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Many body washes on the market can give a good clean, but they aren’t truly fighting all of the bacteria that collects on your skin throughout the day. For those struggling with keeping body odor in check, using a body wash that doesn’t effectively fight odor-causing bacteria can be a major problem. In order to help you get the most deeply disinfecting and refreshing shower possible, we’ve created a guide to the absolute best antibacterial body washes of 2023.
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First up on our list is this all-natural option from premium skincare company Blu Atlas. The Blu Atlas Body Wash has a highly effective, dermatologist-tested, sulfate-free formula that kills bacteria and whisks away dirt and debris while nourishing and strengthening the skin.
Two of the key ingredients you’ll find in this vegan and all-natural body wash are green tea and aloe barbadensis leaf extracts. Green tea extract is antimicrobial, and also has potent anti-inflammatory properties. It powerfully kills bacteria, fungus, viruses, and other microorganisms while calming the skin and minimizing redness.
This natural extract is also packed with antioxidants and phytonutrients that nourish and protect the skin. Aloe barbadensis leaf juice is antibacterial, and like green tea, it also has anti-inflammatory properties. It soothes the skin, and works as a natural moisturizer.
In addition to these bacteria-fighting ingredients, this paraben-free and phthalate-free body wash contain sugar cane extract, which gently exfoliates for smooth and bright skin. While these ingredients get to work, a blend of gentle yet effective surfactants whisks away unwanted debris present on the skin.
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This potent cleansing formula from Dr. Lift works to kill 99.99% of germs present on the skin while a variety of botanical extracts hydrate and refresh. The Dr. Lift Antibacterial Body Wash is vegan and cruelty-free, and made without parabens or phthalates.
This body wash contains a low concentration of benzalkonium chloride, a super-powerful antiseptic ingredient that is largely responsible for the product’s antibacterial properties. Additionally, it features lavender flower extract, which has antibacterial and antiseptic properties. This extract also has anti-inflammatory benefits, and works to soothe the skin while killing germs.
In addition to these two ingredients, the Antibacterial Body Wash has a blend of other potent ingredients that ensure the skin is left feeling comfortable and moisturized. Glycerin locks moisture into the skin, while cucumber seed extract nourishes and supports the skin’s barrier. A wide variety of other plant-based ingredients work to soothe and refresh, including calendula flower extract, hops extract, and apple fruit extract.
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Another excellent natural body wash that has powerful antibacterial properties is the Eucalyptus Shower Gel from 100% Pure. This fully natural and organic formula contains a blend of botanicals that rehydrate and soothe the skin while killing bacteria and washing away oil, dirt, and impurities.
This foaming gel is formulated with eucalyptus essential oil which has anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties. It’s a particularly excellent ingredient for fighting and calming breakouts, making this a great choice for those battling body acne. This body wash also contains a variety of other natural ingredients that contain antimicrobial properties, including rosemary leaf, oregano leaf, green tea, thyme leaf, and honey.
While these botanicals fight bacteria and other microorganisms, other ingredients support a healthy and moisturized complexion. Honey works to soothe, while rose hydrosol tones the skin and tightens the pores. The formula also features red algae, which brightens the complexion while providing extra moisturization benefits.
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The Tea Tree Foot and Body Wash from First Botany is packed with natural ingredients that defend the skin against fungi and bacteria while cleansing and hydrating. It’s made to be suitable for all skin types, including sensitive skin.
As you can guess by the name, the star ingredient in this body wash is 100% pure tea tree essential oil. This oil has antibacterial, antiseptic, and anti-inflammatory effects, and it effectively kills harmful and odor-causing microorganisms on the skin while soothing irritation. Peppermint oil—which has antiseptic and antibacterial properties—works alongside tea tree oil to stop bacteria in its tracks. These oils are also responsible for the light and refreshing herbal scent.
This First Botany body wash is also formulated with nutrient-rich, plant-derived ingredients that support overall skin health. This includes antioxidant-rich cranberry and pomegranate seed oils, as well as deeply moisturizing jojoba, coconut, and olive oils.
