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Discover the potential benefits of CBD oil for pain relief. Learn how this natural, non-psychoactive compound may help manage chronic & acute pain.
Best CBD Oil for Pain
Dealing with pain can be a real drag. Using prescription medicine will generally be paired with a whole bunch of nasty side effects that you would really do better to avoid. Lucky then that CBD Oil provides a great alternative to pain medicine and even does so without any side effects.
But that does still leave the question of where you should go to buy your oil. While the purchasing and selling of these products are now legal, that does not mean that every company operates to the same standard of quality or that they will offer you a fair deal.
To make the finding of a proper vendor a bit less of a painful process, we decided to do our own research to find the best CBD oil for pain relief. Before we start the list, let’s look at how we went about making it.
ExhaleWellness – Overall Best CBD Oil For Pain; Editor’s Choice
Budpop – Best CBD Oil For Pain & Inflammation
CheefBotanicals – Popular CBD Oil For Joint Pain Relief
HollyweedCBD – Trusted CBD Brand For Pain CBD Oil
FabCBD – Most Potent CBD Oil For Knee & Back Pain Relief
Here are the detailed reviews of our top picks:
Best CBD Oil for Pain – Exhale Wellness
Exhale Well is one of the most well-established brands on the market. They are known for their high-quality formulas that have been made with natural and organic ingredients. Thanks to the purity and potency of these products, they are also quite effective tools for pain management.
Depending on your needs, you can choose between a 600 or 1200 mg 70oz bottle. That is a little glass dropper bottle, where you will last for about 300 servings. All it takes is one to two drops right on the tongue for the benefits to kick in, so it’s not hard to use either.
The company takes the quality of their products very seriously, and it made sure to only make use of cannabis that was grown in the USA. That particular cannabis was grown organically.
While there are not a whole lot of ingredients that go into making CBD Oils like these, the ingredients that have been used are all GMO and cruelty-free, nor have any preservatives or additives been used.
To make the CBD oil, the company used CO2 extraction methods, which are the cleanest methods known to us at this time. To make sure that nothing can go wrong, the company also makes sure to allow third-party labs to test their products for any impurities or other problems that can occur.
Should you ever have any other questions as to how exactly to use the CBD oil, the company’s website is rife with information both on the manufacturing process and proper dosing and the like. You can find a lot of user reviews as well, which, not surprisingly, all tend to be overwhelmingly positive.
If you wanted to buy a single 600 mg bottle, that would cost you $35.95. The 1200 mg version costs $66.95. Those prices are more than fair, and you can save another 25% if you decide to take out a subscription with the company. You also do not need to worry about any shipping costs. Those are free.
The last nice thing that this company provides is a 30-day guaranteed refund. That allows anyone who makes a purchase there to claim their money back within 30 days.
That holds true even if the product has seen extensive use. There is only one small nitpick we have, and that is that it would have been nice to see some bundle deals as well.
Having said that, Exhale Well is still an excellent choice to get your full-spectrum CBD oil. The company provides excellent service for a great price, so there’s not much more you can ask for than that.
A natural and potent formula: Exhale well made sure to only use organic cannabis to make their CBD oil, and they also made sure that they use clean extraction methods and that these supplements are regularly tested by a third-party laboratory
An excellent shopping experience: Whatever you decide to buy there, the company will make sure to deliver it to you for free. You also can make use of their money-back guarantee, which will remain valid for up to 30 days.
If you are a first-time customer, you will get a 20% discount on the first purchase.
GMO-free and cruelty-free CBD oil that was made from organic cannabis.
The company has both a 600 and 1200 mg option.
If you decide to subscribe, you will save 25% of your purchases.
The company has a 30-day money-back guarantee.
You can expect free shipping on all of your purchases.
We would have liked to have seen an option for bundle deals.
Best CBD Oil for Pain – Budpop
Proceeding further, we would like to offer an option for people who are really looking to find a potent solution to pain management. Enter Budpop.
This company sells a lot of different types of CBD oils and has some of the most potent ones on the market while still maintaining the high standards of quality that we have been selecting for.
All the cannabis used for extraction comes from the USA and is then processed in an FDA-registered plant that has also been certified by the Good Manufacturing Practices program. In addition, they made sure that there are no pesticides used, nor that any preservatives or additives were used.
The company splits its CBD oils up into two different types and depending on what you need, you should go with the broad-spectrum CBD oil for chronic pain that suits you best.
Budpop offers can 1500 mg bottle. That is a little glass dropper bottle, where you will last for about 300 servings. All it takes is one to two drops right on the tongue for the benefits to kick in, so it’s not hard to use either.
There is free shipping on every purchase, no matter what your product costs. This is quite a satisfying experience, to begin with. Plus, Company also offers 30 days money-back guarantee.
