Looking for the best things to do in Little Italy San Diego? We spent half a day exploring this historic neighourhood and we got you covered with some pro tips!
From tasty food tours to must-visit landmarks, we’ll tell you all about them and why you need to see them. This neighborhood has so much to offer, and we can’t wait to share it all with you!
Best Things To Do In Little Italy San Diego
1. Go Wine Tasting With This Walking Tour
Rated 4.5/5, take this guided walking tour in Little Italy. This 3-hour tour is a mix of wine tasting and history, perfect for those who enjoy good wine.
Visit 3 locations, trying one-of-a-kind wines from California and Italy. You’ll also get to taste Italian foods like pizza, and meatballs. The small group size ensures a friendly and personal experience.
It’s fun along with interesting information shared during the tour. The friendly host makes you feel welcome and appreciated. If you love great wine, this tour is a must-try!
2. Sample Food On This Taste of Little Italy Tour
Join this guided food tour, rated 5/5 with over 320 reviews. In 3.5 hours, explore a variety of restaurants and discover authentic options with the help of locals.
Navigating through these restaurants can be tricky, but this tour ensures you taste the best without worrying about tourist traps. Learn about the area’s architecture and history while sampling food.
3. Enjoy Food & Drinks On This Tour
If you also want to sample some drinks, book this 5/5 rated walking tour. The tour takes you through 4 local gems including well-recognized restaurants and breweries. You’ll be getting personalized experience as the tour limits it to 15 people and it’s hosted by a local.
Learn about the area’s history and, after the tour, ask your guide for insider tips on the best places to eat and drink in San Diego.
Things To Do In Little Italy San Diego
4. Look For The Little Italy Sign
Nautically themed, the Little Italy Sign is a must-see landmark. It’s vibrant and illuminated, standing as a gateway to a street lined with Italian restaurants.
This sign’s design pays homage to the immigrant community that historically shaped this area.
💡 Pro Tip: Take a moment to appreciate the mosaic tiles near the sign. These artworks detail the historical connection of the neighborhood with the bay, the local church, and Italy.
The sign is more than a picturesque spot; it’s a testament to Little Italy’s cultural legacy and its ongoing transformation into a lively urban community.
This sign has been a backdrop for the 2006 Winter Olympic Opening and the FIFA World Cup festivities. The pillars of the sign even have plaques that recount these memorable events.
5. Buy Fresh Produce At The Little Italy Mercato (Farmer’s Market)
If you’re into fresh food and lively vibes, the Little Italy Farmer’s Market is your go-to spot. It’s not just any farmers market – we’re talking about the largest one in San Diego County!
Every Saturday, from 8am- 2p.m and Wednesdays from 9:30am to 1:30pm, this place is full of activity with live music. Rain or shne.
The Saturday market is huge, stretching over 6 city blocks. You’ll be amazed by the selection – over 200 vendors!
There’s everything from California-grown produce, eggs, meat, olive oil, bread to sauces, honey and flowers and much more. And don’t forget to check out the local artisans and gifts at each end of the market.
Plus, you’ll be supporting local farmers, makers and local agriculture and getting some of the freshest, tastiest stuff around.
6. Add These Art Galleries To Your Itinerary
Even if you’re not planning to buy anything, visiting art galleries is a great way to spend an afternoon in Little Italy. Each one of these offers a different vibe and style, giving you a taste of the diverse art scene in Little Italy. And if you do plan to buy, you’re supporting local artists and their galleries!
🎨 Adelman Fine Art
Are you a fan of contemporary art? Adelman Fine Art is a feast for the eyes, bursting with bright colors and amazing textures. It’s like walking into a rainbow! They feature an incredible selection of works by local artists, each piece more unique and vibrant than the last.
🎨 The Chuck Jones Gallery
If you’re into animation, the Chuck Jones Gallery is all about celebrating the art of cartooning, and they specialize in works by Chuck Jones himself – the legend behind Bugs Bunny! This gallery offers a nostalgic journey through some of the most iconic cartoon characters.
🎨 Mee Shim Fine Art
For something else unique, visit Mee Shim Fine Art. This gallery showcases some really distinctive and thought-provoking pieces. It’s a perfect spot for those who love to dive deep into the artistic process and appreciate the diverse expressions of creativity.
