01 Apr 2026

Fun in the Sun with Your Furry Friend: Dog-Friendly San Diego Guide

By The Dana

One of the many reasons people love vacationing in San Diego is because we love our furry visitors just as much as our human ones! If you’re planning a trip to San Diego with your four-legged bestie, we invite you to check out our Dog Friendly San Diego Guide, which gives you the inside scoop on the best dog-friendly beaches, where to walk your dog near Mission Bay, the best pet-friendly hotels in San Diego, and more!

Experience the Best in HosPETality at The Dana

When it comes to dog-friendly accommodations in San Diego, look no further than right here at The Dana on Mission Bay. We offer comfortable dog-friendly rooms for luxury travel with your favorite furry friend and are considered one of the most popular pet-friendly hotels in San Diego.

With our ideal location along Mission Bay, we offer easy access to pet-friendly waterfront walking paths, all the best dog-friendly beaches, and lots of open spaces for fetching and playing outside in the California sunshine near this popular San Diego pet lovers’ retreat! At The Dana on Mission Bay, you can always catch a glimpse of happy pups vacationing with their families along the coast, and don’t forget to invite your favorite pooch to dine with you at our onsite Firefly Eatery & Bar, where they are always welcome to join you for an amazing dining experience in San Diego.

Dana for Dogs Room Package for You & Your Favorite Furry Friend

guests with their dog in a dog friendly room

Not only is our sprawling, waterfront property the perfect place for a relaxing pet-friendly getaway, but we even offer a special package, Dana for Dogs, created just for your four-legged friend. Treat yourself and your dog to amazing accommodations at The Dana, which include these perks:

Dana for Dogs Pet Perks Arrival Kits and Pet-Friendly Room Specials

Official Pet in Room Privacy Sign
Custom Keepsake Water Bowl
Disposable Potty Bags
Yummy Dog Treats

We also offer a Dana for Dogs Room Special Package to welcome you and all your furry family members on your next San Diego getaway that includes:

Daily $25 “Cuisine & Cocktail” Credit
Complimentary Cleaning Fee ($40/nightly Value).

Best Dog-Friendly Activities in San Diego

Bark at the Park

dog and lady in front of petco park — Photo: @arlolovesbubbles

San Diego Padre fans will enjoy the special Bark at the Park events, held each March through September on special nights at Petco Park. Guests will receive a special pet-themed giveaway when you bring your pooch to watch the game with you.

Farmers Markets

There are a variety of farmers’ markets to enjoy in San Diego that allow you to bring your favorite furry friend along. San Diego area farmers’ markets are a great way to spend the day enjoying the California sunshine and exploring with your dog. Visit pet friendly Ocean Beach Farmers’ Market, Little Italy Mercato Farmers’ Market, North Park Farmers Market, and more!

SUP Pups

Learn how to paddleboard with your pup at SUP Pups in San Diego! Enjoy the ultimate adventure with your pooch with this one-of-a-kind stand-up paddleboard lesson for you both at the popular Liberty Station in San Diego!

Best Dog-Friendly Restaurants in San Diego

Firefly Eatery & Bar (Onsite at The Dana on Mission Bay)

You don’t even have to leave the property to find one of the best pet-friendly restaurants in San Diego, the Firefly Eatery & Bar, onsite at The Dana. Bring your dog and enjoy waterfront dining with amazing views.

Miss B’s Coconut Club

Miss B coconut club outdoor patio — Photo: @**missbcoconutclub**

This Caribbean-style restaurant is the perfect place to grab lunch or dinner with your pooch. Enjoy the fun beach vibe and dog friendly patio in San Diego at Miss B's Coconut Club.

Bayside Landing

Girl and dog sitting at table — Photo: @ericasellsmerica

Enjoy dinner and drinks on the pet-friendly patio with a fun menu of beers, wines, and seltzers on tap, and an eclectic food menu everyone will enjoy! So much fun to dine with your pup at Bayside Landing in San Diego.

Baja Beach Café

Choose anything from brunch to dinner at this popular Mission Beach dog friendly restaurant in San Diego that is just steps from the ocean. Baja Beach Cafe is a great place for you and your dog to relax and chill.

Lazy Dog Café

Enjoy eats, drinks, and good times with your pet at this popular San Diego restaurant that offers a special menu for Fido so you can enjoy dinner together during your coastal California vacation. Lazy Dog Cafe is fun for everyone, especially your pooch!

