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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
·
Monica Garske
Events
Kwanzaa 2023 celebrations and events
These local events study the seven principles of Kwanzaa and celebrate family, community, and history.
December 19, 2023
·
Michael Beausoleil
Small Business
Final Feature: Santee Drive-In closing after 65 years in business
The beloved outdoor movie attraction said loss of customers and competition from streaming services have made it tough to stay in business.
December 14, 2023
·
Monica Garske
Culture
10 local experiences you can give as holiday gifts
If you don’t want to give a thing, share your love of San Diego with fun, educational, and romantic experiences.
December 7, 2023
·
Michael Beausoleil
Culture
Mount Rushmore of San Diego celebrities: Winners
SDtoday readers voted on four familiar faces etched into San Diego’s collective memory.
November 24, 2023
·
Monica Garske
Festivals
Your guide to December Nights 2023 at Balboa Park
Balboa Park’s biggest event of the year returns Friday, Dec. 1, and Saturday, Dec. 2, with merrymaking opportunities aplenty.
November 20, 2023
·
Monica Garske
Small Business
Iconic, longtime businesses in San Diego
You really can’t have San Diego without these beloved local spots.
November 16, 2023
·
Monica Garske
Culture
Pacific Rim Park Friendship Walk set to return to Shelter Island
The celebration of cultural diversity and community takes place this Sunday, Nov. 19, from Shoreline Park to Pearl of the Pacific Park.
November 14, 2023
·
Monica Garske
History
Fast facts about USS Theodore Roosevelt, homeported in San Diego
The aircraft carrier — yes, the one seen in “Top Gun: Maverick” — shifted its homeport back to America’s Finest City in March 2023.
November 6, 2023
·
Monica Garske
Entertainment
The Del’s ‘Wicked, Wicked’ history
The Hotel del Coronado has been the filming location for multiple Hollywood pictures, including a lesser-known horror film.
October 30, 2023
·
Michael Beausoleil
History
Five spots in San Diego that are rumored to be haunted
You’ll find many ghost stories in San Diego, and we’re taking a dive into a darker side of history that still remains with us.
October 30, 2023
·
Michael Beausoleil
Latest News
Food
Where to eat and shop at Seaport Village in San Diego
July 21, 2025
·
Monica Garske
Play
Preview: What to expect at San Diego Comic-Con International 2025
July 18, 2025
·
Monica Garske
Entertainment
Hi, Barbie: Malibu Barbie Café kicks off its run in San Diego
July 11, 2025
·
Monica Garske
Play
Sip, snack, save: A guide to happy hour deals in San Diego
July 11, 2025
·
Monica Garske
More from SDtoday
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
·
Monica Garske
Tourism and Hospitality
High-tech hotel tower to debut at Jamul Casino Resort in May 2025
Alexa, do all the things.
March 31, 2025
·
Monica Garske
Play
Take a hike: A guide to trails around San Diego
Looking for the perfect hike?
This curated guide highlights tried-and-true trails in the area — plus everything you should know about them, from difficulty level to accessibility and beyond.
March 21, 2025
·
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
·
Monica Garske
Play
Your guide to sports teams in San Diego
From the San Diego Padres to the San Diego Gulls, we’re sharing details of San Diego’s sports teams.
March 7, 2025
·
Monica Garske
Small Business
We’re celebrating Small Business Week, here’s how to join us
Join us at SDtoday in celebrating the heart of our community, small businesses.
February 24, 2025
·
Staff
Travel and Outdoors
What to expect this season at The Flower Fields at Carlsbad Ranch
The 2025 season of beautiful blooms begins Saturday, March 1, and runs through Sunday, May 11.
February 21, 2025
·
Monica Garske
City
Local media matters — so does your support
When you choose to support SDtoday, you’re investing in more than just a weekly newsletter — you’re investing in a stronger, more informed community.
February 19, 2025
·
Staff
Live
Hubs of grub: A guide to San Diego’s food halls
From Liberty Station to the North County, these hubs have it all.
February 14, 2025
·
Monica Garske
Food
9 San Diego-area restaurants land on Yelp’s 2025 ‘Top Places 100 to Eat’
Sizzlin’ spots in National City, La Mesa, Carlsbad, Mission Beach, and Pacific Beach made the cut this year — come on SD, let’s eat
February 12, 2025
·
Monica Garske
