The Gaslamp Quarter, 16 blocks of Victorian architecture in downtown San Diego, is the go-to place in the city for gourmet restaurants and jazz performances — a must-see for all those travelling to this west coast city for the first time. Of course, it wasn’t always so on-trend. Once it was the city’s ‘red light’ district, a mix of brothels, gambling dens and saloons, a haunt of sailors and gunslingers, all of which you can learn about at the Gaslamp Museum or on a walking tour. It’s certainly revamped its image: now it’s the coolest, most romantic place to be in San Diego. And the best hotels in the Gaslamp Quarter emanate that romantic, old world charm in spades!

For a romantic getaway

• In the heart of Gaslamp District, Pendry San Diego’s spacious, indulgent rooms are a favourite of couples. Think plush linens, vibrant décor and stunning city views. The six restaurants and bars, spa and rooftop pool add to the romantic appeal. An exciting, happening place to be.
• Andaz San Diego is a sexy, luxury hotel which oozes romance and indulgence. The rooms are made for an evening in or lazy morning: plush and comfortable, complete with all the mod cons and gadgets. Couples can sip cocktails by the rooftop pool, enjoying the views of the city at night, or even catch a film at the open-air cinema followed by dinner at the effortlessly chic rooftop restaurant.

For old world charm

• The Horton Grand Hotel embodies the old world charm of Gaslamp Quarter. Its rooms come with gas-burning fireplaces, balconies, and period furnishings. Guests can catch the live, local entertainment at its Salt & Whiskey restaurant every weekend or simply enjoy a craft cocktail at the bar. A great place for history buffs.

For city views

• Hotel Indigo San Diego is one of the best hotels in the Gaslamp Quarter for city views. Colourful, boutique-style rooms have floor-to-ceiling windows, through which you can enjoy great city views. The rooftop eatery Phi Bar & Bistro offers more stunning vistas, whether for breakfast or dinner.

Still not sure?

• You could expand your search to include ALL the best places to stay in California
• See our recommendations for the 14 Most Romantic Hotels in San Francisco, the 15 Most Romantic or the 20 Best Luxury Hotels in California
• Alternatively, you could contact one of our friendly Gurus.

  • Pendry San Diego San Diego (Gaslamp District) 317 rooms from CA$411

    
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    Total relaxation  -  Perfect for a relaxing city break, with an expansive spa, six wonderful restaurants, large comfortable suites and a rooftop pool

    Foodies  -  The six eateries all bring something to the table but Lionfish steals the show with inventive & flavoursome sustainable seafood

    Views  -  Great views from hotel

    Designer  -  Uniquely designed interiors.

    

    Recommended by  -  Tablet, Kiwi Collection

    A young and vibrant addition to the Montage family, sitting in the happening Gaslamp District, San Diego. Expansive and indulgent rooms offer plush linens, fab views and whimsical wallpaper. Unwind in style, with six restaurants and bars, a rooftop pool and spa. A welcome addition to the scene. See More

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  • Andaz San Diego San Diego (Gaslamp District) 159 rooms from CA$374

    
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    Great walks  -  Take a stroll along Windansea Beach, or see the cliffs at Black's Beach.

    Local markets  -  Seaport Village is closeby and worth a visit.

    Sights nearby  -  Famous San Diego Sea World is in town.

    Lively  -  Hip and happening.

    

    Recommended by  -  Tablet

    Described as 'sexy', this luxury hotel in Gaslamp Quarter of San Diego is the perfect for adventures by day and lively life at night. Rooms are plush, comfortable and with all the mod-cons. Rooftop restaurant and bar by the pool turns into an open-air cinema at night. Views are great from the top. See More

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  • Horton Grand Hotel San Diego (Gaslamp District) 108 rooms from CA$270

    
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    City Style  -  Experience history, charm and contemporary comfort in the centre of the city

    Restaurant  -  All-day Salt & Whisky bar and restaurant is an ode to the Victorian age with wood panneling, chandeliers & a great atmosphere

    Sights nearby  -  Watch a baseball game at nearby Petco Park - home to the San Diego Padres - just four blocks from the hotel

    Great walks  -  Stroll around the historic streets of the city's Gaslamp neighbourhood

    

    Grand Victorian-era boutique in the lively Gaslamp area. Charming rooms boast antiques, handcrafted furniture, marble-framed gas fireplaces and balconies. Public areas combine glass roofing, wood panelling and 19th-century brick walls. There's a lively restaurant, bar & sociable courtyard garden. See More

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  • Hotel Indigo San Diego San Diego (Gaslamp District) 210 rooms from CA$311

    
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    Pet friendly  -  Pets are very welcome and — very unsually — their stay is not subject to any fee. There is also a relief area and tasty treats

    Business meetings  -  As well as spacious and modern event spaces & 24 hour business centre, the rooftop is often used for business meetings & dining

    Short break  -  The perfect place to stay if you're flying in for a baseball game at Petco Park; some rooms look over the stadium

    Local exploring  -  There's lots to do in the area whether you're a sport lover, nature enthusiast or into culture and the arts

    

    Contemporary and colourful city-centre hotel. Overlooking Petco Park baseball park in the central Gaslamp District, inviting boutique-style rooms have wooden floors, cosy mid-century furniture, floor-to-ceiling windows and great views. There's a gym, 24-hour dining options and rooftop terrace. See More

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Written by Edmund Wise

posted Tuesday, 2nd July 2024