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Cologne is integral to your overall style, and makes a statement about your personality
Best Colognes
Cologne is integral to your overall style, and makes a statement about your personality. Every man should have several colognes in his collection. After all, versatility is the sign of a competent man. Having a good cologne can give you the confidence and stamina you need to get through the day, or a special event.
Some men believe all you need is a good soap, and that’s it. Soap is important, of course, but it’s also important to have a signature scent. Wearing a scent that suits your personality will ensure you come across as a well-rounded man who is comfortable in his skin. And, of course, wearing the right cologne will make you more attractive to the ladies.
If you want to finally start using cologne, or are growing bored with your current collection, it’s time to head to the store to begin the search. To find the cologne that suits you, it’s crucial to know which ones are worth shelling out for.
We’ve done the research, and have uncovered the top-rated, best-selling colognes for men. These are the 35 best-smelling colognes you need to try out at least once in your lifetime.
The most delectable, longest-lasting, unique-smelling cologne on the market is Atlantis by Blu Atlas. It’s often sold out due to high demand, so we highly suggest getting this affordable, 100% natural cologne while you can.
This versatile cologne will ensure you smell phenomenal all day long, and on any occasion. Looking for a cologne you can wear no matter the season? Atlantis by Blu Atlas will be the No. 1 choice to satisfy your fragrance needs.
Top Notes: Clary Sage, Patchouli, Bergamot.
Fragrance Family: Aromatic, Earthy.
A sexy man needs a seductive, alluring cologne to match, and that’s where Luna Rossa Black by Prada comes in. This intense cologne is for men who are full of passion and have a natural suaveness. Fresh, sexy and crisp, Luna Rossa Black by Prada smells devilishly divine.
Top Notes: Orange Essence, Lavender.
Fragrance Family: Warm, Spicy.
You’ll be teleported back to your favorite beach vacation when you spray on Costa Azzurra by Tom Ford. Inside this gorgeous, eye-catching bottle, an invigorating scent is ready to make you smell inviting and fancy. Cyprus, lemon and oakwood notes envelop your senses, immediately winning you over.
Top Notes: Lemon, Cypress, Oakwood.
Fragrance Family: Earthy, Woody.
If you’re a fan of aquatic fragrances for men, Polo Deep Blue by Ralph Lauren will blow you away from the first spray. This addictive cologne with its fresh notes of mango and cypress should be in every man’s collection.
Top Notes: Deep Ocean Accord, Hawaiian Green Mango, Cypress Oil.
Fragrance Family: Fresh.
Grab a bottle of L’Eau d’Issey Pour Homme by Issey Miyake and start counting how many compliments come your way after you apply some of this alluring cologne. This is a clean, potent fragrance with spicy top notes and a satisfying masculine undertone.
Top Notes: Cinnamon Nutmeg, Yuzu, Sandalwood.
Fragrance Family: Warm, Woody, Spicy.
Nothing will summon your inner masculinity like Armani Code by the veteran perfumier Giorgio Armani. Every man needs to sample the power of this classic scent at least once in his life.
Top Notes: Tonka Bean, Guac Wood, Olive Tree Blossom.
Fragrance Family: Earthy, Woody.
The definition of being a hero is being admirable and strong. A hero is someone who can handle anything. If that sounds like you, purchase some Hero by Burberry. Heroes come in all shapes and sizes, but they all need a stellar cologne.
Top Notes: Bergamot, Black Pepper, Juniper, Cedarwood.
Fragrance Family: Earthy, Woody.
Easily one of the best-smelling colognes for men, Uomo Born in Roma by Valentino promises to make you the most compelling person in the room wherever you go. Turn heads with this alluring, slightly floral fragrance.
Top Notes: Vetiver, Ginger, Violet.
Fragrance Family: Spicy, Warm.
Lovers of bergamot will be obsessed with Bergamote 22 by Le Labo. Get all the bergamot you can handle with this reinvigorating, calming men’s cologne. Need a self-esteem boost? A spray of Bergamote 22 by Le Labo will take care of that straightaway.
