InterContinental San Diego, an IHG Hotel

InterContinental San Diego, an IHG Hotel Overview

First Impressions

Walking into the InterContinental San Diego, an IHG Hotel honestly feels like stepping into one of those sleek corporate headquarters you see in movies — but in the best possible way. The lobby’s floor-to-ceiling windows frame San Diego Bay so perfectly that I actually thought it was a massive photograph at first glance. This four-star property sits right on the waterfront in downtown, and you know what? The location alone justifies the stay.

The Downtown Advantage

Here’s the thing about staying downtown versus somewhere like Mission Beach or La Jolla — you’re literally in the middle of everything that matters. The Gaslamp Quarter is a five-minute walk (perfect for dinner), and catching a Padres game at Petco Park means you can actually walk there instead of dealing with stadium parking nightmares. I mean, couples rate this location 9.5 out of 10, and after spending time here, I totally get why. The harbor views from most rooms are genuinely spectacular, especially at sunset when the whole bay turns golden.

The Room Experience

The room I stayed in faced the bay — and honestly, I spent way too much time just staring out the window. The design feels modern but not cold, with those crisp white linens and dark wood accents that somehow make everything feel both professional and relaxing. What I really appreciated was the space; these aren’t cramped city hotel rooms where you’re bumping into furniture. The bathroom was particularly well-designed, with a separate shower that actually had decent water pressure (you’d be surprised how often that’s an issue in downtown hotels).

Dining and Amenities

The breakfast situation here is actually pretty solid — they’ve got this buffet setup with American classics plus vegetarian options that don’t feel like afterthoughts. I’m talking fresh fruit, decent coffee, and eggs that aren’t rubbery. The hotel restaurant serves dinner too, though honestly, with the Gaslamp Quarter so close, you might want to explore a bit. There’s also a fitness center that’s better equipped than most hotel gyms, and the spa services are available if you’re looking to unwind after a day of meetings or sightseeing.

Why Guests Love It

Look, this isn’t the most unique boutique property you’ll ever stay at, but sometimes you want reliability with a view — and that’s exactly what you get here. Business travelers love it because everything works seamlessly (the WiFi, the service, the location for meetings), while leisure guests appreciate being able to walk to Balboa Park or catch the ferry to Coronado without needing a car. The staff actually seems to know the city well, which makes a difference when you need restaurant recommendations or directions. It’s one of those places where you feel like you’re staying somewhere significant without paying resort prices.

To book hotel in San Diego for Comic-Con, travelers snag Gaslamp rooms pairing cosplay meetups with rooftop pool parties.

Facilities