Jessica Chenoweth 
Think you need a Comic-Con badge to experience all the excitement? Think again! Every year, San Diego Comic-Con spills out of the Convention Center and into downtown with incredible activations, pop-ups, games, and interactive experiences that are completely free and open to the public.
Whether your kids are obsessed with superheroes, Nintendo, or Nickelodeon, there’s plenty to keep the whole family entertained—without spending hundreds on badges.
Here are some of the best free activities to check out during Comic-Con weekend.
Enter the World of Percy Jackson and the Olympians
Calling all demigods!
Disney is bringing Camp Half-Blood to downtown San Diego with an immersive activation inspired by Percy Jackson and the Olympians. Fans can enter through Poseidon’s towering trident before choosing one of three interactive paths based on Percy, Annabeth, or Thalia.
It’s the perfect stop for young readers, Disney+ fans, and anyone dreaming of a quest worthy of the gods.
Location: Corner of Fifth Avenue and L Street
Get Slimed at the Nickelodeon “Fun Flows Here” Experience
If your kids have ever wanted to experience Nickelodeon’s famous green slime, now’s their chance!
Designed especially with families in mind, the “Fun Flows Here” experience features:
- Slime demonstrations
- Meet-and-greets with Nickelodeon characters
- Interactive stage shows
- Bubble play
- Giveaways and raffles
It’s one of the most kid-friendly experiences happening outside Comic-Con and a great stop for younger fans.
Location: Children’s Museum Park
Become a Superhero with Magic: The Gathering
Whether you’re already a Magic: The Gathering player or completely new to the game, this interactive experience offers something for everyone.
Families can:
- Learn how to play
- Explore the new Marvel Super Heroes card set
- Play mini golf
- Pick up free giveaways
Located inside the popular Petco Park Interactive Zone, it’s an easy stop while exploring downtown.
Location: Petco Park Interactive Zone
Play the Latest Nintendo Games
Gamers won’t want to miss Nintendo’s free Sports Resort experience at the Hilton San Diego Bayfront.
Visitors can try out the newest Nintendo games before they hit store shelves and enjoy interactive gameplay throughout the day. It’s a fun way for families to cool off indoors while taking a break from walking around downtown.
If you’re lucky, you may even catch special guest appearances throughout the event.
Location: Hilton San Diego Bayfront
Celebrate Fandom at the Her Universe Fashion Show
Fashion meets fandom at the annual Her Universe Fashion Show.
Inspired by the DC Universe, talented designers create incredible one-of-a-kind looks inspired by beloved characters. Even if you’re not a fashion expert, the creativity on display is worth seeing.
Families will also love Krypto’s Corner, where adorable, adoptable puppies from Paws of Coronado will be on-site looking for their forever homes. Even if you’re not ready to adopt, stopping by to meet the puppies is sure to be a highlight of the day.
Location: Manchester Grand Hyatt
Visit the Peanuts Pop-Up
Take a break from superheroes and visit Charlie Brown, Snoopy, and the rest of the Peanuts gang.
This year’s pop-up shines a spotlight on some of Snoopy’s lesser-known siblings and other beloved Peanuts characters. While exclusive merchandise will be available for purchase, browsing the displays and soaking in the nostalgia is completely free.
It’s a fun stop for longtime fans and a great introduction to the Peanuts world for younger kids.
Location: 200 W. Harbor Drive
Tips for Visiting Comic-Con Without a Badge
To make the most of your day:
- Arrive early for the shortest lines.
- Take the trolley whenever possible to avoid downtown parking headaches.
- Bring sunscreen, water, and comfortable walking shoes.
- Pack snacks for younger kids.
- Follow each activation’s social media channels before heading out, as some experiences may use free reservations or virtual queues.
You Don’t Need a Badge to Make Comic-Con Memories
Comic-Con is about much more than what’s happening inside the Convention Center. Every year, downtown San Diego transforms into an interactive playground filled with larger-than-life displays, family-friendly activities, and unforgettable experiences that anyone can enjoy.
So if you missed out on a badge, don’t worry—you can still make amazing memories with your family while enjoying some of the best free entertainment San Diego has to offer.
