The next time you stroll the streets of downtown, take a look around. There are a lot of cool things to do in the 92101 ZIP code, and this spring, it’s about to get even better. From unique pet boat cruises to free salsa dance lessons, you won’t be bored. Here’s a preview of some of the fun happenings this month. Pet Day on the Bay: Calling all happy hounds! Imagine if you could cruise the bay with your favorite four-legged friend by your side. That’s what Hornblower’s 11th annual “Pet Day on the Bay” is all about. The event will be held Saturday, May 14 and will feature three one-hour narrated boat tours at 10:30 a.m., noon and 1:30 p.m. “It’s a once-a-year opportunity to bring your dog on the bay, meet and mingle with other dog-lovers and support a good cause,” said Hornblower’s marketing and sales assistant Allison Patrick. A portion of the proceeds benefit the homeless animals of Helen Woodward Animal Center. In addition to the boat ride, canine guests will nibble on complimentary treats and even get their pictures taken if they choose, by professional pet photographers who will be on board to document the day’s revelry. Guests are also encouraged to donate a blanket and towel. “If it wasn’t for Hornblower, we’d have to go and buy all those towels and blankets. The event brings in enough to last us almost all year,” said Helen Woodward Animal Center’s John Van Zante. The event is limited to one dog per adult. Dogs must be at least six months old. Adult tickets are $20, children ages four through twelve are $10 and children under four are free (www.horn blower.com). It’s time to salsa: If you’re into the salsa scene, here’s your chance to strut your stuff on the dance floor. At the Keating Hotel’s Sway Lounge, free salsa dance lessons are held every Tuesday night from 8:30 to 9:30 p.m. After the class, the nightclub officially opens and guests are encouraged to stay to try out their new dance moves. “Latin Nights” kicked off this year and so far, response has been good. “We have lots of regulars who come every week. The dance floor fills up fast,” said the Keating Hotel’s director of sales and marketing Cathy Cuizon. On Thursday nights, the Latin theme continues with more salsa dancing starting at 9:30 p.m. Guests who arrive before 10:30 p.m. pay only $5 at the door, after which the cover charge is $10 (www.swaysd.com). Across town, the W Hotel is another hot spot for salsa dancers. Every Friday night from 9 p.m. to 2 a.m., guests can dance the night away at Access Lounge. There’s no cover charge and it’s a cool scene for people who appreciate salsa, tango and meringue. “It’s a wonderful alternative for people looking for something different. We have a great following and the space really lends itself. It has a beautiful ambience. It’s perfect for Latin music,” said the W Hotel’s marketing manager Andrea Ebbing (www.thewsandiegohotel.com).
