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Even if you’re using hair products that have never failed you, we believe it’s time for you to try some of the best selling hair products out there for men
Hair Products
You’re not alone if you’re hesitant to try the various different hair products available for men nowadays. The world of men’s hair products can be so intimidating that you decide to stick with purely using the good ol’ shampoo and conditioner you’ve been using for years. Even if you’re using hair products that have never failed you, we believe it’s time for you to try some of the best selling hair products out there for men.
Finding new hair products to use as a man is a challenging task, especially considering everyone has contrasting hair texture and style. Not only that, everyone is going to have different hair care goals. Some men want products that focus on giving your hair a radiant shine, while other men want products that concentrate on enhancing volume and reducing frizz.
Regardless of what your main goal is for your hair, there’s a ton of products out there to help you reach and maintain your goal. Trying to find the right hair products takes a fair amount of research in order to successfully find your next favorite grooming products. No one wants to spend an hour at the grocery store reading a hundred product labels.
The great news? You don’t have to because we have a unique list of the best hair products for men out there.
Make your daily hair care routine as simple as possible by purchasing Blu Atlas Shampoo to remove impurities like dirt and oil. Carefully designed with beneficial ingredients like jojoba protein, and aloe, their shampoo is unbelievably rich and foamy, thanks to a surrogacy that’s originally derived from coconuts.
Complete your shampoo experience with Blu Atlas Conditioner. Entirely vegan and highly in demand, skipping over this conditioner would be a huge mistake for you and your hair. #1 on our list for a good reason, this is the best shampoo and conditioner for men out there.
You deserve a product that works as hard as you do. Public Good Wax Pomade is a lightweight, paraben-free hair styling product designed for a polished, finished look that won’t take you an hour to do every morning.
The formula is rich and flexible for styling versatility, with a combination of the best conditioning oils that keep your hair moisturized and totally frizz-free. This wax pomade from Public Goods is good to use for styling your beard or mustache as you like.
Looking for a styling product that’s easy to use and consistently works? Huron’s Hair Styler is the answer you’ve been looking for. It’s great for all hair types but especially those with thin or fine hair.
This non-greasy formula goes on your hair smoothly and adds an obvious fullness while reducing static and frizz. You can expect a humidity resistant, natural matte finish with long-lasting control that keeps your hair where you want it.
There aren’t any parabens, sulfates, or phthalates to be found inside of this popular choice for styling men’s hair.
Hair is a man’s best accessory—that’s a hard fact. Add to your overall swag with Wen Men Control Texture Paste, and you’ll always be ready to walk into any social or professional situation confidently.
This control texture paste will help you look your best and maintain the perfect look all day long. And the efficient formula allows you to easily create the perfect hairstyle with a light, touchable hold.
Men who have thinning hair or hair that doesn’t have much volume need not despair because Mark of a Man Hair Gel was made just for you. This light hold gel is perfect for men with fine, wavy, and curly hair.
We highly advise this impressive hair gel for any man on the go who needs his hair to look good without any fuss.
Jack Black’s Body-Building Hair Gel is phenomenal for building a manicured, sculpted style. This fast-drying formula allows you to rework and reshape your hair with ease.
With a natural-looking finish and a fresh, light scent, this fast-working hair gel will leave your hair feeling soft and like you only left the salon five minutes ago.
If your hair is flat and greasy, you’re probably not using the right product. Find exactly what you need in a hair product with Brisk Hair Cream for Men. With its unique formula, this styling cream will add body to your hair without unnecessary grease or weight.
If you’re looking for a product that can give your hair a firmer hold, this one-of-a-kind, German-based hair cream will please even the harshest of critics.
Ditch the hair powder sitting on your bathroom counter for a hair product for men that won’t let you down. Every Man Jack Hair Clay will be your new go-to right after the first use.
It’s a fragrance-free, low-shine alternative to wax and powder with a heavy, firm hold that won’t make your hair greasy. This hair clay can be used for any hair type or style, and is sweat-proof for the fellas who lead an active lifestyle.
Blackwood Hair Hydrator is a powerful combination of natural ingredients that will instantly provide your hair with the hydration it needs to look healthy. This is perfect for any man who has dry or damaged hair that needs an immediate moisturizing boost.
This formula has keratin-enriched proteins and amino acids to replenish your hair’s moisture levels and promote healthy hair growth. Why suffer from dry, brittle or damaged hair when you don’t have to?
Men deserve hair products that work. And not many hair products work like Dove Men+ Care Fortifying Styling Paste. Dove’s styling paste was designed with the everyday man’s lifestyle in mind, so that you can reliably sculpt your signature hairstyle on an everyday basis.
Give your hair the strength and resilience it needs to last all day, then restyle it anytime you need to. This styling paste was made to handle men’s hair, so it has the power to withstand whatever life throws at you.
Stop fighting your natural hair and start working with it. John Paul Mitchell Tea Tree Grooming Pomade defines your curls and waves with a natural shine. This tea tree oil pomade controls all frizz around the hairline, and pushes short haircuts away from the face.
With a fully organic blend of tea tree, mint and citrus ingredients, it also provides an addictive aromatherapy experience. Paraben-free and gluten-free, this styling pomade is fantastic for all hair types no matter what style you prefer to rock.
You’ve been styling your hair with the wrong products. Now it’s time for your hair to get styled and get styled correctly. Say goodbye to hairs that just won’t stay down when you start using Baxter of California Clay Hair Pomade.