7. Our Lady of the Rosary Catholic Church
If you’re exploring churches in San Diego, Our Lady of the Rosary is a must-visit. The attention to detail in these artworks is incredible. It’s like a visual journey through the religion’s history.
The church has breathtaking paintings, and the stained glass windows depicting the mysteries of the rosary are just gorgeous. You’ll also find endless statues and even ceiling paintings that look like sculptures.
💡 Pro Tip: Don’t stress about parking – lots of free parking spots.
They even offer an Italian Mass. Before heading out, check out the gift shop for some unique items.
Things To Do In Little Italy San Diego
8. Piazza Della Famiglia
Visit the Piazza Della Famiglia, located right in the heart of Little Italy. This 10,000-square-foot European-style piazza has a beautiful tiled fountain.
The cobblestone street is lined with tables and chairs, complete with umbrellas with restaurants surrounding you. Eat, drink, relax or just people-watch.
From farmers’ markets to concerts and cultural events, there’s always something happening here.
💡 Pro Tip: Stop by on Saturday evenings and Sunday afternoons – there might be live music going on.
9. Play Bocce Ball Or Take Your Dog To Amici Park
Amici Park consists of an amphitheater, bocce ball courts and a dog park. If you’re here during the summer, head to the Amici Park amphitheater during the Little Italy Summer Film Festival. You’ll be able watch Italian films under the stars every Saturday evening.
The bocce ball courts at Amici Park are open for everyone. If you’re new to bocce, learn how to play here or join the Little Italy Bocce Ball club team that plays on weekdays.
Take your dog to the Little Italy Dog Park. This park includes a grass lawn, a shade structure, a drinking water fountain for dogs and a small area for small dogs. It’s enclosed, safe and a favorite among the many dogs living in Little Italy.
It’s open from sunrise to sunset every day, but it’s closed for deep cleaning on the 1st Tuesday of each month (until 10am). And it’s one of the cleanest dog parks in San Diego!
10. Appreciate Italian American History At The Amici House
Check out the Amici (Friend) House to learn more about Italian American culture. This historic house, originally the Giacalone family residence, has deep roots in the local Italian fishing community.
Antonino Giacalone, a renowned fisherman in the 1920s and 1930s, made his home here after arriving in San Diego in 1916.
Today, the Giacalone’s house has transformed into the Amici House and The Convivio Society for Italian Humanities.
This nonprofit organization dedicates itself to promoting Italian heritage, culture and arts in San Diego. Check out their indoor and outdoor spaces or participate in their many programs.
One of the highlights at Amici House is Caffè Caritàzza by Convivio, Little Italy’s only nonprofit café. Grab an espresso here!
💡 Pro Tip: When you visit Amici House, take a moment to appreciate its history and the role it plays in preserving and promoting Italian culture in San Diego.
Things To Do In Little Italy San Diego
11. Shop For Authentic Products At Filippi’s Italian Market
Filippi’s Italian Market has a rich history that adds to its charm. When we walked in, you could tell that the place had all the products you might be looking for! The cash & carry store is connected to the restaurant behind the store.
Vincent DePhilippis opened this Italian market in 1947. By 1950, it became the beginning of the now famous Filippi’s Pizza Grottos, run by the original family members for over 73 years!
The bakery section is super cute with lots of choices. Whether you’re looking for cookies, cakes, or other sweet treats, they’ve got it all. The market is packed with imported foods, too.
You’ll find all sorts of Italian goodies here – meats, cheeses, wines, and more. And if you’re into making pizza at home, grab their fresh pizza dough – it’s straight from their kitchen!
12. Shop For Rare Items at Architectural Salvage of San Diego
If you’re into unique and vintage finds, you have to check out Architectural Salvage of San Diego. It’s not just a shop; it’s like a treasure hunt for anyone who loves rare and antique items. It’s San Diego’s go-to spot for period building materials.
This place is a salvage specialist, which means their stock is always changing. You might find vintage hardware one day and rare lighting the next. Think of it as a museum where everything is for sale!
They have an incredible range of items – from vintage doorknobs and escutcheons (those are the decorative plates behind door handles) to stained art glass windows, and so much more.
