Your 2018 San Diego Summer Bucket List

This article originally appeared as the cover story of the May 2018 edition of San Diego Magazine.

The kids are out of school and you’ve got three months of predictably good weather. Don’t let the season slip by with a been-there, done-that attitude; here’s our insider’s guide for Memorial Day through Labor Day.

BY JORDAN LEMKE WITH ERIN MEANLEY GLENNY & ARCHANA RAM

Photo by John Bahu

#1

Watch an All-Star Game MVP play in a Padres uniform

Hopes are high this season thanks to an eight-year, $144 million deal to sign first baseman Eric Hosmer, who formerly helped the Kansas City Royals win the World Series. In addition to Hosmer, the Padres have signed a slate of top-notch talent like closer Brad Hand and Kazuhisa Makita, a relief pitcher with a side-handed pitch you have to see to believe. In between innings, nosh on food from Lucha Libre Taco Shop, Baked Bear, and, new this season, Buona Forchetta. It all goes down at Petco Park, what USA Today calls the “undisputed best ballpark in baseball.”

Insider Tip: Buona Forchetta at Petco is the only location serving thicker Roman-style street slices. Order up in section 104—first level behind home plate.

#2

Spy world-class thoroughbreds during their morning workout

We’ve all worn the hat on opening day at the races, but we secretly prefer the quiet of the early morning weekend workouts. Up to one thousand horses post up to exercise throughout the 7:30–9:30 a.m. session each Saturday and Sunday. Watch from the Clubhouse Terrace, where there’s breakfast food for purchase, plus face painting and magic for the kids. Not a morning person? New this racing season (July 18–September 3), taco-themed Wednesdays spotlight favorite local taquerias, with specials on Mexican beers. August 4 marks the first Michelada Fest. There are concerts every Friday and, this year, every Saturday except during the August 18 Pacific Classic; concert tickets are free with track admission.

Insider Tip: Donut Days are July 28 and August 11 from 8 to 10 a.m. and include free donuts, coffee, and juice.

#3

Stay at a casino without going all the way to Vegas

When’s the last time you visited one of San Diego County’s casinos? We thought so. At Harrah’s Resort Southern California, you can splash around in their Dive pool, known for its 400-foot lazy river and SoCal’s only swim-up bar. Or, take an easy gamble on Viejas Casino’s newest addition: Their luxury Willows Hotel features 159 adults-only suites and a full salon and spa. Enjoy the A/C indoors at the card table and slot machines, then head outside to float in the saltwater pool or book a massage in one of the spa’s poolside cabanas.

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