Perched 34 stories above downtown San Diego in the iconic Symphony Towers, the University Club isn’t just watching the city evolve—it’s becoming part of the transformation. Once a traditional business club steeped in formality and exclusivity, it’s now redefining its identity to meet the demands of a younger, more dynamic San Diego. With a sweeping $2 million renovation underway, the club is leaning into a new era—blending coworking, connection, and culture in a space that feels equal parts yacht club and creative studio.

A Club Designed for the Modern Professional

The University Club’s transformation is more than cosmetic. Its redesign includes an expanded bar and social lounge, a coworking-friendly media lounge, and a new interior inspired by San Diego’s coastal roots. Think clean lines, sun-soaked textures, and sophisticated finishes—all overlooking panoramic views of the harbor and skyline.

But the shift goes deeper than aesthetics. This club is adapting to how professionals actually work and live today. With downtown’s office vacancy rate hovering around 35%, and remote work redefining how people connect, the University Club is emerging as a hub for collaboration—where business, networking, and lifestyle converge.

An Evolving Membership Reflects the City’s Changing Pulse

Today, more than 60% of new members are under the age of 50, signaling a move away from the traditional private club model. Instead of rigid formality, the University Club offers flexibility, creativity, and relevance. Members come for the views—but stay for the people.

Programming has expanded to include wine tastings, salsa nights, and niche member clubs focused on arts, travel, STEM, and sports. Events are intentionally designed to foster organic connections and celebrate a new generation of professionals, creatives, and leaders calling San Diego home.

A Strategic Role in Revitalizing Downtown

As the city rethinks its urban core, the University Club’s renovation serves a dual purpose. It elevates the member experience while enhancing Symphony Towers’ position in a competitive commercial real estate market. The building itself—once a symbol of traditional corporate power—is being repositioned with the club as its crown jewel: a lifestyle-forward amenity that adds value for both members and tenants.

The investment is being backed in part by Invited (formerly ClubCorp), the club’s parent company, and supported through member dues—$750 to join, and monthly rates between $275 and $400. It’s a forward-thinking bet on experience-driven business culture, and one that speaks to the resilience of institutions willing to evolve.

Why It Matters for San Diego

In many ways, the University Club mirrors the story of downtown itself. A district once defined by high-rise office culture is now being reshaped by entrepreneurship, flexibility, and lifestyle integration. The club’s new direction taps into this momentum—offering a community that thrives on ambition without rigidity, sophistication without pretense.

It’s no longer just a place to host power lunches or close deals. It’s a place where artists and analysts, founders and fundraisers, remote workers and real estate professionals cross paths—not because they have to, but because they want to.

Contact Hanna for Your Exclusive Invite
Team Hanna is your connection to San Diego’s most elevated business and social circles. If you’re curious about the new University Club or want a personal introduction, we can help you experience it firsthand. Reach out to us here and let us know you’re ready for your invitation.