This high-performance formula is designed to provide men’s hair with the durability and control needed for any classic men’s hairstyle. The final result: a strong hold that will last all day. Straight, thick, and wavy hair are best suited for this clay pomade that’s all the rage these days.
This is the styling gel that you’ve been waiting for all of your life. Pinaud Clubman Styling Gel has all the benefits you need in hair care products without the alcohol, gum, or wax.
This styling gel for men will keep your hairstyle in a firm hold all day. You’ll find that it keeps hair looking sharp and polished without ever appearing greasy or crunchy. By purchasing this gel, you can get your hair feeling and looking its best 24/7.
It’s a man’s world. It’s time for a man to be able to manage his own hair from the comfort of his own home. You can get an effortless hold and a natural finish with the one and only Harry’s Taming Cream.
Formulated best for men with curly, coarse, or thick hair, it’ll give you the look you want without any stickiness or stiffness. When you buy this taming cream, you buy unlimited confidence.
Getting your hair to do what you want can be a hassle, but it shouldn’t be. You need to constantly put in products, worry about getting the right amount of shine, and stress about your hair going completely flat in the middle of the day.
Not anymore! Use Consort for Men’s Hair Spray to have a great hair day, without having a frustrating morning. Easily manage your unruly hair with this natural men’s hair product. You’ll never have to put on an ugly hat to hide your hair again.
Johnny’s Chop Shop Grooming Cream is just the right product for men who prefer a cool, casual look. It works wonders on those with frizzy hair looking for a product that can hold it down firmly. The best part about this grooming cream? You can maintain your favorite hairstyle all day long.
The nourishing ingredients like avocado oil and Pro-Vitamin B continuously protect your hair and scalp throughout the day and night, leaving you with fresh, healthy hair that’s painless to style.
To have the best hai, you need hair care products like the ones available in Scotch Porter’s Superior Hair Collection. With this one-of-a-kind collection, each hair product for men respects your hair’s needs and offers a solution to any common issues like frizz and volume control.
Kale protein and white willow bark are the supreme ingredients used in this collection for getting hair that’s not just healthy but also beautiful. Scotch Porter Superior Hair Collection is your first step to silky, shiny hair.
If you’re looking for a hair product for men that can help you style, define, and control your curls, look no further. Cantu Men’s Shea Butter Curl Activator Cream is the perfect product for you.
With its creative blend of ingredients like rejuvenating caffeine and hemp seed oil, this curl activating cream will make styling your hair a breeze every morning.
You’re looking at one of the best-kept secrets in the world of men’s hair care products, Reuzel Extreme Hold Matte Pomade. This matte pomade is water-based so it will give you that messy look you need for short to medium length hair.
When it comes to creating greatness in their hair care products, Reuzel doesn’t hold back.
You haven’t fully experienced the power of a good hair product until you’ve tried Fatboy Hair Spray Putty. Whether your hairstyle is a slick back or a pompadour, this classic putty will keep your ‘do looking fresh for hours on end.
This hair spray putty is only made with the best, unrefined ingredients, and it’s 100% cruelty-free. Get a strong hold with 3 hours of wear when you add this hair spray putty to your hair grooming collection.
You can finally look like a man who lives in the moment without sacrificing your hairstyle. Get AXE Styling Natural Look Texturizing Cream so you get an even better hold than waxes, clays or pastes.
After using this cream, you’ll notice a medium-to-high shine finish which isn’t surprising because AXE has some of the strongest ingredients for hair styling. Buy this texture cream and you’ll be good to go for the whole day.
You want that perfect hairdo, but you don’t want to spend hours in the bathroom styling it. Enter Pacinos Hair Matte Paste! This matte hair paste is adequate for those with straighter or wavier hair types who want to get the look they love without getting irritated.
As one of the best men’s hair products, this paste gives you a high-quality, long-lasting hold.
Keep your hair clean and ready for any adventure with Old Spice Pure Sport Men’s Dry Shampoo for Men.
This dry shampoo is perfect for those extra long days at the gym, at the office, or lazy weekend days when you don’t have time nor the desire to manage your hair. And with their signature, charming scent, it’ll keep you smelling like a manly man.
American Crew Pomade is back and better than ever. Use it to create a slicked back look or for control in any hair type. This modern, flexible alternative to styling gels provides medium hold with high shine.
Since the early 1900s, American Crew has been trusted by men to provide quality hair care products for clean-cut styles. You’ll have to try it for yourself to see why this has been a trusted hair product for decades.
Get your scalp and hair back on track with Kristin Ess’ Bubble Mask. This groundbreaking hair treatment is a triple threat: it instantly removes impurities like oil, build-up, and dead skin cells; plus, this scalp mask moisturizes and strengthens your hair follicles.
This scalp mask also smells so heavenly you’ll wish you had a cologne that smells like it. It’s time to say adios to bad hair days permanently with this bubble mask by Kristin Ess. Don’t forget that your scalp needs attention too.
Tried and tested, Layrite Original Hair Pomade is a water-based pomade that is designed to help any man achieve their preferred hairstyle with a medium hold that lasts all day and all night long.
With this water-based formula, you can use it on short to medium length hair, and it even washes out super easily.
Tell frizzy hair to hit the road with TIGI Bed Head Control Freak Serum. Made silicone-free, this serum will lock in your hair’s shine and keep it looking sleek for as long as you need it to.
This control freak serum is formulated without the harsh ingredients that build up in your hair and cause trouble. You can anticipate this serum to help condition and moisturize hair while adding irrefutable shine at the same time. And it’s gentle enough to use daily.
Finding top-tier, highly rated hair products for men means you need to know some common knowledge about styling men’s hair on a daily basis. Our guide will help you better understand the versatile world of men’s hair products without making you confused.
