The 2026 Comic-Con pop-up experience page is now live at https://sdfoodiefan.com/comic-con-pop-up-2026/
Not everyone is lucky enough to get a ticket for the event, but Comic-Con pop-up experiences are usually free, open to the public, and don’t require a badge. These types of experiences have become fan favorites and are worth checking out. Additionally, this list is being updated as they are still being announced, so check back often. The Gaslamp Quarter is packed with great spots to eat and drink, and don’t miss the rooftop lounges that are perfect for people-watching after a long day at Comic-Con. The list has two sections (pop-ups and experiences; themed food and drink) and is arranged alphabetically.
Here is my round-up of Comic‑Con Pop‑Ups: What Worked, What Didn’t
Comic-Con Pop-ups You won't Want to Miss
Avatar: The Last Airbender pop-up experience
It has been 20 years since Avatar: The Last Airbender aired, and to celebrate, there will be a ComicCon pop-up experience. You can pose with the cabbage cart, meet the Cabbage Merchant himself, get a limited Katara promo card, and an oversized giveaway bag featuring a recipe card from Avatar: The Last Airbender: The Official Baking Book.
Thursday, July 24 through Saturday, July 26: 10 am-5 pm
Sunday, July 27: 10 am-4 pm.
LOCATION:
Petco Park Interactive Zone
100 Park Blvd, San Diego, CA 92101
TICKETS:
Free
Abbott Elementary pop-up experience
Abbott Elementary will celebrate A Very Abbott Block Party comic-con pop-up, where fans can ride the Ferris wheel, grab “exclusive premiums” from the school’s Lost and Found, pin collectors can grab a new pin and some snacks, and test out some authentic Philly water ice.
Thursday & Friday: 9:30 am-7 pm
Saturday: 9:30 am-5:30 pm
Sunday: 9:30 am-5 pm
LOCATION:
The blacktop behind the Convention Center
TICKETS:
Free
Alien: Earth Pop-up experience
A mysterious space vessel crash-lands on Earth, and a group of tactical soldiers make a discovery that puts them face-to-face with the planet’s greatest threat. This new FX immersive experience will show off the wreckage, never-before-seen creatures, and a scarier version of the experience available at night.
LOCATION:
Hilton Bayfront Lawn
1 Park Blvd, San Diego, CA 92101
TICKETS:
Free
Bandai Little Nightmares III speakeasy
There will be a Little Nightmares III speakeasy pop-up experience (details including dates and location will be posted here).
LOCATION:
TBD
TICKETS:
Free
Brawl Stars immersive experience
Brawl Stars from Supercell will invite fans to Starr Park, the amusement park that serves as the setting for Brawl Stars matches. Visitors can participate in an immersive adventure floating on San Diego Bay. You start on Starr Rail, a calm monorail ride that spirals into chaos as it transports guests deep into Starr Park. And play carnival games with a Brawl Stars twist.
Thursday, July 24 through Saturday, July 26: 11 am-7 pm
Sunday, July 27: 11 am-4 pm
LOCATION:
5th Avenue Landing
TICKETS:
Free with onsite registration
Register online
Code Vein II photo opportunity
Code Vein II fans can take photos with a life-size replica of the golden Motorcycle Forma outside at Lou & Mickey’s in the Gaslamp Quarter
LOCATION:
224 Fifth Ave, San Diego, CA 92101
TICKETS:
Free twith onsite registration
Comic-Con Museum
Comic-Con Museum in Balboa Park has launched two new exhibits ahead of this year’s convention. 20 Years of Kawaii & Chaos showcases the history of tokidoki, featuring original art, rare collectibles, and large-scale character displays. Growing Up Luann highlights the 40-year journey of the Luann comic strip, with original drawings, fan letters, and behind-the-scenes stories. In addition, both exhibits are included with museum admission. The museum is open Thursday through Tuesday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., and closed on Wednesdays.
LOCATION:
2131 Pan American Plaza, San Diego, CA 92101
TICKETS:
Admission (adults ages 18+) is $30; children (ages 6–12) are $12; senior pricing (65+), juniors (13–17), students, and military are $20
Crunchyroll Anime FanFest
Crunchyroll Anime FanFest is a two-day celebration of music and anime and will take place on the Friday and Saturday of Comic-Con. Located in the Rady Shell at Jacobs Park, fans will see performances from iconic artists, including SPYAIR, yama, Denzel Curry, INIKO, and more. Day 1 features artists from Japan’s music scene with global, anime-inspired music, from electronic to alternative rock. Meanwhile, Day 2 focuses on anime’s impact on hip-hop, R&B, and more for fans to explore the interaction between anime fandom and music.
