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Partner Content SEPTEMBER 4, 2023

GENERAL ABBREVIATED LEGAL DISCLAIMER:

GENERAL ABBREVIATED LEGAL DISCLAIMER: Website: NO PURCHASE NECESSARY TO ENTER OR WIN. Sweepstakes begins on 11/30/2023 at 1:00 PM PST and ends on 12/7/2023 at 11:59 PM PST. Open only to legal U.S. residents residing in California who are 18+ yrs. of age at the time of entry. One (1) Grand Prize is available. See Official Rules […]

GENERAL ABBREVIATED LEGAL DISCLAIMER:

Website:

NO PURCHASE NECESSARY TO ENTER OR WIN. Sweepstakes begins on 11/30/2023 at 1:00 PM PST and ends on 12/7/2023 at 11:59 PM PST. Open only to legal U.S. residents residing in California who are 18+ yrs. of age at the time of entry. One (1) Grand Prize is available. See Official Rules at https://linkin.bio/sandiegomag for prize description/restrictions and complete details. Void where prohibited. Sponsor: San Diego Magazine.

Instagram: 

Giveaway will run from November 30 at 1 PM PST to December 7 at 11:59 PM PST. Winner will be chosen randomly and notified on December 8 via a tag in a pinned comment on this post. NoPurNec. Open only to legal U.S. residents residing in CA, 18+. This giveaway is not affiliated with or sponsored by Instagram. For full giveaway terms and conditions, head to the link in our bio or visit https://linkin.bio/sandiegomag.

Westfield UTC’s Ultimate Peppermint Beach Club Experience

Official Sweepstakes Rules

NO PURCHASE OR PAYMENT NECESSARY TO ENTER OR WIN. MAKING A PURCHASE DOES NOT INCREASE YOUR CHANCES OF WINNING. Entrants are providing information to “Sponsor” (as defined below) and not to Instagram.

The following promotion is intended for participants in California only and shall be construed and evaluated according to the laws of the United States.  Do not proceed in this promotion if you are not a legal U.S. resident residing in California. Further eligibility restrictions are contained in the official rules below.  

Submissions may be posted on Westfield’s website and digital systems.  If you do not want your Submission made public, DO NOT ENTER THIS SWEEPSTAKES.

1. DESCRIPTION: The Westfield UTC’s Ultimate Peppermint Beach Club Experience giveaway begins on Thursday, November 30, 2023 at 1:00pm PST and ends on Thursday, December 7, 2023 at 11:59pm PST (“Sweepstakes Period“). The Sponsor of this Sweepstakes is San Diego Magazine, 1230 Columbia Street, Ste. 800, San Diego, CA 92101 (“Sponsor“). The administrator of this Sweepstakes is Westfield UTC, 4545 La Jolla Village Drive, Suite E-25, San Diego, CA 92122 (“Administrator“). Void where restricted or prohibited by law.

2. ENTRANT ELIGIBILITY: In order for an Entrant (“Entrant”) to be eligible to participate in the Sweepstakes and to be considered as a potential winner, the Entrant must meet the following eligibility criteria: 

  • Entrant must be a legal United States resident who physically resides in California.
  • Entrant must be at least eighteen (18) years of age at the time of entry.
  • Entrant must comply with any applicable terms of use for Instagram for Submission;
  • Entrant must be the Authorized Account Holder the Instagram account associated the “Submission”. In the event of a dispute, the Entrant or potential winner will be deemed the Authorized Account Holder of the Instagram account. “Authorized Account Holder” is defined as the natural person in whose name the social media account was opened.  In the event a dispute regarding the identity of an Entrant or potential winner cannot be resolved to Sponsor’s satisfaction, the affected entry may be deemed ineligible; AND
  • Entrant must NOT be an employee of Sponsor, Administrator or their marketing or promotion agencies, those involved in the production, development, implementation or handling of this Sweepstakes, any agents acting for, or on behalf of the above entities, their respective parent companies, officers, directors, subsidiaries, affiliates, licensees, service providers, prize suppliers and fulfillment companies, any other person or entity associated with this Sweepstakes (collectively, the “Sweepstakes Entities“) nor can Entrant be an Immediate Family Member and/or Household Member of such persons.  For purposes of the Sweepstakes “Household Members” shall mean those people who share the same residence at least three months a year; “Immediate Family Members” shall mean parents, step-parents, legal guardians, children, stepchildren, siblings, stepsiblings or spouses regardless of where they live.