Top Notes: Bergamot, Musk, Vetiver, Grapefruit, Cedarwood.
Fragrance Family: Citrus, Woody, Spicy.
Classic, simple, elegant: Those are just a few of the adjectives that describe how it feels to wear Coach for Men by Coach. This cologne is sure to last you all day. There’s no need to worry about having to reapply every few hours.
Top Notes: Cardamon, Vetiver, Nashi Pear.
Fragrance Family: Woody.
The roses in L’Homme à la Rose Eau de Parfum by Maison Francis Kurkdjian make for an exceptional cologne. This riveting cologne puts a masculine spin on traditional floral notes.
Top Notes: Grapefruit, Rose Oil, Clary Sage.
Fragrance Family: Floral, Woody.
Expect to sigh with happiness every time you spray on Black Cedarwood & Juniper Cologne by Jo Malone. The cedarwood in this cologne will shine through in every spray.
Top Notes: Cumin, Juniper, Cedar, Chili Pepper.
Fragrance Family: Woody, Spicy.
Smelling amazing every day is as easy as buying a bottle of Homme by Dior to add to your cologne collection. Once you let this enchanting cologne do its magic, you’ll be wondering where this has been all your life. When you wear this cologne, you’ll command the attention of everyone you encounter.
Top Notes: Cedar, Vetiver, Patchouli.
Fragrance Family: Earthy, Woody.
Are you looking for a scent that will make you stand out? Le Male Le Parfum by Jean Paul Gaultier is the fragrance for the man who lights up every room he enters.
Top Notes: Cardamom, Lavender, Vanilla.
Fragrance Family: Woody.
Simple yet potent, Eternity for Men by Calvin Klein is the perfect men’s cologne, no matter the season or the occasion. This refreshing scent leaves an enticing trail, and will have beautiful ladies sidling up to ask you what you have on.
Top Notes: Mandarin, Lavender, Sage, Sandalwood, Amber.
Fragrance Family: Aromatic, Earthy.
Fans of perfume mainstay vetiver can rejoice: Terre d’Hermès Eau Intense Vétiver is for only the most religious users of vetiver-based colognes. If you’re among the acolytes, this heady cologne will swiftly become your go-to fragrance.
Top Notes: Sichuan Peppers, Bergamot, Violet.
Fragrance Family: Earthy, Woody.
This is perhaps the most unusual fragrance for men on this list, infused with CBD oil, black pepper and lemon, and leavened with bright notes of vetiver. You can be assured you’re getting a cologne that will make you stand out with this scent from Heretic.
Top Notes: Lemon, Black Pepper, Vetiver, Hemp.
Fragrance Family: Earthy.
Do you prefer your cologne strong, with a dash of spice and a hint of freshness? Sauvage by Dior will be your best bet. Meant for the men who always ensure they are well put together, this addictive cologne deserves to win awards based on how phenomenal it smells.
Top Notes: Pepper, Bergamot, Amberwood.
Fragrance Family: Woody, Earthy.
One of the most popular colognes for men, Light Blue Pour Homme by Dolce & Gabbana is always trending due to its alluring scent. If you want to smell sexy 24/7, there’s no need to look further than Light Blue Pour Homme.
Top Notes: Aquatic Notes, Juniper, Mandarin, Oakmoss.
Fragrance Family: Fresh.
Affordable and long lasting, No. 01 Blue Sage & Tonka Men’s Cologne by Goodfellow & Co. delivers an irresistible, charming fragrance that will make you want to spray it all around your house. Though it’s affordable, this cologne lasts a long time. You can expect this cost-effective cologne to linger as long as the most expensive cologne on this list.
Top Notes: Sage, Tonka Bean.
Fragrance Family: Fresh.
In order to smell the best, you need the best-smelling cologne, and Imagination by Louis Vuittion is one of the few colognes that make you smell like heaven. This is as close as it gets to perfection in a bottle, and will look elegant in any man’s grooming cabinet.
Top Notes: Black Tea, Cedar, Ginger, Bergamot, Cinnamon.
Fragrance Family: Fresh, Spicy.
