San Diego Night Moves
A city of nearly perfect weather with more than 250 days of sun a year, San Diego is a mecca to the active set. But just because the weather is conducive to outdoor activities doesn’t mean things fold up like a beach umbrella when the sun goes down. In fact, for many, this is the signal to start partying, and the city doesn’t disappoint.
One of the best places to check out the action is downtown’s historic Gaslamp Quarter: 16 walkable blocks packed with rooftop bars, hip nightclubs, jazz clubs and restaurants offering alfresco dining. Most venues feature that typically casual Southern California vibe, but some have a dress code, so check before showing up in beachwear and flip-flops.
Omnia strives to combine opulent, classic design with modern technology in a multilevel club with almost 20,000 square feet of partying space. Fluxx prides itself on presenting party-goers with an ever-evolving club that dazzles. Besides dancing to top-tier DJs and listening to some of today’s hottest artists, Fluxx guests have enjoyed occasional boxing and wrestling matches, black light fashion shows and even an 80-person spin cycle class. Visitors enter Asian-themed Bang Bang via a tunneled staircase reminiscent of a Tokyo subway, complete with Tokyo subway sounds streaming through hidden speakers. The nighttime hot spot features an Asian fusion restaurant, a sushi bar and a “theater” which hosts some of the hottest up-and-coming DJs.
San Diego includes a thriving gay community, with Hillcrest one of the favored neighborhoods for LGBT nightlife. Urban MO’s is a hetero-friendly gay bar that boasts great burgers and a fun, upbeat vibe. Flicks offers games, karaoke and video clips. Rich’s is where guys go to dance, and Gossip Grill is the current lesbian hot spot.
At 22 stories above San Diego Bay, Marriott’s Altitude Sky Lounge offers one of the best views in town, making it the perfect place to sip a chilled cocktail while watching one of San Diego’s signature sunsets.
For party-goers who crave a meal after most other restaurants close, Searsucker serves a late-night menu 11 p.m.–1 a.m.