Best Dog-Friendly Beaches in San Diego

Fiesta Island (Mission Bay Park)

a woman playing with her dog on the beach

Open to dogs daily from 6am to 10am, Fiesta Island, located in Mission Bay near our hotel, offers sand dunes and calm waters for playing.

Dog Beach (Ocean Beach)

a child and his dog playing on the beach

Offering 24-hour off-leash options, Dog Beach in Ocean Beach is one of the most popular pet-friendly beaches in San Diego.

Del Mar Dog Beach

This popular dog-friendly beach in Del Mar offers off-leash options early mornings from 6 to 8am and after Labor Day through June each year.

North Beach Dog Run (Coronado)

With 24 hours of off-leash opportunities, this San Diego dog-friendly beach near popular Sunset Park even offers free dog litter bags at the entrance!

Get Social with The Dana on Mission Bay

We invite our hotel guests to get social with us and share pictures of those precious pups on vacation! Be sure to FOLLOW and TAG us on Instagram using our dedicated hashtag #DanaForDogs - we may even feature you on our social channels!

Are You Ready for the Best Pet-Friendly Accommodations and Activities in San Diego?

Plan the perfect pet-friendly escape to San Diego at The Dana on Mission Bay. Choose from waterfront rooms and suites that are dog-friendly, so your best furry friend can join in the vacation fun. Book your Dana for Dogs Package and enjoy the best pet-friendly hotel in San Diego that is close to all the amazing dog-friendly beaches, restaurants, and attractions to enjoy in San Diego.

01 Mar 2026

Business on the Bay — Waterfront Meetings & Events on Mission Bay

By The Dana

Take your next business meeting or company event to the next level at The Dana on Mission Bay, with a variety of unique spaces designed especially for your corporate event, company meeting, or business party. The Dana has the perfect space to bring your vision to life and a dedicated team to ensure a flawless experience for your company event. To explore all of our meeting venues, amenities, and planning details, visit our Hotel Information page, where you’ll find a full overview of everything available to help you plan the ideal event with us

Surrounded by water views of Mission Bay and nestled on 10 lush acres, The Dana is the perfect combination of convenience and tranquility. We are located just minutes from the airport and offer 271 guest rooms and suites, and are pet-friendly, so we even welcome your favorite furry friend at our Mission Bay hotel!

Spring & Summer Meetings by the Waterfront

At The Dana on Mission Bay, we love welcoming meeting planners who are looking for a setting that inspires both productivity and connection. When you host your meeting or group with us on beautiful Mission Bay, you’ll enjoy flexible meeting spaces, waterfront views, and the attentive service our team is known for. For a limited time, planners who reserve a group block between April and June can also take advantage of exclusive perks designed to elevate the experience. These special incentives include a waived resort fee, 20 percent off AV equipment, and 10 percent off banquet menus, along with additional planner perks to make your event even more rewarding. Check out this limited-time special offer and pick the perks that matter most to your team!

The Dana Makes Taking Care of Business Easy

The Dana on Mission Bay can easily accommodate your group and help you make the perfect impression on your brand or company. Planning a group event with our team is so easy and stress-free with a dedicated meeting specialist to help plan the perfect corporate event! Here’s what The Dana has to offer onsite for your next San Diego meeting or event.

The Dana on Mission Bay: The Perfect Event Space for San Diego Meetings & Events

The Dana offers a variety of unique indoor and outdoor venues, including dedicated spaces with breakout rooms for your San Diego meeting or event. Choose from an intimate setting to a large conference space for your corporate event, and rest assured, your event will be a success with our dedicated team to help you plan your San Diego business meeting with exceptional service and attention to all the details.

Our versatile indoor and outdoor event spaces are perfect for a meeting, corporate event, or celebration, and offer the perfect combination of beauty and functionality for any occasion. Choose the perfect space for your next waterfront business meeting in San Diego.

Indoor Event Spaces at the Dana on Mission Bay

Mission Bay Ballroom

Featuring 22-foot ceilings and floor-to-ceiling windows, this popular event venue seats 250 guests and overlooks Mission Bay with additional access to a spacious foyer and an open-air terrace.

