Finding the best fish oil supplement for cholesterol management is crucial for those looking to improve their heart health through natural means. Fish oil supplements are renowned for their ability to support cardiovascular health, primarily by influencing cholesterol levels. In 2024, the selection of fish oil supplements has expanded, offering various options tailored to individual health needs. This guide will navigate you through the top choices, ensuring you select the best fish oil supplement for cholesterol improvement.
Best Fish Oil Supplements For Cholesterol: Quick Look
Riti Omega-3 Fish Oil Softgels emerge as a top choice for wellness, meticulously crafted to enhance heart health by maintaining cholesterol levels, cognitive function, and joint flexibility. Each softgel is a powerhouse of EPA and DHA, the pivotal omega-3 fatty acids renowned for their anti-inflammatory properties and vital roles in brain and cardiovascular health, further ensuring that you have good cholesterol in your body. Sourced from 100% wild-caught anchovies, Riti ensures a sustainable and high-quality omega-3 supply, encapsulated in a lemon-flavored softgel that eradicates the common fishy aftertaste.
Committed to purity and safety, Riti’s product undergoes rigorous third-party testing, guaranteeing a non-GMO, gluten-free, and artificial additive-free supplement. This dedication to quality and sustainability positions Riti Omega-3 Fish Oil Softgels as a superior choice for those seeking to support their well-being and lead a vibrant, health-oriented lifestyle.
Product Details:
Form: Softgel
Type: Triglyceride
Dose: 1 softgels
EPA per Serving: 432 mg
DHA per Serving: 268 mg
Other Ingredients:Gelatin, Glycerol, Water, Natural Lemon Flavour
Third-Party Tested: Yes
Pros:
Subscription Offers: Discount of 15% on first purchase
Gluten-Free
Free from Genetic Modification
Lemon flavor for a good aftertaste
Higher amount of EPA and DHA per serving
Cons:
Allergen sensitivity for individuals with medical conditions
#2. Best Fish Oil Supplement For Heart Health: Life Extension
Life Extension’s Super Omega-3 EPA/DHA with Sesame Lignans & Olive Extract stands at the forefront of nutritional innovation, offering a unique blend of heart-healthy omega-3 fatty acids, enhanced with the added benefits of sesame lignans and olive extract.
By incorporating EPA and DHA, this supplement aids in maintaining optimal cholesterol levels and promoting overall heart health. This advanced formula is designed to support cardiovascular health, cognitive function, and inflammatory response.
Life Extension’s commitment to purity and potency is evident in its rigorous third-party testing, ensuring that each batch meets the highest standards for quality and efficacy. This product is a testament to Life Extension’s dedication to extending the healthy life span of its customers through scientifically based, high-quality nutritional supplements.
#3. Ideal For Supporting Cognitive Function & Promoting Eye Health: Care/Of
CARE/OF’s Fish Oil Supplement is a testament to the brand’s commitment to health, sustainability, and scientific backing. Each pill is packed with 800mg of omega-3 fatty acids, including 750mg of EPA and DHA, essential nutrients for maintaining cholesterol levels, supporting cognitive function, and promoting eye health.
Sourced from non-GMO, wild-caught fish, CARE/OF emphasizes the importance of sustainability by adhering to Friend of the Sea® certification standards, ensuring their products respect and protect marine environments. The supplement is designed for those who may not get enough fish in their diet, providing a month’s supply of essential nutrients.
Third-Party Tested: Yes, certified by Friend of the Sea®, guaranteeing adherence to international standards for traceability, social accountability, and sustainable fishing practices set by the World Sustainability Organization
Pros:
Sustainable approach
Celiac-Friendly
Not Genetically Altered
Processed for Potency
Price on the lower side
Cons:
Fishy aftertaste and may also cause gastrointestinal issues
#4. Popular Fish Oil Supplement In Liquid & Gummy Form: Nordic Naturals
Nordic Naturals Ultimate Omega stands as a pinnacle of excellence in the omega-3 supplement market, delivering unparalleled support for heart, brain, and overall wellness. Esteemed as one of the best omega-3 in the U.S., this product is meticulously crafted from 100% wild-caught sardines and anchovies, ensuring a pure and sustainable source of essential nutrients required to manage the good cholesterol in the human body. Each serving, whether in soft gel or liquid form, is packed with a potent dose of omega-3s, offering 1280 mg in soft gels and 2840 mg in liquid, to meet and exceed health and wellness needs.
Renowned for its fresh lemon taste, Ultimate Omega eliminates the common deterrent of fishy aftertaste, making daily supplementation a pleasant experience. This commitment to quality and palatability has garnered over 10 industry awards, including Delicious Living’s Best Omega-3, attesting to its superior formulation and consumer satisfaction.