Budpop provides a very high-quality product that will be able to help you. This is also probably the company you will want to consider if you are looking to get the strongest dose that you can.
This company sells the most potent oil on this list: There are few companies out there that will sell you CBD oil dosed at 6000 mg. There are even fewer companies out there that will do so and also keep to the same high manufacturing standards that we have looked to enforce.
Choices depending on your needs: You get two options to choose from both in terms of flavor and dosages. This is great for people who are looking to get a solution that is exactly right for them.
This company sells some of the most potent CBD oils at 1500 mg per bottle.
The company has a two flavor option.
Completely natural and 100% organic ingredients.
Free shipping & 30-Days money-back guarantee
Available only at online stores
Best CBD Oil for Pain – Cheef Botanicals
Second on our list, but not far behind, are the CBD oils from Cheef Botanicals. This is another company that really takes the health and well-being of their customers seriously and has made all the necessary investment into their manufacturing process to deliver the highest quality products possible.
That means that they also make use of the CO2 extraction method to create their CBD oil tinctures. Just take a drop or two on the tongue, and the effects will kick in within the hour.
Since all of the cannabis the company uses has been grown in the USA legally, that also means that it has been subject to the law. That means that the company ensures that the THC content of their cannabis always stays below 0.3%. That also means that this formula is not psychoactive, making it an ideal choice if you are just looking for pain management.
All the ingredients are completely natural and organic. The company also makes sure that all of its products are manufactured in an FDA-approved facility that has its Good Manufacturing Practices program certification.
Another nice thing is that the company also offers quite a bit of choice. Buying a single 300 mg bottle costs $24.95. 600 mg costs $35.95. 1200 mg costs $66.95. The company also sells some of the more potent CBD oil online at 3000 mg for $124.95.
As you might have expected, the company also offers a discount through their subscription services, but you do not need to make use of that in order to still get free shipping. That also always includes a 30-day guaranteed refund window.
There is really only one downside to this company: for some reason, there does not seem to be a review section on their product pages. However, this seems like it would be an easy fix, and it would be very helpful to customers who are looking to dig a little deeper before making a purchase.
Great services outside of the products: The company makes sure that you will not have any regrets concerning your order by offering a money-back guarantee and will even ship to you at no cost.
A clean formula: The company makes sure that they use CO2 extraction methods and only use organic cannabis. That ensures that the formula remains clean and healthy and stays potent enough to adequately deal with pain.
This is a full-spectrum formula without any psychoactive side effects.
The company allows for regular testing by independent labs.
There are plenty of options to make sure you get the exact right dose for your needs.
The company has a 30-day refund policy.
Free shipping and handling on all of the products.
There does not seem to be a review section on the website.
Best CBD Oil for Pain – Hollyweed
To continue the trend of companies that provide high-quality CBD oils for a reasonable price, we would now like to introduce you to a relative newcomer to the game, Hollyweed CBD. They pride themselves on providing good flavor and potent products through fully natural ingredients.
Do they use CO2 extraction? Of course, they do. They will then infuse the extract that results from that process with pure Hemp Seed oil. The resulting tincture is quite potent but still remains easy for the body to digest.
Since the THC content of these particular CBD oils is below 0.3%, they will also not get you high. So, no worries about going through your day like a zombie; you will remain fully alert.
You can also go have a look on the website to see that every product there includes a link to a certificate of analysis. These documents are provided by third-party labs and attest to the truthfulness of the claims you find on the ingredients of the product.
One small niggle the website suffers from is a lack of reviews. That does not mean that the option is not there, but rather that it does not seem to have seen any use. This is a problem that will solve itself in due time, we are sure, but for now, it is a slight drawback.
You also get to choose from either 300, 600, 1200, or 3000 mg versions. 300 mg costs $24.95, 600 mg costs $35.95, 1200 mg costs $66.95, and 3000 mg costs $124.95.
The company will also make sure to deliver for free and operate with the 30-day refund policy we have grown so fond of. You can also make use of their subscription discount, which will knock an additional 25% off the price.
Overall, the company’s lack of reviews is a bit of a drawback, but beyond that, they do provide top-tier service and excellent products. A few bundle deals could have moved them up a spot, but they still did manage to get a very respectable third place amongst stiff competition.
Potent and high-quality oil: Completely free of any GMOs and made with USA-grown cannabis, this Full-spectrum CBD oil is of premium quality and is also very pure and potent. In addition, the company makes sure to have all of their products be manufactured in a GMP-certified plant, guaranteeing pure oil.
Easy to work with: It is very easy to get in touch with the company. The company also has a 30-day refund policy that you can make use of. Get free shipping on whatever you buy and even save a good chunk of money by taking CBD Oil subscription.