LOCATION:
Rady Shell at Jacobs Park
222 Marina Park Way, San Diego, CA 92101
TICKETS:
Crunchyroll Anime FanFest is free for all attendees.
You do not need an SDCC badge to enter.
Doctor Who Pop-Up Experience
BBC Studios is bringing the Whoniverse to San Diego with an immersive Doctor Who comic-con pop-up. Fans can enter UNIT’s “Black Archive” at the Harbor Club in Gaslamp, complete missions, explore iconic props, and step inside the Fifteenth Doctor’s TARDIS. Plus, you can see original costumes and a science exhibit debut at the Comic‑Con Museum. Every evening from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM, the Black Archive will transform into a mission where fans will assist the Doctor by uncovering hidden clues and secrets from within the Whoniverse.
This experience runs from Thursday, July 24, to Sunday, July 27 – open from 10:00 AM to 8:00 PM
LOCATION:
Harbor Club
100 E Harbor Dr, San Diego, CA 92101
TICKETS:
Free
Dungeon Crawler Carl activation
Audible’s Dungeon Crawler Carl will have a pop-up activation called “The Safe Room”. Meet Dinniman and Hays, pick up giveaways and limited-edition swag, and check out an arcade-style fan zone with Princess Donut tattoos, themed photo ops, Frogger, and more.
July 26: 1:30 pm-4:30 pm
LOCATION:
Coin-OP
789 Sixth Ave, San Diego, CA 92101
TICKETS:
Free
Register online
Fandom Party With The All-American Rejects
The eighth annual Fandom Party will be held on July 25th from 7 to 11 p.m. at FLOAT at the Hard Rock Hotel with The All-American Rejects as the musical guest headliners. The event is presented by Universal Orlando Resort and Bandai Namco‘s Code Vein II. Included are immersive activations, a scavenger hunt featuring Elf on the Shelf and Z2, fandom-themed cocktails,into Universal Epic Universe, and free food.
LOCATION:
Hard Rock Hotel
207 Fifth Ave, San Diego, CA 92101
TICKETS:
Sold out as of 6/30/25
San Diego Comic-Con Unofficial Blog and Fandom are giving away a pair of tickets to two winners. Enter here
Google Play pop-up experience
Google Play will be back with a new pop-up experience, but they are being very secretive with their plans. I imagine it’ll be big, as last year they had the giant Ferris Wheel. Stay tuned!!
LOCATION:
On the lawn outsideHilton San Diego Gaslamp Quarter
447 K Street
TICKETS:
Free
Hello Kitty Cafe Truck
Although the Hello Kitty Cafe Truck was recently in San Diego, it will be back for four days to coincide with the event and their 50th anniversary. It will be located in the Interactive Zone at Petco Park.
LOCATION:
Interactive Zone at Petco Park
TICKETS:
Free
Her Universe Fashion Show
Universal Pictures will present the 11th annual Her Universe Fashion Show on the first day of SDCC. The theme is ‘Defying Fashion: Fashion That Defies Expectations. Twenty-five finalists will debut their designs inspired by popular Universal Pictures franchises like Wicked, Jurassic World, How to Train Your Dragon, Trolls, and Universal Monsters.
LOCATION:
Manchester Grand Hyatt
1 Market Pl, San Diego, CA 92101
TICKETS:
Free
Get a wristbands at 10 a.m. PT on July 24 at the Manchester Grand Hyatt Seaport Ballroom Foyer.
HOLOCREATOR Coca-Cola x Star Wars experience
Coca-Cola will bring Star Wars to life at San Diego Comic-Con 2025 with an immersive “HoloCoca-Cola Experience”. It will give fans a chance to interact with holographic versions of Star Wars characters. Inspired by the galaxy’s tech, the activation featured cutting-edge volumetric capture, allowing visitors to record their own holograms and step into scenes with characters like Darth Vader and R2-D2.