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Dove is well-known for having an excellent selection of body washes, so it’s no surprise that the company has created a specific cleanser that works to fight bacteria. The super affordable Care & Protect Antibacterial Body Wash is able to eliminate 99% of bacteria thanks to the power of the antiseptic ingredient benzalkonium chloride.
While many antibacterial body washes can be drying, this product is also formulated to ensure the skin stays moisturized all day long. It contains Dove’s Moisture Renew Blend which mixes together ingredients that protect against moisture loss and help the skin stay hydrated so that it looks and feels soft and smooth from morning until night.
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If you’re looking for a deeply detoxifying antibacterial body wash, you’ll want to try this product from Dr. Hempster, a personal care brand that creates formulas powered by hemp and other natural ingredients. This cruelty-free body wash is made without parabens or sulfates, and is a particularly great fit for those with oily skin that are prone to body acne. It’s also ideal for those looking to take a more aggressive yet natural approach to fighting sweat and body odor.
The bacteria-fighting abilities of this body wash come from the lavender and eucalyptus oils, which both have antibacterial properties. This formula also features charcoal powder, which powerfully draws out impurities in the skin to deeply detoxify, as well as magnesium, which controls oiliness and minimizes breakouts.
Of course, this formula also contains hemp oil, which is packed with fatty acids that help with moisturization. Coconut oil, olive oil, jojoba seed oil, and other natural ingredients further ensure the skin stays supple and adequately hydrated after being cleansed.
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We have another tea-tree-powered recommendation for you: the Tea Tree Skin Clearing Body Wash from The Body Shop. This invigorating formula uses high-performance natural ingredients to deeply cleanse and tackle body acne without causing any irritation or dryness.
Of course, this vegan and cruelty-free body wash feature tea tree oil, which is sourced from the foothills of Mount Kenya. The antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and antiseptic oil fights acne and odor while calming skin irritation for a refreshed, clear, and comfortable complexion.
As the tea tree oil gets to work, antioxidant-packed and anti-inflammatory tamanu oil soothes, nourishes, and moisturizes the skin. Glycerin further works to lock in moisture, while vitamin E strengthens the skin and defends it against environmental aggressors.
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Derma-Nu’s Antifungal Therapeutic Soap is formulated with a blend of organic and natural ingredients that target a wide variety of bacteria and fungus related skin issues, including odor, acne, psoriasis, and more. This cruelty-free formula is made without synthetic fragrances, dyes, or parabens, and has a blend of cooling and minty essential oils that invigorate the skin and senses.
Like many of the more natural options on this list, the Antifungal Therapeutic Soap contains a potent concentration of anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, and antiseptic tea tree essential oil. It also features a blend of bacteria and fungus-fighting mint and eucalyptus essential oils, which soothe irritated and itchy skin while tackling microorganisms.
Additionally, this Derma-Nu body wash is formulated with ingredients that moisturize and nourish the skin, including jojoba oil, aloe barbadensis leaf, rosehip oil, olive oil, and oat.
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The Vita Vie Antibacterial Body Wash partners antiseptics with natural ingredients to kill germs, bacteria, and other microorganisms while nourishing the skin. It’s highly effective, yet expertly crafted so that it doesn’t dry out the skin while cleansing.
Much like many of the other recommendations on this list, this Vita Vie body wash contains a low concentration of benzalkonium chloride, an antiseptic ingredient. It also contains willow bark extract and tea tree oil, both of which have antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties.
As these synthetic and natural ingredients fight bacteria, witch hazel refreshes and tones the skin, while glycerin locks in moisture for softer and more comfortable skin. Oat kernel extract provides additional soothing benefits to fight any irritation.
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Any person looking to simplify their personal care routine should give this 2-in-1 fully natural body wash and shampoo from Fieldworks a shot. It blends together clays, oils, and plant extracts to thoroughly yet gently cleanse the hair and skin, killing harmful bacteria along the way.
