Hard Rock Hotel San Diego - Location. Location. Location. by Gary Murray
The Hard Rock Hotel is in the epicenter of San Diego’s “down- town,” also known as the Gaslamp Quarter. This 16 square block, walkable entertainment hub is just a few steps outside of the hotel.
Within the quarter is Horton Plaza, home to dozens of specialty shops and boutiques. Here, classic Victorian era landmarks have been converted into museums, hotels, bars, restaurants, galleries and can been seen throughout the 38-acres of the quarter. The historic Spreckles Theater is the crown jewel of San Diego’s cul- tural institutions and hosts a variety of artistic performances. Also in the quarter is the Balboa Theatre, where comedians, soloist and popular bands perform.
The San Diego area has grown for its fine breweries, as well, and beer aficionados will enjoy the opportunity to visit the Societe and Ballart Point Breweries to enjoy craft beer tours. The Toron- ado Craft Pub offers 56 rotating drafts, making it a good starting point for a beer sampling excursion.
Hard Rock Hotel San Diego is strategically positioned between the San Diego Bay, San Diego Convention Center, and Balboa Park. Many first-time visitors to San Diego like to get an overview of the area by taking a cruise around the bay. Others prefer small boat sailing and, in season, whale watching as California Grey Whales migrate from Alaska to Baja, CA.
Rich in military heritage, the USS Midway as well as the Star of India are both museum ships that are open for tours in the area.
The San Diego Convention Center is a 10-minute walk from the hotel, and there is plenty to see along the way. The center also happens to be within minutes of the airport. Given the close proximity between airport, hotel and convention center, it’s conceivable to land, check-in to the hotel, and make it to the convention center - all within an hour!
The convention center is designed with guests’ needs in mind, evidenced by its many amenities, including concierge services and outdoor terraces for breathing in the fresh SoCal air.
In addition, the facility is LEED certified and asserts an unwaver- ing commitment to the environment.
Balboa Park is just three-minutes from the Hard Rock by taxi or Uber. The park offers something for everybody, including 16 museums, performing arts venues, gardens, and walking trails. What the park is most know for, however, is the world-famous San Diego Zoo, which is home to 650 species and is one of only four zoos in the world with two giant pandas.
During spring, summer and into early fall, a very popular local pastime is enjoying a San Diego Padres baseball game at Petco Park. Unique to Petco Park is its downtown location, which is just around the corner from the Hard Rock Hotel. Downtown ballparks near bars and restaurants are obviously preferable to those out in the middle of nowhere surrounded by parking lots. But Petco isn’t just close to downtown, it’s woven right into the city. Food is an essential part of the baseball experience, and Petco Park serves up everything from sashimi to fish tacos, Roman-style pizza to BBQ, oysters to gourmet hotdogs.
Back at the hotel, Hard Rock was founded on the belief that music makes people feel good, and the Hard Rock spirit is all about infusing hospitality with rock n’roll. From its trendy food options (Sunday brunch at Maryjane's and fresh sushi at Nobu) to its rooftop swimming pool and entertainment lineup, guests can choose to relax in their room or enjoy the hotel’s amenities.
Hard Rock offers several unique King and Queen Suites. However, for those who want to view the bustling town from their rooms, they should request one of the Woodstock Suites.
Looking to embrace the music? Take advantage of the Sound of Your Stay program, which offers free music downloads, Fender guitar rentals, and even the opportunity to try being a DJ!
If, by chance, the late night munchies strike, try one of San Diego’s signature dishes - the “California Burrito.” It’s a giant carne asada burrito that’s topped with a handful of French fries. There are great Cal-Mex restaurants within minutes of the hotel!
Mid-AtlanticEvEnts Magazine 73
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