Want to go see the Toronto Blue Jays play the Padres at Petco Park this season? To help you organize your itinerary we’ve put together a step-by-step guide to assist you in planning your Toronto Blue Jays travel package to San Diego.
Before we get started, here are some cool facts about Petco Park, the home stadium of the San Diego Padres:
- 4 of the last 7 years Petco Park has been named the best MLB ballpark by USA Today, most recently in 2022 and 2023.
- The blue seats, sandstone walls, and white steel trusses of Petco Park are these colours because they represent the ocean, cliffs and beaches, and the sails of the boats that cruise the San Diego bay.
- The historic Western Metal Supply Co. building, dating back to 1909, is incorporated right into the left field area of the stadium.
- There is no left-field foul pole at Petco Park, it is just a yellow line painted on the Western Metal Supply Co. building.
The first 3 things to do when planning your Toronto Blue Jays travel package to San Diego
1. Book your accommodations and flight
By booking your flight and hotel accommodations at the same time you will save money. To do this we suggest using Expedia. There are a few reasons why:
- The Expedia booking platform is simple and easy to use.
- By bundling your flight and hotel purchase on Expedia you can save an average of $600.
- When you sign up and become an Expedia member (it’s free) you will earn rewards points on both flight and accommodation bookings. You can then use these points to reduce the cost of booking flights and hotels for your next Toronto Blue Jays travel package.
- As an Expedia member you will save an additional 10% on select hotel accommodations.
To book your accommodation and flight at the same time go to the Expedia website. On the home page, click on “Packages” which is displayed in the main menu. (Don’t forget to sign in so you can earn your rewards points.)
A few hotel suggestions near the Padres’ ballpark
Elevated Lounge Area. The Hotel Republic San Diego, Autograph Collection. Rated 4.5 out of 5 on TripAdvisor. Chic and trendy boutique accommodation. Situated within a leisurely 10 to 15-minute stroll from Petco Park.
Linked to Petco Park by an elevated walkway. The Omni San Diego Hotel. Rated 4.5 out of 5 on TripAdvisor. Lavish lodging options along with an enticing outdoor terrace featuring a refreshing pool. Close proximity to the beach and various other popular attractions in San Diego.
Complimentary Happy Hour awaits . The Kimpton Alma San Diego. Rated 4 out of 5 on TripAdvisor. Boutique hotel boasting modern aesthetics and deluxe facilities, including a rooftop pool deck adorned with cabanas for guests to unwind in style.
Impeccably maintained and cozy. The Westin San Diego Gaslamp Quarter. Rated 4.5 out of 5 on TripAdvisor. This sophisticated hotel offers a luxurious experience with contemporary amenities. Guests can enjoy a rooftop pool and bar, along with the added charm of an outdoor fireplace, ensuring a delightful stay.
Start your day with a complimentary morning breakfast. The Andaz San Diego. Rated 4 out of 5 on TripAdvisor. Chic and modern ambiance. Enjoy panoramic city vistas from the rooftop bar while taking a dip in the heated pool.
Freshly refurbished. The Hilton San Diego Gaslamp Quarter. Rated of 4 out of 5 on TripAdvisor. Contemporary accommodations and state-of-the-art facilities, including a rooftop terrace featuring a sparkling pool.
2. Buy your tickets to the game
The San Diego Padres have a competitive team and arguably the number one ballpark in the game. No wonder Petco Park is a popular place to be. Avoid disappointment when organizing your Toronto Blue Jays travel package to San Diego. Buy your tickets to the game well in advance. You can do so on the San Diego Padres website or a reseller like Stubhub.
JAYS FAN INSIDER TIP: San Diego is a military town that is home to seven Marine and Navy bases. To honour the women and men who serve, every Sunday game at Petco Park is “Military Sunday”. Get a ticket to one of these games and you could witness a military flyover or paratroopers landing in the outfield.
Seating suggestions for your Jays vs. Padres game at Petco Park
Not sure where to sit? Here are some seating locations to consider when putting together your Toronto Blue Jays getaway to San Diego to see the boys in blue play the Padres.
Budget Ticket: Snag a seat in the Upper Infield Reserved sections 300-312.
Best of Both Worlds Ticket: Want a nice view of the entire Padres’ field without breaking the bank? Opt for the Toyota Terrace sections 201-210, situated between the dugouts at Petco Park.
Home Run Haven Ticket: If you’re dreaming of snagging a home run ball during batting practice or the game itself, grab a seat in sections 126-134 in the Left Field Lower Box seats.
Keep Your Cool Ticket: The third base side of the ballpark is the place to be if you prefer sitting in the shade. The San Diego Padres even have a handy Shade Map to help you choose seats that are in the shade, partial shade, or full shade.
Something Different Ticket: Sit or stand on the balcony of the historic Western Metal Supply Co. building, overlooking left field of the Padres’ field. Plus, there’s a convenient bar and restrooms nearby.