3.  HOW TO ENTER & SUBMISSON REQUIREMENTS:  To enter the Sweepstakes, Entrant must 1) be a registered user of Instagram, 2) be a follower of both the Westfield UTC [@WestfieldUTC] and the San Diego Magazine [@sandiegomag] Instagram accounts, 3) like the giveaway campaign promotion post, 4) publish a comment on the promotional post tagging at least one friend, and 5) have the ability to accept direct messages from the Sponsor (@sandiegomag).  

All entries must be received by 12/7/2023 at 11:59 PM PST. Limit one (1) unique and original entry per person for the Sweepstakes Period.  Any attempt by an Entrant to obtain more than the stated number of entries by using multiple identities, registrations, logins, and/or any other methods will void such Entrant’s entry and that Entrant may be disqualified from the Sweepstakes.

Sponsor’s decisions are final in all matter relating to this Sweepstakes. Sponsor reserves the right to disqualify any Entrant that Sponsor determines to be in violation of any term contained in these Official Rules. Sponsor’s decision not to enforce a specific provision of these Official Rules does not constitute a waiver of that provision or of the Official Rules generally. All information provided by Entrants becomes the property of Sponsor. ELIGIBLE ENTRANTS MUST ENTER IN ACCORDANCE WITH THESE OFFICIAL RULES. NO OTHER METHOD OF SUBMISSION WILL BE ACCEPTED. 

Each Submission that is entered into the Sweepstakes must meet the following “Submission Requirements” (any Submission that, in Sponsor’s sole and absolute direction, violates the following criteria will be disqualified): 

Sponsor reserves the right, in its sole discretion, to disqualify any Submission that is ineligible, incomplete, non-compliant or otherwise objectionable. Each entrant hereby agrees to indemnify and hold the Sweepstakes Entities and their successors and assigns harmless from and against any and all third party claims, actions or proceedings of any kind and from any and all damages, liabilities, costs and expenses relating to or arising out of any breach or alleged breach of any of the warranties, representations, covenants or obligations of entrant hereunder. IMPORTANT NOTE: Without in any way limiting the effect of the rest of these Official Rules, any entrant who incorporates any intellectual property owned by a third party into his or her entry without permission does so at his or her own risk.  

4. WINNER SELECTION & NOTIFICATION: On or about Friday, December 8, 2023, the Administrator will conduct a random drawing from all eligible entries received during the Sweepstakes Period to select one (1) potential winner. Potential winner will be notified in the form of a direct message from the Sponsor on Instagram. Potential Winner will be required to respond (as directed) to the notification attempt and provide an email address and/or phone number as directed within seventy-two (72) hours of first attempted notification. Failure to respond within the stated time period may result in forfeiture of the prize. Potential Winner will be required to verify address and return within three (3) days an affidavit of eligibility and liability/publicity release (collectively, “Prize Claim Documents”) covering eligibility, liability, advertising, publicity and media appearance issues, unless prohibited by law. The failure to respond timely to the notification may result in forfeiture of the prize and, in such case, Administrator may select and attempt to contact up to three (3) alternate winners from the remaining eligible entries received. A prize will not be awarded until all such properly executed forms are returned. Administrator and/or Sponsor reserve the right to disqualify anyone not fully complying with the Official Rules; and, upon disqualification, prize will be forfeited without compensation of any kind. An IRS Form 1099 will be issued in the name of the winner for the actual value of the Grand Prize received. Winner must provide his or her Social Security Number in accordance with Internal Revenue Service regulations. The IRS Form 1099 will be issued for the calendar year in which the prize was delivered and fulfilled.  

5. ODDS OF WINNING:  Odds of winning depend on the number of eligible entries received during the Sweepstakes Period.

6. PRIZE:  One (1) Grand Prize is available. The Grand Prize includes private access to either upper rooftop deck or lower level interior of Santa’s Villa at Westfield UTC’s Peppermint Beach Club for 1.5 hours for up to six guests featuring drinks and appetizers, a hosted meal experience at Queenstown Bistro (valued up to $750.00), sweet treats to-go from Hanna’s Creamery & Café (valued at $30,00), a $250 gift card for use at Westfield UTC, and complimentary parking (valued up to $120.00). The experience must be enjoyed between 10:00 AM PST Monday, December 11, 2023 and 11:00 PM PST on Thursday, December 21. Date and time selection to be coordinated in collaboration with Westfield UTC Management, pursuant to availability at Santa’s Villa. Upper deck and lower level of Santa’s Villa are similar in size and offer seating, lighting, and seasonal décor. The lower level is ADA accessible via ramp. Alcohol is available to guests who are 21+ only.