Sunset Room

The Sunset room features floor-to-ceiling windows with views of Mission Bay and the Bayside Pool. The space is flexible and can accommodate 215 guests for a theater set-up, 90 guests for a classroom set-up, and 200 guests for a reception.

Marina Room

Featuring floor-to-ceiling windows with Mission Bay and Bayside Pool views, the Marina Room can accommodate 105 guests for a theater set-up, 40 guests for a classroom set-up, and 100 guests for a reception.

Pacific Room

The Pacific Room features floor-to-ceiling windows with Mission Bay and Bayside Pool views. It can accommodate up to 105 guests for a theater set-up, 40 guests for a classroom set-up, and 100 guests for a reception.

Marina Cove

Marina Cove offers 2.240 square feet of meeting space, along with a dedicated foyer, and a private outdoor garden space. This is a flexible space that can be configured into a variety of layouts, including a banquet room, theater, and reception space. It also has four flexible meeting rooms, making it well-suited for a variety of functions, from small conferences to breakout sessions.

Bayside Conference Room

The Bayside Conference Room offers amazing Mission Bay water views and is perfect for small, intimate meetings with up to 25 guests for a reception and 12 guests for a conference set-up. The Bayside Conference Suite can be reserved together or separately from the Bayside Conference Suite.

Bayside Conference Suite

Located on the first floor and adjoining the Bayside Conference Room, the Bayside Conference Suite is a 2-room suite with panoramic views of Mission Bay and a large private patio, which works well for a hospitality suite. The Bayside Conference Suite can be reserved together or separately from the Bayside Conference Room.

Outdoor Event Spaces at the Dana on Mission Bay

Marina Garden

Our enchanted garden offers a serene, intimate setting for your San Diego business event. It seats 160 guests and is surrounded by lush, vibrant greenery, making it the perfect spot for a company reception.
Marina Garden: Seating up to 300 guests, the Marina Garden is a favorite choice for business receptions and parties. This lush, rose-framed oasis, offers stunning views of the private marina, and makes a great venue for an open-air business event in San Diego.

Tropical Courtyard

Nestled within our Tropical Courtyard, this enchanting garden offers a peaceful and inviting setting for meetings and small gatherings in San Diego. Surrounded by lush, vibrant greenery, the space creates a relaxed atmosphere that encourages connection, creativity, and conversation. Whether you’re hosting a breakout session, team meeting, or an intimate group gathering, the serene garden backdrop offers a refreshing alternative to traditional meeting rooms, keeping your group inspired and engaged.

Sunset Park

We also recommend considering Sunset Park, another beautiful outdoor space that offers a unique setting right along Mission Bay, just steps from our hotel. While it is often used for ceremonies, it can also serve as a memorable location for a hosted lunch or casual gathering. With sweeping waterfront views, Sunset Park provides a refreshing open-air environment where groups can relax, connect, and enjoy the natural beauty of Mission Bay during their event.

In addition, we can also accommodate your group with room and suite block options, so your stay is covered, too. You can count on our professional team to ensure every detail of your event is perfect, so you can focus on enjoying our beautiful San Diego hotel and local scenery.

Let The Dana’s Catering and Conference Services Team Cater Your Next Business Event or Corporate Function

Did you know The Dana on Mission Bay has an amazingly talented Catering Team? We do… and we are certain you will be impressed with the delicious food and beverage offerings from this talented group.

Our dedicated Catering and Conference Services Team is here to take care of all your culinary needs with customizable menus for your corporate events. Choose from catering menus designed by our executive chef or collaborate with our team to design a custom menu for your group. From elegant buffets to full-course special event menus, guests love our coastal California cuisine featuring the freshest ingredients.

Take Care of Business with Waterfront Meetings and Events on Mission Bay

Whether you’re planning an intimate lunch for board members, a company-wide team building event, or an elaborate corporate awards dinner, The Dana on Mission Bay has a variety of indoor and outdoor spaces designed for group events. We invite you to contact our Conference Center Team today to learn more about your opportunities for a waterfront business meeting in San Diego, your guests will be talking about for months to come! The Dana on Mission Bay is the perfect solution for your business meeting in San Diego. Any questions? Feel free to reach out to our team directly, or visit our FAQ page to learn more!