The Hose Off Body Wash contains a unique ingredient that you don’t commonly find in antibacterial body washes: bentonite clay. This antibacterial and anti-inflammatory ingredient soothes the skin and fights bacteria while drawing out impurities from the pores for some serious detoxification.
In addition to the clay, this Fieldworks body wash contains vetiver essential oil, which has antiseptic properties. It also contributes to the body wash’s natural, masculine scent. Additionally, the formula features shea butter and aloe, which hydrate the skin, as well as nutmeg which soothes.
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This clinically approved body wash from New York Biology is packed with essential oils and other natural ingredients that inhibit bacteria and treat body odor, eczema, and other skin issues. The star of the body wash is antibacterial tea tree oil, of which there is a 5% concentration—one of the highest amounts you can find on the market.
In addition to tea tree oil, this body wash features eucalyptus and peppermint oils, both of which further work to fight harmful microorganisms on the skin. Additionally, you’ll find a powerful blend of natural ingredients that soothe, moisturize, and support overall skin health, including coconut oil, jojoba oil, and cocoa seed butter. The New York Biology Tea Tree Body Wash is free of sulfates, parabens, and alcohol, and it’s also cruelty-free.
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The second Dove recommendation on the list is this antibacterial wash that’s specifically formulated for men—although any person of any gender can benefit from adding it to their routine. It has been clinically proven to eliminate 99% of bacteria present on the skin, and also works to strengthen and hydrate as it cleanses. It has a crisp and fresh scent that lingers on the skin long after showering.
Like the other Dove body wash, this product is formulated with benzalkonium chloride, which effectively kills bacteria and other microorganisms. It also uses Dove’s MicroMoisture technology, which ensures the skin is left feeling moisturized, soft, and smooth.
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For those with sensitive skin dealing with conditions like eczema, seborrheic dermatitis, or psoriasis, this gentle bar soap is a particularly excellent fit. It works to mildly exfoliate and cleanse the skin while battling bacteria, soothing the skin, and fighting itchiness and dryness.
The star ingredient in this bar soap is pyrithione zinc, which has antibacterial, antimicrobial, and antifungal properties. This ingredient is supported by olive oil and emu oil, which moisturize and nourish the skin so that it is left feeling stronger and more comfortable. Oatmeal works to provide incredibly gentle physical exfoliation, getting rid of dead skin cells and debris for smoother and softer skin.
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This product from Dettol has long been considered to be one of the best antibacterial body washes, and continues to be a favorite among customers in 2023. This pH-balanced, pine-scented daily wash kills bacteria and refreshes the skin without causing irritation or dryness.
The Dettol Anti-Bacterial Body Wash has a fairly simple ingredients list. It is powered by salicylic acid, sodium hydroxide, and other ingredients that deeply cleanse and protect the skin for optimal health. At the same time, glycerin ensures the skin stays moisturized, while menthol cools and refreshes.
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If you’re looking for a product that specifically controls odor-causing bacteria and impurities in your underarms, you’ll want to give this cleansing bar from Megababe a shot. A blend of natural ingredients fights microorganisms on the skin to detoxify and refresh while also exfoliating and moisturizing the pits.
The cruelty-free Megababe Detoxifying Charcoal Underarm Bar features tea tree oil and sodium chloride, which work together to eliminate odor and bacteria. Activated charcoal works alongside these ingredients to provide some deep cleansing action, pulling dirt, oil, and other impurities out of the skin.
Glycolic acid gently exfoliates, getting rid of excess dead skin cells on the surface of the pits, while the antioxidant vitamin C repairs damage. Avocado, sunflower, and olive oils all work together to moisturize and soften the skin.
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This natural body wash is packed with highly effective oils and plant extracts that fight body odor and kill bacteria while supporting overall skin health. The paraben-free and cruelty-free formula is crafted to tackle a variety of skin issues and conditions, including acne, itchiness, dryness, and athlete’s foot.
