Things To Do In San Diego During #RWA16

I'm so excited about the Romance Writers of America 2016 National Conference because it's in my hometown of San Diego! Are you going? If so, then check out these fun things to do that are all within walking distance of the conference hotel. They're all a great way to get a taste of this year's conference city.

The USS Midway Museum - Visit this historic aircraft carrier which is less than a mile walk along the bay from the the Marriott Marquis. Walk the flight deck, explore the hanger bay and hike your way through the various levels of this exciting, hands-on museum. Need lunch? Enjoy a casual meal at the cafe on the stern.

Seaport Village - A fun mix of shops and restaurants, Seaport Village is perched right on the bay. The Headquarters at Seaport Village is the old San Diego Police Station which has been converted into a place for restaurants, art galleries and shops. You can also visit the old jail cells, check out vintage mugshots and other historic exhibits. Restaurants include Starbucks, The Cheesecake Factory and Flour & Barley. Seaport Village and The Headquarters at Seaport Village are adjacent to the Marriott Marquis.


If you want to see San Diego from the bay then you have two fun options, both of which are close to the Marriott Marquis.

Seal Tour San Diego is an amphibious boat which takes you on a narrated tour of the San Diego bayfront before setting out for a floating tour of the bay. This is a great way to relax and see the sights when you need a break. It leaves from Seaport Village.

San Diego Coronado Ferry is another fun way to get out on the bay. Departing from near the USS Midway, it's a leisurely jaunt over to the Ferry Landing on Coronado Island. At the Ferry Landing you can have a great happy hour at Candelas or dinner at Peohe's overlooking the water.

The Maritime Museum is a must see for history buffs. It's about a two mile walk from the hotel, or you can take a pedi-cab. I discuss the museum and the historic ships in its collection in this post on historic research.






Looking to get our of the hotel one night and maybe hear some great music. The San Diego Summer Pops is taking place at the same time as conference and it's at the Embarcadero which is right behind the conference hotel. Sit out on the grass and enjoy the San Diego Symphony's music or walk along the bay and look at the ships moored in the marina. It's a great way to help you relax during the excitement of conference.

If you are looking for a fun bar or restaurant check out the San Diego Gaslamp Quarter. It's practically across the street from the Marriott Marquis and offers something for everyone. Enjoy a treat or pop into a souvenir shop to buy a t-shirt for your family back home






I hope these suggestions give you some inspiration for what to do while you're in San Diego. If you enjoyed this post, please check out my books because they have nothing to do with San Diego other than having been written here.