House of Blues San Diego Bag Policy
Planning to catch a show at House of Blues San Diego? Before you head to this iconic 1,500-capacity venue located at 1055 5th Avenue in downtown San Diego, it's essential to understand the bag policy. The venue has implemented a clear bag policy that allows clear plastic, vinyl, or PVC tote bags no larger than 12″x6″x12″ and/or small clutch bags (4.5″x6.5″ – do not need to be clear). Knowing these requirements ahead of time will help you avoid delays at the security checkpoint and ensure you don't miss a moment of your favorite artist's performance.
House of Blues San Diego has been a cornerstone of the city's live music scene since 2005, hosting everyone from reggae legends to punk icons and hip-hop stars. Understanding the venue's security measures, including their bag policy, helps create a safer environment for all concertgoers while keeping entry lines moving efficiently.
What Bags Are Allowed at House of Blues San Diego?
To reduce staff contact with guest belongings, the venue has implemented the following bag policy. Here's exactly what you can bring:
- Clear Bags: Clear plastic, vinyl, or PVC tote bags no larger than 12″x6″x12″ are permitted. These transparent bags allow security to quickly inspect contents, speeding up the entry process.
- Small Clutch Bags: Small clutch bags (4.5″x6.5″ – do not need to be clear) are acceptable. These are perfect for carrying essentials like your phone, ID, credit cards, and keys.
- Medical Bags: Medical bags or kits are usually accepted at venues like House of Blues – San Diego, but may be subject to inspection or X-ray. If you require to have your prescription medication on you for the duration of the show, please bring it in the original container that has your name and a description of the medication on the packaging.
If your bag does not meet these requirements, you will be asked to return them to your car and get in line again. All bags will be searched prior to entry, and bags that are not clear will be subject to additional search. To expedite your entry, opting for a clear bag is your best choice.
Prohibited Items
House of Blues San Diego maintains strict security protocols to ensure guest safety. Prior to entering the venue, guests will be searched (wand or walk through metal detection and/or pat-downs) to ensure that none of the restricted items enters the building. The following items are not permitted inside the venue:
- No guns, knives, weapons, pepper spray, projectiles of any kind, or any other item that could be used to inflict harm
- No personal video cameras, Go-Pros, selfie sticks, drones, masks or laser pointers
- No professional audio, video, or audio recording equipment – (including detachable lenses, tripods, zooms or commercial use rigs)
- Smoking of any kind is not permitted in the venue. This also includes vape cigarettes
- Large backpacks, oversized purses, or any bag exceeding the size restrictions
The venue suggests you leave valuable and unnecessary items at home. You may be asked to empty your pockets of all items so that they can be examined. Remember, this list of prohibited items is subject to change at the discretion of venue management, so it's always wise to check the official website before your event.
Tips for a Smooth Entry
Make your House of Blues San Diego experience hassle-free with these practical tips:
Arrive Early: Please arrive early to the venue to allow enough time for you and your guests to move through the queue and enter the venue. Security screening takes time, especially for sold-out shows, so give yourself at least 30-45 minutes before the scheduled door time.
Invest in a Clear Bag: Purchase a clear bag that meets the 12″x6″x12″ specifications. These are available at most sporting goods stores and online retailers. Clear bags significantly speed up the security process since guards can visually inspect contents without opening the bag.
Go Minimal: Only bring essential items – your ID, credit card or cash, phone, and keys. The venue operates primarily on a cashless basis, so credit cards and digital wallets are your best payment options.
Check Event-Specific Requirements: Please be sure to check the specific event page for the latest entry requirement details ahead of arriving to the venue for your show. Ticket purchasers will also receive direct emails with important information leading up to the show.
Plan Your Parking: Purchase parking in advance here at our preferred parking garage on 5th Ave between Broadway and C st, across from our entrance. Having a nearby parking spot makes it easier if you need to return items to your vehicle.
Box Office Hours: The Box Office will only be open two hours before door time on show nights. The box office closes 30 minutes after the headliner begins their set onstage (excluding club nights). If you need to contact the box office, please call 619-299-2583.
Accessibility Accommodations: If you need ADA accommodations or have questions about accessibility, call the Box Office for all ADA accommodations at 619-299-2583. The venue is committed to making the experience accessible for all guests.
By following these guidelines and preparing your bag in advance, you'll breeze through security and be ready to enjoy an unforgettable show at House of Blues San Diego. The venue's bag policy exists to keep everyone safe while maintaining the intimate, energetic atmosphere that makes House of Blues concerts so special. Check the official House of Blues San Diego website before your event for any policy updates, and get ready to experience world-class live music in the heart of downtown San Diego!