Best Arts and Culture Places in Little Italy

We've collected top 10 mentioned arts and culture places in Little Italy from other articles such as The Prime Buyer's Report, sealtours.com, Hop Culture.

Best Arts and Culture Places in Little Italy

The San Diego Museum of Art
The San Diego Museum of Art
4.6 (1368 ratings)4 (258 ratings)
Venerable art museum with acclaimed works, plus a courtyard bar/bistro with sculpture garden views.
1450 El Prado, San Diego, CA 92102, USA
Art museumMuseums
Mentioned by La Jolla Mom
35 San Diego Tourist Attractions: Top Spots for Fun Sightseeing
"San Diego Museum of Art is known for its collection of renowned Spanish and Italian masters, collections of Indian paintings, 19th- and 20th-century American sculptures and paintings, and new and changing exhibits from across the globe. Famous names include El Greco, Diego Velázquez, and Francisco Goya. The museum restaurant, Panama 66, is one of our favorite places to eat in Balboa Park."
Mentioned by TheTopTours
7 Popular Museums and Galleries in San Diego (2021)
"Balboa Park is home to several San Diegan museums, and the Museum of Art is another magnificence you can visit here. With hosting over half a million visitors every year, this oldest and largest art museum in the region is noted as one of the best museums in San Diego. It has been in operations from the year 1926, exhibiting the most comprehensive art collection anywhere in San Diego."
Mentioned by PMCAOnline
6 Best Museums in San Diego 2020
"One of the best museums in San Diego to visit in 2019 is, without a doubt, the San Diego Museum of Art. Founded in 1926, this museum is located in Balboa Park. It has the reputation of being the oldest and largest art museum in the region."
The New Children’s Museum
The New Children’s Museum
4.6 (1971 ratings)4 (174 ratings)
From creative classes to climbable sculptures, contemporary art for kids, in a bright, modern space.
200 W Island Ave, San Diego, CA 92101, USA
Children's museumMuseumsArt museum
Mentioned by Lonely Planet Top Choices
Top things to do in California
"This interactive children’s museum offers interactive art meant for kids. Installations are designed by artists, so tykes can learn principles of movement and physics while simultaneously being exposed to art and working out the ants in their pants. Exhibits change every 18 months or so, so there's always something new."
Mentioned by Fodor's Choice
Sights in San Diego
"The NCM blends contemporary art with unstructured play to create an environment that appeals to children as well as adults. The 50,000-square…"
Museum of Photographic Arts
Museum of Photographic Arts
4.5 (426 ratings)4 (108 ratings)
More than 7,000 photos from 850 artists are showcased in a replica of a grand, ornate 1915 building.
1649 El Prado, San Diego, CA 92101, USA
Art museumMuseumsArt galleryMovie theater
Mentioned by La Jolla Mom
100 FREE Things to Do in San Diego, CA: Fun Museums, Attractions, Tours & More
"The Museum of Photographic Arts (MOPA) is one of a few private institutions dedicated to showcasing photography, film, and video. They also offer various workshops for photography enthusiasts (and I love stopping into the gift shop on my way out). Admission is free but based on a pay as you wish philosophy because one of their goals is to make their exhibitions accessible to all."
Mentioned by 10Best
Learn and Go Hands-On at San Diego's 10 Best Museums
"This world-class museum features extensive collections of still photographs, videos and films. The history of the medium is illustrated, from the earliest Daguerreotypes and albumen prints to modern laser holograms. A variety of artists are represented, including Alfred Stieglitz, Ben Shahn, Alberto Korda, Ansel Adams and Margaret Bourke-White."
Mentioned by HereIn
Art Guide
"An independent institution devoted to photography, film, and video. Founded in 1983, MOPA consistently addresses cultural, historical, and social issues through its visual learning programs."
Mingei International Museum
Mingei International Museum
4.6 (170 ratings)4.5 (113 ratings)
Museum located in a historic building showcases folk art, craft & design from all over the globe.
Balboa Park, Plaza de Panama, 1439 El Prado, San Diego, CA 92101, USA
Art museumMuseumsSpecialty Museums
Mentioned by Sparks Gallery
The Best San Diego Museums [2021
"Art is a powerful voice for people and helps us connect and express ourselves beyond language barriers. The Mingei International Museum showcases the “art of the people” across time and cultures. The exhibits are constantly changing to highlight new historical, contemporary folk art, crafts, and design and discover the finest examples of creative expression from underappreciated artists."
Mentioned by Leisure Pass Group
Top Museums in San Diego to Visit During Your Trip
"Art speaks powerfully of the similarities and distinctions of individuals and cultures at this international museum for the "art of the people" (mingei). The museum has an 18,000-piece collection representing 140 countries around the world. Constantly changing exhibits enhanced by lectures, films, demonstrations, and other events make this a dynamic place for artistic enlightenment."
Museum of Contemporary Art San Diego
Museum of Contemporary Art San Diego
4.2 (109 ratings)4 (179 ratings)
Boutique featuring museum-branded products & gifts, including jewelry, fine art books & decor items.
700 Prospect St, La Jolla, CA 92037, USA
MuseumArt Museums
Trash Lamb Gallery
Trash Lamb Gallery
5 (7 ratings)
2365 30th St, San Diego, CA 92104, USA
Art galleryAromatherapy supply storeArt dealerArt supply storeCandle storeClothing storeCraft storeGift shopHome goods storeJewelry store
Japanese Friendship Garden
Japanese Friendship Garden
4.6 (4829 ratings)4 (284 ratings)
Balboa Park's Japanese gardens have koi ponds, bonsai trees, a teahouse, garden tours & more.
2215 Pan American Rd E, San Diego, CA 92101, USA
Non-profit organizationNature & ParksCultural centerGardenHistorical landmark
Mentioned by The Atlas Heart
101 Things to do in San Diego, California (From a Local) | Bucket List
"Located in Balboa Park, the Japanese Friendship Garden is a relaxing spot to spend an afternoon in San Diego. The garden was built to represent the friendship between San Diego and its sister city in Japan, Yokohama, and provides a unique and chilled out experience for visitors. Besides its zen atmosphere and impressive garden and architecture designs, the Japanese Friendship Garden hosts regular events throughout the year, such as yoga classes, meditation sessions, and the San Diego Sake Day."
Mentioned by y Travel Blog
16 Awesome (& Free) Things to do in San Diego With Kids
"There is an extra fee to enter the Japanese Friendship Garden, which is an expression of friendship between San Diego and its sister city, Yokohama. There’s an upper and lower strolling path where you can see koi pond, landscaped gardens and a Zen garden viewing deck. It’s a very tranquil space."
Art Produce Gallery
Art Produce Gallery
4.8 (12 ratings)
3139 University Ave, San Diego, CA 92104, USA
Art gallery
San Diego Art Institute
San Diego Art Institute
4.5 (108 ratings)
1439 El Prado, San Diego, CA 92101, USA
Art centerArt galleryArt museumArts organization
Mentioned by Leisure Pass Group
Top Museums in San Diego to Visit During Your Trip
"By Oleg Alexandrov (Own work) [CC BY-SA 4.0], via Wikimedia Commons. Visit this vibrant, community-driven museum and get a taste of the San Diego art scene right at the source: the San Diego Art Institute. This museum's mission is to connect contemporary artists from southern California and northern Baja with audiences and to showcase art in a way that promotes cultural perspective and understanding."
Mentioned by Culture Trip
Must-Visit Attractions in San Diego
"When founded in 1941, the San Diego Art Institute was called the San Diego Business Men’s Art Club, only permitting male members. By the 1950s, women were allowed in and the name had been changed. The cultural institution now showcases experimental art from a diverse array of artists from the Southern California/Baja Norte region."
Dream Gallery Fashion Jewelry Art Expressions
Dream Gallery Fashion Jewelry Art Expressions
4 (5 ratings)
740 Fifth Ave, San Diego, CA 92101, USA
Fashion accessories storeArt galleryJewelry store