Gift card may be subject to separate terms and conditions imposed by issuer.  ALL FEDERAL, STATE AND LOCAL TAXES, AND ANY OTHER COSTS AND EXPENSES, ASSOCIATED WITH THE RECEIPT OR USE OF ANY PRIZE ARE THE SOLE RESPONSIBILITY OF THE WINNER. No cash alternatives or prize substitution is allowed except at the discretion of the Sponsor. If the prize cannot be awarded due to circumstances beyond the control of the Sponsors, a substitute prize of equal or greater retail value may be awarded. No refunds, credits or exchanges are allowed. The prize is awarded WITHOUT WARRANTY OF ANY KIND, express or implied, without limitation. Neither sponsor nor Administrator will replace any lost or stolen gift card.  Other restrictions may apply. Administrator reserves the right to disqualify anyone not fully complying with the Official Rules.

7. PUBLICITY RIGHTS & RIGHTS RELEASE: By entering the Sweepstakes, each Entrant hereby grants to the Sponsor and its designees the non-exclusive, irrevocable, fully paid, universal license to use, copy, edit, sublicense, make derivative works, transmit, distribute, publicly perform, publish, delete or display each Entrant’s Submission, and to use each Entrant’s Instagram handle, or image, photo, video, text, name, likeness, biographical data, city, state of residence and quotations (the “Materials”) in advertising, marketing, programming or promotional materials, worldwide in perpetuity in any media now known or hereafter devised including, but not limited to all forms of electronic media, print media and all forms of internet and wireless protocol and, in the case of the confirmed winner, on a winners’ list, if applicable, without further compensation unless prohibited by law.Each Entrant understands that his or her name and Materials may be posted on the Sponsor’s website, social media profiles and in digital media. Entrants agree that the Sponsor and its designees have no obligation to post any Material.  Entrants agree to release the Sweepstakes Entities, and their assigns and licensees, from any and all claims or liability (now known or hereafter arising), including but not limited to any claims for defense and/or indemnity, in connection therewith.

8. CONDITIONS OF PARTICIPATION:  Sponsor, in its sole discretion, may designate the Administrator to handle winner selection, notification and fulfillment tasks on Sponsor’s behalf.  All federal, state and local laws and regulations apply. By participating, each Entrant agrees to be bound by these Official Sweepstakes Rules and the decisions of the Sweepstakes Entities, which shall be final in all respect.

9. DISCLAIMER OF WARRANTIES; RELEASE; LIMITATION OF LIABILITY: By participating in this Sweepstakes and/or by accepting any prize, each Entrant agrees to release the Sweepstakes Entities and each of their respective advertising agencies, successors, employees, agents, representatives and assigns (collectively, the “Released Parties“) from any and all actions, claims, losses or damages arising in any manner, directly or indirectly, from participation in this Promotion and/or acceptance or use of a prize, including any travel related thereto.  The Released Parties shall not be liable for: (i) any injuries, losses, liabilities or damages of any kind including personal injury or death caused by the prize or resulting from acceptance, possession, use or misure of a prize including participation in any activity related thereto, or from participation in the Sweepstakes, including any travel related thereto; (ii) telephone system, telephone or computer hardware, software or other technical or computer malfunctions, lost connections, disconnections, delays or transmission errors; (iii) data corruption, theft, destruction, unauthorized access to or alteration of entry or other materials; (iv) late, lost, delayed, stolen, misdirected, postage-due, incomplete, unreadable, inaccurate, garbled or unintelligible entries, communications or affidavits, regardless of the method of transmission; (v) any inability of winner to accept or use any prize (or portion thereof) for any reason and such prize or portion thereof shall be forfeited; or (vi) any printing, typographical, human administrative or technological errors in any materials or activities associated with the Sweepstakes. Sweepstakes Entities disclaim any liability for damage to any computer or mobile system resulting from participating in, or accessing or downloading information in connection with this Sweepstakes. Sweepstakes Entities reserve the right, in their sole discretion, to cancel, modify or suspend the Sweepstakes (or any portion of the Sweepstakes) at any time for any reason or should fraud, a virus, bug, computer problem, unauthorized intervention, extenuating circumstance or other problem/cause corrupt or inhibit the administration, security or proper play of the Sweepstakes and, in such situation, will select the winners from eligible non-suspect entries received prior to and/or after such action or in such manner as deemed fair and appropriate by the Sweepstakes Entities. Sweepstakes Entities may prohibit Entrant from participating in the Sweepstakes or winning a prize if, in its sole discretion, it determines Entrant is attempting to undermine the legitimate operation of the Sweepstakes by cheating, hacking, deception, or any other unfair practices or intending to annoy, abuse, threaten or harass any other Entrants or Sweepstakes Entities representatives. 

