One of our favorite quotes from famous fiction writer JRR Tolkien is “Just because I wander, doesn’t mean I’m lost.” Far from it. In fact on a recent stroll through downtown San Diego, we discovered all sorts of happening spots. Here are some favorites. • Promoted as an upscale dive bar, the owners of Quality Social have a message: Ditch the pretentious attitude. Everyone is welcome. Even the ads carry the message that fist pumping and name-dropping are prohibited. “Don’t expect any arrogance. We want people to feel relaxed and know they’re going to get a good experience at a low cost,” said owner Chris Dexter. Located in the former EXY space on Sixth and F Street, Quality Social features cocktails like “Not your grandma’s gin & tonic” and “dirty old man,” while bar food favorites include gourmet hot dogs and wings. There’s even a private champagne parlor in the women’s restroom and a hidden event room in the back. Hint: You have to walk through the kitchen to gain access. When you get there, look for the one-way mirror. “It’s hysterical. Whenever I’m in that back room, I’ll see people walk up to the mirror and check themselves out. They have no idea that people on the other side of the mirror are watching them,” Dexter said. • We’re excited about the fun line-up at The San Diego Repertory Theatre and its interactive events. “Hairspray” kicks off the summer season, making its California regional premier at the Lyceum in July. Other highlights include “Superior Donuts,” a funny comedy hot off Broadway, and “Storyville,” which transports audiences to New Orleans Red Light District in 1917. The Rep’s Surround Events are free and open to the public. They’re held in the Lyceum lobby before or after each performance and include Q&A with cast members and the production team. • Comedy fans have a lot to be excited about starting with Conan O’Brien at the San Diego Civic Theatre on April. At the Fleetwood on Tuesdays, check out the free comedy shows hosted by Ryan Mirvis. The restaurant also features an all you can eat crab deal for $24.95. Tipsy Crow (formerly the Bitter End) will feature its next comedy show on April 22, hosted by Mal Hall. We checked out last month’s show and noticed several new additions including a funny slide show of audience members from previous shows. Hall even sells T-shirts with the word LAUGH. “I came up with the idea of putting Laugh on the shirt when a lot of people were in a downward spiral. I wanted something that would make them feel better and forget about their worries,” Hall said. If you go, don’t forget to smile, you could wind up in his slide show. Say cheese! — Marc & Darlynne Menkin are the co-owners of Where You Want To Be Tours. Many of their tours and teambuilding scavenger hunts feature secret downtown areas. www.wheretours.com