There’s never been a better time for pop culture fans to visit San Diego. As the comic arts, movies, television and more descend on the San Diego Convention Center July 20-24 for Comic-Con International, the destination is teeming with Pokémon hiding around every corner at San Diego’s most notable sites. The following are eight of the top San Diego spots for Pokémon fans to get their game on during SDCC.
- From catching Pokémon at the San Diego International Airport and playing alongside hundreds of Pokémon and Comic-Con fans at the SDCC to throwing Pokeballs on the field at Petco Park and training while grabbing a limited edition commemorative Comic-Con Library Card at the San Diego Central Library, the Gaslamp Quarter and East Village in downtown San Diego are a Pokehub for Pokémon gamers.
- With 17 museums, several performing arts venues, more than 15 gardens and numerous recreational attractions including the San Diego Zoo, which celebrates its centennial this year, it is no surprise that Balboa Park is swarming with Pokestops and gyms. For some extra Pokémon time, the Balboa Park After Dark summer series offers food trucks, entertainment and extended evening hours at many museums on Fridays. Visitors can also catch virtual and non-virtual nocturnal critters at the San Diego Zoo’s Nighttime Zoo, featuring extended evening hours through Sept. 5, 2016.
- Pokémon masters can earn ninja status at LEGOLAND California. While tracking more than 40 Pokestops, guests can learn to control fireballs, lightning, shockwaves and ice at the new LEGO Ninjago World featuring a Ninjago interactive ride, the first in the world to utilize cutting-edge Maestro technology that enables effects such as heat, smoke and wind incorporated throughout the adventure.
- The optimum training location can be found at a former Naval Training Center now known as Liberty Station. The likes of Aerodactyl and Rhyhorn have been seen all around this hub for arts, shopping and dining. The best specimens can be spotted at NTC Park and around the Arts District, home to several eateries and art galleries. The Liberty Public Market makes a perfect Pokebreak for visitors in search of local fare, sweets and craft beer.
- Gamers can leave the car behind and journey along San Diego’s downtown Embarcadero to the San Diego cruise terminal, the Navy Pier, Seaport Village and the Headquarters. Unique Pokestops can be found aboard the ships at the USS Midway Museum and the Maritime Museum of San Diego, where sought-after creatures have been spotted.
- For rare and unique aquatic creatures like Pikachu, Slowpoke, Tentacool and Magikarp, the best spot is Coronado Bay, which is accessible via ferry from downtown San Diego. Sights of San Diego’s downtown skyline, including the San Diego Convention Center, can easily be captured from Coronado, where restaurants and unique shops make perfect stops for families traveling together.
- The eclectic neighborhood of North Park is a hot-spot for Pokestops. Hunters will want to travel along 30th Street, especially from Upas St. to El Cajon Blvd. Trainers can recharge while sipping on craft beer or relax with a pour-over coffee at the numerous breweries and coffee shops in the area. Many shops and restaurants are continually dropping Lure Models while offering Happy Hour and specials for Pokémon Go players.
- Egg hatching can be achieved with ease while walking among the 17 museums and historical sites, quaint shops, and colorful art galleries that populate Old Town San Diego, the birthplace of California. The aroma of freshly made tortillas and the sounds of mariachi are the perfect lure for gamers eager to try San Diego’s authentic Mexican fare.
The best way to enjoy the game is to explore with friends, use caution and look up while crossing roads.
Happiness is calling at the San Diego Comic-Con!