Your hair deserves to be healthy 24/7, and with the right hair products, that can easily happen. To get the most out of your styling products, you have to check to see if they have any of these extensively beneficial ingredients like:
Sesame oil
Keratin
Glycerin
Coconut oil
Mango butter
Aloe vera
Argan oil
Biotin
Shea butter
White vinegar
Castor oil
Rice proteins
Hair products that contain the positive ingredients like the ones listed above will be the best hair products for men.
Improve the quality of your hair by making sure you’re using the best hair care products with organic ingredients that won’t cause you harm.
Remember that many hair products are used on a daily basis, which isn’t a good thing if the hair products you’re using contain harmful ingredients.
Watch out for these ingredients in all and any hair care products you use/plan on using:
Sulfates
Alcohol
Parabens
Formaldehyde
Benzene
Sodium hydroxide
Phthalates
Artificial fragrances
Petroleum jelly
Mineral oil
By avoiding these ingredients that can have a negative affect on your body, you’ll be putting your health and safety first.
You can breathe a sigh of relief because there’s no clinical evidence that men’s hair products cause issues like hair loss or hair thinning.
This is a very common concern for those who wish to start using hair styling products for men, but there’s no reason to fear hair loss or thinning from your favorite hair products.
It’s no wonder the world of hair styling products for men is overwhelming when there’s an unlimited amount of products to choose from.
These are the main types of hair styling products you can pick:
Putty
Gel
Sea Salt Spray
Regular Spray
Wax
Pomade
Clay
Balm
Paste
Cream
Powder
Mousse
No matter what kind of hair product you choose, make sure you choose one that’s based on your preferred hairstyle. For example, if you’re wanting to do a slick back look, hair spray won’t help you much.
As you peruse our list of the 27 best hair products for men, you may have taken note that there’s different kinds of hair holds for men’s hair products. The higher the hold level, the more intense and long-lasting the hold will be.
The different types of holds are:
Light, flexible hold – best for a natural, touchable hold with a lot of movement.
Medium firm hold – best for most hair types, allows you to restyle as needed.
Strong firm hold – best for thick hair types, gravity is no match for this hold.
The hair hold level that will work best for you is going to be based on what classic men’s hairstyle you are looking to achieve and the type of hair you have.
Shampoo and conditioner should always be on your shopping list. Besides actual styling products, shampoo and conditioner deeply cleanses your hair and prepares your hair to be properly styled.
Having shampoo and conditioner is just as important as styling products like regular hair spray or mousse. Don’t forget to make sure your hair is clean before styling it.
It’s crucial to know what you should be doing on a daily or weekly basis to take care of your scalp and hair. Keeping your hair healthy should always be your first priority.
Some tips and tricks for everyday hair grooming are:
Skip wearing the hats whenever possible, hats are not your best friend unless you’re having a bad hair day.
Try to avoid using hot water on your hair that strips your hair of the oils it needs.
Only wash your hair once, there’s no need to shampoo your hair 2-3 times in a row while you’re in the shower.
Air-dry your mane if you have the time.
Don’t rub your hair like a mad man with a towel since that doesn’t help your hair dry any quicker.
Washing your hair at night will give you ample time to air dry to prevent frizzy, puffy hair.
Use the lowest heat setting possible when you need to blow-dry your hair.
Doing a comb-over is never a good idea, especially if your hair is thinning. The ladies don’t enjoy comb-overs on men and they don’t look good on anyone.
Blu Atlas Shampoo and Conditioner
Scotch Porter Superior Hair Collection
Blackwood for Men Hair Hydrator
Old Spice Pure Sport Men’s Dry Shampoo
Kristin Ess Scalp Bubble Mask
Blu Atlas Shampoo and Conditioner
Pinaud Clubman Styling Gel
Cantu Men’s Shea Butter Curl Activator Cream
Mark of a Man Blend Hair Gel
WenMen Control Texture Paste
Blu Atlas Shampoo and Conditioner
Jack Black Body-Building Hair Gel
AXE Styling Natural Look Texturizing Cream
Layrite Original Hair Pomade
Brisk Hair Cream for Men
Blu Atlas Shampoo and Conditioner
Reuzel Extreme Hold Matte Pomade
John Paul Mitchell: Tea Tree Grooming Pomade
Fatboy Hair Spray Putty
American Crew Pomade
Blu Atlas Shampoo and Conditioner
Consort for Men Hair Spray
TIGI Bed Head Control Freak Serum
Huron Hair Styler
Pacinos Hair Grooming Matte Paste
Finding new hair care products can be scary, and the idea of wasting money on a product that does diddly squat can be even scarier. That’s why we made this list—to help guide you to your next repeat purchase.
Instead of being overwhelmed by the amount of styling products there are, take a minute to familiarize yourself. We made it very simple to understand the complicated world of men’s hair products. Knowing what product you need for your hair texture is the first step, the next step is deciding what product you need for your everyday style.
Blu Atlas has the best products for men who take pride and joy in their daily grooming routine. This company has useful products like shaving cream, face masks, and aftershave that all have 5-star reviews. We don’t mean to play favorites, but Blu Atlas is definitely a favorite when it comes down to having the best products.
There’s no right or wrong way to find the right hair products that are meant for your hair texture. The best products for men’s hair will be any of the ones we gave an honorable mention to in our list of the top hair products for the fellas. All of the products we listed will help keep your favorite style in place everyday.
The most infuriating feeling ever is your good hair turning into a bad hair day while you’re trying to focus on your working or running errands for the day. You can have a good hair day every single day when you buy any of these well-regarded hair styling products meant just for the men. A handsome man always has a hairstyle to match.
Yes, Chef! winner Emily Brubaker leads the robust culinary program at Omni La Costa Resort & Spa
For Executive Chef Emily Brubaker, Omni La Costa Resort & Spa feels like home. She grew up just a mile-and-a-half away from the 400-acre property and fondly recalls walking the golf course perimeter as a kid. Though her ambitions led her away from San Diego for nearly two decades in which she honed her craft in some of the highest of high-profile Las Vegas restaurants—including triple Michelin-starred Joël Robuchon at MGM Grand—they ultimately brought her back to North County.

