Welcome to San Diego: Things to Do at NACDS Total Store Expo

The 2023 National Association of Chain Drug Stores Total Store Expo (NACDS TSE) takes place this weekend—August 12 to 14—in sunny San Diego, California. After a long day of networking, take some time to see the sights and enjoy some of what San Diego has to offer.

Go Wild at the Zoo

Located in Balboa Park, the world-famous San Diego Zoo is a can’t miss attraction. With over 100 acres and wildlife habitats for animals from the California condor to the Tasmanian devil, the San Diego Zoo is sure to have something for everyone. Looking to get up close and personal with an animal? The zoo offers an early morning cheetah encounter and a walking tour to visit some of the zoo’s youngest critters.

Get Your Thrill On

Opened in 1925 with the name Mission Beach Entertainment Center, Belmont Park is one of San Diego’s most fun attractions. Featuring the Giant Dipper roller coaster and a plunge pool—both original features imagined by park founder and sugar magnate John D. Spreckles—the park is home to restaurants, rides, and games galore.

Island Hop

Home of the iconic Hotel Del Coronado, Coronado island lies just across the bay from San Diego proper. With 5 neighborhoods chock full of restaurants, shops, and—of course—beautiful beaches, Coronado is worth a visit once sessions wrap for the day.

Take In Some Art

For the art lovers, the Museum of Contemporary Art San Diego has a collection of over 4700 art works created after 1950 across genres that include painting, sculpture, photography, and video, among others. Although the museum’s location in downtown San Diego is currently closed, the flagship location in La Jolla is open to the public, complete with expanded galleries and sculpture garden.

Eat Your Fill

San Diego is home to a diverse dining culture, offering up cuisine that includes inventive sushi dishes, modern French fare, street tacos, and contemporary Californian. One of these restaurants is sure to spark interest: consider turning dinner into a networking opportunity, but don’t forget to make a reservation.

More from NACDS TSE

After exploring the city, don't forget to check out our conference coverage, featuing insights and interviews from this year's NACDS Total Store Expo.