← PlanJam.comArchived blog, 2007–2008

San Diego Metro - PlanJam.com

From your screen to the scene

Category: Entertainment

Barona Resort and Casino

by Denise Shively

According to their website, Barona Resort and Casino is, apparently, “where the real players play, and win.”

While I can’t speak for myself, having won nothing of significance the handful of times I’ve been there, I can tell you that it’s worth a shot.

The moment you enter Barona, it almost feels as if you’re in Las Vegas. Serious gamblers will fall in love with the VIP service, the assortment of blackjack tables, $500 slot machines and the award-winning player’s club, Club Barona.

Even if you aren’t a hardcore gambler, you can still enjoy the amazing atmosphere.

What’s more, you don’t even have to necessarily come to Barona for gambling… you can come for the food!

With several dining options to choose from, you’re sure to find food that pleases even the pickiest eater. My personal favorite would be the Ranch House Buffet, which offers a huge selection of all different types of entrees, beverages, desserts and more.

The casino also offers Gameside Dining, which means you won’t have to quit your hot streak if you’re raking in the big bucks on the machine – you can actually get your meal delivered directly to your seat. How neat is that?

After a long day (and night, as the case may be) gambling, you can head to a sumptuous room at the adjoining resort. Enjoy world-class service, or pamper yourself at the day spa. Whatever you choose to do, you will not be disappointed.

The resort also offers many amenities for anything you might need, including a full-service fitness center, a business center and free high-speed internet access.

Personally, I recommend Barona Resort and Casino for a day with the girls or a luxurious weekend with a bunch of friends. It’s the perfect San Diego casino to relax, have fun and enjoy yourself.

The Downtown Music Scene

by Douglass Pinkard

A very little walking uncovers a whole lotta shakin' goin' in downtown San Diego these days! Many of the Downtown restaurant spaces have turned what were formerly either wine cellars or just plain cellars into late-night discothèques for the youthful and their admirers, but many of the traditional above-ground music venues have bumped matters up several notches, as well. The scene once boasting little more than the Croce's stage has become the go-to neighborhood for the late-night music lover with hips to bump ‘n grind, fingers to snap, or an air guitar with which to kick out the jams!

The House of Blues' music calendar ranges from rock to reggae, blues to funk, soul, r&b, and disco. 4th and B caters to a broad range of tastes, from across the musical spectrum, while new kid on the block Anthology is making waves of its own with a jazz, blues, roots, rock lineup guaranteed to keep you coming back for more than just their excellent cuisine.

And while downtown has its share of venues offering a mix of musical genres to choose from during the week (before going younger on Friday and Saturday nights), there are still a few hold outs who've managed to stick to their guns by offering the faithful regular helpings of what they do best.

Patrick's II dishes up all the blues you can use seven nights a week, while The Shout House features dueling rock ‘n roll singing piano players on a nightly basis (really!). The Westgate Hotel, Georges on Fifth, and The Dakota Grill & Spirits provide Carlyle Hotel-style piano jazz & pop entertainment to the never ending delight of the swells, while Latin flavor can always be found at Cafe Sevilla's Club Salsa. And if they never stop rockin' at Dick's Last Resort, Henry's Pub serves up an assortment of rock subgenres ranging from alternative to classic, rockabilly to 80's new wave - still managing to keep open a side door to the odd blues act or two—just to keep it real. Even the Borders Books has its weekend folk performances as Dublin Square gets its Irish up seven nights a week. Top of the evening to ya!

Yes, downtown squeezes as much music as two ears could want into a 10 square block radius, so if its singin,' dancin,' strummin,' and drummin,' you want, head on down to downtown!

Sycuan Resort and Casino

by Denise Shively

Sycuan CasinoAdvertised as the "finest gaming and entertainment venue in Southern California," Sycuan Casino offers a world of fun for casual gamblers and high rollers alike.

Whether you prefer penny slot machines or Poker, Sycuan Casino has something for everyone. Try your luck at the Blackjack table or play a few rounds of Bingo. You're guaranteed to find a game you love!

In addition to gaming, Sycuan offers a luxurious resort complete with tennis courts, fine dining and golf.

Sign up for a Club Sycuan card once you arrive to be eligible for exclusive discounts and promotions only available to members. Registration is free, and you can gain access to a slew of special offers such as bonus cash, discount show tickets and much more.

Sycuan Resort and Casino couples amazing gaming with fabulous resort accommodations and fine dining to create a relaxing and fun atmosphere you'll want to return to time and again.

The Old Globe Theater

by Denise Shively

The Old GlobeFor over 70 years, San Diego's Old Globe Theater has drawn crowds from all over the world. The year-round season hosts 14 plays and musicals, including the much-loved Shakespeare Festival.

You can also enjoy several special events the Globe hosts each year, including their famous Gala. The public are invited to come and participate in these events - check their website for further details.

If you want to plan a romantic night on the town, take in a show at the Old Globe. Your date will be thrilled, and both of you can cherish the experience for a lifetime.

California's oldest professional theater, the Old Globe has had a long and exciting history as one of the country's leading regional theaters!

Here's hoping the Globe will continue to showcase excellent talent for many years to come.