San Diego is a city that is known for its beautiful beaches, stunning sunsets, and friendly people. But did you know that it is also a hub for hobbyists?
From model trains to board games, San Diego has a plethora of hobby shops that cater to different interests.
Whether you are a seasoned collector or just starting out, there is something for everyone. These hobby shops offer a wide range of products, including rare and hard-to-find items that you won't find anywhere else.
From comic books to vinyl records, the hobby shops in San Diego are a treasure trove of unique finds.
In this blog post, we will be taking a closer look at some of the best hobby shops in San Diego. We will explore what makes each shop stand out, what products they offer, and what sets them apart from the rest.
So, whether you are a local or just visiting San Diego, be sure to check out these hobby shops and add a little something special to your collection.
1. SD RC Raceway
SD RC Raceway is a must-visit hobby shop for all RC enthusiasts. The shop is well-stocked and has a knowledgeable staff that is always available to help.
The indoor racetrack is well-maintained and offers a great experience for both beginners and seasoned drivers.
They have a spacious pit area and a pro shop where you can find all the parts you need. The staff is friendly and accommodating, and they also offer advice on how to improve your driving skills.
Whether you're looking to race or just want to browse the store, SD RC Raceway is definitely worth checking out.
2. Vertex RC USA
Vertex RC USA is a top-notch hobby shop with a wide selection of up-to-date products for all your RC drift needs.
Their friendly and knowledgeable staff provides excellent customer service and quick shipping for online orders.
The shop offers a fun and friendly environment for all ages, with a great track for drift nights. They have a variety of Yokomo parts available and are always meeting or exceeding expectations.
Vertex RC USA is highly recommended for anyone looking for an exclusive RC shop experience.
3. Warhammer
Warhammer is a hobby shop that caters to enthusiasts of Games Workshop/Citadel products. The store has a friendly and knowledgeable staff who provide excellent customer service.
They offer a wide range of products such as miniatures, fantasy board games, and paints, among others. The owner, Damien, is experienced and ensures that customers have a great experience.
The store also has a casual Warhammer community that welcomes new members. However, the shop's gaming space is limited and the hours are restricted due to it being a one-man operation.
Despite this, Warhammer is a great place to visit for anyone looking for Games Workshop products or a friendly community of hobbyists.
4. Hobby Lobby
Hobby Lobby is a great store for hobbyists and crafters alike. They have a wide variety of supplies for all types of hobbies, including models, drawing, painting, and more.
The store is clean and well-organized, making it easy to find what you need. The staff are friendly and helpful, and exchanges and returns are hassle-free.
Hobby Lobby also has a good selection of home decor and party supplies. The prices are competitive, and there are often sales and discounts available.
Whether you're a beginner or an experienced crafter, Hobby Lobby is definitely worth checking out.
5. Frank the Trainman
Frank the Trainman is a long-standing hobby shop and train museum that has been around since 1943. They specialize in selling Lionel trains and vintage model sets.
The store has an amazing collection of automobiles, trains, and general memorabilia. They have a great selection of used engines and freight cars that are in good condition and reasonably priced.
The customer service is top-notch, with helpful staff who are always willing to assist customers.
The store is like a train meet, with most things in trays or boxes, so customers need to hunt through stuff to find what they are looking for. If you're a train collector or enthusiast, Frank the Trainman is a must-visit.
6. At Ease Games
At Ease Games is a hobby shop that offers an outstanding selection of products at competitive prices. The store is clean and well-organized, with plenty of play areas and tables available.
Customers can find a wide range of hobbies, including Warhammer, Star Wars, MtG, Pokemon, Board Games, Dice, and TTRPG.
The staff is knowledgeable and friendly, and the shop is connected to a bar, making it a great place to hang out with friends.
At Ease Games also offers after-school programs and hosts regular events, making it a top choice for gamers and hobbyists. If you're looking for a one-stop-shop for all your gaming needs, At Ease Games is definitely worth checking out.
7. Discount Hobby Warehouse
Discount Hobby Warehouse is a one-stop-shop for hobby enthusiasts. They have a wide range of selection for both entry-level and experienced hobbyists.
The staff is knowledgeable and always ready to assist customers with their queries. The store has a great setup and offers a good selection of models, paints, and RC cars.
The prices are reasonable for a brick and mortar store. However, some customers would like to see more hobby tools in stock.
The store primarily focuses on planes and drones but also carries a few other hobby items like rockets. In a nutshell, Discount Hobby Warehouse is a great place to visit for anyone interested in the hobby world.
