One of the perks of living in a tourist destination is that there’s always something to do, no matter what month it is. But summer is especially packed with activities that will take you from one end of the county to the other. Besides the obvious like the San Diego Fair, racetrack, and 4th of July celebrations, here are eight of my favorite activities that should be on your bucket list to experience during summer in San Diego.
Humphrey’s Concerts by the Bay
No summer is complete without taking in at least one concert at Humphrey’s. This outdoor concert venue is situated on San Diego Bay between Humphreys Restaurant and Humphreys Half Moon Inn. The concerts generally take place from April to October, but summer is the ideal time to take in a musical experience at this beautiful venue. The sound is fantastic and because it’s a smaller venue, every concert feels intimate. Check the Humphrey’s 2018 concert schedule and buy tickets here.
Summer Nights at the San Diego Zoo
During the summer, the San Diego Zoo stays open late into the evening. From now through September 3rd, you can enjoy special after-dark experiences and entertainment that you won’t get during the day. And you’ll also get to see animals that are only active at dusk or after dark. This year’s theme is Africa. Learn more about the Nighttime Zoo here.
Hyatt Rooftop Cinema Club
Want to enjoy a movie in style? The Manchester Grand Hyatt’s Rooftop Cinema Club is a film experience like no other! Take in an iconic movie from your comfy deck chair and don’t worry about the noise from downtown San Diego – all guests are given wireless headphone to use during the film screening. If your attention wanders during the movie, you can take in spectacular views of America’s Finest City and San Diego Bay. Click here to see the full schedule of movies.
Summer Pops
During the summer, the San Diego symphony takes their concert experience outdoors! Enjoy great music while taking in views of San Diego Bay and the downtown skyline. The Start Spangled Pops is the series kickoff event and it concludes with a fireworks display. Or if you prefer classical music, check out Beethoven by the Bay on July 29th. Most concerts begin at 7:30pm. Click here to see the full schedule of upcoming concerts.
Carmel Valley Rec Center Movies in the Park
Each year, the Carmel Valley Recreation Center offers movies in the park with fun for the whole family. The games, food, and fun start each night at 6pm. On July 21st, you can enjoy the animated feature film, Coco. On August 19th, the rec center will be screening Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2. Movies start promptly at dusk each night. For more information about the movie nights, contact the rec center.
Sleepovers at the Zoo and Wild Animal Park
While you can spend the night at the San Diego Zoo or Wild Animal Park at other times of the year, there’s no better time to plan a family sleepover than during the summer. You’ll get to learn about the animals, go behind the scenes, talk to the zookeepers, fall asleep to the sound of wild animals, and more. You’ll need to make a reservation for both the Zoo and the Safari Park sleepovers so visit their websites for more information on how to book your overnight.
Cinema Under the Stars Hillcrest
Love classic films? Then you have to check out Cinema Under the Stars in Hillcrest! Films are screened beneath a retractable dome and if the night is a little chilly – they have infrared heating to keep you warm. The next film they are showing is Raiders of the Lost Ark, which will be shown on June 28th, 29th, and 30th and again on July 1st. All film screenings begin at 8pm. Click here to see the rest of the summer’s schedule.
Del Mar Powerhouse Park Summer Concerts
For one of the most unforgettable concert experiences in San Diego, mark your calendars for one of the upcoming Summer Twilight Concerts at Powerhouse Park. Bring your chairs, blankets, and beach towels and get ready to sing and dance the night away. There are concerts planned for July 10th, August 7th, and August 21st. Opening acts start at 6pm, with the headliners scheduled to come on at 7pm. Learn more here.
What are your favorite things to do during the summer in San Diego? Leave me a comment below!