If you’re looking for something unusual but intense, try Herod by Perfums de Marly. This is an exotic, spicy and undeniably masculine scent.
Top Notes: Tobacco Leaf, Cinnamon, Pepper, Incense, Musk.
Fragrance Family: Woody, Spicy.
Ah, the crisp, fresh scent of the ocean! That’s precisely what a bottle of Blu Mediterraneo Cipresso di Toscana will evoke. This cologne is for the man who prefers fresh rather than spicy fragrances.
Top Notes: Orange, Elemi, Star Anise Accord.
Fragrance Family: Aromatic, Citrus.
When we say there’s only one cologne that can make you smell completely irresistible, we mean it. Tobacco Vanille by Tom Ford reigns as the sexiest and most addictive cologne for men currently on the market.
Top Notes: Vanilla, Ginger, Tobacco Leaf.
Fragrance Family: Warm, Spicy.
Dolce and Gabbana has done it again with their men’s cologne, The One for Men. Easy to differentiate from any woman’s fragrance, The One for Men makes sure you always smell the way a gentleman should: clean, calm and powerful.
Top Notes: Cardamom, Tobacco, Ginger, Cedarwood.
Fragrance Family: Warm, Spicy.
Goodies-goodies need not apply when it comes to Bad Boy by Carolina Herrera. Release your alter ego after spritzing on some of this charming cologne. If you’re a man who’s a bit rough around the edges (or who wants to come across that way), pick up a bottle of this.
Top Notes: Grapefruit, Clary Sage, White Pepper, Tonka Bean, Cocoa.
Fragrance Family: Warm, Spicy.
It’s amazing what you can accomplish with a couple of pumps of Acqua Viridi by Sigil. Confidence is 25% mindset, 25% what you wear…and 25% how you smell! This cologne will ensure you smell 100% irresistible. Who doesn’t want to smell like the sexiest man in the room?
Top Notes: Blue Cypress, Seaweed, Khella, Petitgrain.
Fragrance Family: Fresh, Herbal.
Be careful before trying Bleu de Chanel by Chanel. We guarantee you’ll become hooked on this cologne from first sniff. For the most tantalizing cologne available, choose this option from one of the oldest and most respected brands in the business.
Top Notes: Sandalwood Cedar, Citrus Accord, Labdanum.
Fragrance Family: Earthy, Woody.
Dark Rum by Malin+Goetz is a potent, alluring scent, aimed at the man who likes the finer things in life. Its rich, dense notes of rum and leather will sweep you back to a smoky speakeasy in the Roaring Twenties.
Top Notes: Bergamot, Anise, Plum, Leather, Rum, Vanilla.
Fragrance Family: Warm, Spicy.
A staple among discerning men, Y Eau de Parfum by Yves Saint Laurent smells as elegant as the bottle looks. This seductive cologne taps into your inner god, and makes you feel like the powerful man you are. An instant confidence booster, and compliment magnet, this cologne should be on any man’s shelf.
Top Notes: Cedarwood, Lavender, Geranium.
Fragrance Family: Earthy, Woody.
The scent of nighttime summer air is what you get with A Midnight Stroll by Gucci. You’ll be seduced by this one-of-a-kind men’s cologne, which offers tantalizing mystery and a hint of transgression.
Top Notes: Incense, Cypress, Cade Wood.
Fragrance Family: Woody, Aromatic.
Elegantly spicy, Misfit by Arquiste will ensure you stand apart from your male co-workers. This is a versatile fragrance that can be worn both during the day and at night.
Top Notes: Bergamot, Lavender, Patchouli, Tonka Bean.
Fragrance Family: Earthy.
Spice is the name of the game when you choose Spicebomb Infrared by Viktor & Rolf. Never underestimate the power of a cologne that includes fiery notes of tobacco and habanero peppers.
Top Notes: Tobacco Accord, Habanero Pepper Accord, Red Berries.
Fragrance Family: Warm, Spicy.
1 Million by Paco Rabanne knows exactly what a man should smell like: alluring, provocative and charming. Power through the day with 1 Million, and smell unbelievably sexy while you do so.