There are no preservatives or additives in this completely organic, gluten-free, and GMO-free formula.
Free shipping on all your purchases.
A guaranteed refund policy for 30 days.
They have very friendly prices for excellent products.
This company has not been around for very long, meaning there have not yet been many reviews of their products.
It would have been nice to see a few bundle deals.
Best CBD Oil for Pain – FABCBD
If you are looking for the biggest name in the business, look no further than FabCBD. This company operates with the same high standards of quality that you will have come to expect from the companies on this list and have made their name through their excellent selection of products.
You even get to choose from a whole bunch of flavors. Those do not affect the price, so feel free to choose from unflavored, citrus, mint, vanilla, and berry. They also come in doses of 300, 600, 1200, 2400 mg versions. So, plenty to choose from regardless of the strength that you need.
Their Full-spectrum CBD oil is full-spectrum made from cannabis that was grown in Colorado. They also made sure that no pesticides were used and that the growing process was GMO-free and fully organic.
Since the company has operated for a while and has seen many customers since then, they have a lot of customer reviews on their products. Be it hundreds, or sometimes even thousands, there is more than enough for you to dig into if you are the type who likes to do in-depth research on their purchases.
This is when we must mention the first downside of buying with this company, and those are the prices. A single bottle of 300 mg costs $39, 600 mg costs $59, 1200 mg costs $99 and 2400 mg costs $129. You can see that these prices are noticeably higher than those of the competition.
Another downside that works in tandem with this is the fact that the company does not provide free shipping under all conditions. They will do so when your total order amount exceeds $99, but that is not particularly cheap.
You do get the option of subscribing, which does get you a decent discount but still leaves you paying more than with the above entries.
The company does still make sure to provide a money-back guarantee for 30 days, so that is good. With all that said, the company offers excellent products, but it must be said that we only recommend purchasing here if you already plan on going for a higher dosage. That will guarantee that you get free shipping with your order.
One of the biggest vendors: This is one of the biggest companies in the space, and you can see this by the fact that all their products have been reviewed hundreds (sometimes even thousands) of times. The fact that they manage to keep an extremely high average on all their products should be more than indicative of the company’s quality.
Very high production and manufacturing standards: Thanks to their CO2 extraction method, this is some of the cleanest CBD isolate oil you will find on the market. The company also uses an FDA-registered plant that has been certified by the Good Manufacturing Practices program for the manufacturing of all of its products.
A 30-day money-back guarantee.
The company has excellent quality organic and GMO-free oil.
Regularly tested by third-party labs.
An extremely high number of positive reviews.
All their products are made in a GMP-certified facility.
The prices are a little on the high side compared to the other entries on this list.
Free shipping will only start to apply when you order for more than $99.
Making these types of lists takes a lot of work, and while we cannot go into extreme detail with our selection process, we can give you insight into the most important things that we considered.
It should also be said that you are currently reading the top 5 CBD tincture for pain companies that we found, but that many more were up for consideration that did not make the list, so do be careful when shopping around.
With that said, when constructing this list, we paid special attention to the following:
The Source of The Hemp Used
Nowadays, it has become perfectly legal to grow cannabis in the US, which also means that there is no reason to import it.
That is generally problematic anyway because it tends to go through the black market, involving cruelty.
It also ensures that the growers did not do anything untoward like use pesticides or GMOs when growing the cannabis.
The Extraction Methods
Distilling CBD oil is a complicated process. There are a whole lot of different ways to do it, but not all of them are equally safe.
The safest by far is known as the CO2 extraction method, and we made sure that all of the companies on this list make use of that particular method.
That should ensure that you will get pure CBD oil without any sort of contaminants in the substance.
Where Is the Product Made?
By this, we are referring both to the location of the facility, as well as the accreditations of the facility itself.
We would want all of the manufacturing to be done in an FDA-registered plant that has also been certified by the Good Manufacturing practices program.
That ensures not only that there is proper oversight on the manufacturing but also that all of the workers involved were paid fair wages.
Do They Ship Everywhere?
An important question nowadays is whether the company can deliver to your state. Most of the companies on this list can deliver to every state, but there are a few exceptions.
Those are likely going to be fixed in the future, but you should be aware that there can be some limitations on where a company can deliver.
Do They Provide Clear Instructions?
This is a very simple requirement, but you would be surprised at how many companies fail to meet it. So, while there are no real unique use cases on this list, it is nice to have some assurances that we are indeed using the product in the way it was intended.
Have Independent Labs Analyzed the Product?
To ensure that the best CBD Oil is as high as possible and that the product remains safe, good companies will allow third-party independent laboratories to conduct tests on their product. They will then be checked for both safety and purity.