Thursday, July 24 – Saturday, July 26: 10:30 am – 7 pm
LOCATION:
333 First Ave, San Diego, 92113
TICKETS:
Free
IGNITION PRESS
Ignition Press is launching its first-ever Comic-Con pop-up in San Diego. The Ignition Press Room will feature photo ops, exclusive merch, artist signings, and after-hours events. Meet creators like Jeremy Haun, Cullen Bunn, Leah Williams, and more. Fans, press, and industry pros are invited to explore this new publisher making big moves. Plus, there will be a Kickstarter Coffee Bar, special guests, and plenty of reasons to stop by. They will be previewing Voyeur, a new comic book from Leah Williams (Gotham City Sirens, X-Factor) and David Baldeón (Domino, Harley Quinn). They will also be releasing The Beauty, a new series by Jeremy Haun and Jason A. Hurley (who will be there doing signings).
LOCATION:
643 G St. in the Gaslamp District.
TICKETS:
Free
Copies of the Voyeur First Look will be available for purchase
It: Welcome to Derry pedicabs
HBO Max will be promoting IT: Welcome to Derry, the prequel series from Warner Bros. Television, with free Pennywise-inspired pedicab rides. There will also be brand ambassadors serving “chilling sweets” throughout the area.
Friday and Saturday
LOCATION:
Gaslamp Quarter
TICKETS:
Free
King of the Hill pop-up experience
This King of the Hill comic-con pop-up will let fans enter Hill family’s backyard for a classic BBQ. There will be exclusive merchandise and prizes at the activation. Just in time for the next season on Hulu.
LOCATION:
Bayfront’s Parking Lot A
1 Park Boulevard San Diego, CA 92101
TICKETS:
Free
Laidback Luke's Super You&Me
Laidback Luke’s Super You&Me party is back for Comic-Con weekend: costumes, dancing, and high-energy beats all night. No badge needed. Just good vibes and a wild downtown crowd. Friday, July 25th at 10 p.m.
LOCATION:
Parq Nightclub
615 Broadway, San Diego, CA 92101
TICKETS:
$24.87
Tickets are available online
Lilo & Stitch pop-up experience
If you loved the new movie, you can visit Disney’s Lilo & Stitch pop-up experience, where you can take photos, get free Hawaiian shaved ice, and enjoy exclusive behind-the-scenes clips.
LOCATION:
Omni San Diego Hotel
675 L St, San Diego, CA 92101
TICKETS:
Free
Malibu Barbie Cafe
The Malibu Barbie Café is bringing retro pink vibes to San Diego Comic-Con 2025. Located near the Gaslamp, this pop-up blends ‘70s nostalgia with photo ops, roller skating, and a themed menu from MasterChef alum Becky Brown. Look forward to colorful burgers, cupcakes, and cocktails. Skating is just $1 with proceeds going to charity. Whether you’re there for the food, the fashion, or the Barbie-core fun, this café is a must-see spot during Comic-Con week.
LOCATION:
Bayside Kitchen and Bar (2137 Pacific Highway)
TICKETS:
Malibu Barbie Cafe tickets start at $25.15.
Includes 90-minute seating + $10 food credit + $5 merch credit. Additional Food and beverages are available for purchase
Marvel ECG Vault experience
The Infinity Stones will be in San Diego in this Marvel | ECG Vault Exhibit. Fans can see a blend of high-end collectibles, fine jewelry, pop art, and rare pieces like the Power Orb. It also includes a local pop art exhibition. There will be a special activation from VeVe premium digital collectibles on Friday night.
Thursday, July 24 through Sunday, July 27; 8 am-7 pm daily
LOCATION:
Sparks Gallery
530 Sixth Avenue
TICKETS:
Free
Nerd Out Activation
To celebrate the new @nerdoutparamount social channels, Paramount+ will give fans a chance to explore and connect with their franchises, characters, and worlds.
LOCATION:
Lawn outside the Omni San Diego Hotel
675 L St, San Diego, CA 92101
TICKETS:
Free
PAC-MAN Cafe POP-up experience
PAC-MAN Cafe is coming to San Diego on July 12th. Visit for a CHOMP-tastic celebration at this limited-time comic-con pop-up right outside Petco Park!