Top Notes: Frosted Grapefruit, Peppermint, Blood Mandarin, Tonka Bean, Patchouli, Musk, Cinnamon Bark.
Fragrance Family: Fresh, Spicy.
You can never go wrong with a bottle of the classic Eros by Versace. This cologne takes freshness to a whole new level. If you want to make buying your next cologne simple, just pick up Eros by Versace.
Top Notes: Mint Leaves, Vanilla, Orange Blossom.
Fragrance Family: Warm, Spicy.
Picking out your signature scent as a man should be an enjoyable experience. You’ll know you found a good one when the compliments start to roll in.
It isn’t a good idea to use the cards they give out in stores. Although they are meant for you to be able to sample multiple fragrances without needing to spray yourself, the cards don’t allow you to get the full-bodied effect of the scent. Spraying the cologne you want to sample on your skin is the most accurate way to get a feel for how a cologne smells.
The cheap versus expensive cologne argument comes down to personal budget and preference. Some people won’t be able to rationalize spending $375 on a 3.5 oz. bottle of cologne, while others drop that sum without hesitation.
It’s crucial to sample every cologne you’re interested in for a full 24 hours before deciding you like it. If you’re going to spend your hard-earned cash on a scent, you want to ensure it doesn’t fade away quickly.
Expensive colognes can be worth the price tag when you find one that is long-lasting. However, it’s perfectly reasonable to stick with a lower budget for men’s cologne if you find something that smells amazing and lasts you all day.
A few colognes on our list are of higher quality than others. The standout fragrances are:
Atlantis – Blu Atlas
Eros – Versace
Tobacco Vanille – Tom Ford
Armani Code – Armani
Polo Deep Blue – Ralph Lauren
Dark Rum – Malin & Goetz
These colognes have the most positive reviews out of all 35 best-smelling colognes you need to check out. Try out any of these top-rated colognes to see if one or two may be a good fit for you.
We especially recommend Atlantis by Blu Atlas for a cologne that is potent, but is not going to burn a hole in your wallet.
Everyone has a different body chemistry, and if you put Tuscan Leather by Tom Ford on three different men, each man would smell slightly different. That’s why finding a signature scent is a journey every man has to make on his own.
It’s always a good idea to build your own cologne collection. The collection doesn’t have to include 50 bottles; a small collection of several of your favorite colognes will suffice.
Having a cologne collection ensures that if you get bored of wearing one fragrance, you’ll always have another option. Many men have one cologne for daytime and one cologne for nighttime.
If you’re thinking of starting a collection, ensure you choose colognes that express different sides of your personality, and that are suitable for each season of the year.
Yes! Making your cologne last longer means you need to pay attention to how you’re applying cologne, and when you’re applying it.
The best time to apply cologne is after a shower, when your skin is warm. Heat helps fragrance stay on longer. However, cologne should always be applied to dry skin. Wait at least five minutes after getting out of the shower to give your skin time to fully dry.
Top notes are an important part of choosing the right cologne for you. Top notes are the initial scent you get from a cologne. Common top notes in colognes for men are cardamom, bergamot, tobacco, leather, musk and patchouli.
Diving into the world of cologne can be intimidating, so we have compiled a list of things to keep in mind when you’re in the market for a new men’s cologne.
Note that some colognes are great year-round, while others are best suited for warmer or colder weather.
Take heed of what others are saying online about the cologne.
When sampling colognes, apply one spray of each cologne on each wrist. If you’re feeling feisty and want to test out a couple more, use both inner elbows.
Pay attention to the environment you are keeping your cologne in. A dry, cool environment is best for cologne.
Always apply your cologne to completely dry skin.
Don’t rub in your cologne after application; just let it air dry.
Don’t spray your cologne in the air, then walk into the mist – it’s a waste of cologne.
Apply cologne to the places on your body where you retain the most heat, such as the inner elbows, neck and wrists.
Remember that you want your cologne to be noticeable, but not overpowering.
If you need to reapply, do it sparingly.
No matter what cologne you decide on, we’re positive it’s going to smell phenomenal on you. With these best-smelling colognes for men, you’ll be certain to receive compliments on a daily basis.