Today, the classically French-trained chef, who’s fresh off a victory on NBC’s Yes, Chef!, judged by Martha Stewart and José Andrés, oversees Omni La Costa Resort & Spa’s seven distinct dining concepts. Her goal is to elevate the resort’s culinary program with her creative, hyperlocal ingredient-driven approach while maintaining the Spanish- inspired flavors and fresh California coastal cuisine that are the bedrock of its culinary identity.
“The San Diego food scene is really growing, and in North County alone, it’s really exploded in the last five years,” Brubaker says. “There are Michelin stars, beautiful tasting menus, craft bakers, and all this food—when I was growing up in La Costa, it was fish tacos. Now there are really cool things popping up, and I’m so happy to be here to see where it’s going to go.”
Brubaker gives chefs de cuisine at each individual restaurant autonomy, however, her influence is evident across the resort.
For example, lobby restaurant Bar Traza serves as Omni La Costa’s culinary centerpiece and features bold Spanish flavors in a lively, social atmosphere. Brubaker overhauled the menu to be more consistent and centered on casual bites with that signature vibe. Think smoky paprika, vibrant citrus, and Spanish meats and cheeses.
At VUE, the focus is on seasonal offerings, California coastal cuisine, and Baja-inspired dishes. She and Chef de Cuisine Cameron Dixon change the menu biannually, which heading into summer, will highlight farm-fresh produce and hyperlocal ingredients—the resort even has its own herb garden and honeybee hives.