Romantic Restaurants, Getaway Places in Little Italy

True Food Kitchen
True Food Kitchen
4.5 (1075 ratings)
Relaxed, eco-chic chain serving health-conscious fare, including vegan options, plus cocktails.
7007 Friars Rd Suite 394, San Diego, CA 92108, USA
Health food restaurantAmerican restaurantGluten-free restaurantMediterranean restaurantNew American restaurantOrganic restaurantVegan restaurantVegetarian restaurant
Mentioned by Eater San Diego
12 Fabulous Fast-Casual Spots In San Diego
"With a menu based on the principals of Dr. Andrew Weil’s anti-inflammatory diet, this relaxed eco-chic concept caters to a variety of diets, including vegan, vegetarian and gluten-free. Lunch and dinner menu standouts include the bison burger, sweet potato hash and kale crunch salad with avocado and grapefruit. Libations, including handcrafted cocktails like the ginger margarita and vegan Thai piña colada, plus organic wines are also not to be missed."
Mentioned by Local Wally's Guide to San Diego
San Diego Good Eats Cheat SheetSan Diego Tourist Guide — Local Wally's Guide to San Diego
"Everyone knows that San Diego is BIG but to be honest until the past 10 years the food scene was pretty predictable with mainly big tourist restaurants and unknown and unmemorable neighborhood eateries. However this has changed with celebrity chefs opening up shop and local chefs feeding their neighborhoods. There are plenty to choose from but here are my top picks for the Best of the Rest in San Diego dining."
Mentioned by OpenTable
Beste Restaurants mit dem Küchenstil Amerikanisch in San Diego
"Sie müssen kein hartnäckiger Yogi sein, um im True Food Kitchen zu speisen. Alles was Sie brauchen ist der Wunsch, Ihrem Körper Nährstoffe zu geben und Ihrem Gaumen etwas Besonderes. Die von den Prinzipien von Dr. Andrew Weils entzündungshemmender Ernährung inspirierte Küche des True Food Kitchen...Mehr"
Red Marlin
Red Marlin
4.1 (217 ratings)
Oceanfront Hyatt restaurant with ornate surf ’n’ turf menu & revered views inside a roomy space.
1441 Quivira Rd, San Diego, CA 92109, USA
Seafood restaurantAmerican restaurantBarRestaurant
St. Joseph Cathedral
St. Joseph Cathedral
4.8 (371 ratings)5 (9 ratings)
1535 Third Ave, San Diego, CA 92101, USA
Catholic cathedralSights & LandmarksCathedralChurches & Cathedrals

