permitted, but the official Petco Park policy confirms it IS allowed for Padres games. Policy may differ for concerts and special events, so check your specific event.
Petco Park is 100% smoke-free inside and outside the stadium—cigarettes, e-cigarettes, vapes, and chewing tobacco are all prohibited. There are no smoking areas anywhere on the premises.
Petco Park is entirely cashless. Credit cards, Padres Pay, Apple Pay, and other digital payments are accepted at all concession and retail locations. All parking lots are also cashless, including Padres Parkade, Lexus Premier Lot, Tailgate Lot, Hilton Bayfront, and Convention Center garages.
Bonus mention: Gates open 90 minutes before first pitch for general admission, but Season Ticket Members get 2-hour early access at Park Boulevard Gate and Home Plate Gate. Alcohol sales stop after the 7th inning.
Getting To Petco Park
The MTS Trolley is faster and cheaper than driving for most fans. Parking downtown costs $20-40, and the trolley drops you two blocks from the ballpark. Public transit genuinely works in San Diego for baseball games.
Driving & Parking
If you’re driving, downtown parking garages and surface lots charge $20-40 for Padres games. Padres contracted lots (Padres Parkade, Lexus Premier Lot, Tailgate Lot) are cashless. Hilton Bayfront and San Diego Convention Center garages are also cashless. Arrive 60-90 minutes before first pitch to avoid the rush.
MTS Trolley (Best Option)
Park for free at any of the MTS Trolley Park & Ride lots along the Blue, Green, or Orange Lines. Trolleys serve all stations every 15 minutes or better before and after games. Three trolley stations—12th & Imperial, Park & Market, and Gaslamp Quarter (Fifth Avenue and Harbor Drive)—are all within two blocks of Petco Park. Here are the Trolley Schedules.
On sellout days, an average of 8,000 fans use the trolley to get to the ballpark. This eliminates parking fees ($20-40), avoids post-game traffic, and lets you drink at the game without worrying about driving. The closest stop is 12th & Imperial, but you can easily access the stadium from Park & Market as well.
New stations along the extended Blue Line (Tecolote Road, Balboa Avenue, Nobel Drive) offer significant parking. Note that parking is no longer available at Stadium Station or Grantville Station along the Green Line due to construction—best alternatives are Morena Linda Vista and Old Town.
This is legitimately the smart move—free parking, no traffic, and you can drink at the game.
Rideshare (Uber/Lyft)
Rideshare pickups are designated on specific streets near the ballpark (check app for exact location). Expect to pay $12-25 from most San Diego neighborhoods depending on distance. Post-game surge pricing can double or triple fares—wait 20-30 minutes after the final out or walk a few blocks away before requesting a ride.
Walking
If you’re staying in the Gaslamp Quarter or downtown San Diego, walk. The ballpark is integrated into the city, and the neighborhood is safe and walkable. You’ll avoid parking entirely and experience San Diego’s downtown before and after the game.
Petco Park Insider Tips
Petco Park is widely considered MLB’s best food stadium, and it’s not close. The ballpark features local San Diego institutions like Seaside Market, Hodad’s, and Michelin-starred chef Drew Deckman serving Baja-inspired seafood. The craft beer scene is legitimately world-class with AleSmith, Alpine, and Stone Brewing represented throughout the concourses.
Food Strategy: Cardiff Crack & New Arrivals
Seaside Market’s “Cardiff Crack” Nachos (Section 105): This is the #1 must-eat item at Petco Park. Burgundy pepper-marinated tri-tip steak served on nachos or as a sandwich. Locals call it “Cardiff Crack” because it’s legitimately addictive. The line at Section 105 gets insane—go there immediately upon entry or send someone during the 3rd inning while everyone else is watching the game. It’s worth the wait.
Deckman’s at the Draft (Section 107): New for 2025-2026, Michelin-starred chef Drew Deckman opened a Baja-inspired seafood spot above Seaside Market. The Baja fish tacos and fresh oysters are legitimate fine dining inside a ballpark. This is the flex move if you want to impress someone or treat yourself to something beyond standard stadium fare.