💡 Pro Tip: Take your time browsing through the shop. Each item has its own story and character, perfect for adding a unique touch to your home or collection.
13. San Diego Fire Station Museum
The San Diego Fire Station Museum is a hidden gem for all ages that’s definitely worth a visit. The museum is housed in the city’s oldest firehouse, Old Fire Station 6.
Built over a century ago, it now showcases an impressive collection of firefighting equipment and memorabilia dating back to the late 1800s.
When you step inside, you’ll be surprised by the amount of historic content packed into this museum. From antique fire engines, alarms, hats, and hydrant molds, there’s so much to explore.
Some things to check out: La Jolla’s very first fire engine, a horse-drawn steamer, and even a piece of steel from the World Trade Center.
The museum is open Thursday and Friday from 10am- 2pm, and Saturday and Sunday from 10am-4pm. Admission is affordable at $3 for adults and $2 for children and seniors.
💡 Pro Tip: Plan to spend a few hours here – there’s a lot to see, and you’ll want to take your time to really soak it all in.
Things To Do In Little Italy San Diego
14. Spot These Historical Attractions
Little Italy in San Diego is not just about great food and culture; it’s also home to some significant historical attractions: Piazza Basilone and Piazza Pescatore.
Piazza Basilone is a tribute to Gunnery Sergeant John Basilone and the “Boys That Never Came Home” from the 20th-century wars. Piazza Basilone is a permanent reminder of their sacrifices, celebrating their lives and GySgt Basilone’s extraordinary heroism.
It proudly flies 4 flags – the American, Italian, Portuguese, and Mexican flags, representing the national origins of the “boys that never came home.” This piazza is also a gathering space for families, veterans, and special events.
Piazza Pescatore honors the rich history of San Diego’s Little Italy and commemorates the tuna industry, which brought fame to the neighborhood in the 1970s and 1980s. The tuna industry played a huge role in shaping the community, and this piazza serves as a beautiful reminder of that era.
Things To Try In Little Italy San Diego
15. Drink Craft Beer At Bottlecraft Little Italy
Recognized as San Diego’s Best Craft Beer Shop, Bottlecraft Little Italy is the go to spot if you love craft beer.
Check out their diverse selection of domestic and international craft beers. With 24 taps and tons of bottles to choose from, both for enjoying right there or taking home, the options are nearly endless.
What sets Bottlecraft apart is not just its selection but also its atmosphere. The staff are super friendly and incredibly knowledgeable about craft beer. They’re passionate about helping you find that perfect brew.
Beyond beer, Bottlecraft also offers wine, cider, and kombucha, both on draft and in bottles. They have free WiFi, outdoor seating and it’s dog-friendly.
💡 Pro Tip: Check out their gift cards and merchandise – perfect for any craft beer fan in your life.
16. Enjoy Some Italian Gelato at Pappalecco
For anyone with a sweet tooth or a love for Italian treats, Pappalecco in Little Italy is an absolute must-visit. This charming cafe offers more than just great coffee; it’s got some of the best Italian gelato in San Diego!
The gelato is creamy, rich, and packed with flavor. And their gelato variety is impressive, with both classic and unique flavors. The pistachio gelato is a standout, especially when paired with an espresso.
💡 Pro Tip: Try the Bourbon Pecan gelato. It’s a mix of bold bourbon flavor with the crunch of pecans.
17. Drink A Glass Of Italian Wine at Nonna
Enjoying a glass of wine at Nonna’s is like paying homage to the timeless traditions of Italian grandmothers and their love for family gatherings around good food and wine.
Nonna is more than just a restaurant; it’s a tribute to grandmothers everywhere and their deep passion for family and food. The Busalacchi family traditions shine through in every aspect of this charming spot.
One of the highlights at Nonna’s is their impressive wine list. It’s like a tour of Italy in a glass – so many choices, and each one tells a story of regions, grapes, and traditional winemaking methods.
💡 Pro Tip: Don’t hesitate to ask for recommendations. The staff at Nonna’s are knowledgeable and can help you find the perfect wine to complement your meal or to enjoy on its own.