July 12 to August 3: 11 am-8 pm
LOCATION:
323 Seventh Ave
TICKETS:
Free (items for purchase)
Peacefest POP-up experience
HBO Max is bringing Peacefest to downtown San Diego. This wild, 1980s glam rock-themed event takes over Nova SD Club and channels the chaotic vibe of Peacemaker. Expect live music, themed games, exclusive merch, and a walk through the Quantum Unfolding Chamber. Key features include Harcourt’s KO Corner Bar, Economos’ Mortal Kombat station, and Vigilante’s Hero S*** Merch Shop with items from DC Shop, McFarlane Toys, Sideshow, and more.
Thursday, July 24: 11:00 am – 8:30 pm
Friday, July 25: 11:00 am – 8:30 pm
Saturday, July 26: 1:00 pm – 2:00 pm
LOCATION:
Nova
454 Sixth Ave, San Diego, CA
TICKETS:
Free with online reservations
If you were not able to get a reservation, there will be a limited standby line each day
Must be 21+
Peanuts POP-up shop
Peanuts celebrates its 75th anniversary with a pop-up shop to honor Charles Schulz and enjoy the years of amazing art. The walls of the pop-up shop will feature vintage-style ads, and there will be an oversized rotary Snoopy phone and a vintage-style Snoopy Sno-Cone Machine.
LOCATION:
200 W. Harbor Drive
TICKETS:
Free
Pirate Purrrty on the Green
Adult Swim’s Pirate Purrrty on the Green mixes pirate fun with cat chaos. Expect games, photo ops, and giveaways. Highlights include a “SMILING FRIENDS” break room, a “Rick and Morty” bounce house, an “Adopt-a-Cuy” station, a mushroom hunt inspired by “Common Side Effects,” and nightly DJ sets.
July 24 through July 26:1 pm to 7 pm
LOCATION:
111 W Harbor Dr
TICKETS:
Free (items for purchase)
Phineas and Ferb pop-up experience
Phineas and Ferb fans can take a photo inside a life-sized “Phineas and Ferb” Whack-A-Pest game.
LOCATION:
Lawn outside the Omni San Diego Hotel
675 L St, San Diego, CA 92101
TICKETS:
Free
POP MART takeover of IT’SUGAR
POP MART is bringing the energy outside the convention center with a colorful takeover of IT’SUGAR in the Gaslamp. From July 24 to 27, the candy shop transforms into a playful pop-up packed with cute characters and surprises.
LOCATION:
IT’SUGAR
450 Fifth Ave, San Diego, CA 92101
TICKETS:
Free
The Lodge from Paramount+
The Lodge by Paramount+ will be returning with what was one of last year’s most popular pop-up experiences. It’s a ski-lodge-inspired activation that features interactive elements, photo opportunities, themed beverages, and giveaways, all featuring Paramount+ shows and movies. This includes Dexter: Resurrection, Star Trek, The Landman Patch Cafe, NCIS: Tony & Ziva, Mission: Impossible, and CBS Sports.
Wednesday, July 23: 6 pm – 10 pm
Thursday, July 24: 9 am -7 pm
Friday, July 25: 9 am – 7 pm
Saturday, July 26: 9 am -7 pm
Sunday, July 27: 9 am -7 pm
LOCATION:
340 Fifth Ave, San Diego, CA 92101
TICKETS:
Free
You can reserve here
There will be a standby line if no reservations are available.
Toei Animation After Party
The IGN SDCC 2025 After Party, presented by One Piece, will bring live DJ sets, trading card giveaways, fun photo ops, mascot meet-and-greets, and a special appearance by Colleen Clinkenbeard, the English voice of Monkey D. Luffy.
Friday, July 25 : 7:30 pm-11 pm
LOCATION:
San Diego Hard Rock Hotel
207 Fifth Ave, San Diego
TICKETS:
Free
Look on IGN social media for tickets
Percy Jackson & the Olympians Pop-Up Experience
With the second season of Percy Jackson & the Olympians coming to Disney+ in December, fans can get a sneak peek. Fans can explore the Mist, discover if they’re a demigod, and grab some exclusive merchandise.
LOCATION:
Fifth Ave & L St
TICKETS:
Free
Petco Park Interactive Zone
Petco Park Interactive Zone is a Comic-Con pop-up experience open to all fans. It will include the Hello Kitty Cafe Truck and Avatar: The Last Airbender experience.