Hodad’s (Sections 104, 131, 230, 300): The Ocean Beach burger legend. Bacon is chopped directly into the meat patties. Warning: the burgers are massive. A single is usually enough for one person. A double is a nap waiting to happen—only order it if you’re feeding two people.
Barrio Dogg (Section 204): San Diego lowrider car culture meets gourmet hot dogs. The “El Xolito” (wrapped in bacon, topped with grilled onions, cheddar, and sour cream) destroys any standard ballpark frank. This is what you order instead of generic stadium hot dogs.
San Diego’s Finest Hot Chicken (Sections 105/316): New addition for the 2025-2026 season. The “Hot Hen” sandwich is spicy enough to make you sweat, which pairs perfectly with a cold .394 Ale. If you want heat, this is your move.
Drink Strategy: Craft Beer Capital
AleSmith .394 Pale Ale (Throughout the Ballpark): You’re legally required to drink one of these. The .394 Pale Ale was designed by Tony Gwynn himself (named after his 1994 batting average) before he passed. It’s the official beer of the Padres fanbase and available everywhere in the stadium.
Alpine Beer Company (Section 109): If you like IPAs, Alpine makes some of the best in the world. Their “Duet” or “Nelson” IPAs are high-ABV and delicious. Perfect for San Diego weather and watching baseball.
Cutwater Spirits (Throughout): San Diego is famous for canned cocktails. Cutwater stands feature massive variety (margaritas, mai tais, vodka mules). They pack a punch—pace yourself or you’ll be feeling it by the 5th inning.
Seating & Shade Strategy
The Sun vs. Shade Rule (Critical for Day Games): San Diego sun is deceptively strong during 1:05 PM starts. I’ve got pictures with the face burns to prove it
Third-base side (even-numbered sections): The shade side. You’ll be cool and comfortable throughout the game.
First-base side (odd-numbered sections): The sun side. You’ll bake in direct sunlight for the first 5 innings. Bring a hat and sunscreen or regret it. I learned this the hard way sitting in Section 109 during a July day game—beautiful seats, brutal sun exposure.
Western Metal Supply Co. Rail Seats: The iconic brick building in left field features bar-rail seating on the balcony. These are often sold as general admission or standing room tickets. Best party vibe in the stadium—you’re standing with a drink, leaning on the rail, watching baseball from inside a 1909 warehouse that serves as the foul pole.
Families & Pets
Gallagher Square (Formerly Park at the Park): Located beyond center field, this area was recently renovated with a steep tiered lawn and world-class playground. Cheapest ticket in the house at around $25. You can sit on the grass, watch the game on the jumbotron, and let kids run wild on the playground. This is the move for families with young children who won’t sit still for nine innings.
The Barkyard (Dog-Friendly Seating): Petco Park is famous for being dog-friendly, but you can’t just bring your dog to any seat. You must buy specific tickets for The Barkyard—semi-private suites in left-center field designated for fans with dogs. These sell out months in advance, so plan ahead if you want to bring your pup to a game.
Hotels Near Petco Park In San Diego
Stay in the Gaslamp Quarter or along the waterfront—you’ll walk to Petco Park in 5-10 minutes, avoid parking fees, and experience San Diego’s downtown bar and restaurant scene before and after games. The Marriott Marquis and Hilton Bayfront sit directly across the street from the ballpark with pedestrian bridges leading straight to the gates. The Manchester Grand Hyatt offers stunning bay and Pacific Ocean views from rooms and features one of the best happy hour spots in downtown San Diego at the top-floor bar.
Choose hotels based on walkability to the stadium and access to the Gaslamp Quarter’s nightlife—you’re in San Diego to enjoy the city, not sit in parking lot traffic.
Premier Hotels
Marriott Marquis San Diego Marina – This is my top pick and it’s literally across the street from Petco Park. Located on the waterfront with contemporary accommodations, diverse dining venues, spa amenities, and bay-view pools. Walk across the pedestrian bridge directly to the ballpark gates—you’re 2 minutes from first pitch. Steps from both the stadium and the San Diego Convention Center. Can’t beat the location.