The company will then also provide a certificate of analysis, which is a document that you can look at yourself that provides a complete breakdown of all the substances that the lab found during their analysis.
Are There Any Guarantees on Offer?
This will generally come in the form of a money-back guarantee or free shipping. Both are generally something you would want to make use of when the opportunity presents itself because it will just end up saving you a lot of money in the long run. Most companies on this list will provide both, but there is an exception or two.
You may still be wondering which company you should go with. To help grease the wheels of the decision-making process a little bit, we decided to give you a little guide with a few important points to keep in mind:
Make sure you go for the correct dosage. This is going to depend in large part on your personal discomfort and their sources. Still, you should probably start low if you have little experience using full-spectrum CBD oil & CBD products. When you do not get the benefits to the extent that you expected, you can then try to increase the dosage.
Use and abuse the money-back guarantees. These exist to be used, and they are always a great way to make sure that a product has the desired effect. If it turns out that it does not work for you, just ask for your money back. Hell, you can even ask for your money back if it does work and keep ordering there anyway. You can consider it a free sample.
Make sure that the company ships to where you live. This is a very simple one, but always do make sure to check. Otherwise, you will just end up wasting both your own and the company’s time and energy.
Make sure that you are not allergic. Some of these best CBD oils contain natural flavorings, which contain substances that could provoke an allergic reaction just like the real thing would. So, make sure that you do not take risks on this front.
A: Yes, since the passing of the 2018 farm bill, the sale of all of these products has become completely legal.
A: You can, but you should be aware of the fact that these natural CBD oils have not been designed to be mixed.
Pain can be something that will not only ruin your day but can also make it hard to get the things done that you need to get done. That is why it is important that you have reliable access to supplements that can help you with pain management in a natural way.
We went through the five best CBD oils for pain brands that we could find, and we also gave you all of our reasons as to why we decided to order them in the way we did. You should always make sure that you go with the company that best suits your needs.
You also should not forget that most of these companies offer a money-back guarantee, which means that you actually have a way to test these things out before committing to buying them. So, with that all said, we wish you good luck and health in the future.
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.”
SeaWorld dazzles with a drone show, big-name entertainers, new animal adventures and more
Nights are heating up at SeaWorld San Diego. The quintessential summertime staple on Mission Bay is transforming into a destination for unforgettable day-to-night adventures, bringing back some of its most popular Summer Nights programming and introducing exciting new experiences sure to delight both kids and adults alike.

The 2026 Summer Day to Night at SeaWorld San Diego is the park’s most ambitious season yet. SeaWorld has planned a highly anticipated entertainment lineup that features nine weeks of throwback concerts featuring R&B and hip‑hop favorites from the ‘90s and early 2000s, including Jordin Sparks, Too $hort and Warren G, Ashanti, and an array of boy band heartthrobs performing together as part of the Pop 2000 Tour.
New this season is perhaps the park’s most visible update: a nightly drone show, Ocean of Dreams, which illuminates the sky with hundreds of synchronized sparklers. Drones form sea otters, sharks, dolphins, and a majestic orca that tell a breathtaking 12-minute story of marine life and underwater ecosystems. The show culminates with a spectacular electric neon finale celebrating hope, wonder, and ocean stewardship.
Nighttime visitors are also in store for animal adventures that fuse education with high-energy fun and the dreamy ambiance of nighttime. The park has launched two all-new animal presentations: Shamu’s Celebration: Light Up the Night and Dolphins: Touch the Sky. Shamu’s Celebration: Light Up the Night features vibrant lighting, music, and dynamic choreography that celebrates the power and beauty of killer whales. Dolphins: Touch the Sky showcases playful bottlenose dolphins and the special connection between humans and the natural world. And back by popular demand is fan-favorite Sea Lions Tonite. See the charming pinnipeds splash, play, and parody pop culture in this refreshed crowd-pleaser.

More must-sees: a newly reimagined Shark Encounter, one of the country’s more immersive exhibits highlighting 11 different species up close, SeaWorld’s beloved BMX Blast! stunt show, and high-seas escapade, Pirates Ahoy! The Battle for Mermaid Cove. And don’t miss the park’s all-new Deep Sea Disco, which encourages guests to dance the night away under the glow of the SkyTower, and vibrant closing time laser light display Laser Reef Summer Spectacular.
Amp up the nighttime vibe with local craft beers, curated cocktails, and nostalgic theme park treats with $1 beer all summer long. SeaWorld is the place for day to night summer fun. When the sun goes down, SeaWorld lights up, and inspires guests of all ages to embrace their inner whimsy and see why generations of San Diegans head to SeaWorld to make memories they’ll never forget.
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