LOCATION:
100 Park Blvd, San Diego, CA 92101
TICKETS:
Free
Ready Party One
“Ready Party One” is a nostalgia-fueled nightclub experience at San Diego Comic-Con. It features immersive decor, live entertainment from The Flux Capacitors, themed drinks, and photo opportunities, all designed to evoke a sense of retro fun and excitement.
LOCATION:
Parq Nightclub
615 Broadway, San Diego, CA 92101
TICKETS:
From $33.85 on Eventbrite
Rooftop Cinema Club
Rooftop Cinema Club will be airing popular movies on the rooftop of the Manchester Grand Hyatt. They offer a great selection, including cult classics and newer releases, all enjoyed with wireless headphones and stunning city views. They have been scheduled for July 21 (Twilight), 22 (Supernatural mini marathon), 23 (How To Lose A Guy In 10 Days), and 27 (It Takes Two, Pride & Prejudice, Practical Magic). However, there may be some private events as the location is closed for some days.
LOCATION:
1 Market Pl, San Diego, CA 92101
TICKETS:
Purchase online
shudder Clown in a Cornfield maze
Shudder is turning ten at SDCC with a horror offsite experience. They’ll have original programming, exclusive merch, and screenings. It promises bold scares and killer fun for attendees with a cornfield maze installation for the Clown in a Cornfield series, with Frendo the clown.
LOCATION:
Hilton Gaslamp
401 K St, San Diego, CA 92101
TICKETS:
Free
Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds experience
Please note, this experience is not in the Gaslamp Quarter, but is a 10-12 minute cab ride away, depending on the amount of traffic. K1 Speed San Diego will transform into a Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds-themed experience.
Thursday, July 24 to Sunday, July 27
LOCATION:
K1 Speed San Diego
1709 Main St, San Diego, CA 92113
TICKETS:
Pricing based on the number of rides
South Park pop-up experience
South Park will have a Comic-Con pop-up experience featuring interactive photo moments, giveaways, exclusive merch, cosplay contests, trivia, and karaoke.
LOCATION:
Quartyard
1301 Market St., San Diego
TICKETS:
Free
Reservations online
Star Trek: Strange New Worlds
Star Trek: Strange New Worlds will host a performance that lets fans journey through five immersive episodes. This includes a noir murder mystery, a zombie horror, a 60s retro mission, a Vulcan wedding, and sci-fi mayhem.
Saturday, July 26
LOCATION:
Petco Park Interactive Zone
100 Park Blvd, San Diego, CA 92101
Between 3:00 and 4:00 pm
Outside the Paramount+ Lodge
Happy Does
340 Fifth Ave
Between 6:00 and 8:00 pm.
TICKETS:
Free
Super7 Godzilla Pop-Up
The Super7 San Diego will have a Godzilla pop-up and will be transforming the storefront into a recreation of the epic train attack. “Shin Godzilla” director Shinji Higuchi will be doing a signing at the store on Friday, July 25, at 11 a.m. PT.
Wednesday, July 23: 7 pm – close
Thursday, July 24: 10 am – 8 pm
Friday, July 25: 10 am – 8 pm
Saturday, July 26: 10 am – 8 pm
Sunday, July 27: 10 am – 7 pm
LOCATION:
701 8th Avenue, San Diego, CA 92101
TICKETS:
TBD
The Chuck Jones Galleries
The Chuck Jones Galleries will have exclusive Comic-Con-themed artwork at the Seaport Village location. Confirmed artists include:
- Ben Olson – licensed Looney Tunes-Warner Bros. and Disney Fine Artist, who recently made his directorial debut with an animated homage to Fast and Furry-ous in Episode 4 of Duster. Friday, July 25 | 5:30–8:30 PM
- Additionally, Fabio Napoleoni – known for his vibrant colors, expressive characters, and unmistakable heart. Each work invites you on an emotional journey wrapped in pure visual storytelling.Saturday, July 26 | 5:30–8:30 PM
LOCATION:
809 W Harbor Dr E4-B, San Diego, CA 92101
TICKETS:
Free
Thunderbolts Treatz Truck from Marvel Studios
To celebrate the new Marvel Studios film Thunderbolts, they will have a Thunderbolts Treatz Truck parked in San Diego’s Gaslamp Quarter for 4 days. Fans will get free ice cream, swag, and have some photo opportunities.