Of course, the Remedy Soap Tea Tree Oil Body Wash features tea tree oil, which works alongside eucalyptus and peppermint oils to eliminate bacteria and soothe the skin. These natural oils are also responsible for the body wash’s refreshing scent.
As these oils get to work, a blend of jojoba oil, coconut oil, olive oil, and aloe vera nourish, calm, and moisturize the skin so that it is left feeling comfortable and soft after you shower.
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Calling all men: this body wash from American Crew promises to keep you smelling super fresh and odor-free all day long. The 24-Hour Deodorant Body Wash mixes together highly effective ingredients that tackle bacteria and deeply cleanse so that you step out of the shower feeling your absolute best.
This American Crew body wash features silver citrate, which controls odor by eliminating microorganisms on the skin, as well as vegetable-derived surfactants, which wash away dirt and debris. The formula also contains tea tree and peppermint oils, which soothe the skin and further work to battle bacteria. As these ingredients get to work, glycerin ensures the skin is left feeling soft and moisturized.
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This Lume body wash (which is free of sulfates, parabens, and phthalates) is expertly formulated with a low pH level that eliminates odor and bacteria without disrupting the skin’s protective acid mantle. It has even been clinically proven to leave you smelling more than three times better than traditional soap.
The vegan and cruelty-free Lume Acidified Body Wash features sodium chloride, which fights bacteria and odor, as well as antibacterial and anti-inflammatory aloe barbadensis leaf juice. Mandelic acid also provides gentle exfoliation power. Ingredients like glycerin, cucumber fruit extract, and calendula flower extract also ensure the skin is calm and hydrated.
This body wash is available in scents like Pink Peony, Cucumber Melon, and Sandalwood Citrus. For those who want to keep things fragrance-free, there is also an unscented version.
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Another excellent bar soap option is this product from Naturasil, a natural skin and health company. The Premium Sulfur Lavender Soap is formulated with a super simple list of ingredients that soothe and protect the skin while fighting symptoms of acne, fungal infections, ringworm, and more.
This paraben-free Naturasil bar soap features a 10% concentration of sulfur, which has both antifungal and antibacterial effects. It also contains antibacterial and antiseptic lavender oil, which fights microorganisms while calming irritation. Coconut oil and glycerin work to deeply moisturize the skin so that it doesn’t feel tight, dry, or irritated after cleansing.
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This non-toxic bar soap is formulated to be suitable for all skin types, but the potent blend of natural ingredients is particularly well-suited for those prone to body acne. This nature-powered bar soap treats and prevents acne, soothes the skin, and eliminates microorganisms for improved skin health.
As stated in the name, two of the key ingredients in this vegan and cruelty-free bar soap are tea tree oil and activated charcoal. While tea tree oil fights bacteria and soothes the skin, activated charcoal draws out pore-clogging impurities and detoxifies. The skin is left feeling refreshed and smelling amazing.
In addition to these star ingredients, a variety of other oils and extracts work to support and moisturize the skin. Shea butter—which is anti-inflammatory and packed with fatty acids—calms and locks moisture into the skin. Jojoba seed, safflower, and meadowfoam seed oils further moisturize and nourish.
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CeraVe’s super popular exfoliating body wash is an excellent choice for those looking to target roughness while killing harmful microorganisms and deeply cleansing the skin. The SA Body Wash for Rough & Bumpy Skin is non-comedogenic (which means it won’t clog pores), and it is also made without parabens or fragrances.
This CeraVe body wash features salicylic acid, which is a chemical exfoliant. Salicylic acid has anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties and is incredibly effective at dissolving dead skin cells, debris, and excess sebum to unclog pores and improve texture.
The formula also features ingredients that promote a strong, comfortable, and hydrated complexion. Three essential ceramides restore and support the skin’s barrier so that it can better defend against environmental aggressors, while hyaluronic acid attracts moisture to the skin and locks it in. This body wash also contains CeraVe’s patented MVE Technology, which works to continually deliver moisture to the skin so that it stays hydrated long after showering.