As a condition of entering, Entrants agree (and agree to confirm in writing): (a) under no circumstances will entrant be permitted to obtain awards for, and participant hereby waives all rights to claim, punitive, incidental, consequential, or any other damages, other than for actual out-of-pocket expenses; (b) all causes of action arising out of or connected with this Sweepstakes, or any prize awarded, shall be resolved individually, without resort to any form of class action; and (c) any and all claims, judgments, and award shall be limited to actual out-of-pocket costs incurred, excluding attorneys’ fees and court costs.

10. GOVERNING LAW/DISPUTES:  This Sweepstakes is governed by the laws of the United States and the State of California, without respect to any choice of law or conflict of law principles that would result in the application of any law other than that of California.  As a condition of participating in this Sweepstakes, Entrants agree that any and all disputes which cannot be resolved between the parties, and causes of action arising out of or in connection with this Sweepstakes, shall be resolved individually through binding arbitration, without resort to any form of class action, in accordance with the arbitration provision set forth below.

11. ARBITRATION PROVISION:  By participating in this Sweepstakes, each Entrant agrees that any and all disputes the entrant may have with, or claims Entrant may have against, the Released Parties relating to, arising out of or connected in any way with (i) the Sweepstakes, (ii) the awarding or redemption of any prize, and/or (iii) the determination of the scope or applicability of this agreement to arbitrate, will be resolved individually and exclusively by final and binding arbitration administered by the National Arbitration Forum (the “Forum”) and conducted before a sole arbitrator pursuant to the Code of Procedure established by the Forum. The arbitration shall be held at a location determined by the Forum pursuant to the Code of Procedure, or at such other location as may be mutually agreed upon by the participant and Sponsor. The arbitrator’s decision shall be controlled by the terms and conditions of these Official Rules and any of the other agreements referenced herein that the applicable participant may have entered into in connection with the Sweepstakes. There shall be no authority for any claims to be arbitrated on a class or representative basis; arbitration can decide only the participant’s and/or Sponsor’s individual claims and the arbitrator may not consolidate or join the claims of other persons or parties who may be similarly situated. The arbitrator shall not have the power to award special or punitive damages against the participant or Released Parties. For more information on the Forum and/or the Forum’s Code of Procedure, please visit their website at www.arb-forum.com. If any part of this Arbitration Provision is deemed to be invalid or otherwise unenforceable or illegal, the balance of this Arbitration Provision shall remain in effect and shall be construed in accordance with its terms as if the invalid or illegal provision were not contained herein.

12. PRIVACY POLICY: Any personal information supplied by you to Sponsor will be subject to its privacy policy posted at https://www.westfield.com/privacy-policy. By entering the Sweepstakes, you grant Sponsor permission to share your email address and any other personally identifiable information with the other Sweepstakes Entities for the purpose of prize fulfillment. 

13. SPONSOR: San Diego Magazine, 1230 Columbia Street, Ste. 800, San Diego, CA 92101

14. ADMINISTRATOR: Westfield UTC, 4545 La Jolla Village Drive, Suite E-25, San Diego, CA 92122

15. WINNERS /OFFICIAL RULES: To view a copy of these Official Rules, visit https://linkin.bio/sandiegomag. For a list of the winner(s), mail a self-addressed, stamped envelope to: Westfield UTC, 4545 La Jolla Village Drive, Suite E-25, San Diego, CA 92122 by March 1, 2024.The Sweepstakes is in no way sponsored, endorsed or administered by Instagram. Instagram is completely released of all liability by each Entrant in this Sweepstakes. You understand that you are providing your information to Sponsor and not to Instagram.

 

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Studio S JUNE 15, 2026

A Modern Take on Steak

Stake Chophouse & Bar brings contemporary classics and old-school service to the heart of Coronado

A Modern Take on Steak
Courtesy of Stake Chophouse

Stake Chophouse & Bar isn’t your average steakhouse. Blue Bridge Hospitality’s Coronado outpost is a modern interpretation of a big-city steakhouse nestled in the heart of the small coastal community. The team at Stake has reimagined the whole steakhouse experience. By prioritizing a seasonal farm-to-table sourcing philosophy, a personalized guest experience, and unique service touches, like a formal steak presentation and a bespoke knife selection process, Stake distinguishes itself in a sea of steakhouses.

