Best Delta 8 Brands [2023] : Top THC Brands Reviewed
If you're searching for the best delta-8 discounts and offers, we've done all the hard work for you! Read on to find out the best brands to get at discounted prices.
If you prefer a mellow buzz instead of an overpowering one, Delta 8 is the perfect cannabinoid for you.
Many cannabis brands offer Delta 8 products, but only the best ones can provide quality. From sourcing the purest hemp to turning it into a clean and potent Delta 8 product, they provide your money’s worth.
But how do you know you’re buying from a trustworthy Delta 8 brand?
Don’t worry! In this article, we’ll tell you the 5 best Delta 8 brands we have shortlisted after personally trying out 20+ options. We’ll also elaborate on how they stand out from the rest.
So, without taking any more time, let’s get started!
Are you living in a state where many medicinal and recreational products are banned? Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered with our article on the best delta 8 brands! While other products may be restricted, delta 8 is still allowed due to a unique legal loophole.
Delta 8 is a cannabis compound that offers users a psychoactive experience, often described as a milder version of THC. Our team went on an adventurous journey, hopping from one delta 8 store to another, to bring you the most reliable and exceptional delta-8 brands available. We analyzed each company’s processes, products, scientific methods, and customer reviews.
After thorough research, we selected four outstanding Delta 8 companies that stand out in terms of quality and uniqueness. So, sit back, relax, and let us guide you through the world of Delta-8 products!
Oh, and if you’re curious, our number one recommendation is Exhale. Stay tuned to learn more
Exhale Wellness has outdone itself in leading the cannabis industry as far as high-quality delta-8 products are concerned. Based in Los Angeles, the company is known for using strictly organic ingredients in making all the products in its line. Quality is a priority at Exhale Wellness. Hence, we have the pleasure of recommending their products.
The brand also has a reputation for its potent cartridges than other brands in the cannabis/delta-8 industry. The cartridge also gives users a high that soothes and provides relief, especially at the end of a busy day.
We always want to look for the hemp source when buying delta-8 gummies. Exhale Wellness’s products contain hemp cultivated in Colorado, where the practice is to produce hemp naturally.
The products are made using organic full-spectrum hemp. The hemp is non-GMO, which makes the brand even more credible. They also use sustainable farming practices.
Their collection includes many excellent products, including delta-8 gummies, tinctures, flowers, and vape carts. You will love this collection and enjoy the feeling they provide.
Highlights/Features
1. Safe and Effective Extraction Method: Exhale Wellness uses the CO2 method to extract hemp, meaning that the product is highly concentrated and of superior quality. In addition, they do not use any chemicals during the production process.
2. Organic Ingredients: Another highlight is that the products in their line are organic and vegan, as they contain no animal-based ingredients.
3. Third-Party Lab Tests: The products are all sent to a third-party lab for testing. The tests are carried out at independent labs; hence, you can rest assured that the vape carts, flowers, and gummies contain no harmful substances.
4. Excellent Customer Reviews: Most importantly, the site and its products have received positive customer reviews. Many customers feel happy to know that they use Exhale products to achieve a legal, safe, and uplifting high. Furthermore, the packaging also has a list of dosage instructions, which is excellent for newbies.
#2. BudPop: Highest Quality Delta 8 Brand for Hemp Products
The BudPop team primarily aims to increase awareness of the benefits and healing qualities of the hemp plant. They create premium delta-8 THC products that help people be at ease, have a good time, relieve anxiety, and enjoy themselves.
A group of entrepreneurs created the brand with a common interest in pushing the limits of hemp and the beneficial cannabinoids it contains. While they package it with the younger generation in mind, everyone should give this company a trial, irrespective of their age.
This Delta 8 company is earnest with third-party testing, and its website provides information about the lab reports for every product it offers. They also have gummies, carts, flowers, and others for sale. None of their products contain reagents or additives for flavoring. Instead, they achieve their flavors from plant terpenes.
Highlights/Features
1. Transparency: Before proceeding, you must know that this Delta 8 brand cares about third-party lab testing. It’s so clear that they prioritize making their products pure for use because on the website, you’d find lab testing results printed on the right, where you can click and read. So, if any product captures your interest, you can read about it and know just how potent and safe it is.