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The Defense Original Shower Gel was initially created with wrestlers in mind so they could more effectively prevent skin infections. However, this natural antibacterial body wash is a great option for anyone with an active lifestyle—or anyone simply looking for a plant-powered formula.
This shower gel works into a rich lather that effectively removes grime and sweat from the skin so that you’re left feeling fresh, even after the sweatiest workout. It features tea tree and eucalyptus oils, which both work to fight harmful microorganisms while soothing the skin. Organic aloe vera and vegetable glycerin calm and moisturize the skin, while anti-inflammatory rosemary extract soothes irritation.
The Defense Original Shower Gel is made without sulfates, parabens, or fragrances. This formula is also available in a refreshing and invigorating Peppermint scent.
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When you think of Dial, you might think of hand soaps—but they produce highly effective and super affordable body washes, as well. This crisp eucalyptus-scented body wash is able to kill 99.99% of bacteria and works to keep you smelling fresh and odor-free as you move throughout your day. It also cleanses the skin without causing any dryness.
This drugstore body wash features antiseptic benzalkonium chloride, which is primarily responsible for the formula’s bacteria-fighting abilities. The Dial UltraClean Eucalyptus Scent Antibacterial Body Wash is free of parabens, sulfates, silicones, and phthalates, and it is dermatologist tested and pH balanced.
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The Tea Tree Oil Body Wash from personal care company Natural Riches is packed with some of the absolute best plant-derived ingredients for fighting bacteria and improving overall skin health. This formula is specifically created to soothe dry and itchy skin while cleansing away dirt and debris. It can also defend against a host of conditions and issues, including odor, athlete’s foot, and body acne.
At the center of this formula is tea tree, eucalyptus, oregano, rosemary, and peppermint oils, which work together to fight bacteria and other microorganisms on this skin while calming any irritation and itchiness. These oils also create the body wash’s naturally refreshing scent. Aloe vera provides additional skin-calming and bacteria-fighting benefits, while jojoba, coconut, and olive oils deeply nourish and moisturize the skin.
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Our final recommendation for the best antibacterial body washes of the year is the ArtNaturals Tea Tree Body Wash. In this formula (which is suitable for all skin types), you’ll find a variety of natural ingredients that calm, deodorize, moisturize, and fight bacteria and fungus for healthier and more comfortable skin.
This paraben-free and sulfate-free body wash feature a powerful blend of tea tree, peppermint, eucalyptus, rosemary, and oregano oils. These oils band together to kill microorganisms, fight odor, and calm the skin. The tea tree and peppermint oils also create an invigorating tingle on the skin that refreshes the senses as you bathe. At the same time, jojoba and olive oils moisturize the skin, while aloe vera, white ginger, and chamomile calm and nourish.
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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.”
Scripps study shows that some patients may be able to taper their dose and maintain results
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.
San Diego Magazine's 2026 Guide to Balboa Park.
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.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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.
Chefs, restaurateurs, sommeliers, and craft mixers - meet our 2026 Tastemakers, the minds behind the magic.
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.
Seared Scallops: With charred broccolini oyster mushrooms corn puree herb cherry tomatoes and chimichurri

5998 Alcala Park, San Diego, California 92110
619-849-8205 | lagranterraza.com | @eatatusd
Chefs, restaurateurs, sommeliers, and craft mixers - meet our 2026 Tastemakers, the minds behind the magic.
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.
Pistachio 54: Pistachio foam layered with a slow drip Viet coffee or Matcha

8055 Clairemont Mesa Boulevard, Suite 101, San Diego, California 92111
858-471-6970 | laboracafe.com | @laborasd
Chefs, restaurateurs, sommeliers, and craft mixers - meet our 2026 Tastemakers, the minds behind the magic.
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.
Lava Flowgroni: Pineapple gin layered with strawberry Campari, banana vermouth and coconut, served over crushed party ice.

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