San Diego’s outdoor lifestyle is not limited to the beach; the city is home to a thriving network of farmers markets, neighborhood bazaars, and specialty markets that provide a direct pipeline to the best of what the region actually grows, makes, and eats. Most are free to enter and very easy to feed yourself from for under $20.
Here is a list of 17 local market experiences in San Diego under $20 that represent the best of the city’s agricultural, culinary, and creative culture.
Little Italy Mercato
The Little Italy Mercato every Saturday morning is the flagship farmers market in San Diego. Spanning six city blocks and serving tens of thousands of visitors every week, this market has more diversity of products than almost any other market in the state.
The diversity and richness of San Diego’s agriculture are represented well at this market: avocados, citrus, strawberries, microgreens, and unique vegetable varieties from dozens of local farms. The prepared food section is worth the visit alone and includes everything from fresh tamales to cheese to Peruvian street food for under $15 per person.
Hillcrest Farmers Market
The Hillcrest Sunday Farmers Market is located in the parking lot behind Whole Foods and has been around for decades. It has a community-oriented customer base that provides a unique feel compared to the other larger and more tourist-oriented markets…