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10 Free Things to Do at San Diego Comic-Con 2019 Without a Badge

You can do so much without ever stepping foot inside the convention center

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Rachel Paige

Are you headed to San Diego Comic-Con but don't actually have a badge for San Diego Comic-Con? Are you tired of waiting in lines that snake around the harbor? You're not alone in that boat! There are plenty of people who flock to San Diego every summer for Comic-Con and don't actually step foot in the San Diego Convention Center because there are so many other things to do outside the big, concrete building. There are plenty of things to see, do, and experience that don't require queuing up ahead of time or a badge, and they are also free. Yes, free! Not everything at SDCC costs an arm and a leg, and we've rounded up some of the best things to do outside of the convention, especially when you don't have a badge.

Times and capacity are subject to the discretion of the activation/event.

1. Fox Fan Fair

Where: Children's Museum Park & Children's Park, 200 W. Island Ave., San Diego, CA 92101
When: Thursday, July 18 - Sunday, July 21
What it is: Fox is highlighting its new block of Animation Domination featuring "fun twists on popular amusement rides and games all themed to fan-favorite animated series," including The Simpsons, Bob's Burgers, and others. Expect a 70-foot Ferris wheel along with AR experiences and FREE swag for all your favorite shows.

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2. Brooklyn Nine-Nine Experience

Where: Tin Fish (The Gaslamp Quarter)
When: Thursday, July 18 - Sunday, July 21
What it is: You'll have to complete a variety of different tasks to prove you're good enough to join the Nine-Nine squad, and it's going to be toit toit toit. Also in the NBC family, nearby Superstore is taking over the Hard Rock Hotel lobby, and you can also visit The Good Place's IHOP (Interdimensional Hole of Pancakes) just outside the convention. You can register for a wristband that will supposedly shorten your wait time right here.

3. HerUniverse Fashion Show

Where: Manchester Grand Hyatt Hotel
When: Thursday, July 18, 6 p.m.
What it is: The annual event features up-and-coming designers strutting their geeky fashions on the runway. A group of winners will be selected and they'll go onto collaborate with HerUniverse founder Ashley Eckstein on brand new designs for the coming year.

4. The Batman Experience

Where: (The future home of the) Comic-Con Museum in Balboa Park
When: Thursday, July 18 - Sunday, July 21
What is it: Not only are we celebrating Batman's 80th anniversary, but also the fact that the Caped Crusader is being inducted into the Comic-Con Character Hall of Fame. So, why not create a sprawling, massive Batman pop-up museum showcasing DC props, vehicles, games, costumes, and archives? There will also be "a one-of-a-kind VR skydiving experience into the Gotham City," if that's your jam.

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5. Crunchyroll

Where: FLUXX Nightclub, 500 Fourth Ave, San Diego, CA 92101
When: Friday, July 19 - Sunday, July 21
What it is: The world's most popular anime brand is opening up its doors for Comic-Con this year, and fans can stop by its HQ and play games, participate in photo ops, and also jump in the Bananya Pool pool.

6. WB's Detective Pikachu and Shazam! Experiences

Where: Outside the Omni hotel
When: Thursday, July 18 - Sunday, July 21
What it is: You can snap a pic with Detective Pikachu and his friends as well as take a stroll through his world. Also, carnival games, thanks to Shazam!

7. American Horror Story: 1984 Face the Darkness

Where: Hilton Bayfront Park
When: Thursday, July 18 - Sunday, July 21
What it is: Just like the new season of American Horror Story, little information has been revealed about the activation. But you can register for it here.

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8. Amazon Prime Video Experience

Where: MLK Promenade and 1st Drive
When: Thursday, July 18 - Sunday, July 21
What it is: Literally step into the world of The Boys, Carnival Row, and The Expanse in this 60-thousand square feet activation experience. Also, and this important: SNACKS. Amazon will have on-hand relaxation zones, beverages, and food provided by Carl's Jr.

9. Impractical Jokers: Jokers Island

Where: Park at the Park (Petco Park)
When: Saturday, July 20, 12 p.m. to 9 p.m
What it is: Hosted by *NSYNC's Joey Fatone, this day-long event will feature a live DJ, Tru-TV show screenings, autograph signings, photo experiences, and free food, along with gifts and gags.

10. The Orville Experience

Where: The Carnation Building at 390 11th Avenue @ J Street
When: Thursday, July 18 - Saturday, July 20
What it is: Literally step into the world of The Orville with a display of costumes, creatures, props, and art pulled directly from set, and giveaways sprinkled in throughout the weekend. Also, the activation teases that cast members, along with those who work behind-the-scenes on the show, will drop by throughout the weekend for surprise visits.