Exceptional steaks, including Wagyu from Japan, Australia, and the U.S., and fresh seafood flown in daily form the core of Stake’s culinary identity. The menu features a five-course omakase-style steak experience highlighting house favorites, plus an array of cuts, and classic steakhouse staples—think a wedge salad, baked potato, or pasta carbonara—refined for a contemporary palate without losing their traditional appeal. Stake focuses on seasonal sourcing from the region’s best family farms and specialty purveyors, and incorporates intentionally unexpected touches to create something truly unique.

“I challenge our chefs and myself to take it a step further in sourcing,” says Chef Ronnie Schwandt. “It’s important to us to highlight different farms, unique one-off farms—whether it’s cattle, strawberries, a local fisherman or from anywhere in the United States, we’re always trying to find that niche.”

Beyond the menu, Stake emphasizes outstanding service, says Vinny Spatafore, Director of Hospitality Operations. Staff maintains detailed notes, allowing them to remember guests by name, recall previous orders such as a favorite martini (also memorable for the customer since it’s served in an extra tall, distinctly-shaped glass), and celebrate special occasions like birthdays and anniversaries.

“When you have those points of topic that you remember about a guest, they appreciate that,” he says. “Our servers are really good with that—we have a couple servers who have been here since the beginning and they’ll remember somebody from years ago, their name, their kids’ names, where they live. I’m really thankful to have a great front of house staff.”

Award-winning wines, rare whiskeys, special events, and a complementary black car service that provides transportation for guests throughout Coronado add to Stake’s appeal.

Schwandt stresses that Stake offers more than a meal; they aim to give patrons something unforgettable.

“It starts when you walk up the stairs and are greeted by the hostess—that sets the tone for the night. Then you’re greeted by a server, who may know you by name, and can guide you through the menu and curate as they get to know you,” says Schwandt. “Most people leave kind of blown away; they leave feeling like they just had an experience. That’s the goal, right? Whether you’re serving smash burgers or high-end steak, you want somebody to leave thinking, Wow, that was awesome.”

Partner Content
Partner Content JUNE 10, 2026

New Options for GLP-1 Users

Scripps study shows that some patients may be able to taper their dose and maintain results

New Options for GLP-1 Users
Courtesy of Scripps Health

While glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agents have been used to treat Type 2 diabetes for more than 20 years, their recent emergence as weight-loss wonder drugs marked a new frontier in medicine. But their effectiveness has left some patients wondering what to do once they’ve reached their goal. Stopping the medication could mean regaining some, if not all, of the weight. A Scripps Clinic internal medicine physician recently conducted a small study of whether GLP-1 patients who had reached their goal weight could maintain that weight by taking their regularly prescribed injection every other week instead of weekly. Spoiler alert: 30 of 34 patients did. Read more about the study here and what that may mean as pharmaceutical companies roll out oral GLP-1s.

For more nutrition, wellness, and healthy living tips, sign up for the San Diego Health newsletter here.

Partner Content
Partner Content JUNE 5, 2026

Beautiful Balboa Park: Nine Ways to See the City’s Crown Jewel in a New Light

San Diego Magazine's 2026 Guide to Balboa Park.

Beautiful Balboa Park: Nine Ways to See the City’s Crown Jewel in a New Light
Magical San Diego’s Balboa Park at twilight in San Diego California USA

Balboa Park is San Diego’s cultural heart.

The iconic 1,200-acre preserve’s history dates back more than 150 years, evolving from a scrub-filled plot atop a mesa overlooking what’s now Downtown to an urban oasis—the largest of its kind in the country—filled with an array of museums, attractions, gardens, trails, restaurants, and more. Balboa Park is an epic playground where San Diegans and visitors alike can experience the great outdoors just as easily as they can enjoy a world-class performance or explore groundbreaking discoveries.

Tucked away in the Spanish Colonial Revival-style architecture are 18 diverse museums that allow visitors to spend the day learning about, well, anything. A great place to start is the San Diego History Center. Located in the Casa del Balboa building, the museum tells the story of the city’s past, present, and future through photographs and art, clothing and textiles, and interviews with people who witnessed history-making events firsthand. The San Diego Natural History Museum takes visitors even farther back with interactive exhibitions that show what the region was like up to 75 million years ago. 

Blast off on a simulated trip to space at the San Diego Air & Space Museum, then check out artifacts from aviation legends, including the Wright brothers, Amelia Earhart, and Buzz Aldrin. Discover new perspectives revolutionizing the science world, learn about an often overlooked but overutilized utility, and exercise your creativity at the Fleet Science Center.  

