Entertainment and leisure in San Diego

There’s more to a race weekend than just roaring engines and fast laps. With the Coronado Street Course set inside Naval Base Coronado, fans are just minutes away from San Diego’s best beaches, attractions, and nightlife. Whether you’re visiting for the first time or you’re a local making the most of the NASCAR weekend, here are 10 great ways to experience San Diego beyond the track.

Balboa Park

Just across the bay, Balboa Park is San Diego’s cultural heart. Wander through lush gardens, admire Spanish-Colonial architecture, or explore top museums such as the San Diego Museum of Art and the Air & Space Museum. More information here.

Cabrillo National Monument

If you have extra time during your NASCAR San Diego weekend, a visit to Cabrillo National Monument is a must. Located at the southern tip of the Point Loma Peninsula, this historic site offers breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean, San Diego Bay, and the downtown skyline.

The monument commemorates Juan Rodríguez Cabrillo, the first European explorer to set foot on the West Coast of what is now the United States in 1542. A striking statue of Cabrillo overlooks the bay, marking one of California’s most significant historical landmarks.

LEGOLAND California

LEGOLAND California Resort is a perfect choice — especially if you’re visiting with kids or simply young at heart.

Located in Carlsbad, about 35 minutes north of San Diego, LEGOLAND is a vibrant theme park filled with creativity, colour, and hands-on fun.

Belmont Park

For a classic Southern California experience just minutes from downtown San Diego, head to Belmont Park — the city’s historic oceanfront amusement park located in Mission Beach. It’s a perfect spot to unwind and enjoy some seaside fun before or after the NASCAR Coronado Street Course race weekend.

Birch Aquarium

If you’re looking to add a touch of marine discovery to your NASCAR Coronado Street Course weekend, the Birch Aquarium at Scripps is an inspiring and educational destination. Located in La Jolla, about 25 minutes north of Coronado, this ocean-view aquarium is part of the world-renowned Scripps Institution of Oceanography at UC San Diego — one of the leading marine research centres in the world.

USS Midway Museum

Step aboard one of America’s most legendary aircraft carriers at the USS Midway Museum, located along the downtown waterfront. Discover historic aircraft, flight simulators, and incredible views of San Diego Bay. More information here.

Walk the Embarcadero

Stretching along the harbor near downtown, the Embarcadero offers scenic waterfront walks, public art, and some of the city’s best seafood spots. It’s the perfect place to relax before or after a day at the track. More information here.

Take a harbor cruise.

Experience San Diego from the water on a harbor cruise. Glide past naval ships, the Coronado Bridge, and sea lions while learning about the city’s naval heritage — a calm contrast to the weekend’s racing action.

Catch live music or comedy.

San Diego comes alive at night. Enjoy a concert in the Gaslamp Quarter, see a show at Humphreys by the Bay, or laugh out loud at The Comedy Store La Jolla. The city’s entertainment scene is as energetic as the race itself.

Try local fish tacos.

You can’t visit San Diego without tasting its famous fish tacos. Grab one from local favorites like The Taco Stand, Oscar’s Mexican Seafood, or Blue Water Seafood Market & Grill — perfect for a quick, flavourful bite between events.

San Diego Museum of Art

Located in Balboa Park, the San Diego Museum of Art houses an impressive collection from the Renaissance to modern works. It’s a peaceful cultural stop within easy reach of Coronado. More information here.

Seaport Village

Just across the bridge from Coronado, Seaport Village combines coastal views with boutique shopping, outdoor dining, and street performances. It’s a classic San Diego spot for a laid-back afternoon. More information here.

San Diego Zoo

A must for families, the San Diego Zoo is one of the best in the world, home to more than 12,000 animals. It’s an easy drive from Coronado and a great way to spend a morning before heading back to the race. More information here.

Safari Park

For an unforgettable wildlife experience during your NASCAR Coronado Street Course weekend, plan a visit to the San Diego Zoo Safari Park. The massive wildlife reserve offers visitors the chance to see animals roam in expansive, naturalistic habitats that recreate the African savanna and Asian plains.

Relax on Coronado Beach

Right outside the base, Coronado Beach is consistently ranked among America’s best. Take a post-race stroll along the golden sand, watch the sunset, or grab a drink at the historic Hotel del Coronado — a perfect end to your NASCAR weekend.