You Only Live Once Ticket: Treat yourself to the ultimate baseball experience with a seat in the Premier Club sections A-L. Enjoy an awesome view, padded wider seats, and most importantly, shade for most of the game at Petco Park.
3. Book a stadium tour as part of your Toronto Blue Jays travel package
One of the highlights of a Toronto Blue Jays vacation package is making time to include a tour of the opposing team’s stadium in your schedule.
Tours of Petco Park in San Diego are available year-round, offering you a chance to explore the stadium’s hidden gems and learn fascinating facts about the ballpark and the Padres.
JAYS FAN INSIDER TIP: You can purchase Petco Park tour tickets at the stadium, but keep in mind that tickets are limited so it’s best to buy your tour ticket online in advance.
Now, let’s talk about the different tours they offer:
Daily Tour: This tour runs all year round and takes you on a walk-and-talk adventure, where you’ll discover cool insights about the Petco Park and the Padres.
Pregame Tour: Like the Daily Tour, except this tour has a bonus—you’ll get to watch batting practice from the stands in the outfield.
VIP Pregame Tour: The ultimate fan experience. You’ll enjoy all the perks of the Daily Tour, plus you’ll get to see batting practice while watching from the warning track behind home plate!
JAYS FAN INSIDER TIP: If you take a Pregame Tour or VIP Pregame Tour on a giveaway day you’re guaranteed to receive the giveaway item.
Things to do before your Jays game at Petco Park
When you’re putting together your Toronto Blue Jays travel package to San Diego, you’ll definitely want to include heading down early to Petco Park in your plans as there is lots to check out and do.
All the gates to the ballpark open 90 minutes prior to first pitch.
Here are the things we recommend you see and do before the game:
- Score a giveaway
Want to take home a cool giveaway item like a bobblehead or baseball cap? Be sure to arrive early to increase your chances before they run out!
- Chill at Gallagher Square
Hang out at Gallagher Square, formerly known as the “Park at the Park.” Enjoy the view of the Padres’ field and explore amenities like the stage for concerts, statues of legendary players, and a miniature baseball diamond for the kids.
- Watch batting practice
The Padres typically take batting practice 2 to 2.5 hours before game time. Since the gates to Petco Park only open 90 minutes before first pitch you won’t be able to see the Padres take their cuts. You will be able to see the Blue Jays take BP though since they’re the visiting team.
JAYS FAN INSIDER TIP: If you really want to see the San Diego Padres take batting practice the only way to do so is to go on a Pregame Tour or VIP Pregame Tour of the stadium.
NOTE: Batting practice is typically not held on Sundays at Petco Park.
- Visit the Padres Hall of Fame
Dive into Padres history at the Padres Hall of Fame, located in the iconic Western Metal Supply Co. building. It’s free to visit with your game ticket and showcases photos, videos, and memorabilia celebrating the team’s legacy.
- Enjoy a craft beer
If sampling a local craft beer or two is something you like to include in your Toronto Blue Jays travel package planning, you’re going to love Petco Park. Quench your thirst with a selection from over 96 craft beers at Beer Alley, located on the main concourse behind home plate. Make sure you order up a San Diego Pale Ale .394, which is brewed in honor of Padres hitting legend Tony Gwynn. All proceeds go towards supporting disadvantaged youth.
- Get autographs
Hoping for a player autograph? Make sure you’re inside Petco Park during batting practice and warm-ups. Head to sections 109-119 along the first base line for Padres player autographs, or sections 108-118 for autographs from Blue Jays players.
JAYS FAN INSIDER TIP: Petco Park is near the ocean, so remember your Jays jacket (maybe even a Jays toque!) and dress warmly for late afternoon or evening games, as the ocean breeze can bring a chill to the air.
Don’t forget epic selfies as part of your Toronto Blue Jays travel package to San Diego
Capture memories of your Toronto Blue Jays vacation package to San Diego with unique photo ops located around the ballpark.
– At Gallagher Square: this expansive green space lies just beyond the outfield of Petco Park. Capture a truly distinctive selfie by snapping a picture here with the stadium serving as an unforgettable backdrop.
– Adjacent to the Tony Gywnn statue: a tribute to one of the most legendary hitters in Major League Baseball history. Located at the entrance of Gallagher Square, welcoming visitors to Petco Park.
– Beside the Trevor Hoffman statue: a monument honoring the all-time leader in saves in Major League Baseball–an impressive tally of 601. Situated past the bullpens in the left-center-field area.
– Next to the Jerry Coleman statue: at the East Village Gate entrance to the ballpark, you’ll find the Jerry Coleman statue. It commemorates Jerry’s career as a former all-star second baseman, MVP, and World Series Champion and his remarkable 40-year tenure as the team’s beloved broadcaster.
– With the historic Western Metal Supply Co. building: dating back to 1909, this building stands as a historic landmark within Petco Park, serving as a distinctive symbol of the stadium. Capture a memorable selfie against this backdrop before immersing yourself in the excitement of a Padres game.
