Hotels near Petco Park

Question

We are planning a trip to San Diego for a Padres game. Please advise the best hotels within safe walking distance of the park. We have been looking at Hard Rock Hotel and Hotel Indigo. There is large price difference between them. Has anyone stayed at the Hard Rock? We are finding the best pricing through Sam's Club, any issues booking through them instead of with the hotel direct. Thanks for any insight.

Answer

When planning a stay near Petco Park for a Padres game, both the Hard Rock Hotel and Hotel Indigo are excellent options due to their proximity and convenience. They are within easy walking distance to the ballpark, making it easy to enjoy the game without worrying about parking or traffic.

Hard Rock Hotel: This hotel is a more upscale and lively option. It offers modern rooms, rooftop pool and bar, and themed décor. Many guests highlight its vibrant atmosphere, making it fun if you’re looking for a “city energy” experience before and after the game. The main advantages are its close proximity to Petco Park, stylish amenities, and convenient dining options on-site. A few notes:

It can be noisy during events due to its lively bar and rooftop area.
Higher room rates compared to other nearby hotels, but many feel the amenities justify the cost.
Some reviews mention valet parking fees, so factor that into your budget.

Hotel Indigo: This is a smaller boutique hotel with a quieter, more relaxed atmosphere. Rooms are comfortable, and it’s just a short walk to the park. The advantage here is lower cost and a more intimate, less bustling environment. It’s ideal if you prefer a calm stay and are mostly focused on attending the game rather than enjoying hotel nightlife.

Booking through Sam’s Club: Many travelers successfully book through Sam’s Club Travel. The main considerations are:

Ensure the cancellation and refund policies are clear before booking.
Confirm you receive a valid reservation confirmation directly from the hotel as well.
Check if any loyalty points or rewards are applied if you are a member of the hotel’s rewards program—sometimes third-party bookings don’t qualify.

Other nearby hotel options to consider:

Kimpton Solamar Hotel – stylish, boutique, rooftop pool, very close to the park.
Omni San Diego Hotel – attached to Petco Park, extremely convenient, slightly pricier.
Courtyard by Marriott Gaslamp – reliable mid-range choice, also within walking distance.

Overall, if you enjoy a fun, energetic environment and don’t mind paying extra, Hard Rock is excellent. If you want a quieter, boutique feel at a lower cost, Hotel Indigo works very well. Booking through Sam’s Club is generally fine, just be sure to double-check the reservation details with the hotel.