Delegates, alternates and guests to the IBEW’s 41st International Convention in September will find a city bursting with things to do, from its famous beaches to professional sports to the world-renowned San Diego Zoo.
With official business being held from Sept. 21-25, the Convention will keep delegates and alternates busy. But for guests or those arriving early or departing late, there’s plenty to discover in San Diego.
Here are just a few things to consider for free time while in town:
1. An Afternoon at the Park
The San Diego Padres play at Petco Park, located just steps from many of the IBEW’s convention hotels.
The team has home games against the Miami Marlines on Sept. 18, 19, and 20 and against the Arizona Diamondbacks on Sept. 25, 26, and 27.
Tickets can be purchased directly through the MLB’s website.
2. The World-Famous Zoo
Located just 15 minutes from the Convention Center downtown, the San Diego Zoo is known for its giant pandas, baboons, koalas, polar bears, hippos and more.
For an even bigger adventure, the zoo’s Safari Park is about an hour’s drive north of downtown San Diego.
3. Hit the Beach
San Diego has 70 miles of coastline to explore and more than a dozen beaches to soak in the sun.
The closest to downtown are the Coronado beaches just across the the bay, Ocean Beach, and the famous boardwalk at Mission Beach.
4. A Day on the Water
Mission Bay is home to the world’s largest aquatic playground, with 4,600 acres to explore. If water activities are your thing, you can find them in Mission Bay, from kayaking and paddle boarding to sport fishing excursions, sailing lessons, dinner cruises or just hanging out by the water.
Mission Bay is also home to Sea World San Diego, where shows and activities are on year-round.
5. A Good Walk, Ruined
San Diego boasts more than 70 golf courses thanks to its nearly year-round perfect weather, and many of the courses, including the world-famous Torrey Pines are available to play (if sometimes tough to snag a tee-time).
The San Diego Tourism Authority outlines some of the most unique courses in the area.
6. Nightlife in Historic San Diego
The Gaslamp District is the heart of historic Downtown San Diego and boasts more than 16 blocks of bars, restaurants, music venues and more.
Located just outside the Convention Center and steps from most of the IBEW Convention hotels, there’s no shortage of places to eat, drink, take in some live music or hit the dance floor if the mood strikes.
