Get Out: See a Show, Steal the Show

The holiday is over. You have this weekend to chill out and do with it what you will. You could stay at home and take a breather, but we’ve got some better, more active ideas for you and the family – because a weekend in summer should never be wasted.

Check out our best bets to spend your downtime this weekend, July 8-10. Stay in Coronado for some theater fun and music, or venture out for a Shakespearean experience and "American Idol" auditions.

Click the links for more details.

BEST BETS CLOSE TO HOME

• When/where: , 1835 Strand Way, Coronado, 8 p.m. on Friday and Saturday, 2 p.m. on Sunday.
• Why go: Take in the new madcap comedy by local playwright Matt Thompson; through Aug. 7.
• Price: $18-$25, depending on age.

• When/where:, 640 Orange Ave, Coronado, 7 p.m. Friday.
• Why go: Watch the Navy Band Southwest Destroyers Combo play classic jazz numbers and popular songs.
• Price: Free.

• When/where: , 1500 Monument Rd, San Diego, 9 a.m. to noon Saturday.
• Why go: Help protect native plants and animals by keeping their habitats clean.
• Price: Free.

BEST BETS, A LITTLE FARTHER OUT

• When/where: , 1363 Old Globe Way, San Diego, 8 p.m. Saturday
• Why go: Take advantage of the summer weather and catch the magic-infested Shakespeare classic The Tempest outdoors at Balboa Park.
• Price: $29-$85.

• When/where: PETCO Park, 100 Park Blvd, San Diego, 7 a.m. Friday.
• Why go: Represent America’s finest city on one of the biggest shows (American Idol) in the country. The best singers head into the finals of the auditions.
• Price: Free.