San Diego entertainment sometimes requires a ticket and sometimes not. If you plan on cruising the Gaslamp Quarter, stop in at Croce's for a drink and some music. Or, if you spent the day on Mission Bay, try Blind Melons in Pacific Beach. On the other hand, if it's a major entertainment venue you seek, advance ticketing is recommended. The opera, symphony, and live theater all are best reserved in advance. San Diego is actually a testing ground for many plays that eventually go to Broadway. Padres or Chargers fan? You'll want to get your reservations early; save your frustrations for the traffic and parking. Better yet, take the trolley or bus to the stadium and avoid the traffic. Bottom line: reserve your tickets here, ahead of time, for big time entertainment in San Diego.