San Diego Spotlight: Gaslamp & Seaport Village
San Diego is home to plenty of destinations that are worth exploring, but if you only have time for a few, then the Gaslamp District and Seaport Village should certainly be on your list. These vibrant areas offer some of the best dining, drinking, shopping, and entertainment in San Diego. If you’re planning a visit, then you’ll want to read our area spotlights below to help plan your itinerary.
Gaslamp District (4.7 miles from the hotel)
History
The Gaslamp Quarter Historic District, referred to by locals as the Gaslamp District, is a colorful urban enclave in Downtown San Diego. The area began to develop in the 1860s, when people started relocating there from Old Town, near the Presidio of San Diego, in order to have easier access to shipping. Back then, the area was simply called New Town. However, when the neighborhood was redeveloped in the 1980s, gas lamps were chosen as the symbol, and the moniker was born. Ironically, arc lighting — not gas — was the primary source of lighting during the neighborhood’s early years.
Drinks & Dining
Gaslamp is home to so many spectacular bars and eateries, you really can’t go wrong. If you’re looking for a place to start here are a few of our favorites:
Werewolf | American bar fare throughout the day, plus creative cocktails and karaoke
627 Fourth Ave, San Diego, CA 92101
La Puerta | Authentic Mexican cuisine, tequilas, signature drinks, and DJs after hours
560 Fourth Ave, San Diego, CA 92101
Photo credit: @lapuertasd
Extraordinary Desserts | Spectacular array cakes, desserts, and savory options
509 Fifth Ave, San Diego, CA 92101
Searsucker | Fresh seafood, premium steaks, craft beers, playful cocktails, and more
611 Fifth Ave, San Diego, CA 92101
Nobu San Diego | World-class Japanese cuisine served in a seductive lounge setting
207 Fifth Ave, San Diego, CA 92101
Photo credit: @noburestaurants
Seaport Village (4.3 miles from the hotel)
The waterfront shopping and dining complex of Seaport Village is one of San Diego’s most picturesque destinations. Located along the Embarcadero, this hot spot is packed with popular restaurants and charming boutiques. Make sure to stop by for a meal, a drink or two, and some souvenir shopping. Here are a few of our favorites:
Drinks & Dining
C Level Lounge | Prime steaks and seafood with beautiful harbor views
880 Harbor Island Dr, San Diego, CA 92101
Photo credit: @islandprimeclevel
Eddie V’s Prime Seafood | Elegant fine dining with live jazz
789 W Harbor Dr Suite 158, San Diego, CA 92101
Puesto | Delicious Mexican cuisine and drinks in a hip, modern setting
789 W Harbor Dr, Suite 155, San Diego, CA 92101
San Diego Pier Cafe | Delicious seafood and water views in a landmark building
885 W Harbor Dr, San Diego, CA 92101
Photo credit: @postcardsandpassports
[Casual Dining] [Bay-View Dining]
Shopping
Hot Licks | Staggering selection of hot sauces and spices
853 W Harbor Dr, San Diego, CA 92101
Photo credit: @ntamaoki
Kite Flite | Colorful kites to enjoy on your next beach or park trip
839 W Harbor Dr D, San Diego, CA 92101
Village Hat Shop | Plenty of options for beating the San Diego sun
853 W Harbor Dr, San Diego, CA 92101
Swings n’ Things | Hammocks, chairs, swings, wind chimes, and more
859 W Harbor Dr, San Diego, CA 92101
Seaport Village Shell Company | Unique jewelry and decor crafted from local seashells
817 W Harbor Dr D, San Diego, CA 92101
Photo credit: @seaportvillageshellcolimited
Plan Your Visit
Ready to visit these San Diego hot spots? Thankfully, both are within a 10-15 minute drive from Holiday Inn San Diego Bayside. Even better, the hotel’s exclusive special offers make sure you’ll have plenty of funds leftover to enjoy the area’s best dining, drinking, shopping, and entertainment. See you in San Diego!