2. Great-Tasting Flavors: Although the company has limited flavors, they are pretty delicious. For example, they have vape carts in Grape Runtz and Strawberry Gelato, with the gummies available in Blue Dream Berry, Strawberry Gelato, and Watermelon Zkittlez. Being limited gives them enough time to ensure that their available flavors are of the best quality.
3. Free of Impurities: Also, you’ll find out that the carts are pretty clean. If you’re buying a vape cart here, you wouldn’t have to worry about agents like MCT, PG, VG, Vitamin E, or PEG.
#3. Hollyweed CBD: Popular Delta-8 Brand For Wide Variety of Organic Products
The core goal of Hollyweed is to ensure that its customers get CBD and delta-8 products of the best quality. Apart from being organic hemp sources, they are also safe and source the best oils that go into their products.
You need to visit their official website to see the list of gummies and vapes you can get. When it comes to delta-8 products, you’d be amazed at the plethora of options you’d have to choose from.
Highlights/Features
1. Excellent Delta-8 Gummies: The delta-8 THC gummies are probably the most popular product they offer. They are affordable, making them very popular among users (both old and new).
2. Federally Compliant: The brand ensures that all of its products are federally compliant by containing 0.3% or less of delta-9 THC. You also have a variety of strains and flavors as options.
3. Third-Party Lab Testing: This delta-8 THC company also cares about third-party lab testing. All the products have a third-party test backing, which assures delta-8 customers that what they’re getting is safe for consumption.
4. Customer-Centric Policies: They also have a commendable return policy and shipping policy. Getting your items delivered will take three to seven days, and if you are unsatisfied with any item, you can take advantage of the 30-day money-back guarantee.
Pros
The hemp is of high quality and is grown in the U.S.
It is completely natural
Cruelty-free
Users love the brand
Top-quality products for reasonable prices
You have a 30-day money-back guarantee to take advantage of
Shipping is free
Cons
Compared to other leading brands, there are not enough reviews
At Cheef Botanicals Delta-8 products are crafted with utmost care and precision, using only the finest organic hemp extracts. They focus on producing Delta-8 items of the highest caliber, created to take your experience to new heights.
But what sets Cheef Botanicals on fire? To guarantee the integrity and efficacy of their Delta-8 products, they are unwavering in their commitment to procuring quality, organic hemp and using exacting manufacturing procedures. You may be confident that you’re indulging the best goodness of Delta-8 products with each puff or bite.
Highlights/Features:
1. Transparency: In order to guarantee the purity and security of its products, Cheef Botanicals places a high value on Third-party lab testing and makes lab findings easily accessible on its website.
2. Great Flavors: Despite having a small selection, they have wonderful, premium flavors that improve the CBD experience as a whole.
3. Free of Impurities: The vape carts from Cheef Botanicals are especially pure because they don’t contain any additives like MCT, PG, VG, Vitamin E, or PEG.
#5. DopeBoo: Best Delta 8 brands for a wide variety of flavors
If you are looking for trustworthy Delta 8 brands offering high-quality products, DopeBoo is the best headshop to explore. It provides a wide range of products from some of the leading Delta 8 brands like Exhale, Hollyweed CBD, Puff Xtrax, and Sweet Lyfe.
You will find everything you want, from Delta 8 flowers and gummies to vapes, cartridges, pre-rolls, capsules, live resins, and oil. DopeBoo ensures that the products these Delta 8 brands offer are pure hemp-derived and third-party tested. Plus, the prices are so affordable they won’t break your bank.
Unlike other brands that usually take more than 4-5 days to deliver the products, DopeBoo ensures your products are delivered within 1 to 3 days, depending on your location. To add a cherry on top, DopeBoo can ship your favorite D8 products virtually anywhere worldwide except in areas where the product is illegal.
Their site is simple and easy to navigate, with a specified section where you can find all the featured products from these top Delta 8 brands, making shopping super easy and time-saving.