Events In Little Italy San Diego
18. Little Italy Tree Lighting & Christmas Village
The annual Little Italy Tree Lighting and Christmas Village event is a magical holiday experience. Picture a Christmas wonderland with 10-foot tall nutcrackers, festive songs, and 2 stunning Christmas trees – a 25-foot tree at Piazza della Famiglia and the shiny Aurora tree at Piazza Basilone.
Created by Joshua Hubert, the 32ft Aurora tree changes colors based on sunlight and perspective.
Enjoy seasonal vendors, live music, treats, a traditional Italian tree lighting ceremony, and Santa’s return for Christmas wishes. The streets glow with Christmas lights, and the Christmas Village offers unique stocking stuffers and gifts from select vendors.
💡 Pro Tip: Plan your visit around the 1st week of December for this event.
Things To Do In Little Italy San Diego
19. Taste of Little Italy
Save the dates – June 18 & 19, 2024 – for the Taste of Little Italy. 48 blocks of Little Italy’s best food and drinks. Sample different restaurants each evening. Check-in at Piazza della Famiglia, grab your Taste Passport, and start tasting.
If you prefer a sit-down experience, head to Piazza della Famiglia, where seating is available. Live music at both Piazza della Famiglia and Piazza Basilone adds to the lively atmosphere.
💡 Pro Tip: Stay updated by signing up for email notifications at info@littleitalyevents.com.
20. Marine Band San Diego Summer Concert
Experience live music during the Marine Band San Diego Summer Concert at Piazza della Famiglia on July 27, 2024 at 7pm. This year will feature the talented group “Sound Strike.
21. Bella Vita Fest
If you love street art, head to Bella Vita Fest. The festival features 50+ chalk art paintings created live on the streets, live music, authentic Italian products, food and wines from 14 different regions of Italy. Visit bellavitafest.com for upcoming dates (yet to be announced).
Things To Do In Little Italy San Diego
22. San Diego Padres Italian Heritage Night
Join us for San Diego Padres Italian Heritage Night, a unique blend of baseball and cultural celebration. It’s a night filled with a baseball game with the San Diego Padres and cultural festivities to honor Italian heritage. Stay tuned for details for the Italian Heritage Night!
23. Mission Fed ArtWalk
For 40 years, Mission Fed ArtWalk has been a lively celebration of art in San Diego. See and buy different types of art, listen to live music and try hands-on art activities. Experience art’s impact on bringing communities together while supporting artists.
24. Labor Day Stickball Tournament
Save the date for the Labor Day Stickball Tournament taking place from August 31 to September 2, 2024 from 8am-5pm.Teams will be competing for The Jillie Trophy and the title of Stickball Champion in San Diego. Cheer for your favorite stickball team!
25. Trick-or-Treat on India Street
Get ready for this exciting Halloween event at Trick-or-Treat on India Street on Sunday, October 27, 2024, from 3:30pm-7:30pm. Dress up in your favorite costumes and visit Little Italy businesses along India Street to ask for Halloween treats and candy.
The Piazza della Famiglia will turn into the Nightmare Before Christmas, featuring a huge 13’ Jack Skellington and large pumpkin stacks for some spooky photo opportunities.
Things To Do In Little Italy San Diego
26. Casino di Piazza
If you’re a casino player, attend the Annual Casino di Piazza featuring light appetizers, craft cocktails, live music, and classic casino games like Blackjack, Craps, and Roulette. This year, it’s happening on Friday, August 23, 2024, from 7pm-11pm.
Dress up in cocktail attire for this event where the Piazza transforms into gardens similar to those in Milan, Italy.
Casino di Piazza offers General and VIP admission, providing casino chips, cocktails, and more.Tickets are limited so make sure to book soon.
27. Small Business Season
Love supporting small businesses? Then stop by Little Italy for the Small Business Season. Stay tuned for this year’s details. Last year it was in the month of December. Support small boutiques and galleries throughout the month.
Discover one-of-a-kind items and take advantage of in-store specials and discounts. Some businesses will extend their hours on Saturdays to make your shopping even more convenient.
Final Thoughts – Things To Do In Little Italy San Diego
Little Italy San Diego is a dynamic neighborhood that offers a wide range of experiences, from enjoyable wine tasting walking tours to exploring historical landmarks and enjoying Italian cuisine. Next time you’re in San Diego, come to Little Italy and use our guide to explore this authentic neighborhood.
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