Downtown San Diego is the city's urban core, stretching from the waterfront north toward Balboa Park. The Gaslamp Quarter anchors the nightlife and dining scene, with dozens of bars and restaurants packed into its Victorian-era blocks. On weekends it draws big crowds, so expect lines at the popular spots — but the energy is part of the appeal.
The waterfront is downtown's other major draw. The USS Midway Museum, a decommissioned aircraft carrier permanently docked at Navy Pier, is one of San Diego's most popular attractions and worth several hours. Seaport Village, just south, is touristy but has a pleasant boardwalk for strolling. The Embarcadero stretches along the harbour and is the departure point for ferries to Coronado and whale-watching boats in season.
East Village, the neighbourhood between the Gaslamp and Petco Park, has emerged as downtown's most interesting area for food and drink. The craft brewery scene here is excellent — San Diego is one of the great beer cities in America, and many of the best taprooms are within walking distance of each other. Little Italy, north of the core, has outstanding Italian restaurants and a fantastic Saturday farmers market along Date Street that is arguably the best in the city.