Highlights/Features
Offers all 3 strains – DopeBoo offers Delta 8 products in all three strains, including Sativa, Indica, and Hybrid. So, whether you seek energy and focus, relaxing effects, or a mix of both, Dopeboo’s got your back.
40+ best-selling flavors – DopeBoo’s Delta 8 brands offer a wide variety of flavors to choose from, including Pineapple Express, Forbidden Fruit, Watermelon Zkittles, Monster Kush, and more, making it a perfect choice for people who love to explore new experiences.
Prices start at just $14.99 – One of DopeBoo’s top brands, Golden Goat, offers pre-rolls at $14.99 for each 75mg of Delta-8. So, you can find something that matches your taste and preferences irrespective of your budget.
Pros
Pure hemp-derived Delta 8
Unending variety at reasonable prices
10% off on the first order
24/7 customer support is available
Free shipping on orders above $50
Cons
Does not ship on weekends
How We Made the List of Top Delta 8 Brands
All companies that produce delta-8 THC have a common purpose. They all claim to offer the same benefits using high-quality hemp and the best production practices in the industry. Some Delta 8 companies fail to deliver on this promise, while others do not. So, we had to separate the good from the bad.
The Criteria We Used for Selecting Best Delta 8 Brands
Our editorial team has filtered the best and worst delta 8 brands using the following criteria:
Legal/Safe Operations: When considering a delta-8 brand, the first box to check is whether or not they comply with federal laws. The quantity of delta-9 present in delta 8 is not more than 0.3%, which means it complies with federal regulations and is legal almost everywhere. However, it is illegal in some states. We have chosen only brands that operate according to the law and do not ship to places where it is not legal. The products also undergo tests to ensure their delta-9 THC content is strictly 0.3% or less.
Transparency in Lab Testing Reports: The best delta 8 brands and CBD are honest and transparent regarding lab test reports. They provide the reports online so that customers can easily see the products’ exact content. On the other hand, inferior companies do not publicize their lab test reports or do not go through the testing process. Since delta-8 is becoming more and more popular, we checked and verified the lab test reports before recommending the products.
Hemp Source: Many delta 8 brands in the U.S work with local farmers to get the hemp they use for their products. We compiled a list featuring companies that revealed their hemp source, especially those that source from organic growers.
Brand Reputation: Due to the recent popularity of delta-8, it is easy for customers to get lost in the sea of producers. This list features producers with an excellent reputation, especially brands with a track record for delivering high-quality delta-8 gummies, vapes, pre-rolls, oils, and other products.
Customer Reviews: It is necessary to find out what other customers are saying about the products. After all, one foolproof way of knowing the quality of a product is by finding out what real customers have said about it. From the reviews, we got to know whether customers were satisfied with the results of the delta-8 products in terms of enjoyment, relief, taste, excellent customer service, and absence of adverse side effects. We also read similar articles, revealing what users said, including honest product reviews and star ratings.
Shipping and Returns: We considered companies that offered products with fair shipping and return policies. After all, replacing a defective product or something different from what you ordered may be necessary. We also had to confirm their reasonable shipping fees and delivery times. Some people want to relieve pains, aches, and anxiety with delta-8. Hence, it was essential to consider affordable and speedy delivery when choosing what brands to feature on this list.
Price and Value: Finally, we evaluated the price as this is something that many people tend to consider first. We looked into the price range once we found a delta-8 brand that showed potential. We aim to provide a guide that focuses on the health benefits and the different budget categories. Besides, a compelling delta-8 brand with prices in the medium to high range is better than a brand that offers low prices and needs clarification.
What Is Delta 8 THC?
Delta 8 is a type of cannabinoid found in hemp and cannabis plants. It’s similar to THC, the main compound in marijuana that gets you high, but Delta 8 is slightly less potent. It offers a milder high and is legal in some states where traditional THC is not.
People use Delta 8 for relaxation, stress relief, and mood improvement. It’s available in various forms, including edibles, oils, and vapes. Its milder effects make it a popular choice for those new to cannabis products.
How does it Work?