Poolside dining options are leaning into the country’s 250th this summer with a selection of classic American dishes with an Omni La Costa twist. And Bob’s Steak & Chop House (Brubaker is a trained butcher) offers a classic steakhouse experience with elevated service.
The chef and company also plan menus for special events at the resort where her creativity can really shine. For an upcoming National Ski Association dinner, the banquet hall will be transformed into an Alpine-themed winter wonderland complete with a snow machine, savory sausages, and melty, decadent raclette. A recent dinner was built around the Carlsbad Flower Fields and each course was matched to a color of ranunculus (Did you know pink dragonfruit are grown in North County? You do now.).
“It’s my zen to be in the kitchen playing with food,” Brubaker says.
Omni La Costa’s culinary program is a key part of the resort experience. And with Brubaker’s leadership, it’s becoming a draw for visitors and locals alike.
“These aren’t just hotel restaurants, these are restaurants that you should go to. They’re destinations, and I’m really hoping for the future that’s where we’re going,” Brubaker says.

Brubaker is also channeling her experience on Yes, Chef! into the culture at Omni La Costa—more emphasis on teamwork and collaboration, empowering her staff to share constructive critiques, and embracing different perspectives. Alongside her leadership role, Brubaker has become an advocate for mental health in the hospitality industry, serving as chief ambassador for the Burnt Chef Project and serves on the Board of Advisors for the Apex Culinary Program, where she mentors and develops future talent.
For more on Omni La Costa Resort & Spa and its dining program, please visit omnihotels.com/hotels/san-diego-la-costa.
San Diego Magazine's 2026 Guide to Balboa Park.
Balboa Park is San Diego’s cultural heart.
The iconic 1,200-acre preserve’s history dates back more than 150 years, evolving from a scrub-filled plot atop a mesa overlooking what’s now Downtown to an urban oasis—the largest of its kind in the country—filled with an array of museums, attractions, gardens, trails, restaurants, and more. Balboa Park is an epic playground where San Diegans and visitors alike can experience the great outdoors just as easily as they can enjoy a world-class performance or explore groundbreaking discoveries.
Tucked away in the Spanish Colonial Revival-style architecture are 18 diverse museums that allow visitors to spend the day learning about, well, anything. A great place to start is the San Diego History Center. Located in the Casa del Balboa building, the museum tells the story of the city’s past, present, and future through photographs and art, clothing and textiles, and interviews with people who witnessed history-making events firsthand. The San Diego Natural History Museum takes visitors even farther back with interactive exhibitions that show what the region was like up to 75 million years ago.
Blast off on a simulated trip to space at the San Diego Air & Space Museum, then check out artifacts from aviation legends, including the Wright brothers, Amelia Earhart, and Buzz Aldrin. Discover new perspectives revolutionizing the science world, learn about an often overlooked but overutilized utility, and exercise your creativity at the Fleet Science Center.
Calling all theater-lovers, Balboa Park has something for you, too. The San Diego Junior Theatre will present their musical take on beloved children’s book A Bad Case of the Stripes from June 26 through July 12. And laugh, cry, and marvel in awe as the pros of The Old Globe perform Kim’s Convenience, the award-winning comedy that inspired the popular series, from May 15 to June 14.
There’s nowhere else in Balboa Park quite like WorldBeat Cultural Center. The institution celebrates African diaspora and indigenous cultures around the world using art, music, dance, and education. The building, a renovated water tower covered in colorful murals, houses a performing arts center, museum, gift shop, cafe, and outdoor classroom.
If you’d like a side of nature with your culture, Balboa Park has you covered there, too. Stroll through the gardens of the Japanese Friendship Garden & Museum, a monument to the relationship between San Diego and its sister city, Yokohama, Japan. Inspired by traditional Japanese design dating back centuries, the 10-acre respite features a living exhibition that showcases plants native to both cities.
If there seems like a lot going on in Balboa Park, it’s because there is. Let the Balboa Park Cultural Partnership be your guide. The organization is the umbrella for 24 of the park’s institutions and offers an Explorer Pass that allows visitors to access multiple museums for one affordable price. The hardest part is picking where to start.

