Seaport Village
San Diego, known as America’s finest city, is a year-round waterfront destination. With many days of sunshine, this southern California haven attracts visitors from across the globe yearning for ocean air, sandy feet and access to vitamin D 365 days a year. Situated in the southwest corner of the United States, San Diego is filled with people living active lifestyles, spending time outside and enjoying the salty sea air. Whether it’s the Pacific Ocean or the bay front, locals and visitors flock to the water. Although the coastline sees its fair share of action, downtown San Diego’s Seaport Village is a hub for locals and travelers alike. Throughout the year, thousands stroll along the San Diego Bay taking in the sights. Be it a beautiful exercise route, trendy retail shop, caricature drawing, or tourist souvenir you’re looking for – Seaport Village has it all!
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Situated in downtown San Diego, the popular Seaport Village is nestled between the historic USS Midway Aircraft Carrier and the San Diego Convention Center, which hosts the original Comic-Con. The shopping, dining and entertainment area attracts locals as well as visitors from all over the world. Encompassing 14 acres, it is home to more than 70 galleries, retail shops and eateries featuring architectural styles that span the gamut from Victorian to Spanish Revival. Laid out like a pirate’s treasure map, winding pathways lead visitors on a journey of discovery in the pedestrian-friendly complex.
During the day, visitors can explore the attractions with dramatic views of the San Diego Harbor as their backdrop. The venue is a great place to find a special keepsake or just enjoy a few hours of fun and music. In addition to being a kid-friendly entertainment destination during the day, Seaport Village is a place where couples can enjoy a romantic meal while watching a beautiful sunset. The sun-drenched promenade is a popular area for runners and others who want to unwind. The wide assortment of dining, shopping and fun activities is designed to please every taste and budget.
History of Seaport Village
The complex was built on reclaimed land over the Punta de los Muertos, which is the Spanish phrase for Point of the Dead. It is the location where a 1782 Spanish expedition buried the remains of those who had succumbed after developing scurvy. The area was also used as a railroad yard that served as a transshipment point for goods and materials being delivered to San Diego. Visionary developer Morris Taubman broke ground for the village on the land that is owned by the Port of San Diego in 1978. The complex opened to the public two years later.
Things to Do at Seaport Village
Eateries & Shops
Featuring 17 different eateries, including four waterfront cafes, the village offers appetizing fare ranging from burgers and pizza to ethnic dishes and gourmet desserts. You can start the day with a healthy breakfast inside, grab a quick bite throughout the day or enjoy a leisurely evening meal at an outdoor patio table. The village also houses 50 shops offering a wide range of merchandise. There is an eclectic mix of clothing, toys, souvenirs and one-of-a-kind artwork. The nearby Headquarters of Seaport Village is a restored police station that also features boutiques, eateries and art galleries.
Views & Entertainment
More than a shopping destination, the village features a waterfront promenade that offers spectacular views of the Coronado Bridge, Coronado Island and boats sailing the bay. The complex is also home to an electronic video arcade ornate and the Looff Carousel, dating back to 1895 and featuring handcrafted horses and other animals. There are daily afternoon musical performances in the food court featuring a variety of genres. In addition to strolling musicians, there are free concerts in the two plazas scheduled throughout the week and on weekends. You can enjoy a balloon artist, face painting and caricature drawings. There are also open Shakespeare readings, book talks and signing events by authors.
Festivals & Events
During April, the Seaport Village is the setting for Southern California’s Busker Festival, a collection of street performers displaying unique talents such as juggling and sword swallowing as well as unicycle and pogo stick tricks. In addition to parades, Seaport Village sponsors a variety of activities with the Easter Bunny and Santa Claus. The promenade provides an excellent vantage point for watching the San Diego Bay Parade of Lights, where hundreds of sailboats ply the harbor adorned with festive holiday lights.
Visitor Information
Visit Seaport Village in the morning for smaller crowds or in the evening to watch the sunset. The retail shops are typically open daily from 10 a.m. until 9 p.m. and restaurant hours vary. The complex is connected to the convention center by the bay-front boardwalk. Just minutes from the airport and the cruise ship terminal, the complex is across the street from Stop D aboard the Old Town Trolley. It is also a short walk from the Santa Fe Train Depot and San Diego Metro Coaster. Self-parking and valet parking are available.
Things to Do Nearby
Embarcadero Marina Park
Embarcadero Marina Park is a tranquil, green urban space extending into San Diego Bay. In addition to wonderful waterfront views, it features walking, jogging and bike paths as well as exercise stations, a fishing pier and a gazebo. The recreation area is a wonderful place to relax and enjoy a picnic in the warm ocean breeze.
New Children’s Museum
The New Children’s Museum provides a wide variety of interactive exhibits that foster creativity in youngsters of all ages as they experience art in an innovative way. Children enjoy fun-filled activities, hands-on art projects and artistic performances. Adjacent to the museum, Children’s Park is an outdoor space with play structures, picnic facilities and views of passing trolleys. The park also features a 200-foot circular water sculpture and a reflecting pool.
USS Midway Aircraft Carrier Museum
The USS Midway Aircraft Carrier Museum is a historic ship museum. The massive ship was the longest-serving aircraft carrier in the 20th century. Interactive exhibits and a variety of static displays celebrate the history of the ship and take guests on a virtual journey filled with epic adventures. The audio tour includes personal stories from sailors who served aboard during her illustrious career.
San Diego Old Town Trolley Tours
Old Town Trolley is a convenient way to explore Seaport Village while maximizing your vacation time. Take in the sights as we guide you down the San Diego Bay and show you the best attractions around, such as the USS Midway Aircraft Carrier Museum and the Coronado Village. With stops throughout San Diego, you can hop on and off at the sites you want to visit and learn about the rest during our fully narrated historic sightseeing tour that’s just under two hours. Find the lowest price and money-saying packages by purchasing tickets direct through our website
