San Diego Comic Con: Best Places To Go If You Don’t Have Tickets

by Maria Haase

San Diego Comic Con is by far the biggest consumer convention in San Diego and people travel to San Diego from all over the world to enjoy the latest releases, meet their favorite actors, and dress up in intricate cosplay costumes. But tickets for Comic Con San Diego are starting at hundreds of dollars a day and sell out in a hot second. So is it still worth coming to San Diego if you don’t have Comic Con San Diego tickets? Definitely!

There are so many events and things to do outside of the actual convention that it is worth a trip to downtown. Here are some of the best spots to check out if you don’t have tickets to the actual San Diego Comic Con.

Gaslamp Quarter/5th Avenue

Nothing beats people-watching during Comic Con in the Gaslamp Quarter. If you are lucky, get one of the streetside tables, sit down, and enjoy the show. From street artists to fantastic Cosplayers, groups of friends in matching outfits, you’ll be entertained just by watching the people walking by. Also, check the bars and locations for special events and promotions.

People dressed up in Cosplay during San Diego Comic Con on 5th ave under Gaslamp Quarter sign

Martin Luther King Promenade

This is another great spot for people watching and seeing all kinds of Cosplayers and performers, activities, and activations. There is no shade or place to sit, so don’t forget to bring sunscreen, a hat, and some water.

In Front & Back of the Convention Center

While you might not be able to get in, you’ll get to see some of the best Cosplays right in front of the convention center as well as in the back along the waterfront towards Seaport Village. Last year, we took dozens of photos and videos with fantastic cosplay artists and had a lot of fun.

Comic Con Museum

Location: Comic Con Museum Balboa Park
Dates: Daily 10 AM – 5 PM

Look back at the 50-year history of Comic-Con International and enjoy this special exhibit featuring illustrations by iconic comic book artists like Milton Caniff, Rick Geary, Jack Kirby, Jim Lee, and Dave Stevens.

Petco Park

Petco Park Interactive Zone

Dozens of activities and activations by various production companies, merch, and giveaways.

Hello Kitty Cafe Truck

Dates:
7. 20. 2023 – 7. 22. 2023 10 AM – 6 PM
7. 23. 2023 10 AM – 4 PM
Cute Treats and lots of Hello Kitty merch

Comic Con Events 2023

Super Hero Tea

Location: Westgate Hotel Address: 1055 2nd Ave, San Diego, CA 92101
Dates: 7.19-7.23.2023 1 PM – 3:30 PM

Looking for a fancy way to celebrate Comic Con? Then try the Superhero themed Afternoon Tea at the Westgate with delectable sandwiches, scrumptious pastries, whimsy cocktails, and of course, tea.

Comic Con Art Show

Location: Manchester Grant Hyatt Address: 1 Market Pl, San Diego, CA 92101
Dates: 7.20-7.23.2023 11 AM – 6 PM

Hundreds of Comic related drawings, paintings, sculptures, jewelry, and more are on display (and can be bought) at the Grand Hyatt during Comic Con.

Trivia Night @ The Church by Lost Abbey

Location: The Church by Lost Abbey Address: 1313 J St, San Diego, CA 92101
Date: 7.20.2023 7:30 PM

Test your nerd knowledge and sip some tasty beers in a church turned into a tap room.

WNDR AFTER DARK: COMIC-CON AFTERPARTY

Location: WNDR Museum Address: 422 Market St, San Diego, CA 92101
Date 7.20.2023 7 PM (doors open at 6 PM

Comic-Con trivia starts at 7:00 PM followed by a cosplay contest and live DJ.

Jeff Goldblum & The Mildred Snitzer Orchestra

Location: Balboa Theater Address: 868 Fourth Ave, San Diego, CA 92101
Date: 7.20.2023

Jeff Goldblum is not only a famous actor but an acclaimed jazz musician. Check out his performance during SD Comic Con to see him live. He often asks trivia questions and interacts with the audience during sets.