A Travel Guide to National City, California's Best Concerts & Events

Located in the heart of San Diego’s South Bay, National City is a community rich in history, culture, and vibrant entertainment. As the second-oldest city in San Diego County, it offers a unique blend of heritage and modern fun. From the historic Brick Row to the bustling waterfront of Pepper Park, there is always something happening here. However, navigating the busy I-5 or I-805 corridors, finding parking during major festivals at Kimball Park, or coordinating a caravan for a concert can quickly dampen the spirits of any group outing.

That is where Charter Bus Rental Company National City comes in. We are the premier provider of group transportation in National City and the greater San Diego area. Whether you are a local group heading to the Mariachi Festival or visitors exploring the automotive heritage of the city, we provide the seamless, stress-free travel solution you need. Our fleet ranges from 18-passenger minibuses for intimate gatherings to 56-passenger full-size charter buses for large-scale events. With drivers at the wheel, you can skip the rideshare surge pricing and parking nightmares.

We have curated a guide to the best concerts, festivals, and event venues in and around National City. Let us handle the road while you focus on making memories. Here are the top destinations to visit with your group.

A few of the companies we’ve worked with

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National City Automobile Heritage Day Car Show

National City has a deep-rooted history with the automobile industry, often cited as having the "Mile of Cars." This heritage comes alive annually at the National City Automobile Heritage Day Car Show at Kimball Park. Car enthusiasts from all over Southern California flock here to see hundreds of classic cars, lowriders, and custom builds. The event also features live music, food vendors, and entertainment for the whole family.

Parking for an event celebrating cars is, ironically, the hardest part of the day. The streets surrounding Kimball Park become gridlocked with spectators and show cars. By booking a private charter bus rental, your group can bypass the stress of hunting for a spot blocks away. Your driver can drop your group off right near the entrance on D Avenue, allowing you to walk straight into the action. Our buses offer ample storage space, so if you are bringing folding chairs, coolers, or merchandise back from the show, there is plenty of room for everything.

Kimball Park 12th St & D Ave, National City, CA 91950

North Island Credit Union Amphitheatre

While technically just across the border in Chula Vista , the North Island Credit Union Amphitheatre is the go-to concert venue for National City residents. This massive outdoor venue hosts the biggest names in music, from country legends to rock icons and pop superstars. It offers a quintessential Southern California concert experience with lawn seating and reserved sections under the stars.

However, anyone who has driven to this venue knows the post-concert traffic jam in the parking lot can last for hours. When you rent a party bus or charter bus with Charter Bus Rental Company National City, the experience changes completely. Your group can tailgate in the bus with your favorite music playing over our premium sound systems. You have a built-in designated driver, ensuring everyone gets home safely after enjoying a few drinks. Plus, the drivers know the best drop-off and pick-up zones to get you in and out as efficiently as possible.

North Island Credit Union Amphitheatre 2050 Entertainment Cir, Chula Vista, CA 91911

National City Mariachi Festival & Competition

Celebrate the vibrant culture of National City at the annual Mariachi Festival and Competition. Held at the stunning waterfront Pepper Park, this event brings together student mariachi groups from across the United States and Mexico to compete and perform. It is a day filled with incredible music, ballet folklórico dancers, arts and crafts, and a family-friendly atmosphere that highlights the rich Latino heritage of the South Bay.

Transporting a school band, a dance troupe, or a large extended family to Pepper Park requires coordination. A charter bus rental is the perfect solution. We can transport student groups with all their instruments safely stowed in the undercarriage luggage bays. For families, a minibus ensures that grandparents and children alike travel in air-conditioned comfort, avoiding the long walk from overflow parking lots. Enjoy the bay breeze and the music while we handle the logistics.

Pepper Park 3299 Tides Blvd, National City, CA 91950

Market on 8th

For a more modern and culinary-focused group outing, Market on 8th is National City’s premier food hall. Located downtown, this venue features a diverse array of local food vendors, a taproom, and plenty of communal seating. It often hosts community events, live music, and pop-up markets, making it a fantastic destination for corporate team lunches, birthday parties, or social gatherings.

Parking in downtown National City can be hit or miss, especially during the lunch rush or evening events. A minibus rental from Charter Bus Rental Company National City can drop your group right at the front door. It is the ideal way to organize a corporate outing or a "foodie tour" of the South Bay. Your team can sample cuisines ranging from Filipino to Mexican and Japanese, enjoy a craft beer, and then hop back on the bus for a safe ride back to the office or hotel.