Save on admission to San Diego’s top museums with the Balboa Park Explorer Pass. Explore 16 museums of art, science, history and culture across Balboa Park — all with one affordable pass. Choose the option that fits your pace: the Limited Pass (one day for up to four museums), the Parkwide Pass (seven consecutive days of access to all 16 museums) or the Annual Pass (365 days of unlimited exploring).
Looking for an experience-driven gift? Let the museum lover in your life enjoy their favorite museums all year with a Balboa Park Explorer Annual Pass gift voucher.
BuyMyExplorer.com | Phone: 619-232-7502, Press 2 for Explorer

Bigger experiments, brighter ideas, and boundless curiosity await at the newly reimagined Fleet Science Center. This summer, the Fleet debuts Element 8 Cafe, an expanded theater queuing and concessions space, two new gallery spaces, and, for the first time, a free entrance gallery exploring science in and around San Diego. The transformation marks a new chapter for the Fleet, keeping it a vital, innovative, and accessible science hub for the region. Visitors are invited to explore the experience this summer and connect with the power of science like never before.
Address: 1875 El Prado, San Diego, CA 92101
Website: FleetScience.org
Hours: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily
Phone: 619-238-1233

An accredited cultural gem, the Japanese Friendship Garden & Museum brings traditional Japanese garden design to life with koi ponds, curving walkways and layers of greenery. Guests explore bonsai trees, streams and peaceful nooks while taking part in exhibits, educational programs and festivals that illuminate Japanese culture. Situated in the heart of Balboa Park, the garden doubles as a meditative retreat and a dynamic gathering place, welcoming visitors to slow their pace and connect more deeply.
Address: 2215 Pan American Road E, San Diego, CA 92101
Website: Niwa.org
Hours: 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. daily; last admission at 6 p.m.
Phone: 619-232-2721

A San Diego summer favorite, The Old Globe invites audiences to experience a beloved local tradition in its outdoor Lowell Davies Festival Theatre.
This summer, the 2026 Shakespeare Festival presents two thrilling tales of power, passion and romance. Measure for Measure, running June 14 through July 12, 2026, is a riveting story of justice and hypocrisy that asks who holds power, who is punished and what it truly means to be virtuous. Much Ado About Nothing, playing Aug. 2–30, 2026, is a classic rom-com packed with schemes, sparks and laughter as opposites attract. Audiences can enjoy both shows for $44.
Address: 1363 Old Globe Way, San Diego, CA 92101
Website: TheOldGlobe.org
Hours: Box office open Tuesday–Sunday, 1 p.m. to final curtain
Phone: Box office, 619-234-5623

Aviation and space exploration come to life at the San Diego Air & Space Museum. See an airworthy replica of the Spirit of St. Louis, a Gee Bee racer and historic aircraft from World War I, World War II and the Korean and Vietnam eras. Get up close to the Apollo 9 command module — one of only 11 of its kind in the world — along with Mercury and Gemini capsules, Mission Control and space shuttle simulators, and a selfie spot beside a lunar lander on the moon. Running through 2026, Ripley’s Believe It or Not! brings oddities from around the world to Balboa Park.
Address: 2001 Pan American Plaza, San Diego, CA 92101
Website: SanDiegoAirAndSpace.org
Hours: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Phone: 619-234-8291

History belongs to everyone. At the San Diego History Center, two experiences bring that history to life this summer: America at 250 and the Center for Women’s History. America at 250 traces San Diego’s place in 250 years of U.S. history, while summer programs invite children to learn and explore. The Center for Women’s History amplifies the voices of women whose leadership and creativity have shaped our region.
By understanding our past, we build a more vibrant and inclusive community together. These vital educational experiences are only possible through generous community support. Discover your roots, spark meaningful dialogue, and help keep San Diego’s stories alive for future generations.
Address: 1649 El Prado, Suite 3, San Diego, CA 92101
Website: SanDiegoHistory.org
Hours: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Wednesday–Sunday
Phone: 619-232-6203

