I've stayed at non-conference hotels in Little Italy and the Gaslamp district that is very walkable and also a few stops on the trolley. Also, it is nice is to take the trolley to "old town" and you will have more options to stay there as well. I would stay in any hotel close to trolley stops since you are walking all day at the UC and more walking at night seems to get a bit much! My husband also came one year and had loads to do on his own along the seaside and we also went Esri's event at Bilboa Park - the site of museums, music and eateries. Enjoy the conference and San Diego!
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