Market on 8th 41 E 8th St, National City, CA 91950

A Taste of National City

Food lovers rejoice during "A Taste of National City," an annual event that showcases the best culinary delights the city has to offer. With dozens of local restaurants participating, it is a chance to explore the diverse flavors of the community, from historic diners to new, trendy eateries. The event usually involves traveling between various locations or congregating at a central hub like Morgan Square.

If you are planning to attend with a large group of friends or colleagues, a private shuttle bus is the best way to experience the event. Instead of coordinating multiple Ubers or driving separate cars to each tasting station, your group stays together. You can share food recommendations, enjoy beverages responsibly, and relax in reclining seats between stops. We can customize the itinerary to hit your specific must-try restaurants.

National City Chamber of Commerce (Event Organizer) 901 National City Blvd, National City, CA 91950

Olivewood Gardens and Learning Center

For a more educational and serene group experience, Olivewood Gardens is a hidden gem. This historic property serves as an interactive learning center for environmental stewardship and nutrition. They host private events, cooking classes, and garden tours that are perfect for school field trips , scout troops, or corporate CSR (Corporate Social Responsibility) days.

Located in a residential area, parking can be restricted for large groups. By booking a charter bus, you simplify the arrival process. We can drop students or employees off right at the gate. The bus provides a central hub for storing lunches, backpacks, or gardening gear. It is a stress-free way to connect with nature and community history without the hassle of organizing a carpool chain.

Olivewood Gardens and Learning Center 2525 N Ave, National City, CA 91950

Petco Park (Nearby in San Diego)

While located in downtown San Diego, Petco Park is the home stadium for National City's baseball fans. Just a short 10-minute drive north on I-5, the stadium hosts San Diego Padres games, massive concerts (like the Rolling Stones and Taylor Swift), and other major events. National City residents often find it easier to charter a bus from their local neighborhood rather than dealing with the extreme congestion and high parking costs of downtown San Diego.

Charter Bus Rental Company National City offers the ultimate game-day transportation. We can pick your group up from a central location in National City—like a local bar or community center—and take you directly to the designated bus drop-off zones at Petco Park. This means no $50 parking fees and no walking for miles. After the game or concert, your bus will be waiting to take everyone back to National City safely. It is the MVP move for any sports fan or concert-goer.

Petco Park 100 Park Blvd, San Diego, CA 92101

Book Your Ride to National City’s Best Events Today

Don’t let traffic on the 805 or the stress of finding parking keep you from enjoying everything National City has to offer. Whether you are planning a corporate outing to the Market on 8th, a family trip to the Mariachi Festival, or a concert shuttle to the Amphitheatre, Charter Bus Rental Company National City is here to help. Our team is available 24/7/365 to provide you with a free, personalized quote and help you choose the perfect bus for your group.

We pride ourselves on reliability, comfort, and local expertise. Call us today at 858-239-0036 to secure your transportation. Let us handle the logistics so you can focus on the fun!

Frequently Asked Questions About National City Concert Transportation

Charter bus pricing varies based on several factors, including the size of the bus, the duration of your rental, the distance traveled, and the time of year. For example, a rental during peak prom season or major holidays may be priced differently than a mid-week corporate shuttle. To get the most accurate price, we recommend calling our reservation team at 858-239-0036. We can provide a free, no-obligation quote in minutes tailored to your specific itinerary.

Yes, in most cases, alcohol is permitted on our party buses and charter buses, provided that all passengers are 21 years of age or older. We want you to enjoy your celebration! However, we do require a refundable damage deposit if alcohol is present on board. Please let our reservation specialist know in advance if you plan to bring beverages so we can ensure the proper policies are in place for your trip.

We recommend booking your charter bus as soon as your event details are finalized. For major events in National City or popular wedding dates, it is best to book at least 3 to 6 months in advance to ensure the best availability and pricing. However, we understand that last-minute plans happen. Charter Bus Rental Company National City serves the entire region and we will always do our best to accommodate short-notice requests whenever vehicles are available.

Our fleet offers a wide range of modern amenities to keep your group comfortable. Most full-size charter buses come equipped with reclining seats, air conditioning, onboard restrooms, and plenty of undercarriage storage for luggage or equipment. Many of our buses also feature WiFi, power outlets at every seat, and flat-screen TVs with DVD players. If your group has specific requirements, such as ADA accessibility, simply let us know when you call, and we will find the perfect vehicle for you.

Absolutely! Charter Bus Rental Company National City is a statewide transportation provider. While we specialize in National City and the South Bay, we can take your group anywhere in San Diego County, Southern California, or even out of state. Whether you need a shuttle to Los Angeles, a tour of Temecula wine country, or a road trip to Las Vegas, we have the resources and network to get you there safely and comfortably.