Junior Theatre is San Diego’s longest-running youth theatre program, empowering students ages 4 to 18 to explore storytelling, performance, and collaboration in a supportive environment. Through classes, camps, and productions, young artists build confidence, creativity, and lifelong skills onstage and off. Each season features a wide range of opportunities, from introductory experiences to advanced training in acting and musical theatre.
Looking for a summer adventure? Junior Theatre’s Summer Camps deliver dynamic programs for grades K–12, including musical theater intensives, acting academies and immersive JT Studio experiences. It’s a place where imagination truly takes center stage.
Address: 1650 El Prado, Suite 208, San Diego, CA 92101
Website: JuniorTheatre.com
Hours: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Phone: 619-239-1311

This summer, The Nat is talking trash—literally. Their newest exhibition, Washed Ashore: Art to Save the Sea, features larger‑than‑life marine sculptures made of ocean debris collected from beaches. It invites visitors to explore the impact of plastic pollution and discover ways to take action.
But the experience doesn’t stop at the gallery doors. Friday nights, the exhibition transforms into an ocean-themed “dive bar” during Nat at Night. Select Sundays bring something brand new: a rooftop brunch with sweeping Balboa Park views. Add two new giant-screen films and five floors of nature to explore, and The Nat is shaping up to be one of the season’s must-visit destinations.
Address: 1788 El Prado, San Diego, CA 92101
Website: SDNat.org
Hours: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily; 10 a.m. to 11 p.m. Fridays in summer
Phone: 619-232-3821

The WorldBeat Cultural Center is a nonprofit multidisciplinary cultural organization dedicated to promoting, presenting and preserving Indigenous cultures worldwide through music, art, dance, education, sustainability and community programs. WorldBeat elevates multicultural artists, expands opportunities for cultural enrichment and fosters deeper understanding across traditions. WorldBeat offers a holistic cultural experience that inspires pride, unity, connection and belonging for all ages.
Address: 2100 Park Blvd., San Diego, CA 92101
Website: WorldBeatCenter.org
Hours: Classes: Monday, Wednesday, Thursday, 6–9 p.m. Exhibits and café: Friday–Sunday, 11 a.m.–6 p.m.
Phone: 619-230-1190

Step into a world of the weird and wonderful at Ripley’s Believe It or Not! at the San Diego Air & Space Museum in Balboa Park. Explore hundreds of bizarre artifacts, interactive displays and unbelievable stories that celebrate the curious and the extraordinary.
San Diego Air & Space Museum | 2001 Pan American Plaza, San Diego, CA 92101

Presented in partnership with the San Diego Museum of African American Fine Arts, San Diego’s Lost Neighborhoods uses augmented reality, oral histories, and archival materials to explore communities and residents displaced by redlining, freeway construction, and other discriminatory policies.
San Diego History Center | 1649 El Prado, Suite 3, San Diego, CA 92101

Spend a summer night at The Old Globe. The Lowell Davies Festival Theatre stages Measure for Measure (June 14–July 12) and Much Ado About Nothing (Aug. 2–30), offering two unforgettable Shakespeare productions for just $44.
The Old Globe | 1363 Old Globe Way,
San Diego, CA 92101

Summer camps at Junior Theatre spark creativity for grades K–12 with hands-on training, musical theatre intensives, acting academies, and JT Studio experiences.
San Diego Junior Theatre | 1650 El Prado, Suite 208, San Diego, CA 92101

A museum visit turns into a Sunday Funday with the addition of rooftop brunch, featuring mimosas, bloody Marys, and brunch bites from Wolfish by Wolf in the Woods (June 14, August 9) and Hash House a Go Go (July 12).
San Diego Natural History Museum (The Nat)
1788 El Prado, San Diego, CA 92101

Celebrate Juneteenth weekend with guided birding, storytelling, soul food, native planting and an African peace drum circle.
WorldBeat Cultural Center | 2100 Park Blvd., San Diego, CA 92101

Nagashi at the Japanese Friendship Garden & Museum by floating a lantern to honor loved ones who have passed. Stroll merchant booths, enjoy cultural performances in the Inamori Pavilion, and sample food vendors plus a beer and sake garden in the lower garden.
Japanese Friendship Garden & Museum | 1649 El Prado, Suite 3, San Diego, CA 92101

