Things To Do In Kensington, San Diego

Things to do in Kensington, San Digo: Everything You Need To Know

Developed in 1910, the neighborhood of Kensington is one of San Diego’s oldest planned residential communities. It is lined with curving streets, decorative lamp posts, and a range of architectural styles, including Spanish Colonial Revival, Craftsman, and California Ranch. It is a community with no shortage of things to do. Read on to learn more about this small town in the big city or—better yet—take a day and see for yourself!

How To Get To Kensington

Kensington is central to all that San Diego has to offer. Nestled between the college area and Normal Heights, you can reach Kensington by car, mass transit, or taking a walk or bike ride from your neighborhood. It’s a walkable, bikeable, and public transit-friendly part of San Diego tucked just east of the 15 and south of the 8.

Shopping

You can shop til’ you drop in Kensington, that’s for sure. You can find a wide array of places to stop in and look around—Bench Home is one of those. An excellent place to go for furniture, home decor, and gifts. If you have any trouble deciding on what goes with what, they also offer interior decorating and styling services to make your place feel oh-so-you. Across the street is Sophie’s Gallery, a collection of whimsical, one-of-a-kind pieces made by local artists. If there are little ones on your list, Buddies and Babes is a pet supply store that also has a unique selection of toys for infants and toddlers. For those who want to take care of the planet while stocking up on home and personal care items, you are going to love Earthwell Refill. Earthwell is one of the only stores in San Diego that helps you cut down on plastic waste by allowing you to bring in your containers to fill with their curated eco-friendly product line.

Self-Care

Shopping for others and perfecting your home’s interior is hard work. So, take time out for yourself! You don’t even need to leave the neighborhood to do it. Science Fitness Personal Training offers one-on-one training as well as family sessions to keep your body strong and healthy. To soothe your body and mind, Zen Sanctuary provides acupuncture, massage, and skincare. When you are ready to hit the town, Kensington has several options for hair care, including Kensington Park Salon, Diesel Salon, and Clip Arts. Men both young and old should check out Razor Line Barber Shop for the cleanest cuts and closest shaves in the neighborhood. If it’s your pup that needs a trim, Buddies and Babes has an in-house groomer that will leave your pooch looking proud.

Food and Drink

For a business district that spans just five blocks, Kensington has something for everyone in terms of fabulous dining options. Quench your craving for Italian eats at Pappalecco. Grab some delicious Japanese tapas or sushi at Tanuki, or catch up with friends at Kensington Cafe. You can grab your favorite French dish at Bleu Boheme, and even enjoy homemade pasta at Cucina Sorella. And, for a fantastic Mexican meal, or a margarita or two, community staple, Ponce’s is here for you. There are plenty of places to eat and drink in Kensington. Park near the library on Adams Ave and walk around, you will be sure to find a spot nearby to satiate your cravings.

Things To Do

While Kensington is considered a great place to raise kids, adults can have fun here too. If you are looking for things to do in Kensington, San Diego’s last single-screen theatre, the Ken Cinema screens independent and foreign language films in addition to restored classics. If you are a serious night owl, you should be sure to catch their midnight movies, including the famous Rocky Horror Picture Show. For pre-midnight show libations, the Ken Club is one of San Diego’s best and oldest bars. This cash-only establishment features a free pool, live music, and comedy nights.

Things To Do For Kids

Kensington is a great neighborhood to raise a family. In the center of it all is the Kensington/Normal Heights Library and adjacent Kensington Park. If you are looking for a more structured set of activities, the Clan Rince School of Irish Dance and Karate Heroes offer classes to keep your youngster active and engaged.

Community Events

Kensington businesses are very community-minded and participate in several events throughout the year. In April, Adams Avenue Unplugged brings live music to the neighborhood with small-scale performances by local artists. The annual Holiday at Home Memorial Day Parade in May, complete with pancake breakfast, honors our military. In June, several of the restaurants mentioned above participate in the Taste of Adams Avenue. October brings a population explosion on Halloween night with costumed trick-or-treaters taking to the streets in search of candy. November brings Small Business Saturday with local establishments participating in Adams Avenue Spirit Stroll, a sip and shop experience. In December, the Holiday on Adams Avenue finishes off the year with a family-friendly event that brings Santa to Kensington along with fresh snow in Kensington Park (as long as it lasts). You are sure to have a busy calendar in this tight-knit neighborhood.

Kensington is a community with a small-town feel that has a lot to offer. Whether or not you decide to call it home, it is a neighborhood that is worth exploring. If you would like to learn more about this neighborhood and homes that are available, contact us! We would love to show you around.