Delta 8 interacts with the body’s endocannabinoid system (ECS), a complex network of receptors and neurotransmitters responsible for maintaining balance and harmony within the body. Similar to its close relative Delta 9 THC, Delta 8 binds with the CB1 receptors found primarily in the central nervous system, albeit with a milder psychotropic effect. This interaction triggers a cascade of reactions that can lead to various physiological and psychological effects.
When consumed, Delta 8 enters the bloodstream and eventually reaches the brain, where it influences the release of neurotransmitters such as dopamine and serotonin. The result is a subtle yet blissful state of relaxation and euphoria, often accompanied by improved mood and reduced stress.
Delta 8, Delta 9, and Delta 10 THC are three distinct compounds that belong to the larger family of cannabinoids. While they share similarities, key differences set them apart in terms of their effects, legality, and availability. Understanding these differences is crucial for consumers seeking to make informed choices.
Delta 8 THC is a mildly psychoactive cannabinoid that occurs naturally in the cannabis plant but in lower concentrations compared to Delta 9 THC. It interacts with the body’s endocannabinoid system, producing a subtle euphoric effect accompanied by relaxation and clarity. Many users appreciate Delta 8 THC’s potential to provide a more balanced experience, with reduced anxiety and paranoia compared to Delta 9 THC.
Delta 9 THC, often referred to simply as THC, is the primary psychoactive compound in cannabis. It is responsible for the well-known “high” associated with marijuana use. Delta 9 THC binds strongly to the CB1 receptors in the brain, resulting in potent psychotropic effects. It is classified as a Schedule I controlled substance in many countries, including the United States, where its use is restricted to medical and recreational purposes in certain states.
Delta 10 THC, while less well-known than Delta 8 and Delta 9, is gaining attention for its unique properties. It is believed to be an isomer of Delta 9 THC, meaning they have the same molecular formula but differ in their arrangement of atoms. Delta 10 THC is considered to have a more uplifting and energizing effect than its counterparts, though further research is needed to fully understand its potential benefits.
Regarding legality, Delta 8 THC has gained popularity due to its legal status in certain jurisdictions where Delta 9 THC remains restricted. This has led to the emergence of Delta 8 products, including edibles, vape cartridges, and tinctures, that are more readily available to consumers.
When considering the purchase of Delta 8, Delta 9, or Delta 10 THC products, choosing reputable brands prioritizing quality and safety is important. Conducting thorough research, reading customer reviews, and seeking third-party lab testing results can help ensure a positive and reliable experience. Delta 9 gummies are as popular as Delta 8 gummies.
How to Select the Best Delta 8 Products
Let’s look at some things you should watch out for as you shop for Delta 8 products.
The Ingredients
Ensure that the delta-8 brand you choose uses natural ingredients. Artificial flavors/colors or gelatin are some of the ingredients that some companies tend to add. However, these additives are not harmful, and some of our listed delta 8 brands today even use them.
But, what you may have in mind is to get a completely organic product from d8 brand without any artificial ingredients or additives. Ensure that you go through the ingredients label to confirm that there’s no added ingredient you don’t want.
Third-Party Laboratory Testing
Most manufacturers that deal in delta-8 edibles, oils, flowers, etc., ensure that they send their items for tests at third-party labs. After testing, they would also create a report about the product’s purity.
Some companies send the distillate over for checking, including the final product. To get the best quality delta-8 products, always ensure that you choose brands that do both.
The Hemp Farming Processes
The best way to ensure more hemp is grown is through sustainable farming processes, allowing a harvest of more products in the coming years.
Because you will be getting the plant naturally, non-GMO practices are better. Always choose a brand that uses hemp that’s grown in the U.S.
Hints of Delta-9
On legal grounds, it is a must that delta-8 THC products contain less than 0.3% of delta-9. Presently, there aren’t a lot of regulations surrounding delta-8 because its cannabis market is still fresh. Anything above 0.3% illegal is not only illegal but can also be vital for frequent users.
You can go through lap reports and third-party lab testing details to see the list of ingredients in the products and their amounts.
