Welcome to Downtown
Rich culture and sophistication in the heart of San Diego
The coastline is famous, the views epic. The vibe is known worldwide and the homes are coveted. This is San Diego and it’s justifiably known as “America’s Finest City.” Seamlessly mixing wild beauty and cultural allure, San Diego is one of the most sought-after cities in the country – and Downtown is the beating heart, pulsing energy outwards to every enclave within its borders.
Comprising several districts, Downtown truly offers something for everyone. From the sleek Marina District, with its luxury high-rises and thriving entertainment scene, to the vintage chic Gaslamp Quarter, with its swanky nightclubs, celebratory atmosphere, and a nod to old-world San Diego, Downtown proves over and again why it deserves every accolade showered upon it. This perfect blend of nostalgia and luxe modernity is reflected in Downtown’s diverse residences. Victorian architecture dazzles with opulent details, polished condominiums offer stunning views of the city and bay, and trendy loft conversions and stylish new apartment buildings add a hip flair to an already seriously chic city. Balancing historic charm and cutting-edge sophistication, Downtown is one of the most dynamic and exciting spots in Southern California.
What to Love
Local Lifestyle
Residents of Downtown are as diverse and cool as the city itself. Equal parts artistic bastion, outdoor wonderland, and sports center, Downtown pampers residents with endless chances for stylish fun. Bustling with lively entertainment, cultural attractions, and professional opportunities, Downtown truly has something for everyone.
Dining, Entertainment & Shopping
A haven for gourmands, Downtown boasts an incredible array of carefully curated bistros and cafes, as well as exquisite fine dining establishments with star chefs. East Village’s Basic Pizza dazzles with gourmet thin-crust pies and unique creations, like mash potato pizza, as well as a menu of craft beers, while neighborhood cantina Puesto near the embarcadero provides a fun atmosphere and a short distance to Seaport Village. Spanning 16 blocks of chic eateries and hip hangouts, the Gaslamp Quarter boasts global flavors and gourmet destinations. The refined Royal India is routinely voted the best Indian restaurant in San Diego, and with its sumptuous cuisine and superb hospitality, it’s easy to see why. Bandar showcases the fresh flavors of authentic Persian dishes, while Born & Raised offers an unforgettable steakhouse experience.
A true foodie paradise, Little Italy is the home of celebrity chefs, traditional Italian trattorias, and trendy eateries. Kettner Boulevard has even been nicknamed Top Chef Alley for its collection of chef-driven bistros. Lined with Michelin Guide-featured and Zagat-rated restaurants, this is where you’ll find the latest culinary superstars. Herb and Wood, from Top Chef competitor Brian Malarkey, features Mediterranean flavors with a California sensibility, while Chef Richard Blais, a Top Chef All-Stars winner, sets up shop nearby at the industrial-chic Juniper and Ivy. Ironside is a go-to seafood spot, Davanti Enoteca is dishing up unbeatable Italian fares, and Barbusa’s bustling atmosphere is magnetic. Our personal favorite? Kettner Exchange! This hip drink destination is most commonly known for its rooftop bar but has a surprisingly delicious menu with a kale salad and salmon sashimi we could eat every day of our lives.
Things to Do
Dynamic Downtown is the home of Petco Park, the playing field of Major League Baseball’s San Diego Padres, as well as an impressive lineup of cultural attractions and beloved annual events.
Take the kids for a day of interactive fun at The New Children’s Museums, or explore San Diego’s nautical history at The Maritime Museum of San Diego. Visitors have the chance to wander through historic ships at both the USS Midway and the Star of India maritime museums. Seaport Village is fun for all ages with live music, delicious restaurants, and even a carousel or the kids. Take a walk along the marina, stop into the cute boutiques, or grab an ice cream and listen to music while the kids enjoy riding the carousel. Downtown is also the site of some of the biggest annual events in the area, including the Gaslamp Quarter Mardi Gras celebration and the St. Patrick’s Day ShamROCK music and beer festival.
For a day of fun, head to Balboa Park. This sweeping green space is home to some of the city’s most outstanding cultural attractions, myriad museums, and the San Diego Zoo. Want to browse gourmet pantry selections? You don’t want to miss Little Italy Mercato. This marketplace offers some of the best Italian foods, sauces, and freshly made pasta selections in the city.