Best Gelato in Little Italy

Sonic Drive-In
Sonic Drive-In
3.8 (1767 ratings)
Old-school fast-food chain offering drive-in service & made-to-order burgers, sides & shakes.
2829 El Cajon Blvd, San Diego, CA 92104, USA
Fast food restaurantChicken restaurantHamburger restaurantIce cream shopRestaurant
Yogurt World
Yogurt World
4.7 (50 ratings)
9500 Gilman Dr, La Jolla, CA 92093, USA
Frozen yogurt shopDessert shopIce cream shop
Holy Paleta
Holy Paleta
4.8 (51 ratings)
2040 India St, San Diego, CA 92101, USA
Ice cream shop
Mentioned by Palm Trees & Pellegrino
San Diego Restaurants We're Loving Right Now: March 2021
"If you’ve ever driven down Bonita Road on a weekend, you may have seen a massive line outside of Holy Paleta. We visited their second location which serves up all the Miami vibes!. They offer a wide selection of all-natural, handcrafted paletas which make for a perfect afternoon snack on a warm San Diego day."
Mentioned by Red Tricycle
The Best Ice Cream Shops in San Diego
"They're not technically ice cream, but they're still very worthy of a mention here!. Holy Paleta's handcrafted pops are made with all-natural ingredients and full of delicious toppings. Bold, inventive and exciting flavors range from kid-faves Strawberry Lemonade and Watermelon to Chamango on a Stick!"

Best Pastries in Little Italy

Cafe Gratitude San Diego
Cafe Gratitude San Diego
4.5 (1751 ratings)
A branch of the LA chain offering creative plant-based fare, juices, beer & wine in hip, clean digs.
1980 Kettner Blvd, San Diego, CA 92101, USA
Vegan restaurantBreakfast restaurantCafeCoffee shopHealth food restaurantJuice shopPastry shopRestaurantVegetarian restaurant
Cow-A-Bunga Ice Cream & Coffee
Cow-A-Bunga Ice Cream & Coffee
4.6 (255 ratings)
10 Evergreen Ave ste E, Imperial Beach, CA 91932, USA
Ice cream shopCafeCoffee shopCoffee storeDessert shopPastry shop
Mentioned by Thrillist
Cool Down With These 14 San Diego Ice Cream Shops
"Imperial BeachConveniently located right at the entrance to the Imperial Beach Pier, Cow-A Bunga Ice Cream has been serving its handcrafted ice cream to locals since 2000. Grab a cone, ice cream sandwich, or sundae and go for a stroll on the pier or along the beach. They also serve huge shave ice treats, delicious coffee drinks, and smoothies.How to:Limited seating is available on a first-come basis."
Mentioned by There San Diego
9 Locally-Owned Shops Serving Up Crazy Good Ice Cream In San Diego
"This Imperial Beach spot has been owned by French Chef Fabrice Gaunin for 17 years. With prime views of the pier, Cow-A-Bunga serves equally impressive ice cream. Along with his wife, Nelly, each flavor is handmade in the shop one bucket at a time, sourcing farmers markets for local ingredients, like raspberries and strawberries for special batches."
Le Macaron French Pastries
Le Macaron French Pastries
4.4 (105 ratings)
1025 Prospect St #120, La Jolla, CA 92037, USA
Pastry shopCafe
Mentioned by La Jolla Social
Best Spots for Juice, Coffee, and Dessert in La Jolla
"This new dessert joint offers handmade French pastries, amazing macarons, and some to-die-for truffles. Be sure to visit, and try their coconut salted caramel macarons as well as the creme brulee and chocolate truffles!"

Vacation Rentals, Airbnb, Hotels & Cabins near Little Italy

Rodeway Inn National City San Diego South
Hotel
$93.49 /night
View deal
4.3 (1039 reviews)
Loews Coronado Bay Resort
Resort
$269 /night
View deal
3.5 (95 reviews)
Studio 6-National City, CA - Naval Base San Diego
Hotel
$109 /night
View deal
* The displayed nightly rate may be estimated based on a future travel date. Narrow down your search with checkin and checkout dates to see the exact price.