User Reviews (Company Reputation)
You can view how well customers enjoyed the product by checking the customer reviews. However, you shouldn’t only look at reviews posted on the company’s official website.
Try checking third-party websites where you can get legit reviews – not just the good ones, but the bad and the ugly ones. A product with most of its reviews as positive but still has about one to three negative reviews could be a recommendable purchase. But stay clear of the product if there are too many negative reviews.
Benefits of Delta 8 THC
Delta 8 offers a range of benefits that have caught the interest of many looking for a less intense alternative to traditional THC products. Here are some of the benefits of Delta 8 THC.
Milder High – Delta 8 THC is known for providing a gentler high that allows users to remain more clear-headed and functional.
Stress and Anxiety Relief – Many users turn to Delta 8 THC for its ability to soothe stress and alleviate anxiety. Its calming effects can help create a sense of peace and relaxation without the intense psychoactive experience.
Pain Relief – Delta 8 THC has shown promise in managing chronic pain. Users report significant relief from various types of pain, which makes it a potential alternative to traditional pain management strategies.
Improved Sleep Quality – For those struggling with sleep issues, Delta 8 THC can be a gift. Its relaxing properties help promote more restful and deeper sleep, aiding those with insomnia or irregular sleep patterns.
Appetite Stimulation – Delta 8 THC can also stimulate appetite. This is particularly beneficial for individuals facing appetite loss due to medical treatments or health conditions, helping them maintain a healthy intake of nutrients.
Types of Delta 8 Products
People love Delta 8 products for relaxation, pain relief, and a slight euphoric feeling without the strong intensity often associated with cannabis. But the best Delta 8 brands ensure you can explore this mellow cannabinoid in various delightful forms. Here’s a simple breakdown of the many types of Delta 8 products you can find:
Delta 8 Gummies and Edibles – These are tasty, chewable treats infused with Delta 8. They’re easy to consume, with effects that last longer than other forms because they’re digested. Perfect for those who prefer not to inhale anything.
Delta 8 Vapes and Cartridges – For quick effects, Delta 8 vapes and cartridges are inhaled directly into the lungs. They’re popular for their fast-acting relief and convenience but require a vape pen or a similar device.
Delta 8 Tinctures – These are liquid extracts you can take under the tongue for fast absorption. They allow for precise dosing, making finding your ideal amount for relaxation or pain relief easier.
Delta 8 Topicals – Creams and lotions infused with Delta 8 are applied directly to the skin. They’re great for targeted relief of aches and pains without the psychoactive effects.
FAQs Related To Delta 8 THC Brands
Q1. Are there Any Health Issues Delta-8 Can Help With?
We can’t particularly state any medical-related claims about this product because we are not medical doctors. You should consult your doctor or healthcare provider if you want answers of such magnitude.
However, we can offer information about what delta-8 may be able to help with. This cannabinoid assists in relieving stress, anxiety, and depression because it provides a soothing and relaxing high.
Q2. Delta-8: What Is It? Will It Make Me High?
Yes, delta-8 will make you high if you ingest it. It is a psychoactive cannabinoid with a natural content in every slight trace within help and cannabis. Makers of delta-8 products have to synthesize it from CBD because it occurs in such small amounts.
Q3. How Should Delta-8 Products Be Stored?
It is a common thought that it’s best to store delta-8 products in the refrigerator. However, this is not true for most brands. As long as your delta-8 products are kept away from direct sunlight and in a cool, dry, dark place, they will remain in good condition.
Q4. What are the most reputable Delta 8 brands?
Some of the most reputable Delta 8 brands include Exhale, DopeBoo, and Budpop. They offer a wide range of potent Delta 8 products in multiple flavors at an affordable price and are usually third-party tested for purity and effectiveness.
Q5. Where is the safest place to order Delta 8 from?
DopeBoo is one of the safest places to order Delta 8 products from, as it ensures the products offered by Delta 8 brands are pure-hemp derived. The Delta 8 brands are transparent about how and from where they source their products, ensuring transparency and creditability.
Q6. What states is delta-8 legal in?