Two people cheersing drinks in front of pool

01 Feb 2026

The Perfect 3-Day San Diego Weekend Itinerary

By The Dana

New year, new energy, and the perfect excuse for a little fun and relaxation. If you have been dreaming about a coastal getaway, consider this your sign to stop dreaming and start packing. Winter is the ideal time to slow down, reset, and enjoy a beach escape in sunny San Diego.

Here at The Dana on Mission Bay, days unfold at your own pace. Peaceful waterfront views, fresh coastal air, and a laid-back tropical vibe set the tone for a stay that feels both refreshing and effortless. Whether you are lounging by the bay or simply soaking in the scenery, this is your chance to truly unwind.

Feeling spontaneous? Even better. Grab a bag and head to The Dana for a weekend filled with great food, festive moments, and classic San Diego sunshine. With our Winter Reset Offer, getting away is easier and more affordable than ever. All you have to do is arrive... we take care of the rest with this perfectly planned 3-day San Diego itinerary.

Day 1: Settle In at The Dana on Mission Bay & Stay Local

Vibe: Easy, relaxed, day in San Diego with minimal planning, hanging out at or near the hotel, and enjoying a slower SoCal pace.

Check into The Dana

Let the vacation fun begin! We invite guests to grab your complimentary welcome drink from Firefly or our Lobby Pantry and ease into your San Diego vacation. Spend some time enjoying the onsite resort-style amenities our hotel has to offer, including two outdoor swimming pools and Jacuzzis, bicycle rentals, an onsite marina, tropical pool bar, fitness center, and more! After some downtime, there are plenty of exciting things to do in San Diego, just minutes from your guestroom.

Adventure Water Sports

Rent wave runners, kayaks, a pontoon boat, stand-up paddleboards, and more right here onsite at The Dana from our friends at Adventure Water Sports. Spend the afternoon soaking up the San Diego sunshine and exploring our beautiful bay. You just may even get to say hi to some sunbathing sea lions!

Take a Waterfront Walk

guests walking on the property with a dog

One of the best ways to experience Mission Bay is by taking a walk along the waterfront loop just outside our hotel doors. This scenic path winds around calm bay waters, offering beautiful views, fresh coastal air, and an easy, peaceful way to explore the area at your own pace. Whether it’s a morning stroll or a sunset walk, the Mission Bay loop is a simple yet unforgettable part of your stay.

Grab a Sweet Treat

Treat yourself to a fresh, feel-good açaí bowl or smoothie from nearby Juice Wave in Mission Beach or Açaí Carioca in Pacific Beach. So good, you’ll be thinking about it all day.

Explore Belmont Park

Belmont Park is a classic beachfront amusement park packed with old-school charm and endless fun. Ride the historic roller coaster, play a round of mini golf, try your luck at carnival games, and explore a variety of dining, shopping, and entertainment options — all right on the sand in San Diego.

Shop ‘Till You Drop

From quirky surf shops to locally owned boutiques lining the boardwalk, shopping in San Diego is a laid-back way to slow down and enjoy the coast. Browse favorites like Jack’s Surfboards, Sun Diego, and Mission Beach Surf Shop, where beachwear, souvenirs, and local style capture the easygoing San Diego vibe.

Catch Happy Hour

Raise a glass to your San Diego vacation with happy hour at Draft, a favorite beachfront bar at Belmont Park known for its ocean views and lively atmosphere. Catch the sunset with a craft beer in hand, then keep the evening going at nearby spots like Cannonball for rooftop dining or Wonderland Ocean Pub in Ocean Beach for relaxed bites by the water. Come for the drinks, stay for the coastal vibes.

Dinner at Firefly

Enjoy a bayside dinner at our onsite restaurant, Firefly Eatery & Bar, and prepare to be wowed with your choice of creative cocktails and delicious dishes like the Baked Lobster Mac and Cheese, Petite Filet, and Pacific Seared Salmon, and don’t forget the Crème Brûlée Cheesecake!

Day 2: Explore Like a Local

Vibe: Enjoying the sunny day and fresh air while exploring San Diego neighborhoods, experiencing the amazing food, and learning about different cultures.

Morning Coffee + Brunch at a Local Favorite

Coffee shop — Photo: @**lets.get.sippin**

Visit SuperBloom at the Mission Bay Beach Club near The Dana for a morning treat of locally roasted coffee and breakfast tacos to get the day started.

