Boldly go to Comic-Con 2016

By DiscoverSD Staff

July 16, 2016 5:54 AM PT

Whether it’s your first time or your 46th tour of Comic-Con, these tips will help make the most of your trip to the biggest pop-culture event in the world.

Epic events

Star Trek celebrates its 50th anniversary and has its red carpet premiere of “Star Trek Beyond” at Comic-Con Wednesday, July 20. In spectacular San Diego style, the IMAX event will be held outside on the Embarcadero with stars from the movie and a special concert by the San Diego Symphony.

Pro tip: Be on the lookout for details on how you can get free tickets to this special event.

Hall H is for heroes

The enormous Hall H will be home to several must-see events. The fan-favorite movie “Aliens” will celebrate its 30th anniversary with a special appearance by director James Cameron and cast members.

“Game of Thrones” promises to pack the hall as we gather with our favorite stars to get a hint of who lives, who dies, and the fate of Westeros.

Fans will flock to get a sneak peek of what Marvel Entertainment (and possibly Benedict Cumberbatch) has in store for the new “Doctor Strange” movie and the ever expanding Marvel Cinematic Universe. Warner Bros. will thrill fans with Batman, Superman, Wonder Woman and new updates of upcoming movies and TV shows from the DC Universe.

Pro tip: Get your wristbands early for Hall H events. Use comic-con.org to plan ahead and create your own custom schedule. Download the mobile app to stay connected. Keyword search “#comiccon2016” and your favorite show, toy, comic or celebrity to see if they’ll be part of the event.

Gear up

New this year is the RFID Comic Con badge. I tried it at WonderCon and it works. Just tap and go. Sensors will be set up at the entrances and exits. Bring your fully charged mobile device for posting pics and updates, and charger or battery backup (Pokemon Go is going to use a lot of power around the Con). Bring hand sanitizer. For cosplayers, have an emergency repair kit for any wardrobe malfunctions. Allow extra time to have your swords, battle axes and dragons inspected when you enter the hall.

Pro tip: When making purchases, you may get a security alert from your credit card provider. Many of the vendors are based in locations across the country. It looks suspicious when purchases show up on your card from New Jersey, Florida and Texas all within a few hours. In some cases, your account may lock until it’s resolved.

Get there

Unless you can fly, the San Diego Trolley is the best way to Comic-Con. Use the Express from several locations around San Diego. There are three stops in front of the Con. If you do plan to drive, carpool and get there early. Parking fills up fast. Several hotels provide shuttles to the Con. When using ride-sharing services, be aware of any surge pricing during peak hours.

Pro tip: Get the four-day trolley pass for the best savings.