Even if you weren't able to get a badge to Comic-Con this year, there are plenty of fun events you can take part in outside of the convention center. Often fans in costume, walking around downtown are happy to stop for a photo opp which makes fun, family memories!
Maybe/Maybe Not? We're on the fence about whether or not all of these events are family friendly, so we leave that to your discretion. (We do our best to keep the list accurate, but sometimes events change without us knowing. Please understand if something listed is not 100 percent correct.)
San Diego Public Library Events
Location: Downtown Central Public Library
Days & Hours:
- Sketch Night: Comic-Con Edition: Tuesday, July 23, 4pm-5pm
- Super Hero Workshop: Tuesday, July 23, 4pm-6pm
- Art to Scale: Thursday, July 25, 2pm-3pm
The library is hosting Comic-Con themed events for kids, including a virtual drawing program, superhero cape and mask making, and hands-on art workshops. Perfect for young creatives!
MrBeast & Moose Toys Sticky (Sweet) Tanker Spill
Location: 450 Second Ave
Days & Hours: Friday - Saturday July 26-27: 8am-6pm
Slime, slime, and more slime on-site at the 30-foot tanker spill, brought to fans by MrBeast. Music, lights, and oversized figures enhance the toxic experience. Look for peeps in pink hazmat suits giving away sweet chocolate bars and collectibles.
Hello Kitty Cafe Truck
Location: Petco Interactive Zone, 100 Park Blvd
Days & Hours:
- Thursday-Saturday July 25-27: 10am-6pm
- Sunday July 28: 10am-4pm
The Hello Kitty Cafe Truck is back, serving up smiles with sweet treats and adorable merch. A must-visit for Hello Kitty fans of all ages!
Peacock's "Circus Maximus"
Location: Fifth Avenue Landing
Days & Hours:
- Thursday, July 25: 12pm-6:30pm
- Friday, July 26: 10am-6:30pm
- Saturday, July 27: 10am-6:30pm
- Sunday, July 28: 9:30am-4pm
Get ready for an adrenaline-pumping experience with Peacock's "Circus Maximus"! Your kids will love the thrill of participating in a fan-powered chariot race, taking them on an exciting journey through Ancient Rome, from the betting tavern all the way to the finish line.
Unhinged Carnival Activation
Location: Behind the Convention Center
Days & Hours:
- Thursday, July 25 9:30am-7pm
- Friday, July 26 9:30am-7pm
- Saturday, July 27 9:30am-6:30pm
- Sunday, July 28 9:30am-5pm
Step right up to the Unhinged Carnival! With rides and attractions inspired by popular series, your kids can explore Mr. Johnson’s Closet of Curiosities, Gregory’s Garden Goofballs, and the Principal Ava-inspired swing ride. It’s non-stop fun just behind the convention center!
Dr. Who and Star Trek Friendship is Universal Gallery
Location: 226 and 230 5th Avenue, Gaslamp
Days & Hours:
- Thursday-Saturday, July 25-27:: 11am-8pm
- Sunday, July 28: 11am-5pm
For all the sci-fi family fans, the Dr. Who and Star Trek gallery is a must-see. This special exhibit showcases original costumes and props, photo ops, and even friendship bracelet giveaways. No badge needed!
Hulu Animayhem
Location: Behind the Convention Center
Days & Hours:
- Thursday, July 25: 11:30am-7pm
- Friday-Saturday, July 26-27: 9:30am-7pm
- Sunday, July 28: 9:30am-5pm
Back again this year, Hulu Animayhem is loaded with fun references from series like Bob’s Burgers, The Simpsons, and Futurama. There are plenty of photo ops and delicious treats at the LardLad Donut Factory.
Exploding Kittens at Petco Interactive Zone
Location: Petco Interactive Zone, 100 Park Blvd
Days & Hours: Check specific event schedules
Kids will go crazy for the supersized Devilcat with its flames, fake smoke, games, and plushies at the Exploding Kittens setup. It's a fiery adventure they won't forget!
Gotham Ice Truck
Location: Downtown San Diego - 123 Sixth Ave
Days & Hours:
- Thursday, July 25: 9am-7pm
- Friday, July 26: 9am-7pm
- Saturday, July 27: 9am-7pm
Cool down with free Slush Puppies from the Gotham Ice Truck.
The Forbidden Zone with Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes
Location: 200 W Harbor Drive
Days & Hours:
- Thursday-Saturday, July 25-27: 10am-7pm
- Sunday, July 28: 10am-2pm
Dive into the world of Planet of the Apes with an exhibition featuring costumes, props and comics. It's an immersive experience that brings the iconic series to life.
SpongeBob SquarePants Fountain of Positivity & Art Installation
Location: Omni Hotel, 675 L St (Fountain), and Hard Rock Hotel, 207 Fifth Avenue (Art Installation)
Days & Hours:
- Thursday-Saturday, July 25-27: 9:30am-7pm
- Sunday, July 28: 11am-4pm
Kids will love the massive SpongeBob SquarePants Fountain at the Omni Hotel, perfect for cooling off and refilling water bottles. At the Hard Rock Hotel, enjoy a SpongeBob-themed modern art installation.
Tales of the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles Pizza Parlor
Location: Withing Paramount+’s "The Lodge" at 340 Fifth Ave
Days & Hours:
- Wednesday, July 24: 6pm-10pm
- Thursday, July 25: 12pm-10pm
- Friday, July 26: 12pm-10pm
- Saturday, July 27: 12pm-10pm
- Sunday, July 28: 10am-7pm
Pizza lovers unite! The Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles-themed pizza parlor offers delicious slices and beverages inspired by the Turtles. A fun, tasty stop for the whole family.
BoxLunch Treats Truck
Location: Corner of First St. & J
Days & Hours:
- Thursday-Saturday, July 25-27: 10am-7pm
- Sunday, July 28: 11am-4pm
Indulge in sweet treats like ice cream sandwiches and popsicles and swag from the BoxLunch Treats Truck. It's a delightful way to enjoy Comic-Con with your kids.
Taking the trolley? Purchase the limited edition Comic-Con design PRONTO card, available at the MTS Transit Store – 100 Trolley Plaza
Explore themed dining scattered around downtown!
Spill the Beans at 555 Market St. to purchase a Sherk's Swampaccino iced or hot latte or Donkey's Morning Waffle.
More to come!
