Ahhh, summer is here in sunny San Diego! It’s our favorite time of the year due to the weather, sun, local events and attractions. If you have an upcoming trip and looking for some ideas/inspiration keep reading.
San Diego County Fair – Del Mar, CA
Every summer San Diego County hosts a summer fair stacked with concerts, entertainment, exhibits and plenty of fried fair foods and rides! Starting Wednesday, June 7 through July 4, you & your family will have plenty of chances to explore all the fair ground excitement. Ticket pricing varies by day of week and you can find specials at CostCo and other participating stores. We like a midweek Wednesday or Thursday visit for wristband day to unlock unlimited rides! If you’re not interested in the rides or fair foods then maybe the concert series or exhibits will interest you. Country, pop, R&B and more are all scheduled for the stage this year including music groups Train, Carly Pearce, Boyz II Men, Lynyrd Skynard, Grupo Bronco and more. The Del Mar fair offers plenty of options for people to “Get Out There” and explore.
Comic-Con International – downtown San Diego
Comic-Con returns this July 20-23, 2023! Located at the San Diego Convention Center; this annual event features exhibits, film screenings, games and of course comics for fans of science fiction, fantasy and pop culture! Due to the sheer size of this event you may want to plan ahead as you may easily be absorbed in the world of fantasy and art. Viewed as the premier comic and arts convention around the world, this event brings fans of the genres together with content creators, authors, film & television directors for a weekend of fun and open discussions. If you’re interested in Comic-Con be prepared to purchase badges early for entry to this event.
Flicks at the Fountain – Carlsbad Village
Starting Thursday, July 6 through August 3 (every Thursday night) catch an outdoor movie with friends and family in Carlsbad Village. Located 2 blocks away from the Carlsbad Inn on the corner of Grand and State St., everyone is invited to find some space and bring your own snacks/beverages for an outdoor family-friendly movie. If you forget your snacks do not worry as there will be vendors offering to-go meals from local restaurants. Movie selections this year are Moana, Jumanji; Welcome to the Jungle, Mary Poppins Original, Monsters Inc., and Top Gun; Maverick, respectively.
Del Mar Horse Races – Del Mar, CA
Opening day is Friday, July 21 through September 10, 2023. Experience the fast paced & exhilarating event of horse racing at the Del Mar fairgrounds. Races take place every weekend from July to September so you’ll have plenty of weekends to visit. You can jump on the Coaster here in Carlsbad Village for a quick trip to Solana Beach with additional complimentary shuttles to the races. If you attend opening day, wear your best sun hat and enter into the contest for some extra money or just bragging rights.
San Diego Botanic Garden – Encinitas, CA
Explore a 37 acre oasis and miles of trails with over 5300 plant species and themed gardens representing 15 different regions around the world! The San Diego Botanic Garden offers day passes and open 6 days a week from 9am-5pm (closed Tuesday). Special exhibits, wellness classes and tours are available for educational or just plain curiosity.
This summer the SDBG has a rare and endangered Corpse Flower on exhibit for limited time due to the species quick blooming/wilting process. Be cautious, for those faint of heart the name speaks for itself!
In addition to plants and educational classes you can take advantage of the longer summer nights from July 13 – August 17 (select Thursday nights until 8pm) enjoying live music/special performances, snacks and beverages while walking the gardens at sunset!
We love the local events and attractions during the summer here in San Diego! We hope this can help inspire you to get out and explore our beautiful county next time you’re here at the Carlsbad Inn Beach Resort. See you soon!