Hilton San Diego Bayfront – Directly across the street from Petco Park connected by a pedestrian bridge. Modern rooms and suites with waterfront views, numerous dining options, spa facilities, and a pool overlooking the bay. The Hilton isn’t flashy, but it’s reliable and the location is unbeatable—walk across the bridge and you’re at the game. Close to both the ballpark and the San Diego Convention Center.
Manchester Grand Hyatt San Diego – Experience refined luxury at this waterfront property in downtown San Diego. Contemporary rooms and suites feature stunning bay and Pacific Ocean views. The rooftop pool deck overlooks the bay, and the spa is legitimately excellent. The happy hour at the top-floor bar is one of the best in the city with panoramic views—I always stop here before heading to the game. Easy walking distance to Petco Park and local attractions.
Marriott Gaslamp Quarter – Premier hotel offering luxurious accommodations just steps from Petco Park in the heart of the Gaslamp Quarter. Stylish rooms and suites put you in the center of downtown’s vibrant nightlife and dining scene. Walk to games, explore local bars and restaurants, and experience San Diego from this prime location.
Omni San Diego Hotel – Upscale property in the Gaslamp Quarter with expansive contemporary rooms, an outdoor pool, and a pedestrian walkway connecting directly to Petco Park. The Clefs d’Or concierge service adds personalized luxury touches. Great for anyone wanting full-service hospitality steps from the ballpark.
Pendry San Diego – Luxury hotel in the heart of the Gaslamp Quarter featuring upscale accommodations, a rooftop pool and bar, a spa, and multiple dining options. This is the high-end choice for celebrating special occasions or treating yourself to San Diego’s best hospitality.
Budget-Friendly Options
Hotel Z (Staypineapple, Gaslamp San Diego) – Modern budget option in the Gaslamp Quarter with complimentary Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs, and iPod docks in each room. The rooftop terrace features a pool and lounge area with city views. Great value for the location—you’re walking distance to Petco Park without paying premium prices.
Gaslamp Plaza Suites – European-style boutique hotel in the heart of the Gaslamp Quarter with complimentary Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs, and mini-fridges. On-site restaurant and bar make this a convenient home base for exploring downtown and attending Padres games.
Courtyard by Marriott San Diego Downtown/Gaslamp Quarter – Customer-favorite hotel in the Gaslamp Quarter close to the ballpark. Contemporary rooms with complimentary Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs, and mini-fridges. On-site bar and restaurant provide convenience without sacrificing quality. Reliable Marriott hospitality at reasonable rates.
Bars/Restaurants Near Petco Park
The Gaslamp Quarter sits directly adjacent to Petco Park and is where you want to be before or after a Padres game. This is San Diego’s historic downtown entertainment district packed with bars, restaurants, and rooftop venues—all within a 5-10 minute walk of the ballpark. The move is arriving 90 minutes before first pitch, grabbing food and drinks in the Gaslamp, then walking to the stadium. Post-game, the neighborhood stays active with late-night bars and restaurants that don’t close until 2am on weekends.
Bub’s at the Ballpark: This is my go-to pregame spot. Bub’s sits literally steps from Petco Park—you can see the stadium from the rooftop patio. Built from reclaimed wood and architectural salvage, it has character that generic sports bars don’t. Multiple TV screens labeled by game, rooftop patio with downtown views, and actually good food.
The wings are grilled (not fried), tater tots are a signature item, and burgers are made fresh daily from brisket, sirloin, and short rib. Get sandwiches “all the way” with grilled peppers, mushrooms, and onions.
Happy hour runs Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday from 3-5pm: $1 wings, $5 select drafts, $5 wells, half-off appetizers. Best drink prices in the Gaslamp even outside happy hour.
Pro tip: Show up 60-90 minutes before first pitch. You’ll catch pregame energy without complete madness, and actual locals mix with visitors here.