Product Details:
Forms: Available inSoftgel, Liquid and Gummies
Type: Triglyceride
Dose: 2 softgels/One-half to one teaspoon daily/2 gummies
EPA per Serving: 600 mg
DHA per Serving: 450 mg
Other Ingredients:Purified deep sea fish oil (from anchovies and sardines), purified water, xylitol, fish gelatin, erythritol, glycerol, sodium citrate, natural flavors, gum arabic, citric acid, ascorbic acid, paprika extract (for color), stevia.
Puritan’s Pride Fish Oil Plus Cholesterol Support is meticulously designed to offer a dual-action formula that not only supports cardiovascular health but also aids in maintaining healthy cholesterol levels. Each softgel is packed with high-quality omega-3 fatty acids, EPA, and DHA, which are essential for heart health, reducing inflammation, and promoting overall well-being. What sets this supplement apart is its additional cholesterol support, likely formulated with natural ingredients known to assist in managing cholesterol levels.
Product Details:
Form: Softgel
Type: Triglyceride
Dose: 2 softgels
Omega-3 fatty acids:300mg
Plant sterols: 500mg per serving
Other Ingredients:Gelatin, Vegetable Glycerin. Contains <2% of Mixed Natural Tocopherols, Natural Caramel Color. Contains fish (anchovy, herring, mackerel, sardine) ingredients
Third-party Tested: Yes
Pros:
Offers: 66.67% discount on buying products
Plant sterols of 500mg per serving
No Gluten
Non-Genetically engineered
Sustainably harvested
Guaranteed purity
Cons
Allergy reactions may occur if consuming other medications.
#6. High-Quality Fish Oil Derived From The Tissue Of Oily Fish: Nature Made
Nature Made’s collection of Fish Oil and Omega-3 supplements is designed with heart health, and management of good cholesterol at its core, offering a range of products to support cardiovascular wellness, brain health, and visual acuity. Recognized for their high-quality standards, Nature Made’s supplements provide essential omega-3 fatty acids, EPA, and DHA, derived from the oil contained in the tissue of oily fish. These polyunsaturated fats are crucial for maintaining a healthy heart, supporting brain function, and preserving eye health.
Product Details:
Form: Softgel
Type: Triglyceride
Dose: 2 softgels
EPA and per Serving: 600 mg
Other Ingredients:Gelatin, glycerin, and tocopherols
Third-party Tested: Yes, by United States Pharmacopeia (USP).
#7. Best For A Budget With Subscription Benefits: VitaMedica
VitaMedica’s Super EPA/DHA Fish Oil is a premium supplement designed to support cardiovascular, cognitive, and overall health. It also helps in managing healthy cholesterol levels in the body. Each softgel delivers a potent 750 mg of Omega-3 fatty acids, including 500 mg of Eicosapentaenoic Acid (EPA) and 250 mg of Docosahexaenoic Acid (DHA), sourced from select Peruvian and Chilean anchovy species recognized for their high Omega-3 content. This concentrated formula ensures that fewer capsules are required to achieve the widely recognized benefits of fish oil, making it a convenient addition to your daily wellness routine.
Product Details:
Form: Softgel
Type: Triglyceride
Dose: 1 softgels
EPA per Serving: 500 mg
DHA per Serving: 250 mg
Other Ingredients:Gelatin, glycerin, water, and d-alpha-tocopherol
Third-party Tested: Yes
Pros:
Subscription benefits: Save 15% now and on every additional shipment
Satisfaction Guarantee: Hassle-free 60-days money back offer
Enteric-coating is ideal for those who experience nausea or reflux from taking fish oil.
Free of potentially harmful levels of contaminants (e.g., mercury, heavy metals, PCBs, dioxins).
Natural vitamin E prevents the oxidation of fish oil.
Cons:
Not ideal for pregnant women or those on medication.
What Is Fish Oil?
Fish oil is a dietary supplement that is rich in omega-3 fatty acids, especially eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA). These are essential fatty acids to develop and function optimally in every stage of life. These need to be consumed from external sources because the human body cannot produce them on its own. It is typically obtained from fatty tissues of fishes such as salmon, mackerel, sardines, herring, anchovies, and trout.
What makes fish oil supplements better than fish consumption?
1. Purity level: Fish oil supplements are purified to remove contaminants such as heavy metals and PCBs. e.g. ‘Minamata Disease of Japan’ occurs due to mercury poisoning leading to severe neurological and physical disorders in humans. It occurs due to the intake of contaminated seafood.
2. Dosage Control: Precise control over the amount of EPA and DHA you consume towards specific health goals or dietary needs.
3. Readiness: Convenient to purchase and suitable for consumption at any time of the day. Fish oil supplements can be taken in a hassle-free manner according to the recommendations of health providers.