LOCATION:
TBD
TICKETS:
Free
Thrilljoy’s Block Party: Boardwalk Bash
Get ready to kick off SDCC weekend with Thrilljoy at our very first Block Party, themed the Boardwalk Bash! This is your invitation to an unforgettable night filled with food, games, dancing, sweet treats, exclusive collectibles, and the joy of connecting with fellow fans and collectors. Every ticket includes two drink tickets, two treat tickets, food, and a Block Party PIX! Pack filled with limited-edition event-only items.
LOCATION:
InterContinental San Diego, an IHG Hotel
901 Bayfront Court, San Diego, CA 92101
TICKETS:
Tickets are $150 (plus fees) and will be limited to 4 per person
Twisted Metal Bumper Battle pop-up experience
Peacock’s Twisted Metal Bumper Battle Comic-Con pop-up experience will let you ride in the show’s most iconic vehicles reimagined as bumper cars. There will be photo opportunities and a display of some of the tournament cars.
Thursday, July 24th: 12:00 pm – 4:00 pm
Friday, July 25th: 12:00 pm – 6:00 pm
Saturday, July 26th: 12:00 pm – 6:00 pm
LOCATION:
THE LOT
1st & J – 450 2nd Ave, San Diego, CA 92101
TICKETS:
Free, no badge required
Voodoo Ranger Punk Pirate Shipwreck Bar
Voodoo Ranger IPA is bringing the pirate ship back to the harbor for the fourth year. Guests will enjoy music, live entertainment and games
Thursday, July 24 – Sunday, July 27
10am-6pm
LOCATION:
The harbor behind the Convention Center
TICKETS:
Free – 60 people at a time
Winx Club immersive activation
Winx Club: The Magic is Back will be back on Netflix, and to get fans excited, there will be an immersive activation that lets fans step directly into the worlds of Winx Club and Mermaid Magic.
LOCATION:
Petco Park Interactive Zone
100 Park Blvd, San Diego, CA 92101
TICKETS:
Free
Comic-Con Themed Menus in Gaslamp Quarter
Cali Cream Ice Cream
Cali Cream Ice Cream will have special flavors for this year’s event, including:
- Superman: strawberry, vanilla, and blue raspberry
- Wookiee Dough: chocolate ice cream with chocolate chip cookie dough and fudge ripple
- The Bear: vanilla ice cream with caramel, almond, and chocolate pretzel
Ice cream lovers will want to stop by, especially since it’s right near all the Comic-Con pop-up experiences, and they’ll be asking people to help come up with a new flavor just for Comic-Con 2025.
Cielo Rooftop Lounge
Step into a hidden rooftop lair where mischief rules and minions reign supreme. This Comic-Con, Cielo transforms into a Despicably fun escape complete with themed cocktails, cheeky yellow decor, and surprises around every corner. They will be serving $5 breakfast burritos all weekend during rooftop brunch, then the space transforms into full Minion mayhem. Find the door, follow the clues, and get ready to say “Bello!” to the wildest Minion takeover of Comic-Con weekend. Costumes encouraged.
HAVANA 1920
Havana 1920 will be getting into the Comic-Con spirit again with two new drinks this year:
- I Broke The Bat is their nod to Bane. Dark, bold, and a little intense with Havana 1920 Rum, lime, Demerara sugar and activated charcoal.
- Poison Ivy is the sweeter side of danger. Havana 1920 Rum, fresh lime juice, Cuban mint, sugarcane juice, sugarcane syrup and a splash of club soda.
HUNTRESS
Huntress will be serving themed cocktails all week, featuring playful garnishes that pay tribute to fan-favorite characters and pop culture. Huntress will open for lunch and dinner Thursday through Sunday. This is perfect for Comic-Con attendees looking to unwind from the craziness of the convention. pro tip: Order their viral Magic Mushroom dessert.
LandShark Bar & Grill
Landshark Bar & Grill in Margaritaville Hotel San Diego Gaslamp Quarter will have a different theme for each of the four SDCC days:
- Thursday – Anime Takeover Day with Sailor Moon Margarita and Dragon Ball Daiquri
- Friday – A Galaxy Far, Far Away Day with The Force Margarita & Dark Side Daiquiri
- Saturday – Pixel Party with Gold Coin Margarita and Pika Punch
- Sunday – Superhero Showdown Day with Hulk Smash & Wonder Woman-tini
LUMI
Lumi will be offering specialty-themed drinks inspired by the convention and upcoming movie releases. Pair them with signature rolls including the Pop Rockin’ roll (spicy tuna, crab, cucumber and pop rocks), or the Godzilla roll (a reference to the comic classic, with avocado, cucumber, shrimp tempura and strawberry mignonette).
