Last Updated: November 24, 2025
San Diego is a vibrant hub of entertainment, home to a variety of major stadiums, arenas, theaters, and live music venues. Whether you're looking to attend a thrilling sports game, a world-class concert, or a captivating theater performance, this Southern California city offers something for everyone. From large-scale stadiums that host professional sports to intimate venues featuring live music and Broadway shows, San Diego’s entertainment scene is as diverse as it is exciting. Explore the top venues in the city, and find links to purchase tickets for your next unforgettable experience.
San Diego boasts a collection of exceptional stadiums, arenas, and live music venues that cater to a wide range of interests, from high-energy sports events to legendary concerts. Popular venues like Snapdragon Stadium and Petco Park are home to major sports teams, while places like Pechanga Arena and the House of Blues offer an electric atmosphere for live music performances. Whether you’re here for a rock concert, an NBA game, or a soccer match, San Diego's venues deliver an unforgettable live experience for all.
Capacity: 4,600
Primary Events: Concerts, Festivals, Comedy Shows
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Capacity: 20,500
Primary Events: Concerts, Music Festivals
Notable Performers: Dave Matthews Band, Coldplay, Luke Bryan
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Capacity: 16,100
Home Teams: San Diego Gulls (AHL), San Diego Sockers (MASL)
Primary Events: Concerts, AHL hockey, family shows, and special events.
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Capacity: 39,860
Home Teams: San Diego Padres (MLB)
Primary Events: Baseball, Concerts, Comic-Con Events, Special Events
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Capacity: 35,000
Home Teams: San Diego State Aztecs (NCAA), San Diego FC (MLS), San Diego Wave FC (NWSL)
Primary Events: College Football, Soccer, Concerts, Holiday Bowl
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Capacity: 10,000
Primary Events: Symphony, concerts, outdoor performances
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Capacity: 12,414
Home Teams: San Diego State Aztecs (NCAA Basketball)
Primary Events: College Basketball, Concerts, Comedy, Special Events
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San Diego is a hotspot for live music, and its concert venues are among the best on the West Coast. Pechanga Arena, with its impressive 16,000-seat capacity, hosts some of the biggest names in music, while The Rady Shell at Jacobs Park offers an intimate outdoor setting with stunning views of the bay. Viejas Arena and House of Blues San Diego also stand out as premier venues for both local and national acts, bringing diverse genres and unforgettable performances to fans year-round. With a wide variety of venues, San Diego ensures music lovers always have an unforgettable concert experience.
Home to several professional sports teams and exciting events, San Diego is a must-visit for sports fans. Snapdragon Stadium, a state-of-the-art facility, is the centerpiece for college football games and concerts, while Petco Park, known for its beautiful views and iconic design, is home to the San Diego Padres. Other notable venues, like SDCCU Stadium and the recently renovated Snapdragon Stadium, regularly host major sporting events ranging from soccer to rugby. No matter the sport, San Diego’s sports venues create a thrilling atmosphere for fans..
San Diego’s largest stadiums and arenas host some of the biggest events in the city, offering expansive seating and an electrifying atmosphere. Pechanga Arena stands as one of the largest, with a capacity of 16,000, frequently hosting top-tier concerts and sports events. Snapdragon Stadium, home to the San Diego State Aztecs, is another massive venue with a sleek modern design and plenty of seating for college football games and concerts. Other significant venues like Petco Park and Viejas Arena also attract large crowds for both sports and entertainment, making San Diego a premier destination for large-scale events.
San Diego’s iconic theaters offer a rich variety of performances, ranging from Broadway shows to cutting-edge local productions. The Old Globe Theatre, located in Balboa Park, is renowned for its world-class performances and has gained international recognition for its innovative productions. Balboa Theatre, another historic gem in downtown, regularly hosts Broadway tours and major live performances. For lovers of both classical and contemporary theater, venues like Civic Theatre and La Jolla Playhouse provide unforgettable experiences, showcasing the city’s thriving arts scene and commitment to top-tier theatrical performances.
San Diego’s theater and live performance venues highlight the city's cultural depth and commitment to the arts. From major venues like the Civic Theatre, which regularly hosts Broadway productions, to smaller, more intimate spaces like the La Jolla Playhouse, which is known for producing original works and world premieres, the city is a vibrant cultural center. Whether you’re into contemporary plays, classic musicals, or avant-garde performances, San Diego offers diverse options for theater enthusiasts. With its rich history and range of performances, San Diego remains a must-visit destination for those passionate about live theater.