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Travel Guide for SDAFF Attendees

We’re excited to host screenings and events across San Diego County, from La Jolla to Chula Vista. To help you get the most out of your festival experience, here’s a guide to our venues, transportation, lodging, and nearby dining options.
 

TRAVEL TO SAN DIEGO

Alaska Airlines
Flying in for the festival? We’re proud to partner with Alaska Airlines, our preferred airline for the 26th San Diego Asian Film Festival. Alaska connects San Diego with dozens of nonstop destinations across the U.S. and beyond, making it easier than ever to join us for 10 days of films and community. Visit alaskaair.com.

 

GETTING TO THE FESTIVAL

MTS – San Diego Metropolitan System
Skip the traffic and parking! The San Diego Metropolitan Transit System (MTS) makes it easy to get to SDAFF. Many of our venues, including UltraStar Mission Valley, are directly accessible by trolley and bus routes. Plan your trip at sdmts.com and look for our “Take Transit” message throughout the festival.

  • La Paloma Theatre: COASTER (Encinitas)
  • UltraStar Cinemas Mission Valley: Green Line (Hazard Center)
  • UC San Diego Price Center Theater: Blue Line (UC San Diego Central Campus), Route 30, 41, 101, 201/202, 237, 974, 978, 979
  • AMC UTC 14: Blue Line (UTC), 30, 31, 41, 105, 201/202, 204, 101
  • Southwestern College Performing Arts Center: Route 705, 709, 712
  • University of San Diego, Warren Auditorium: Route 44

CHARTERUP!
Looking for group travel solutions to SDAFF? Our partners at GOGO Charters make renting a San Diego Charter Bus a breeze. Additionally, National Charter Bus offers a wide variety of bus and shuttle rentals for groups of all sizes. Serving the local area, group transportation services can also be arranged online through San Diego Charter Bus Company, San Diego Charter Bus Rentals, and San Diego Charter Bus Services.

 

WHERE TO STAY

San Diego Marriott Mission Valley – Our official host hotel and the site of this year’s Gala. Enjoy modern accommodations, a resort-style pool, and easy freeway access — just minutes from our main venue, UltraStar Mission Valley (two trolley stops away from the theater – Rio Vista Station). Book your stay here.

 

WHERE TO EAT

  • Kiko’s Place – Iconic fish taco truck right by Hazard Center. Fresh seafood, spicy salsas, and classic San Diego flavor.
  • In-N-Out Burger – Beloved California staple serving simple, perfect burgers and fries.
  • Negihama Sushi Bar & Grill – Neighborhood favorite for fresh rolls, sashimi, and casual sushi dining.
  • Gravity Heights – Modern brewery and restaurant with craft beers, wood-fired pizzas, and a lively patio.
  • Plumeria – Vibrant vegetarian Thai spot with flavorful curries and noodle dishes.
  • Hatsuzakura – Cozy Japanese eatery known for ramen, donburi, and homestyle comfort dishes.
  • Goi Cuon – Fresh Vietnamese fare with spring rolls, noodles, and boba in a relaxed setting.

 

NEIGHBORHOODS NEAR MISSION VALLEY

Hillcrest (5–7 minutes away) – A vibrant hub for LGBTQ+ culture, nightlife, coffee shops, and casual eateries.

Normal Heights (8–10 minutes away) – Diverse and laid-back, filled with neighborhood pubs, cafes, and cocktail bars. Grab a coffee at Bica or Sycamore Den (a retro cocktail bar), sip craft drinks at Polite Provisions, or enjoy mezcal and Oaxacan-inspired bites at Cantina Mayahuel.

University Heights (8–10 minutes away) – A charming neighborhood with a small-town feel, known for brunch spots and local favorites. Try Dreamboat for cozy diner vibes, Bahn Thai or Plumeria for flavorful Thai dishes, or stroll along Park Boulevard for casual bars and eateries.

North Park (10 minutes away) – Trendy and artsy, with breweries, ramen, sushi, and fusion kitchens. Enjoy modern Vietnamese at Shank & Bone, playful street eats at Kin Len, or Japanese-inspired cocktails at Part Time Lover, a hi-fi bar and vinyl shop. Beer fans will find plenty to explore at Modern Times, Fall Brewing, and more.

Logan Heights / Barrio Logan (11–12 minutes away) – A cultural landmark known for Chicano Park and its creative community. Explore Bread & Salt gallery, Provecho Coffee, Libelula Books & Co., Sew Loka, Longplay Hi-Fi, and neighborhood breweries.

Kearny Mesa / Convoy District (15 minutes away) – San Diego’s go-to destination for Asian cuisine. Find Korean BBQ, dim sum, ramen, hot pot, boba, and late-night dessert spots. The area’s karaoke lounges and bustling energy make it perfect for post-screening adventures.