The Tipsy Crow: Legitimately special spot in the 1874 Spencer-Ogden building—oldest continuously family-owned building in the Gaslamp. Three levels: Main Bar (craft cocktails, screens), The Lounge upstairs (pool table, games), and The Underground (dance floor, comedy shows). Well-made cocktails, solid beer selection, and really good sandwiches. Open until 2am on weekends.
Other Notable Spots
Fareweather Rooftop Bar: Adjacent to Petco Park with craft cocktails and panoramic cityscape views. Perfect for catching sunset before an evening game.
Prohibition Lounge: Hidden speakeasy-style bar with vintage atmosphere, live music, and carefully crafted cocktails.
Barleymash: Gastropub with craft beer and legitimately good food. Solid all-day spot with brunch options. Fun pregame spot as well.
The Field Irish Pub: Authentic Irish pub with Guinness on tap, live music, and proper European beer hall atmosphere.
Henry’s Pub: Local favorite with strong drinks and friendly bartenders. Where Gaslamp service industry people go after their shifts.
There are tons of other places I’m sure i’ve missed, so check google review, yelp, etc to see the latest and greatest. If you find some good ones shoot me an email (address at end of article).
Coronado Island Morning Trip
If you have time before a day game, take an Uber to Coronado Island (20 minutes from downtown). Walk the beach outside the iconic Hotel del Coronado, then grab brunch at Henry’s on Orange Avenue. It’s quintessential San Diego—perfect beach weather, historic architecture, and excellent food before heading back for first pitch.
Fun Things to Do In San Diego
If you’re visiting San Diego from out of town, or just on a staycation downtown for a ballgame. Here are some great options and some things to do in America’s Finest City.
Balboa Park: Discover the cultural heart of San Diego as you explore the sprawling urban oasis of Balboa Park, home to numerous museums, lush gardens, meandering walking trails, and the world-renowned San Diego Zoo.
San Diego Zoo: One of the greatest zoos in the country if not the world. Immerse yourself in a captivating world of wildlife conservation and education at the San Diego Zoo, where you can encounter a diverse array of animals from around the globe in meticulously designed habitats.
Beaches: Soak up the sun and enjoy the Pacific Ocean breeze at San Diego’s pristine beaches, including the idyllic shores of La Jolla, the lively atmosphere of Pacific Beach, and the iconic stretch of Coronado Beach.
Old Town San Diego State Historic Park: Step back in time as you wander through Old Town’s preserved historic buildings, experiencing the vibrant culture, shops, and eateries that capture the essence of San Diego’s early days.
USS Midway Museum: Climb aboard the USS Midway, an impressive WW2 era aircraft carrier turned museum, where you can explore its decks, aircraft, and interactive exhibits, gaining insights into naval history and operations.
Seaport Village: Stroll along the picturesque San Diego Bay and enjoy the charm of Seaport Village, a waterfront complex offering a delightful blend of unique shops, waterfront dining, and captivating entertainment.
Cabrillo National Monument: Stand atop the cliffs at Cabrillo National Monument and relish panoramic views of the city skyline and the vast expanse of the Pacific Ocean, while delving into the intriguing history of Juan Rodriguez Cabrillo’s exploration.
Petco Park is one of baseball’s most beautiful stadiums with perfect San Diego weather, legitimately great food options, and a ballpark design that incorporates the city’s character. The Western Metal Supply Co. building is iconic, the sightlines are excellent from almost every section, and the crowd knows how to have fun without being obnoxious. I’ve been here multiple times and never had a bad experience—whether you’re sitting field level near the dugout or up in the Toyota Terrace, you’re watching baseball in paradise. And don’t forget that walk on Coronado Beach.
Here are some links to a few other Southern California gems. Go Padres!
Dodger Stadium and all of our MLB Guides
Rose Bowl and LA Coliseum
Written by Brad Richards, Founder of Gameday Guides. This guide includes insights from personal visits as well as updated info from team sources, fan forums, and stadium policies. We aim to help you plan with confidence — enjoy your gameday.