Shifting our focus to fish oil supplements presents a strategic move. This transition not only enhances accessibility and flexibility but also serves as a gateway to exploring a diverse range of products in the realm of fish oil supplements. Let’s delve into the various offerings and benefits these products bring to the table.
Problems With High Cholesterol
How does high cholesterol builds up in our body?
1. High cholesterol increases due to factors like a diet rich in saturated fats, lack of exercise, obesity, smoking, genetics, aging, medical conditions (e.g., diabetes), excessive alcohol, and stress.
2. Lifestyle changes, including a healthy diet and exercise, are key for management, along with medications if necessary.
3. Regular screenings and consulting healthcare professionals are crucial for effective control.
Issues due to High Cholesterol:
1. Heart Attacks: Due to narrowing of arteries.
2. HyperTension: It could increase the strain on the heart and blood vessels.
3. Increased risk of clot formation
4. Stroke: Plaque formation could reduce blood flow to the brain and cause damage to brain cells.
Benefits Of Fish Oil Supplements
1. Heart Health: Omega-3 fatty acids in fish oil supplements may reduce the risk of heart disease by lowering blood pressure, reducing triglycerides, and improving overall cardiovascular function. The American Heart Association recommends fish oil supplements for individuals with coronary heart disease to lower the risk of sudden death and recurrent cardiovascular events.
2. Manage Cholesterol Levels: Omega-3 fatty acids present in fish oil supplements significantly reduce triglycerides and positively impact high-density lipoprotein (HDL) or good cholesterol in the human body.
3. Brain Function: Omega-3s in fish oil supplements support brain health, aiding cognitive function and potentially reducing the risk of neurodegenerative diseases. Research in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition suggests that omega-3 supplementation may positively impact cognitive decline in individuals with mild cognitive impairment.
4. Joint Health: Fish oil supplements may alleviate joint pain and stiffness, providing relief for conditions like arthritis. The American College of Rheumatology recognizes the potential benefits of omega-3 fatty acids in managing symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis.
5. Eye Health: Fish oil supplements also improve eyesight. Omega-3s are essential for eye health, supporting the function of the retina and potentially reducing the risk of age-related macular degeneration. The Age-Related Eye Disease Study 2 found that omega-3 fatty acids, along with other nutrients, reduced the risk of progression to advanced age-related macular degeneration.
6. Inflammation Reduction: Fish oil has anti-inflammatory properties, contributing to the management of chronic inflammatory conditions. The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition published a study showing that fish oil supplementation reduces inflammatory markers in the body.
7. Improved Mood: Omega-3s play a role in mental health, potentially reducing symptoms of depression and anxiety. It also influences the production and activity of neurotransmitters like serotonin and dopamine which play key roles in mood control. The Journal of Psychiatric Research published a study indicating that omega-3 supplementation may have a positive impact on anxiety symptoms.
8. Skin Health: Due to the presence of EPA and DHA, Fish oil supplements may enhance skin hydration, reduce acne, and provide anti-aging benefits.
9. Boosted Immune System: Omega-3s support the immune system, aiding in the body’s ability to fight off infections. Due to antioxidant properties, it neutralizes free radicals and hence maintains overall cellular health
10. Pregnancy Benefits: DHA, a type of omega-3, is crucial for fetal brain development, making fish oil beneficial during pregnancy. Due to the purity level of fish oil supplements, it could be a better choice over fish consumption. However, it is advised to consult with healthcare providers. The Journal of Pediatrics published research indicating that higher maternal fish intake during pregnancy was associated with better neurodevelopmental outcomes in children.
11. Weight Management: Fish oil supplements may assist in weight loss by improving metabolism and reducing body fat. It also influences appetite hormones to regulate hunger and potentially reduce overeating.
How We Choose The Best Fish Oil To Lower Cholesterol?
Choosing the right brand for your fish oil supplement for cholesterol requires a lot of consideration and research. We have also curated this list by analyzing 50+ fish oil supplement for cholesterol brands, available on the market, on parameters like type, quality, lab tests, and more. Let’s discuss these parameters in length below.
Type:
It is important to understand the type of fish oil used in the supplement. Therefore, we have selected the supplements which feature omega-3 fatty acids, especially EPA and DHA. These omega-3 acids are known to offer effective results in decreasing the cholesterol levels in the human body.
Quality:
Quality is the most important aspect of consideration of the best fish oil supplements for cholesterol. It is necessary to reduce the risk of contaminants such as heavy metals and pesticides in fish due to marine pollution.
This is why we have rated the top brands that feature proper certification and offer quality supplements by ensuring the procurement of fish oil from good quality fish.
Testing:
Third-party testing plays a vital role in ensuring the accuracy of ingredients listed on the labels. These tests also ensure that the high quality ingredients are used in the manufacturing. Therefore, while curating the list of the best fish oil supplements for cholesterol, we gave more importance to the brands that send their products for lab tests and transparency in the test results.