Explore a Walkable San Diego Neighborhood

Take a leisurely stroll through some of San Diego’s most beloved neighborhoods — Little Italy, North Park, or La Jolla — where sunny sidewalks lead to local boutiques, art galleries, cafés, and ocean views. Each area offers its own distinct vibe, from Little Italy’s lively piazzas and Italian eateries to North Park’s creative, craft-forward energy and La Jolla’s coastal charm. Along the way, browse unique shops for souvenirs, soak up the California sunshine, and experience the character that makes each community special.

Have Lunch at a Popular Local Restaurant

Treat yourself to a leisurely lunch in San Diego at a local fave like Coco Maya’s rooftop restaurant in Little Italy, La Jolla’s Beeside Balcony, or South Park’s The Rose.

Take an Afternoon Coastal Walk or Light Hike

San Diego is perfect for a walk along the shore or hike on a popular trail. Explore San Diego along the Pacific Beach boardwalk, Mission Bay boardwalk, and Torrey Pines Nature Reserve for unique coastal views of San Diego.

Evening of Live Music

Go with the flow and enjoy an evening of live music at our sister hotel's outdoor venue, Humphreys Concerts by the bay. See your favorite bands and performers at this popular waterfront venue in San Diego. Check out the upcoming concert schedule here — and stay tuned to their full summer lineup, dropping soon!

Movie and a Swim

movie by the pool with a large full moon in the background

End the evening back at the hotel with The Dana’s Dive-In Movie Nights by the heated Tropical Pool. The splash-worthy evening features a family-friendly flick and happens every night at sundown — weather permitting!

Day 3: Enjoy a Relaxing Morning in With a Memorable Send-Off

Vibe: Have a calm and relaxing morning at The Dana with an unhurried, reflective, and peaceful attitude.

Enjoy a Leisurely Breakfast or Brunch

Mosey over to the onsite Firefly Eatery & Bar for a yummy breakfast with a view! Enjoy the Surfer Burrito or Eggs Benedict with a Bloody Mary to get your last day in San Diego started.

Take a Stroll on the Beach

Nothing says stress-free like a walk on the beach in San Diego. Grab a coffee at the popular Olive Café, known for their viral social media posts about their AMAZING Banana Bread Lattes! Then head down to the PB or Mission Bay Boardwalk next door for a final walk to enjoy the ocean air.

Do Some Shopping in San Diego

Head to nearby Bird Rock, a local, laid-back, beachy neighborhood to check out some local shops like Bird Rock Surf Shop, a locally owned shop for cute gifts and souvenirs from San Diego.

Get in Relax Mode

End your vacation to San Diego on a peaceful and relaxing note with a massage before you head home. Book our Romance on the Bay Package that includes a massage for two for the ultimate vacation relaxation!

Head Back Home & Say Bye to the Bay

Safe travels home as you are relaxed and refreshed from your amazing experience at The Dana on Mission Bay for your San Diego escape!

Escape to the Dana on Mission Bay this Winter

Relax and get away from it all at The Dana on Mission Bay. It’s the perfect place to slow down, unwind, and rejuvenate in San Diego. Enjoy resort-style amenities, the perfect location near the best things to do in San Diego, and an attentive team that is here to help you make the most of your vacation getaway!

women relaxing on a lounge chair reading a book

01 Jan 2026

Why a Midweek Winter Stay in San Diego Is Pure Relaxation

By The Dana

Ready to relax and unwind from the hectic holiday hustle and bustle? Need to get away and focus on YOU and enjoy a little breathing room to decompress and let the old year go? Anxious to set those wellness-oriented New Year resolutions into action and enjoy healthy routines? We hear you…..and we have the perfect plan!

An escape to sunny San Diego is calling! An exhilarating weekday getaway to the bayfront is an excellent opportunity to destress, relax, motivate, and get you ready for an exciting 2026 ahead. And…did you know that the winter months in San Diego are actually some of the best days to plan an escape to beautiful San Diego? Yes, indeed!

Relax & Unwind on Mission Bay

Not only do we have near-perfect weather in our seaside city during the winter months, but weekday visits to San Diego are even better if you are looking to truly escape from it all. While the rest of the country is covered in snow, we are loving life here in warm and breezy San Diego. Winter weekdays are amazing here at The Dana on Mission Bay: The pace is slower, the crowds are fewer, and The Dana offers a tropical playground with landscaped grounds and resort-style amenities including two outdoor heated pools, hot tubs, a waterfront setting, and onsite marina, that is exactly what you need to rest, relax, and renew! Who’s ready for these great winter wellness activities in San Diego?

