Jessica Chenoweth 
Can’t secure a badge for SDCC? No worries! San Diego transforms into a vibrant playground full of free and ticketed offsite events — cosplay, music, art, games, food, and more — for fans everywhere. Here’s your curated guide to enjoy Comic-Con’s energy beyond the convention center:
1. Crunchyroll Anime FanFest
A free anime-themed music festival at The Rady Shell (July 25–26, 1 p.m.–). Enjoy live performances by J-pop star yama, Denzel Curry, INIKO, and more, plus anime booths, merch, giveaways, and activations
2. Doctor Who “Black Archive” Pop‑Up
Step into the Fifteenth Doctor’s TARDIS, explore props and monsters, and take part in a mini-mission. Located at The Harbor Club (July 24–27), with free admission
3. Her Universe Fashion Show
Geek couture meets fandom! Watch designers compete for a $2,000 prize at Manchester Grand Hyatt (July 24, 6 p.m.). Free wristbands start at 10 a.m. at the venue
4. Super Heroes Market
Family-friendly merch fest at Mission Valley Center (July 27, 11 a.m.–7 p.m.). Free entry — costumes, collectibles, raffles, and photo ops included
5. SDCC Digital Game Room
Gaming paradise at Marriott Marquis: Rocket League, Smash Bros, Halo, and tournaments gratis (July 24–27, hours vary) .
6. Malibu Barbie Café
Indulge in pink-themed treats and roller‑skating ($1 charity rink) at Bayside Kitchen & Bar (runs July 11–Oct 12). Includes food and merch credit ($25+)
7. Petco Park Interactive Zone
Free family-friendly zone with activations and food trucks in the Lexus Premier Lot across from Petco Park (July 24–27)
8. Fantastic Four Offsite Activation
An immersive exhibit near the Hilton Gaslamp showcasing the Fantastic Four. A walk-through experience – expect impressive scale, no rides
9. FX “Alien: Earth” & Disney+/Hulu Booths
Sci-fi fans rejoice: explore a crashed spaceship at the Hilton Bayfront Lawn, ride a mini Ferris wheel at Disney+ & Hulu’s booth, and more
10. A Very Abbott Block Party
Celebrate the hit series Abbott Elementary with a lively block party on the Waterfront behind the convention center featuring a Ferris wheel, Philly Water Ice, themed caricatures, and collectible character pins.
11. Percy Jackson & The Olympians Activation
Step into the world of Percy Jackson & The Olympians and experience a mythological adventure. Explore the mists, experience the magic, find your ancestors, and exchange drachma for themed merch. Located at Fifth Avenue & L Street.
12. Twisted Metal Bumper Battle from Peacock
Choose your battle car and jump into the action at this demolition derby-style experience inspired by Twisted Metal. Explore tournament vehicles up close and capture fun moments at themed photo ops. Located at 450 2nd Ave July 24, 12 pm–4 pm; July 25–26, 12 pm–6 pm
13. Starr Park – Brawl Stars Amusement Park
Enjoy themed games, immersive photo ops and family-friendly fun inspired by the hit mobile game Brawl Stars. Located at 5th Avenue Landing (San Diego Bay) July 24–26, 11 am–7 pm; July 27, 11 am–4 pm
14. Kaiju Experience at Godzilla Station
Step into the chaos at Super7’s Godzilla Station, featuring movie props, cosplayers, exclusive merch, and a full “train biter” scene recreated from the movie. Located at Super7 Store – 701 Eighth Ave., San Diego, CA 92101 July 23–27, noon to 8 p.m.
https://super7.com/pages/godzillastation
15. Lilo & Stitch Shaved Ice Truck
Lilo & Stitch Activation: A Taste of Paradise in San Diego! will have free Shave Ice and photo ops. Located next to the Omni Hotel July 24 – 26, 10 am–7 pm; July 27, 10 am–2 pm
Pro Tips & Logistics
- Timing is key. Harbour Drive will be closed July 23–27; shuttle service available. See street closures and shuttle maps via San Diego Magazine
- Golden hour and crowds. Arrive early for wristbands, tickets, or prime photo ops. Offsites see long queues, especially evenings .
- Zoom out. Balboa Park houses the Comic‑Con Museum year-round; check temporary exhibits during con-week
Final Thoughts
Comic-Con’s real magic isn’t locked behind badges — it’s in the street-level energy, impromptu photoshoots, interactive pop-ups, music, and fandom bonding that spill across downtown. Whether you’re jamming at Anime FanFest, cuddling cats at a café, or exploring immersive fan experiences, there’s so much to love—and it’s all accessible.
Let me know if you want detailed schedules, maps, or Cosplay-friendly tips. Go have an unforgettable Con!