Sourcing:
It influences the quality of fish oil supplements for cholesterol. Cold-water fish like salmon, mackerel, sardines, or anchovies tend to have higher concentrations of omega-3s. Further, it is necessary to check whether your fish oil supplements are not threatening any type of fish species. Understanding this, we emphasized the brands that follow sustainable practices for ingredient sourcing and manufacturing of the products.
Ingredients:
While selecting fish oil supplements for cholesterol, we considered additional ingredients, such as natural lemon flavor, natural vitamin E, or enteric coatings, for potential benefits like reduced oxidation or aftertaste.
These ingredients help in enhancing the overall effectiveness and consumption of the supplement.
Price:
We compared the prices of different brands and analyzed them on the basis of cost per serving, dosage, and supply. We tried to pick the brands that offer cost balance with the quality and effectiveness of the fish oil supplements ensuring value for money.
Fish Oil Supplements For Cholesterol: Comparison Table
Q1. What is the best fish oil supplement for cholesterol?
Ans: There are several parameters that need to be considered while selecting the right fish oil supplement for cholesterol, including ingredients, price of the product, quality assurance, certification, and EPA and DHA level intake per serving. Abiding by all the parameters, Riti offers the best fish oil supplement.
Q2. Do fish oil supplements lower cholesterol & blood pressure?
Ans: Yes, EPA and DHA present in the fish oil help in lowering levels of LDL(bad cholesterol) and increasing HDL(good cholesterol).Omega-3 also has been shown to reduce triglyceride levels. Omega-3 fatty acids also have a moderate effect on lowering blood pressure lowering effect, particularly in individuals with hypertension.
Q3. When to take a fish oil supplement?
Ans: Fish oil supplements can be taken with meals as they will enhance absorption as dietary fats stimulate the release of bile and enzymes that aid in digestion and absorption of fat-soluble nutrients.
For two doses a day, there should be enough time between the two for absorption throughout the day.
Regular schedule for taking fish oil supplements for optimal results.
Q4. Is there a difference between omega-3 and fish oil?
Ans: Omega-3 fatty acids cover a wide range of polyunsaturated fats that are essential for various bodily functions. It includes alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), EPA, and DHA. They can be made from the oils from flax seeds, fish, algae, krill, walnuts, and more, providing ALA.
On the other hand, Fish oil is a specific supplement that provides a concentrated source of EPA and DHA.
Q5. Are there any side effects of using fish oil supplements for cholesterol?
Ans: Fish oil supplements, while generally safe, may lead to side effects such as gastrointestinal discomfort, potential allergic reactions for those with fish allergies, mild blood-thinning effects, and, in extremely high doses, risks of vitamin A and D toxicity. Consultation with a healthcare professional is recommended, especially for individuals on medications, to manage potential side effects and interactions.
Q6. How to add fish oil to your diet?
Ans: Fish oil can be incorporated into your diet by directly consuming fish such as salmon, mackerel, and sardines. However, due to marine pollution, there is a risk of contamination by heavy metals and PCBs. Therefore, consider fish oil supplements certified by a third-party agency, which prevents contamination and quality checks to counter any side effects.
Q7. What are the dosage guidelines for fish oil to lower cholesterol?
Ans: Dosage guidelines for fish oil to lower cholesterol can vary, and it’s crucial to consult with a healthcare professional for personalized recommendations. Generally, a common dosage range might be 1,000 to 4,000 milligrams of combined EPA and DHA per day. Starting with a lower dose and gradually increasing it can help monitor individual tolerance and effects. Always follow healthcare provider advice for optimal results and safety.
Q8. What are some other ways to lower cholesterol?
Ans: Cholesterol can be lowered by focusing on a plant-based or vegan diet and consuming healthy fats. Lifestyle changes, including regular exercise, maintaining a healthy weight, quitting smoking, limiting alcohol, increasing soluble fiber, consuming plant sterols, staying hydrated, considering green tea, including omega-3-rich foods, managing stress, and having regular health check-ups, can help you control cholesterol levels. Further, consult a healthcare professional for personalized guidance.
Tailoring Your Approach: Fish Oil Supplements In Cholesterol Management
In conclusion, Fish oil is important for maintaining good health and body functionality. However, the market is diverse, and choosing the best fish oil supplement for individual needs is hard, and proper research is needed.
During our research, we noticed that Riti’s Omega-3 Fish Oil Softgels excel in EPA and DHA levels, and offer purity, potency, and quality.
In the end, tailoring choices according to individual needs, in addition to consultation with healthcare professionals, ensure optimal results in managing cholesterol levels and making the world fit by working with nature in a sustainable manner.
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
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.”
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.
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 theBalboa 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.
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.
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.
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.
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).
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.
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.
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
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
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