Calling all theater-lovers, Balboa Park has something for you, too. The San Diego Junior Theatre will present their musical take on beloved children’s book A Bad Case of the Stripes from June 26 through July 12. And laugh, cry, and marvel in awe as the pros of The Old Globe perform Kim’s Convenience, the award-winning comedy that inspired the popular series, from May 15 to June 14. 

There’s nowhere else in Balboa Park quite like WorldBeat Cultural Center. The institution celebrates African diaspora and indigenous cultures around the world using art, music, dance, and education. The building, a renovated water tower covered in colorful murals, houses a performing arts center, museum, gift shop, cafe, and outdoor classroom.

If you’d like a side of nature with your culture, Balboa Park has you covered there, too. Stroll through the gardens of the Japanese Friendship Garden & Museum, a monument to the relationship between San Diego and its sister city, Yokohama, Japan. Inspired by traditional Japanese design dating back centuries, the 10-acre respite features a living exhibition that showcases plants native to both cities. 

If there seems like a lot going on in Balboa Park, it’s because there is. Let the Balboa Park Cultural Partnership be your guide. The organization is the umbrella for 24 of the park’s institutions and offers an Explorer Pass that allows visitors to access multiple museums for one affordable price. The hardest part is picking where to start.

16 Museums, One Pass

Save on admission to San Diego’s top museums with the Balboa Park Explorer Pass. Explore 16 museums of art, science, history and culture across Balboa Park — all with one affordable pass. Choose the option that fits your pace: the Limited Pass (one day for up to four museums), the Parkwide Pass (seven consecutive days of access to all 16 museums) or the Annual Pass (365 days of unlimited exploring).

Looking for an experience-driven gift? Let the museum lover in your life enjoy their favorite museums all year with a Balboa Park Explorer Annual Pass gift voucher.

BuyMyExplorer.com | Phone: 619-232-7502, Press 2 for Explorer 

Fleet Science Center

Bigger experiments, brighter ideas, and boundless curiosity await at the newly reimagined Fleet Science Center. This summer, the Fleet debuts Element 8 Cafe, an expanded theater queuing and concessions space, two new gallery spaces, and, for the first time, a free entrance gallery exploring science in and around San Diego. The transformation marks a new chapter for the Fleet, keeping it a vital, innovative, and accessible science hub for the region. Visitors are invited to explore the experience this summer and connect with the power of science like never before.

Address: 1875 El Prado, San Diego, CA 92101
Website: FleetScience.org
Hours: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily
Phone: 619-238-1233

Japanese Friendship Garden & Museum

An accredited cultural gem, the Japanese Friendship Garden & Museum brings traditional Japanese garden design to life with koi ponds, curving walkways and layers of greenery. Guests explore bonsai trees, streams and peaceful nooks while taking part in exhibits, educational programs and festivals that illuminate Japanese culture. Situated in the heart of Balboa Park, the garden doubles as a meditative retreat and a dynamic gathering place, welcoming visitors to slow their pace and connect more deeply.

Address: 2215 Pan American Road E, San Diego, CA 92101
Website: Niwa.org
Hours: 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. daily; last admission at 6 p.m.
Phone: 619-232-2721

The Old Globe

A San Diego summer favorite, The Old Globe invites audiences to experience a beloved local tradition in its outdoor Lowell Davies Festival Theatre. 

This summer, the 2026 Shakespeare Festival presents two thrilling tales of power, passion and romance. Measure for Measure, running June 14 through July 12, 2026, is a riveting story of justice and hypocrisy that asks who holds power, who is punished and what it truly means to be virtuous. Much Ado About Nothing, playing Aug. 2–30, 2026, is a classic rom-com packed with schemes, sparks and laughter as opposites attract. Audiences can enjoy both shows for $44.

Address: 1363 Old Globe Way, San Diego, CA 92101
Website: TheOldGlobe.org
Hours: Box office open Tuesday–Sunday, 1 p.m. to final curtain
Phone: Box office, 619-234-5623

San Diego Air & Space Museum

Aviation and space exploration come to life at the San Diego Air & Space Museum. See an airworthy replica of the Spirit of St. Louis, a Gee Bee racer and historic aircraft from World War I, World War II and the Korean and Vietnam eras. Get up close to the Apollo 9 command module — one of only 11 of its kind in the world — along with Mercury and Gemini capsules, Mission Control and space shuttle simulators, and a selfie spot beside a lunar lander on the moon. Running through 2026, Ripley’s Believe It or Not! brings oddities from around the world to Balboa Park.

