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15+ of the top free things to do in San Diego
No cash?
No problem
. Whether you are spending a day or a lifetime in San Diego, these are some of the best offerings that won’t break the bank.
September 19, 2025 06:44 PM
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Monica Garske
Arts
New Children’s Museums expands with ‘Artopia’ studio and more programming
The renovated spaces debut on the museum’s third level on Saturday, April 12.
April 4, 2025
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Monica Garske
History
6 amazing women who helped shape the San Diego Natural History Museum
The Nat’s 150-year-old foundation is solid — thanks in part to these women.
March 14, 2025
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Monica Garske
Theater
Curtains, up: Broadway San Diego’s 48th season lineup
You’ll want to be their guest: The seven-show season at San Diego Civic Theatre includes “Beauty and the Beast” and “Hell’s Kitchen” from Alicia Keys.
February 10, 2025
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Monica Garske
Play
25 date night ideas in San Diego
Got a hot new fling? Hoping to spice things up with your longtime partner? We’re here to help plan your next date in America’s Finest City.
February 6, 2025
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Michael Beausoleil
Play
Live and learn: Museums in San Diego
Whether you’re a history buff, art aficionado, or science fan, these 27 museums in San Diego have it all.
January 9, 2025
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Monica Garske
Arts
Books written by San Diego authors
All of these writers have ties to America’s Finest City.
January 3, 2025
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Michael Beausoleil
Play
25 murals around San Diego
Explore San Diego’s murals — from images of postcards and celebrities to unforgettable splashes of color.
October 4, 2024
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Michael Beausoleil
Development
San Diego Symphony reopens Jacobs Music Center in downtown SD
The 95-year-old venue on downtown San Diego’s B Street has been fully renovated and its 2024-2025 season is packed with live performances.
September 26, 2024
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Monica Garske
Culture
How to spend your 24 extra Leap Day hours in San Diego
Start your day off with good, local coffee, head to the beach, go on a hike, peruse the city’s marvelous murals — seize the Leap Day, SD.
February 28, 2024
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Monica Garske
History
6 ways to see Dr. Seuss’ influence in San Diego
The iconic author lived in La Jolla from 1948 until his death in 1991 — but his local legacy lives on.
February 28, 2024
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Monica Garske
The Buy
Home
This floor lamp offers 16 million color options and it’s now just $55
December 11, 2025
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Staff
Home
These $31 sheets feel more luxurious than Egyptian cotton
December 11, 2025
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Staff
Seasonal
This personalized gift for pet owners is fun and affordable
December 11, 2025
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Staff
Latest News
Play
45+ volunteer opportunities in San Diego
September 10, 2025
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Monica Garske
Arts
Curtains, up: Performing arts center ‘The Joan’ opens at Liberty Station
September 10, 2025
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Monica Garske
Work
All you need to know about the San Diego International Airport
August 28, 2025
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Monica Garske
Events
Save the Dates: 25+ big events coming to San Diego in 2025
August 20, 2025
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Monica Garske
More from SDtoday
Play
Preview: What to expect at San Diego Comic-Con International 2025
America’s Finest City is always super, but on this long weekend every July, the scene in downtown SD is extra incredible — catch these highlights.
July 18, 2025
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Monica Garske
Entertainment
Hi, Barbie: Malibu Barbie Café kicks off its run in San Diego
The traveling pop-up celebrating all things Barbie is open at the Hilton Garden Inn San Diego Downtown/Bayside hotel through Sunday, Oct. 12.
July 11, 2025
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Monica Garske
Play
Sip, snack, save: A guide to happy hour deals in San Diego
Hit the town and enjoy a discounted drink at one of these cheers-worthy San Diego happy hours.
July 11, 2025
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Monica Garske
Sports
Over The Line: The history of San Diego’s sport born on South Mission Beach
The OTL World Championships return to Fiesta Island every July and the ball + bat sport is about as San Diego as it gets.
July 7, 2025
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Monica Garske
Live
Farmers markets in San Diego: Where to find fresh food
Pack your reusable bags and your shopping list, because we’re shopping local at these 30+ farmers markets around San Diego, CA.
June 26, 2025
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Michael Beausoleil
Play
Celebrity restaurants in San Diego
Gordon Ramsay, is that really you?
June 25, 2025
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Monica Garske
Live
Scrumptious Strolls: A guide to ‘Taste of’ food events in San Diego County
From Little Italy and the Gaslamp Quarter to North Park and East Village, “Taste of” gatherings are alive and well in San Diego.
June 5, 2025
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Monica Garske
Play
Where to have fun with kids in San Diego
We found the best kid-friendly activities in San Diego, complete with art classes, animal encounters, and outdoor fun.
June 4, 2025
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Monica Garske
Arts
This is not a mirage: Museum of Illusions opens in San Diego
The newest addition to SD’s robust museums scene is now open in downtown’s Gaslamp Quarter as the brand’s first-ever California location.
June 4, 2025
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Monica Garske
Parks and Recreation
Adam R. Scripps ‘Living Seas’ Gallery opens at Birch Aquarium
The immersive exhibition features new habitats that explore the wonders of the Pacific Ocean; it’s the biggest capital improvement to the aquarium since 1992.
May 21, 2025
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Monica Garske