Some of the states where Delta 8 is legal are California, Hawaii, Kansas, Massachusetts, New Jersey, North Carolina, Ohio, Oklahoma, South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, Virginia, Washington, and more.
Q7. Which Delta 8 THC brands have a wide variety of products available?
Brands like Exhale Wellness, Hollyweed, Cheef, and Budpop offer a wide variety of Delta 8 THC products. These brands typically have many options, including the best Delta 8 THC gummies, tinctures, vape cartridges, edibles, and more.
Q8. Can you recommend Delta 8 THC brands that use organic and natural ingredients?
Exhale Wellness and Hollyweed are reputable Delta 8 THC brands known for using organic and natural ingredients in their products. They prioritize providing customers with a more natural and holistic experience.
Q9. Are there any Delta 8 THC brands known for their high-quality manufacturing processes?
Exhale Wellness is recognized for its high-quality manufacturing processes. They maintain strict quality control measures throughout their production, ensuring that their Delta 8 THC products meet the highest standards of quality and consistency.
Q10. What are the customer reviews and ratings for popular Delta 8 THC brands?
Customer reviews and ratings for Delta 8 THC brands can vary, and it’s important to conduct thorough research to get a comprehensive understanding. However, popular Delta 8 THC brands like Exhale Wellness, Hollyweed, Cheef, and Budpop generally receive positive reviews from customers, with many praising their product quality, effects, and customer service.
Q11. Do Delta 8 THC brands offer any discounts or promotions for their products?
Delta 8 THC brands often provide discounts and promotions for their products. It’s recommended to visit the websites of Exhale Wellness, Hollyweed, Cheef, and Budpop to check for any ongoing discounts, promotions, or loyalty programs they may offer. Additionally, following their social media accounts or subscribing to their newsletters can keep you informed about special offers and deals.
The Delta 8 market is rapidly expanding, and there are many brands to choose from. However, not all Delta 8 brands are created equal. Exhale Wellness stands out from the crowd when it comes to finding a reliable and high-quality Delta 8 product.
Their commitment to transparency, quality ingredients, and customer satisfaction makes them a top choice for anyone looking to try delta 8 products. With a range of products to choose from and a reputation for excellence, Exhale Wellness is a brand that you can trust.
Give them a try and experience the benefits of delta 8 for yourself.
Studio S
JUNE 15, 2026
A Modern Take on Steak
Stake Chophouse & Bar brings contemporary classics and old-school service to the heart of
Coronado
Stake Chophouse & Bar isn’t your average steakhouse. Blue Bridge Hospitality’s Coronado outpost is a modern interpretation of a big-city steakhouse nestled in the heart of the small coastal community. The team at Stake has reimagined the whole steakhouse experience. By prioritizing a seasonal farm-to-table sourcing philosophy, a personalized guest experience, and unique service touches, like a formal steak presentation and a bespoke knife selection process, Stake distinguishes itself in a sea of steakhouses.
Exceptional steaks, including Wagyu from Japan, Australia, and the U.S., and fresh seafood flown in daily form the core of Stake’s culinary identity. The menu features a five-course omakase-style steak experience highlighting house favorites, plus an array of cuts, and classic steakhouse staples—think a wedge salad, baked potato, or pasta carbonara—refined for a contemporary palate without losing their traditional appeal. Stake focuses on seasonal sourcing from the region’s best family farms and specialty purveyors, and incorporates intentionally unexpected touches to create something truly unique.
“I challenge our chefs and myself to take it a step further in sourcing,” says Chef Ronnie Schwandt. “It’s important to us to highlight different farms, unique one-off farms—whether it’s cattle, strawberries, a local fisherman or from anywhere in the United States, we’re always trying to find that niche.”
Beyond the menu, Stake emphasizes outstanding service, says Vinny Spatafore, Director of Hospitality Operations. Staff maintains detailed notes, allowing them to remember guests by name, recall previous orders such as a favorite martini (also memorable for the customer since it’s served in an extra tall, distinctly-shaped glass), and celebrate special occasions like birthdays and anniversaries.