Address: 2001 Pan American Plaza, San Diego, CA 92101
Website: SanDiegoAirAndSpace.org
Hours: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Phone: 619-234-8291

San Diego History Center

History belongs to everyone. At the San Diego History Center, two experiences bring that history to life this summer: America at 250 and the Center for Women’s History. America at 250 traces San Diego’s place in 250 years of U.S. history, while summer programs invite children to learn and explore. The Center for Women’s History amplifies the voices of women whose leadership and creativity have shaped our region.

By understanding our past, we build a more vibrant and inclusive community together. These vital educational experiences are only possible through generous community support. Discover your roots, spark meaningful dialogue, and help keep San Diego’s stories alive for future generations.

Address: 1649 El Prado, Suite 3, San Diego, CA 92101
Website: SanDiegoHistory.org
Hours: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Wednesday–Sunday
Phone: 619-232-6203

San Diego Junior Theatre

Junior Theatre is San Diego’s longest-running youth theatre program, empowering students ages 4 to 18 to explore storytelling, performance, and collaboration in a supportive environment. Through classes, camps, and productions, young artists build confidence, creativity, and lifelong skills onstage and off. Each season features a wide range of opportunities, from introductory experiences to advanced training in acting and musical theatre. 

Looking for a summer adventure? Junior Theatre’s Summer Camps deliver dynamic programs for grades K–12, including musical theater intensives, acting academies and immersive JT Studio experiences. It’s a place where imagination truly takes center stage.

Address: 1650 El Prado, Suite 208, San Diego, CA 92101
Website: JuniorTheatre.com
Hours: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Phone: 619-239-1311

San Diego Natural History Museum (The Nat)

This summer, The Nat is talking trash—literally. Their newest exhibition, Washed Ashore: Art to Save the Sea, features larger‑than‑life marine sculptures made of ocean debris collected from beaches. It invites visitors to explore the impact of plastic pollution and discover ways to take action.

But the experience doesn’t stop at the gallery doors. Friday nights, the exhibition transforms into an ocean-themed “dive bar” during Nat at Night. Select Sundays bring something brand new: a rooftop brunch with sweeping Balboa Park views. Add two new giant-screen films and five floors of nature to explore, and The Nat is shaping up to be one of the season’s must-visit destinations.

Address: 1788 El Prado, San Diego, CA 92101
Website: SDNat.org
Hours: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily; 10 a.m. to 11 p.m. Fridays in summer
Phone: 619-232-3821

WorldBeat Cultural Center

The WorldBeat Cultural Center is a nonprofit multidisciplinary cultural organization dedicated to promoting, presenting and preserving Indigenous cultures worldwide through music, art, dance, education, sustainability and community programs. WorldBeat elevates multicultural artists, expands opportunities for cultural enrichment and fosters deeper understanding across traditions. WorldBeat offers a holistic cultural experience that inspires pride, unity, connection and belonging for all ages.

Address: 2100 Park Blvd., San Diego, CA 92101
Website: WorldBeatCenter.org
Hours: Classes: Monday, Wednesday, Thursday, 6–9 p.m. Exhibits and café: Friday–Sunday, 11 a.m.–6 p.m.
Phone: 619-230-1190


Event Calendar

Throughout 2026: Ripley’s Believe It Or Not!

Step into a world of the weird and wonderful at Ripley’s Believe It or Not! at the San Diego Air & Space Museum in Balboa Park. Explore hundreds of bizarre artifacts, interactive displays and unbelievable stories that celebrate the curious and the extraordinary.

San Diego Air & Space Museum | 2001 Pan American Plaza, San Diego, CA 92101

Throughout 2026: San Diego’s Lost Neighborhoods

Presented in partnership with the San Diego Museum of African American Fine Arts, San Diego’s Lost Neighborhoods uses augmented reality, oral histories, and archival materials to explore communities and residents displaced by redlining, freeway construction, and other discriminatory policies.

San Diego History Center | 1649 El Prado, Suite 3, San Diego, CA 92101

June –Aug: The 2026 Shakespeare Festival

Spend a summer night at The Old Globe. The Lowell Davies Festival Theatre stages Measure for Measure (June 14–July 12) and Much Ado About Nothing (Aug. 2–30), offering two unforgettable Shakespeare productions for just $44.

The Old Globe | 1363 Old Globe Way,
San Diego, CA 92101

June 8–Aug. 7: Theatre Summer Camps

Summer camps at Junior Theatre spark creativity for grades K–12 with hands-on training, musical theatre intensives, acting academies, and JT Studio experiences.