– Pose with the plaques at the Padres Hall of Fame Plaza: Nestled behind the left field stands, this area showcases a collection of plaques and tributes honoring notable Padres players. This picturesque area is an ideal backdrop for a memorable selfie.
Things to see and do between innings
5 ballpark foods to put on your must-try list
Petco Park isn’t just about baseball—it’s a foodie paradise! Be sure and indulge in some of ballpark’s finest culinary delights as part of your Toronto Blue Jays travel package to San Diego. May I suggest:
– Hodad’s Burger: Sink your teeth into a mouthwatering bacon cheeseburger from this local favorite.
– Tri-Tip Nachos: A crowd-pleasing favorite featuring tortilla chips topped with nacho cheese, barbecue sauce, sour cream, tri-tip beef, and green onions.
– Brigantine Fish Taco: Savor one of San Diego’s iconic fish tacos served up by Brigantine.
– Phil’s BBQ Ribs: Get messy with finger-licking baby back ribs from this beloved barbecue joint.
– Baked Bear Ice Cream Sandwich: Treat yourself to a delectable ice cream sandwich made with fresh-baked cookies and your favorite flavor of ice cream. Pure bliss!
Shop for a souvenir of your Toronto Blue Jays vacation package to San Diego
Every Toronto Blue Jays travel package you embark on should include time to grab a keepsake of the ballpark you’re visiting. The Padres Team Store located in the Western Metal Supply Co. building at Petco Park is the perfect place for this. Here you’ll find everything from authentic jerseys to replica gear and the popular City Connects line.
If you want to go next level the Padres Authentics Store on the Main Concourse sells game-used memorabilia. Take home a base, bat, helmet, jersey, or baseball to name just a few of the many game-used items available.
After-the-game plans to include in your Blue Jays travel package itinerary
In case you didn’t indulge in any ballpark snacks during your Jays game at Petco Park here are a few dining destinations that you might want to include in your Toronto Blue Jays vacation package.
Basic Bar/Pizza: Craving a delicious brick oven pizza and a refreshing drink? Head to Basic Bar/Pizza for a slice of thin-crust goodness in a cool industrial setting.
Cafe 21: If you’re all about fresh, local ingredients and diverse flavors, Cafe 21 is the place to be. Don’t miss out on their mouthwatering Short Rib Hash—it’s a fan favorite that’ll leave you craving more!
Neighborhood: Looking for a hip and happening spot for craft brews and creative bites? Neighborhood has you covered with its lively atmosphere and tasty pub grub. Be sure to try their Neighborhood Burger topped with aged cheddar and bacon-onion jam—it’s a game-changer!
Bub’s at the Ballpark: With great happy hour deals on food and drinks, plus mouthwatering grilled wings, Bub’s is the perfect place to celebrate a Blue Jays victory or shake off a tough loss. Just steps away from Petco Park.
Other things to add to your Toronto Blue Jays vacation package to San Diego
While you’re in town to catch your Toronto Blue Jays in action at Petco Park, why not extend your stay and explore some more of what San Diego has to offer? Pick and choose from this list of things to see and do to turn your Toronto Blue Jays travel package into an unforgettable San Diego getaway.
1. Legends Gallery Sports Memorabilia: Calling all sports memorabilia collectors! Dive into a treasure trove of autographed memorabilia from various sports at Legends Gallery. It’s a must-visit spot for any die-hard fan looking to add some iconic pieces to their collection.
2. Tee Off at Torrey Pines Golf Course: Channel your inner pro golfer and hit the greens at Torrey Pines Golf Course. This world-renowned public course offers stunning views of the Pacific Ocean and has hosted major golf tournaments. It’s a golfer’s paradise you won’t want to miss!
3. San Diego Hop On Hop Off Trolley Tour: Explore the city with a San Diego Hop On Hop Off Trolley Tour. Get to know the ins and outs of San Diego while learning about its most popular sites and attractions. It’s the perfect way to navigate the city and soak in its vibrant culture.
4. Experience the USS Midway: Step aboard the USS Midway, a retired aircraft carrier turned museum, and delve into naval aviation history. With aircraft, exhibits, and interactive displays, it’s an immersive experience that’s sure to leave you in awe.
5. Sail Away in San Diego Bay: Set sail on a sailing tour in San Diego Bay and bask in the beauty of the waterfront. Enjoy breathtaking views and the refreshing sea air as you glide through the bay waters—it’s a serene experience you’ll never forget.
6. Discover the San Diego Zoo: Embark on a wild adventure at the world-famous San Diego Zoo, home to a diverse array of animals, including pandas, gorillas, and elephants. Don’t miss the botanical gardens for a tranquil escape amidst the bustling zoo.
Plus, I would suggest checking Groupon and Viator for more money-save discounts on things to see and do in San Diego.
Enjoy your Toronto Blue Jays travel package to San Diego, California!
Photo Credit: MLB