The annual event honors middle market companies creating jobs, scaling up, and investing in the region
San Diego is known for its startup culture and innovation economy, but what happens when the company moves beyond its early-stage years? The San Diego Business Impact Awards aim to answer that question, spotlighting the middle market businesses helping drive the region’s economy.
Hosted by San Diego Regional Economic Development Corporation (EDC) and JPMorganChase, the second annual awards celebration takes place on Thursday, July 23, from 4:30 to 7:00 p.m. at Scripps Research Auditorium. More than 200 executives, entrepreneurs, and business leaders are expected to attend the networking and cocktail event honoring some of San Diego County’s fastest-growing companies.
Businesses headquartered in San Diego County that have operated for at least two years are encouraged to submit their nomination by Thursday, June 18 at 4 p.m. Companies across industries—from technology and life sciences to tourism and consumer products, as well as pre-revenue startups—are eligible for recognition.
For EDC President and CEO Mark Cafferty, the event is as much about building connections as celebrating success. “We’ve had a longtime partnership with JPMorganChase; their work aligns with our efforts to support underserved communities and drive talent development,” says Cafferty. “And the networking was invaluable last year. I’m still in touch with people I met at last year’s awards.”
EDC is an independently-funded nonprofit that works directly with San Diego companies to help them grow the local economy, make the region as a whole more competitive, and attract and retain top-tier talent with quality jobs. Through EDC, companies can get help starting or expanding their business with support for things like site selection, permit navigation, and regulatory guidance, plus connections to local resources and potential business collaborators.
The San Diego Business Impact Awards began as an idea with one of EDC’s longtime strategic partners, JPMorganChase. The two organizations share a commitment to San Diego and are dedicated to bolstering middle market businesses.
“We’re blessed with a robust innovation economy and startup community,” says Aaron Ryan, San Diego Region Manager for JPMorgan’s Commercial and Investment Bank and vice chair of the firm’s’ San Diego Market Leadership Team. “But one of the segments of the business community we felt was overlooked was emerging middle market companies—the businesses that are no longer small but not yet large.”
Ryan says supporting those companies is critical as they scale and decide where to invest, hire, and grow.
San Diego’s high cost of living remains one of the region’s biggest business challenges, making talent recruitment and retention increasingly competitive. But local leaders point to the region’s quality of life, climate, and collaborative business community as advantages that continue to attract employers and workers.
“In order to support thriving households, there has to be enough high-quality jobs for people to be able to afford to live here,” Cafferty says. “Once a company grows and excels past that middle market point in their growth cycle, they become much more likely to pay higher wages and compete globally.”
Both Cafferty and Ryan proudly tout the unique collaboration that exists among San Diego County businesses. Bringing together top universities producing high-quality talent, cutting-edge research institutions, a robust military and defense presence, leading ocean science and environmental organizations, and a binational, cross-border identity creates a distinct business ecosystem that defines and strengthens the San Diego region.
Last year’s San Diego Business Impact Awards celebrated nearly 60 honorees from 49 industries, representing a total of 8,232 jobs across eight sectors, including: software and technology, healthcare and life sciences, consumer goods, professional services, finance, construction and manufacturing, defense, and hospitality and tourism. On average, honoree companies doubled their revenues over the previous year, employed more than 145 San Diegans each, and offered an average annual compensation of $192,415.
Top honorees included defense contractor Innoflight, environmental consulting firm Bancroft Construction Services, life sciences startup Element Biosciences, defense technology contractor GALT Aerospace, organic grocery store chain Jimbo’s, and biopharmaceutical company LENZ Therapeutics. During the event, Innoflight Founder and CEO Jeff Janicik held a fireside chat offering his insights on investing in the community and embracing San Diego culture.
This year, organizers hope to continue highlighting the middle market players driving economic impact across the region. Nominations are now open through June 18 at 4 p.m. Get your tickets to the San Diego Business Impact Awards celebration to enjoy drinks by Snake Oil Cocktail Co., light bites, live music, and networking.
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