San Diego Junior Theatre | 1650 El Prado, Suite 208, San Diego, CA 92101  

June 14, July 12, Aug 9: Brunch at The Nat


A museum visit turns into a Sunday Funday with the addition of rooftop brunch, featuring mimosas, bloody Marys, and brunch bites from Wolfish by Wolf in the Woods (June 14, August 9) and Hash House a Go Go (July 12). 

San Diego Natural History Museum (The Nat)
1788 El Prado, San Diego, CA 92101

June 21: Harriet Tubman Freedom Bird Walk

Celebrate Juneteenth weekend with guided birding, storytelling, soul food, native planting and an African peace drum circle.

WorldBeat Cultural Center | 2100 Park Blvd., San Diego, CA 92101

Aug 7-8: Toro Nagashi Festival

Nagashi at the Japanese Friendship Garden & Museum by floating a lantern to honor loved ones who have passed. Stroll merchant booths, enjoy cultural performances in the Inamori Pavilion, and sample food vendors plus a beer and sake garden in the lower garden.

Japanese Friendship Garden & Museum | 1649 El Prado, Suite 3, San Diego, CA 92101


Explore arts, science, history, and culture in the Balboa Park Cultural District with one convenient, affordable Pass. The Balboa Park Explorer Pass is your ticket to up to 16 museums and endless fun! Purchase your pass at BuyMyExplorer.com.

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Tastemakers 2026: La Gran Terraza

Chefs, restaurateurs, sommeliers, and craft mixers - meet our 2026 Tastemakers, the minds behind the magic.

Tastemakers 2026: La Gran Terraza
SDM Tastemakers 2025 (All)

Marbi Becerra, Chef de Cuisine

La Gran Terraza, the University of San Diego’s signature restaurant, has been a campus favorite for over 16 years, offering California cuisine with a Mediterranean twist. This summer, its gastropub, O’Toole’s, is open for evening service —perfect for sunset bites and drinks.

At the helm is chef Marbi Becerra, a Culinary Institute of America alum with roots in the US and Mexico. She now leads culinary operations for La Gran Terraza and USD Catering, bringing bold Mediterranean flavors and a fresh perspective.

Try This!

Seared Scallops: With charred broccolini oyster mushrooms corn puree herb cherry tomatoes and chimichurri

La Gran Terraza

5998 Alcala Park, San Diego, California 92110
619-849-8205  |  lagranterraza.com  |  @eatatusd

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Tastemakers 2026: Labora Cafe

Chefs, restaurateurs, sommeliers, and craft mixers - meet our 2026 Tastemakers, the minds behind the magic.

Tastemakers 2026: Labora Cafe
SDM: Tastemakers 2026

Lauren Thiemthath & Bao Doan, Owners

Labora Café offers so much more than premium ceremonial-grade matcha; it’s a lifestyle café where people come to feel more energized, inspired, and connected to their community. Labora partners with retailers and lifestyle brands, from local Pilates instructors to Neiman Marcus, so there’s always something new to learn about or browse when you’re here. As for the drinks, whether you’re thinking matcha or Vietnamese coffee with a specialty house-made foam on top, expect a natural pick-me-up, without extra sugars or syrups.

Try This!

Pistachio 54: Pistachio foam layered with a slow drip Viet coffee or Matcha

Labora Café

8055 Clairemont Mesa Boulevard, Suite 101, San Diego, California 92111
858-471-6970 | laboracafe.com | @laborasd

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Tastemakers 2026: Happy Medium

Chefs, restaurateurs, sommeliers, and craft mixers - meet our 2026 Tastemakers, the minds behind the magic.

Tastemakers 2026: Happy Medium
20260430SD_Mag_Christian_HappyMedium003

Christian Siglin, Bartender & Owner

Happy Medium lives in the sweet spot: not too fancy, not too gritty. Think dive bar soul with cocktail bar standards. It’s the kind of place where you can grab a beer and a shot, a fancy cocktail, plus a killer spirits list. The menu includes all the best bar classics along with elevated plates. Some would call it a “happy medium.” With your favorite B-side tracks always playing in the background, Happy Medium is the ultimate neighborhood hangout spot.

Try This!

Lava Flowgroni: Pineapple gin layered with strawberry Campari, banana vermouth and coconut, served over crushed party ice.

Happy Medium

4002 30th Street, San Diego, California 92104
619-310-5642 | happymediumsd.com

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San Diego, CA