Winter Wellness & Relaxation in San Diego

WFH (Work From Hotel)

If duty calls, but you are part of today’s modern remote workforce, it is the perfect time to take advantage of this perk and work from the bay for a week (or two)! Enjoy a work environment with more breathing room, tropical landscaping, and water views, and all the conveniences you need to get the job done, including complimentary wi-fi. And…during your work breaks, be sure to sneak in a walk along the water and delicious food and drinks from our very own Firefly Eatery and Bar!

Get Out on the Water in San Diego

Your winter beach wellness vacation is not complete until you get out on the water in San Diego! Guests of The Dana have easy access to all the best water sports in San Diego with our friends at Adventure Water Sports, conveniently located onsite at our Mission Bay hotel. From paddleboards and wave runners to ski boats and kayaks, you’ll have fun exploring, exercising, and spending some time in the California sunshine with the ultimate water day from Adventure Water Sports.

Work Up a Sweat at the Fitness Center & Beyond

Keep your health-oriented New Year’s resolutions with plenty of ways to stay active in San Diego. From beach yoga and scenic waterfront walks to paddleboarding and cycling along the bay, staying fit feels more like fun here. Back at The Dana, our onsite state-of-the-art Fitness Center makes it easy to stick to your routine, or start a new one, with treadmills, ellipticals, stationary bikes, and a full selection of weights to keep your blood pumping.

Explore With Your Four-Legged Best Friend

Your best pal deserves a break from the holiday hustle, too — and they’re more than welcome to join you for a winter escape on the bay. As one of the top pet-friendly hotels in San Diego, The Dana on Mission Bay has everything you and your pup need for a healthy, relaxing getaway. From a custom keepsake water bowl and dog treats to disposable bags and a curated list of dog-friendly restaurants, parks, and attractions, we make traveling with your furry friend easy. Pets are also welcome at all outdoor tables at Firefly Eatery & Bar and along our scenic waterfront walking paths — perfect for daily exercise and soaking up that San Diego sunshine together. San Diego is a true dog-friendly paradise, with endless spots for you and your pup to explore.

Relax in the Pools and Spas

Few things feel as refreshing as a swim in the pool — or as relaxing as a soak in the hot tub. This winter at The Dana, we invite you to enjoy both. With two spectacular outdoor pools and spas, your wellness routine comes with sunshine, fresh air, and stunning surroundings. Take in sweeping views of Mission Bay from our infinity Bayside Pool and let yourself drift into a tropical daydream — where relaxation and comfort come together effortlessly.

Take a Bike Ride Around the Bay

Get out and explore Mission Bay with a complimentary bike ride for guests of The Dana. Soak in the fresh, coastal air, beautiful waterfront scenery, and enjoy a leisurely ride and a wonderful adventure on two wheels in beautiful San Diego this winter.

Tee Off at a San Diego Golf Course

There’s no better way to soak up San Diego’s winter sunshine — and easily hit your 10,000 steps — than a round of golf. Just minutes from The Dana, Mission Bay Golf Course and Practice Center offers a scenic 18-hole executive course that’s welcoming for all skill levels and perfect for a relaxed day on the greens. For a truly iconic San Diego golf experience, head north to Torrey Pines Golf Course, where dramatic ocean views set the stage for the annual Farmers Insurance Open, held January 21–25, 2026. Golfers and spectators alike will love watching the pros tee off above the Pacific. Other local favorites like Coronado Golf Course and Balboa Park Golf Course offer equally stunning backdrops and unforgettable play.

Your Winter Wellness Escape Starts at The Dana on Mission Bay

Grab your favorite furry friend and plan your winter wellness escape to San Diego. The Dana on Mission Bay is the perfect place to relax and unwind with a variety of ways to decompress and get motivated for healthier routines in the new year. In fact, we have created the perfect package just for the occasion — our Rest & Relaxation Package, featuring a daily $50 dining credit and 1pm late check out to soak up the most of your Mission Bay escape. Book your pet-friendly waterfront or marina view suite at The Dana today for an amazing winter getaway to sunny San Diego that will relax, inspire, and rejuvenate!