Don’t have tickets for Comic-Con? No worries! There’s still plenty to see and do outside the convention center—from Petco Park to various offsite events.
Want a sneak peek of preview night? Check out this awesome video from @luvpinkhellokitty — thanks to her for letting me share it!
👧🧒 Kid-Friendly Offsite Events
- Petco Park Interactive Zone
Games, photo-ops (like Magic: The Gathering × Avatar), and the Hello Kitty Café truck — fun for kids of all ages. - Adult Swim on the Green – Pirate Purrrty
Lawn games and lighthearted activities great for families. - Lilo & Stitch Shaved Ice Truck
Free shaved ice and themed photo ops in the Gaslamp Quarter — a perfect cool-down treat. - Crunchyroll Anime FanFest
Anime-themed music festival with DJs and booths — best for older kids and teens. - Abbott Elementary Block Party
Carnival rides (ferris wheel), games, and snacks — a family-friendly carnival atmosphere. - Doctor Who UNIT Black Archive
Interactive TARDIS photo-op and props — great for sci-fi fans.
🌟 General Free Pop-Ups & Activations (All Ages)
- FX Alien: Earth “The Wreckage” (Hilton Bayfront Lawn)
Immersive experience exploring the USCSS Maginot wreckage — thrilling for teens and adults. - Pac-Man Café (Petco Park area)
Themed food, merch, and arcade games open to everyone. - King of the Hill Backyard Cookout
BBQ, lawn games like Alamo Pong, and fun giveaways. - Abbott Elementary Block Party (also great for adults!)
Family fun with rides and games, but also enjoyable for all ages. - Doctor Who UNIT Black Archive (also for all ages)
Sci-fi props and interactive missions. - SDCC Digital Game Room (Marriott Marquis)
Free gaming tournaments (Rocket League, Smash Bros, Halo, etc.) — great for gamers. - Her Universe Fashion Show (Manchester Grand Hyatt)
Cosplay runway event; wristbands required but free entry. - Comic-Con Art Show (Manchester Grand Hyatt)
Exhibit and auction of comics-inspired art. - Chuck Jones Gallery Signings (Seaport Village)
Meet artists and get free signings. - Kevin Smith’s Comic-Con Comic-Concerts (Gaslamp)
Free comedy-talk shows.
👨👩👧👦 Family Tips for Offsite Events
- Arrive early to avoid crowds, especially with kids.
- Bring snacks, water, sunscreen, and comfortable shoes.
- Use a stroller or carrier for young children.
- Plan shorter visits and include breaks for rest.
- Set meeting points in case you get separated.
- Bring a portable phone charger for photos and communication.
- Check social media (@OutsideComicCon) for last-minute updates or swag drops.
*This article is not affiliated with or endorsed by San Diego Comic-Con or Comic-Con International. “San Diego Comic-Con” is a trademark of Comic-Con International. The list portion was created with AI assistance.