Moonshine Flats / The Deck
The Deck at Moonshine Flats is going full Rick and Morty for Comic-Con with themed drinks like Pickle Shots and Portal Cocktails. This open-air Gaslamp spot has backyard vibes, arcade games, corn hole, shuffleboard, and giant beer pong. Even if you’re not a fan of the show, this is a fun place to sip, chill, and get schwifty.
Pendry San Diego: Donut Bar Comic Con Pop-Up
The Provisional Kitchen patio will be serving character-themed daily donuts from San Diego’s Donut Bar, and pastry and savory favorites from Provisional, July 24th through 27th, from 7 a.m.
Swing Social
Swing Social is inviting guests to dress up as their favorite character, and enjoy a meal and interactive play with their sports simulator bays. To top it off, they will have a special movie-themed Music Mayhem Trivia Game Night led by DJ Hokienick, on Thursday, July 24 at 7 pm.
Tajima
Tajima has two limited-time specials inspired by anime worlds.
- The Pokémon Sake Flight features three colorful sake varieties (red, blue, and green), paying tribute to the original starter Pokémon, along with two surprise Pokémon figurines. Say the secret code “Gotta catch ’em all” when you order to score an extra yellow sake and a mystery Pokémon card!
- Meanwhile, for something savory, order Sanji’s Lobster Ramen, a One Piece-inspired bowl filled with lobster infused chicken broth, regular noodles, shrimp wonton, lobster tail, braised takenoko, cilantro, lime wedge, nori and sesame seeds, crafted in honor of the Straw Hat crew’s very own chef.
THE BLIND BURRO
The Blind Burro is getting a GTA VI makeover for Comic-Con, transforming into a 1980s Vice City-style Miami hangout. During Comic-Con, they will have themed drinks, shot specials, giveaways, and a life-sized photo op. Guests can soak up the neon, palm trees, and retro energy while grabbing tacos and drinks before or after the con. No badge required to join the fun.
The Crack Shack
The Crack Shack will have a limited-time Comic-Con-themed cocktail (available exclusively at the Little Italy location).
WEREWOLF
Werewolf has 4 days of epic fun, themed drinks, and all-out fandom vibes planned for fans: (no cover fee)
- $6 Comic-Con Themed Shots!
- Thurs: Superheroes & Villains – DJ 12 PM–4 PM
- Fri: Dress as Your Favorite Comic-Con Character! – DJ 12 M–4 PM
- Sat: Same! Costumes Always Welcome! – DJ 10 AM–2 PM
- Sun: Star Wars Sunday – DJ 10 AM–2 PM
Smart Tips for Surviving Comic-Con Outside the Convention Center
- Most off‑site Comic-Con pop-up events are free or ticketed (no SDCC badge needed). However, the lines can get long, so arrive early for the most popular spots.
- Use the special trolley to skip traffic to Petco Park, Gaslamp, Balboa, or Seaport.
- Follow social media accounts for updates. Twitter (X), Instagram, and Threads are the fastest way to find out about surprise events, giveaways, or line closures. Search for hashtags like #SDCC2025 or #SDCCOffsite.
- You might need a portable phone charger as you’ll be taking photos, scanning QR codes, and waiting in lines. Your phone will die fast.
- Pack snacks and water, as most off-site events don’t let you in and out. If you’re stuck in a long line, you’ll be glad you brought food.
- Also, wear comfortable shoes. You’ll be walking a lot between the Convention Center, Gaslamp, Petco Park, Seaport Village, and nearby hotels.
- Bring a tote bag or backpack as there’s a good chance you’ll get swag, stickers, or freebies. Some events even hand out full-size posters or T-shirts.
- Check if reservations are required. Big activations like Netflix, Amazon Prime, or Hulu sometimes open RSVPs a few days before. Spots go fast.
- Finally, plan your route using Google Maps or Apple Maps to create a walking loop. It helps you cover more ground and not miss hidden setups in side streets or hotel courtyards.
