9 Tips for Your Next San Diego Business Trip
Traveling to San Diego for a business trip in the coming months? This beautiful SoCal city has something for everyone to enjoy; and with a little planning, you can find the perfect blend of business and pleasure.
Whether you’re arriving a few days early to soak in more of the California sun or you’re looking to make the most of your downtime, here are nine tips to keep top of mind as you plan your trip to sunny San Diego!
1. Beware of San Diego drivers
While San Diego’s traffic might be seen as relatively tame compared to that of Los Angeles, it’s still busy and congested by most standards. Accidents occur frequently and it’s easy to become intimidated by aggressive drivers.
Be mindful of your surroundings, drive defensively, and avoid making risky maneuvers. The last thing you need is to have your San Diego trip cut short due to an unfortunate car accident!
2. Book A Room at One of The Area’s Best Hotels
If you’re a business trip specialist, you know that getting stuck at a mediocre hotel can put a damper on the entire experience. San Diego is home to a handful of outstanding hotels and lodges—you just need to know where to look!
If elegance and sophistication are what you value most, consider Omni San Diego—one of the area’s most highly rated hotels for business travel. If you need something located in the heart of downtown San Diego for convenience’s sake, reserve a room at the US Grant hotel.
For a stunning waterfront view and close proximity to the convention center, book your stay at Hilton San Diego Bayfront.
3. Double-Check the Dress Code
Before attending the various meetings, conferences, or conventions you have planned for your trip, it’s wise to double-check the dress code.
Particularly if you’re going to be among San Diego’s laid-back natives, you might find that attire leans toward business casual. You don’t want to show up in a three-piece suit if the occasion calls for jeans and a button-down shirt!
4. Tap into The City’s Rich History
San Diego is not only the second-largest city in California but also the oldest. Its first permanent European settlement was established back in 1769 at what is now known as Old Town San Diego.
More than 250 years later, the original 18th-century architecture still stands. Visit Mission Basilica San Diego de Alcala to see the original parish and its lush gardens. Then stop by the gift shop to pick up a few souvenirs for your boss and colleagues back home!
5. Save Your Appetite for The City’s Top Spots
If your business trip is going to afford you limited downtime, trying new food is what you might be looking forward to most.
In a city as large as San Diego, there is no shortage of breakfast, lunch, and dinner options; and while there are plenty of great restaurants, one rash decision could lead to an underwhelming meal. Make the most of your short stay in San Diego by identifying some of the top restaurants in the area.
Mexican cuisine is a staple of San Diego. Enjoy a breakfast burrito at Werewolf American Pub or check out Pokez—a hidden gem tucked away in East Village.
For a place where you can enjoy a business dinner with other professionals or colleagues, visit Seasons 52. If you like the sound of a sunset dinner overlooking the water, check out California Modern at Georges on the Cove. Finally, when it’s time to unwind after a busy day, treat yourself to happy hour at Starlite or The Rabbit Hole!
6. Keep A Beach Day in Your Back Pocket
The oceanside city of San Diego is home to over 70 miles of coastline across multiple beaches.
Whether you’re an avid surfer, a water enthusiast, or a casual beachgoer, take advantage of southern California’s moderate climate by checking out at least one or two of the city’s best beaches.
Solana Beach, La Jolla Beach, Pacific Beach, and Mission Beach are all fantastic options!
7. Transform A Local Spot into Your Office Away from Home
Some people have no issues getting work done from their hotel rooms. Others require dynamic surroundings for inspiration. Fortunately, there are plenty of places in San Diego where you can take advantage of a productive work environment and high-speed internet.
For the caffeine fiend, Coffee & Tea Collective is a spot that provides a great cup of coffee and a rotating art gallery, as well as both indoor and outdoor seating.
Union Cowork is another popular spot for business professionals, as three convenient locations are scattered throughout the city. Enjoy a local craft beer or kombucha as you plug away at your work.
If you need to meet with clients or require a quiet space for an important phone call, check out Expansive Gaslamp. This coworking space offers private rooms at affordable prices. Not to mention, all spaces are adorned with creative décor!
8. Don’t Miss Out on The San Diego Zoo!
The San Diego Zoo is widely regarded as being the best zoo in not only the U.S. but also the entire world. It would be a shame to visit San Diego only to miss out on perhaps its most well-known attraction!
It’s recommended that you purchase your tickets in advance, particularly while many businesses are still limiting entry because of the recent COVID-19 pandemic. What’s more, there are San Diego Zoo attractions that require you to reserve spots in advance, such as the photo safari tour.
9. Catch A San Diego Padres Game
Nothing caps off a day of hard work quite like the atmosphere of a live sporting event. If the home team is in town, consider getting tickets to a Padres baseball game.
Even if the Padres aren’t in town, you can still book a behind-the-scenes tour at the famous Petco Park—named America’s best ballpark in by USA Today in 2016. As the stadium is within walking distance of the convention center and other downtown attractions, its prime location makes it an easy spot to reach!