Explore arts, science, history, and culture in the Balboa Park Cultural District with one convenient, affordable Pass. The Balboa Park Explorer Pass is your ticket to up to 16 museums and endless fun! Purchase your pass at BuyMyExplorer.com.
Chefs, restaurateurs, sommeliers, and craft mixers - meet our 2026 Tastemakers, the minds behind the magic.
In the heart of Pacific Beach, bar Ella debuted in 2023 with Executive Chef Brendan Nugent at the helm. Drawing on experience from both coasts, Nugent crafts a sustainable, seasonal menu inspired by his Northeast childhood and master‑gardener grandmother. Expect East Coast classics like lump crab cake, garlic shrimp in Old Bay broth and scratch‑made spaghetti with clams. Nugent’s commitment to using every part of each ingredient keeps waste low and the cooking sustainable.
At bar Ella, first‑time guests become family.
Lamb Lollipop: 24-hour buttermilk and za’atar marinated lamb, roasted, seared and finished with housemade chermoula.

1030 Garnet Avenue, San Diego, California 92109
858-808-2286 | barellapb.com | @bar.ella.pb
Chefs, restaurateurs, sommeliers, and craft mixers - meet our 2026 Tastemakers, the minds behind the magic.
At Amalfi Cucina Italiana, dining is a celebration of Italian tradition, hospitality and craftsmanship. General managers Giuseppe Annunziata and Emiliano Muslija have created a welcoming atmosphere where every glass of wine and plate of pasta reflects Italy’s culinary heritage.
Executive chef Marcello Avitabile, a five-time world pizza champion, and pizza chef Joseph Serra bring craftsmanship and soul to every dish through handmade pastas, artisan pizzas and authentic Italian flavors. all.
Margherita Pizza: With San Marzona tomato sauce, mozzarella, basil, extra virgin olive oil, and prosciutto.

Locations in San Marcos, Carmel Valley, and Oceanside
760-653-3230 | amalficucinaitaliana.com
Chefs, restaurateurs, sommeliers, and craft mixers - meet our 2026 Tastemakers, the minds behind the magic.
At VanMan’s Kitchen, guests can enjoy grass-fed smash burgers, tallow fries, and milkshakes, all prepared with the same the commitment to quality San Diegans have come to expect from VanMan’s soaps and skincare products. That means everything is prepared in-house—and we mean everything, from the ketchup to the mayo to the pickles—and made from organic, natural ingredients. In fact, the fries are cooked in the same high-quality suet tallow that’s used for the company’s skincare products. That’s because when VanMan’s says you shouldn’t put anything on your body you wouldn’t eat, and you shouldn’t eat anything you wouldn’t put on your body, it’s not a cute marketing gimmick. It’s a commitment to always providing customers with the best possible ingredients. Another non-negotiable for VanMan’s Kitchen? Keeping all of this accessible. Expect a welcoming, laidback vibe and price tags that make eating organic food affordable to all.
Classic Smash Burger: 100% Grass-fed beef, American cheese, organic lettuce, organic tomato, organic sliced onion, house pickles and burger sauce on a potato bun. Best with a side of tallow fries.

1380 Garnet Avenue, San Diego, California 92109
858-203-3795 | vanmanskitchen.com
Chefs, restaurateurs, sommeliers, and craft mixers - meet our 2026 Tastemakers, the minds behind the magic.
Tous les Jours has grown into a reputable bakery café franchise since its launch in the U.S. in 2004, with over 200 stores nationwide and more than 1,800 locations worldwide. Tous les Jours specializes in freshly baked breads, pastries, cakes, desserts, and premium beverages. Using only the finest ingredients, the products are known for their unique flavors and wholesome quality, with a wide variety of fresh, delicious items prepared daily for every occasion.
Tous les Jours has built its core strength in making the best kinds of bread, freshy baked in store every morning. The bakery uses carefully selected ingredients to offer stylish cakes and desserts in all types and sizes, depending on the occasion. From bold espresso to handcraft smoothies, the beverages are the perfect accompaniment to the artisan baked goods.
Stop by in June for 50% off a beverage with a purchase of a piece of cake, or a free beverage with purchase of a whole cake.
Cloud Cake: Delight in this light and fluffy treat available in fresh cream, strawberry, triple berry, green tea, chocolate, mango and blueberry yogurt.h sake-soy vegetables and furikake onigiri.

3363 Nobel Drive, La Jolla, California 92037
858-699-3006 | @touslesjourslajolla
1420 East Plaza Boulevard, B5, National City, California 91950
619-773-6033