7 Things to Do This Fall in San Diego

The summer season is officially over. In many parts of the United States, autumn’s begun and the temperature is already dropping. Although San Diegans go to the beach well into October, that doesn’t mean you have to miss out the more traditional fall-themed activities. Here are 7 things to do to make the most of the San Diego fall.

Del Mar Races

Whether you’re going for the gold or simply going for some drinks and a good time, the Del Mar Races is the place to be. The track's second session of thoroughbred racing runs from November 8 until December 1. If you’d rather play it safe and not risk losing money, you can simply enjoy the “derby days” atmosphere and hang with friends and family — or stay after the races and listen to whichever artist or band is performing that evening.

Photo: Felicia Garcia

Festivals, Festivals, Festivals

With an average temperature of 70–75 degrees, it’s no wonder San Diego hosts a variety of outdoor festivals well into autumn. From art to food and beyond, there’s a festival for everyone to enjoy this fall.

Music

September 13–15, 2019

KABOO is a three-day music festival that takes place in the middle of September up in Del Mar. Though KABOO is kid-friendly, children under the age of 18 must be present with a legal parent or guardian. KABOO features over 40 bands and artists, a variety of comedians and gourmet cuisine for all to enjoy.

September 28–29, 2019

CRSSD is another music festival that occurs at the end of September. Unlike KABOO, CRSSD is a two-day music festival with an age restriction of 21+. CRSSD features over 36 artists and DJs and takes place at the 12-acre San Diego Waterfront Park in downtown San Diego. In addition to the performances, there will be local craft beer, mixed drinks, food and more.

Art

November 8–11, 2019

Hollywood meets San Diego at the Coronado Island Film Festival, where aspiring film students and seasoned pros submit their work for all to enjoy. In the organization’s first year, the film festival showcased five screenings that ended up as nominations for the 2018 Oscars. This November marks the organizations 3rd annual festival – so you can expect a solid lineup of incredible films.

October 10–13, 2019

Art San Diego is a contemporary art show that features 75+ renowned artists, galleries, and publishers from around the world. This year it’s held at the San Diego Convention Center. Right in the heart of the San Diego Gaslamp district, the Art San Diego festival provides four days of cutting-edge art and media, curated programming, lively events and more.

Food & Drink

November 1–10, 2019

There are many things that San Diego is voted “the best” for, and beer is definitely up there. San Diego didn’t earn the title “Capital of Craft” for nothing. At the San Diego Beer Week festival, locals and tourists can experience the wide variety of craft beer from over 130 independent breweries. This 10-day festival kicks off at the Embarcadero Marina Park South put together by San Diego Brewers Guild. SDBG is a non-profit organization that promotes independent San Diego breweries to the growing community of craft beer enthusiasts.

November 10–17, 2019

If beer isn’t your cup of tea, then you can always wait for the following week and attend the San Diego Bay Wine + Food Festival. This one's targeted towards the wander-lusters, adventurers and curious enthusiasts who want to discover the city's best sights, sounds and flavors. For the full schedule of events and tastings occurring throughout the week, click HERE.

Petco Park

The home of the San Diego Padres, Petco Park is one of the best baseball stadiums for enjoying this time-old sport. Enjoy the cool weather of an evening game, with downtown San Diego as the backdrop. Kids can engage in their own whiffle-ball baseball game through Park at the Park – a kid friendly environment where they can use up all their energy.

Pumpkin Patch

Is it really fall without a trip to the pumpkin patch? Whether you want a big pumpkin to carve up for Halloween or some small pumpkins to decorate the window sills, San Diego has a patch for you. Pumpkin Station is located in Mission Valley right, next to the Westfield Mall, and has the widest range of pumpkins already gathered from the field and displayed for your picking. There are also kid-friendly rides, a small train and a petting zoo. For more traditional pumpkin patch-goers, Bates Nut Farm is located in Valley Center, where you can find pumpkins growing straight from the vine. While you're there, grab some corn on the cob or kettle corn and get all the insta-worthy pictures your heart desires. Visit the petting zoo or find your way out of the corn maze.

Old Town San Diego State Historic Park

For all the history buffs, Old Town San Diego State Historic Park presents an opportunity to experience early San Diego by providing a connection to the past. Learn about the transition from a Mexican pueblo to an American settlement from 1827–1872. Walk through the town and see the original adobe buildings or experience a working blacksmith shop. Stroll through museums and antique shops then dine in one of the park's several restaurants as you savor everything you just learned.

Julian

Head north into the mountains and you’ll find yourself in the small town of Julian. Though Julian is beautiful year-round, it is a must-see destination when fall rolls around. Famous for their apple pie, Julian Pie Company bakes a variety of pies fresh each day. It’s best to get there early, so you can grab a delectable slice before they’re all out. With apple orchards, avocado trees, and pumpkins galore, Julian makes the perfect weekend getaway — one where you’ll feel like you’re in a Hallmark movie.

The Beach

San Diegans can go to the beach year-round, but there's an added bonus for beach trips in the fall — no crowds! If you’re looking for a relaxing, secluded beach, then look no further; the Coronado Beaches are some of the most pristine and quiet beaches, scattered with sand dollars and seashells. Head a little more north and you’ll hit Ocean Beach, also known as “Dog Beach,” because of its dog-welcoming environment; a great place to take your furry friends for sunset swims and sandy walks. About a 10-minute drive from Ocean Beach and you’ll find yourself in the center of Mission Beach, where Belmont Amusement park sits overlooking the boardwalk. Finally, as you head up the coast, you’ll arrive at La Jolla Shores, nicknamed “The Jewel,” because of its breathtaking views and scenery. Here, you can indulge in some fine-dining and shopping or stroll down to the coves, where you’ll find seals sun-bathing and soaking up the beautiful San Diego weather.