“When you have those points of topic that you remember about a guest, they appreciate that,” he says. “Our servers are really good with that—we have a couple servers who have been here since the beginning and they’ll remember somebody from years ago, their name, their kids’ names, where they live. I’m really thankful to have a great front of house staff.”
Award-winning wines, rare whiskeys, special events, and a complementary black car service that provides transportation for guests throughout Coronado add to Stake’s appeal.
Schwandt stresses that Stake offers more than a meal; they aim to give patrons something unforgettable.
“It starts when you walk up the stairs and are greeted by the hostess—that sets the tone for the night. Then you’re greeted by a server, who may know you by name, and can guide you through the menu and curate as they get to know you,” says Schwandt. “Most people leave kind of blown away; they leave feeling like they just had an experience. That’s the goal, right? Whether you’re serving smash burgers or high-end steak, you want somebody to leave thinking, Wow, that was awesome.”
While glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agents have been used to treat Type 2 diabetes for more than 20 years, their recent emergence as weight-loss wonder drugs marked a new frontier in medicine. But their effectiveness has left some patients wondering what to do once they’ve reached their goal. Stopping the medication could mean regaining some, if not all, of the weight. A Scripps Clinic internal medicine physician recently conducted a small study of whether GLP-1 patients who had reached their goal weight could maintain that weight by taking their regularly prescribed injection every other week instead of weekly. Spoiler alert: 30 of 34 patients did. Read more about the study here and what that may mean as pharmaceutical companies roll out oral GLP-1s.
For more nutrition, wellness, and healthy living tips, sign up for the San Diego Health newsletter here.
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 theBalboa 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.
16 Museums, One Pass
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.
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
Japanese Friendship Garden & Museum
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
The Old Globe
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
San Diego Air & Space Museum
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
San Diego History Center
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
San Diego Junior Theatre
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
San Diego Natural History Museum (The Nat)
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
WorldBeat Cultural Center
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
Event Calendar
Throughout 2026: Ripley’s Believe It Or Not!
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.
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.
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
June 8–Aug. 7: Theatre Summer Camps
Summer camps at Junior Theatre spark creativity for grades K–12 with hands-on training, musical theatre intensives, acting academies, and JT Studio experiences.
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).
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.
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.
La Gran Terraza, the University of San Diego’s signature restaurant, has been a campus favorite for over 16 years, offering California cuisine with a Mediterranean twist. This summer, its gastropub, O’Toole’s, is open for evening service —perfect for sunset bites and drinks.
At the helm is chef Marbi Becerra, a Culinary Institute of America alum with roots in the US and Mexico. She now leads culinary operations for La Gran Terraza and USD Catering, bringing bold Mediterranean flavors and a fresh perspective.
Try This!
Seared Scallops: With charred broccolini oyster mushrooms corn puree herb cherry tomatoes and chimichurri
Labora Café offers so much more than premium ceremonial-grade matcha; it’s a lifestyle café where people come to feel more energized, inspired, and connected to their community. Labora partners with retailers and lifestyle brands, from local Pilates instructors to Neiman Marcus, so there’s always something new to learn about or browse when you’re here. As for the drinks, whether you’re thinking matcha or Vietnamese coffee with a specialty house-made foam on top, expect a natural pick-me-up, without extra sugars or syrups.
Try This!
Pistachio 54: Pistachio foam layered with a slow drip Viet coffee or Matcha
Labora Café
8055 Clairemont Mesa Boulevard, Suite 101, San Diego, California 92111 858-471-6970 | laboracafe.com | @laborasd
Happy Medium lives in the sweet spot: not too fancy, not too gritty. Think dive bar soul with cocktail bar standards. It’s the kind of place where you can grab a beer and a shot, a fancy cocktail, plus a killer spirits list. The menu includes all the best bar classics along with elevated plates. Some would call it a “happy medium.” With your favorite B-side tracks always playing in the background, Happy Medium is the ultimate neighborhood hangout spot.
Try This!
Lava Flowgroni: Pineapple gin layered with strawberry Campari, banana vermouth and coconut, served over crushed party ice.
Happy Medium
4002 30th Street, San Diego, California 92104 619-310-5642 | happymediumsd.com
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