San Diego Fall Events You’ll Want to Experience

San Diego summers get plenty of love — the beaches, the sunshine — there’s nothing like it. That said, there’s just something special about the autumn months around here. The breeze cools off just a touch, the nights get a little longer, and things slow down a bit. In many ways, it’s our favorite time of the year. One thing that doesn’t slow down? The local calendar of can’t-miss events. There’s so much to see, do, and experience around here that it can be tough to keep up. If you’re looking for where to get started, we’ve got some suggestions on how to fill up your San Diego fall events calendar.

Kids Free San Diego (around the city, and right here!)

Every autumn San Diego becomes a paradise for kids. That’s because October is “Kids Free Month” around the city. You’ll find countless local attractions, businesses, restaurants, and other points of interest offering all kinds of free fun for kids. In fact, our very own Firefly Eatery & Bar is participating with a “Kids Eat Free” special all month long! Stop in and sample our tasty specialties, and your 12-and-under companions dine on us. 

1710 W Mission Bay Drive, San Diego, California 92109

SeaWorld Spectacular and Howl-O-Scream (1.3 miles away)

SeaWorld is hosting not just one, but two seasonal spookfests this Halloween. The “treats by day” Halloween Spooktacular is a family-friendly event where kids can come to trick-or-treat, show off their costumes, and visit their favorite animals and Sesame Street friends. You can also enjoy the “frights by night” Howl-O-Scream celebration, where the SeaWorld you know and love will be transformed into a seriously sinister experience, complete with creepy creatures and haunted horrors. Visit if you dare! And when you do, be sure to take advantage of The Dana’s “Happy Howl-O-Scream” travel package, which includes two tickets to the event, complimentary transportation to the park, and more! 

500 Sea World Dr., San Diego, CA 92109


Photo credit: @seaworldsandiego

Ghosts & Gravestones Tours (4.2 miles away)

What better way to celebrate spooky season than by embarking on a fun and fright-filled excursion through some of the city’s most haunted places? Ghosts & Gravestones tours offers several packages that promise a blood-curdling peek into the past of the oldest city in the state. Thanks to our rich history, many of our darkest corners are said to be inhabited by the spirits of those who came before. So take a ride on the dark side and see for yourself.

4010 Twiggs St, San Diego, CA 92110

Humphreys Concerts by the Bay (4.3 miles away)

Summer may have drawn to a close, but the fall concert schedule is just heating up at Humphreys Concerts by the Bay! San Diego’s premier outdoor concert experience is located adjacent to Humphreys Half Moon Inn — our sister property on Shelter Island. There you can take in performances by legendary artists from every genre, including upcoming shows from America, Air Supply, Chris Isaak, The Cult, Oingo Boingo, Adam Ant, Dwight Yoakam, and more.

2241 Shelter Island Dr, San Diego, CA 92106


Photo credit: @humphreysshows

LEGOland Brick-or-Treat (35.4 miles away)

October Saturdays at LEGOLand are Brick-or-Treat time! As one of the premier family-friendly Halloween events in Southern California, Brick-or-Treat truly offers something for everyone. Kids can come in their favorite fun or spooky costumes and enjoy seasonal experiences like extended ride hours, special food-and-beverage menu options, live entertainment, and even an underwater pumpkin-carving display at Sea Life Aquarium. 

One Legoland Dr, Carlsbad, CA 92008 


Photo credit: @legolandcalifornia

Bates Nut Farm Pumpkin Patch (41.7 miles away)

The city’s most treasured fall family event returns for 2021. For more than 50 years, Bates Nut Farm has been welcoming families to its pumpkin patch for a truly “gourd” time. Activities you can look forward to include tractor hay rides, a straw maze, a petting zoo, pony rides, and much more. While you’re there, don’t forget to grab a wheelbarrow and load up on an autumn harvest of squash, pumpkins, and other seasonal produce perfect for both dining and decor.

15954 Woods Valley Road Valley Center, CA

Plan Your Fall Getaway

Planning a fall getaway is easy thanks to the special offers at our bayside retreat. Take a look and secure the best rates for your stay.