Such a great city. Making your own candles at a historic candle shop is certainly one of these activities. We use cookies to ensure that we give you the best experience on our website. Got limited time? Old Town San Diego, we think, is best experienced on a sunny day when youre not in a rush. Explore Old Town San Diego State Historic Park's sunrise and sunset, moonrise and moonset. Looking for fun things to do in Old Town San Diego? Its youve got a sweet tooth, then you absolutely need to add this delicious stop-off to your list of things to do in Old Town, San Diego. The Museum's were closed due to Covid but there was still tons to see. The maracas in Old Town are unique, coming in all sizes, colors and materials. In addition to being a fascinating museum worth visiting, the First San Diego Courthouse in Old Town built in 1872 is a popular spot for special events commemorating the regions culture, history, and noteworthy individuals. This post may contain affiliate links. If you want a paranormal experience beyond standard tours, try the after-hours paranormal investigation tour. I regularly save 10-30% on rental cars. We put together a list of where to find fun gifts and souvenirs while you explore this historic neighborhood. And, in case you are wondering - my other top choices for visitors to explore in the San Diego area are 1) Their infamous SD zoo! So Diego offers a Tequila, Tacos, and Tombstones tour. There are loads of things to do in Old Town, San Diego. Inside the park, there are plenty of buildings, museums, monuments, to show the various aspects of San Diegos early history and culture from 1820 until 1870. Old Town 4th of July Location: Old Town State Historic Park Time: 11:00 AM to 3:00 PM Fireworks: No Coronado 4th of July Celebration in Coronado Location: Various Locations on Coronado Time: 7:00 AM to 9:00 PM Fireworks: Yes Crown City Classic 4th of July Race Location: Coronado Tidelands Park Date: July 4, 2023 Time: 7:00 to 9:00 AM Fireworks: No Old Town San Diego - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (2023) This is a historical site located within the Old Town State Historic Park, so its something you can visit when walking around. Not really. Old Town is the best place for Mexcian food! The key word there is tried. Theres room for a picnic at the park near the monument. Be sure to check out the lovely views from the window as you walk by. This is a free attraction, although donations are accepted. Old Town San Diego Tours 38 Tours & Activities Historical Tours 69 Tours & Activities Food Tours 39 Tours & Activities Why you are seeing these recommendations Reserve Now & Pay Later Tequila, Tacos and Tombstones Culinary Tour of San Diego 133 Reviews Badge of Excellence San Diego, United States Ultimate Old Town San Diego Guide for 2023 [with Video] Between the restaurants, shopping and free activities in Old Town, how could you really go wrong? $$ - $$$ Italian Pizza Vegetarian Friendly, $$ - $$$ Mexican Southwestern Latin, $$ - $$$ Mexican Latin Vegetarian Friendly, $$ - $$$ Mexican Vegetarian Friendly Vegan Options, $$ - $$$ Mexican Southwestern Vegetarian Friendly, This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Visit it on your own or as part of a San Diego ghost tour! This attraction gives you exclusive access to rooms off-limits to the public. more, This old and historic town is not just the oldest neighborhood in San Diego but also the location of the first European settlement in California. 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Glad I could provide some entertainment for you!! The Old Town San Diego State Historic Park is one of the best things to do in Old Town, San Diego, because its at the very heart of Old Town, and a lot of the most interesting and fascinating historical places are located inside! San Diego with a Toddler and Baby - Baby Can Travel What's the best way to see Old Town San Diego? Discover Downtown San Diego & The Gaslamp Quarter | Official Ca. Travel If your trip to Old Town includes your dog, then head over to Freds Mexican Cafe and Cantina. If you want to park for free, Id recommend parking at the Old Own Transit Center. They search the top carriers to find the best deal at no extra cost. Google Old Town San Diego Guide and you will find contact information Youll want to allocate an hour to an hour and a half to participate in everything the center offers. At Old Town Market alone, you can browse 40 unique indoor and outdoor shops selling goods from Mexico, Ecuador, Guatemala, Peru, Vietnam, and other regions. It served as a general store, courthouse, and private residence. It always makes, This view Taken from the Time Out Market buil, Brunch at @jackswifefreda - It's perfect for a sum, Bryant Park is one of my happy places. Theyre so good. Our Ultimate List for 2023 That You Need to Try! I'm Nikki. A California Historical Landmark, the Whaley House has been featured on numerous ghost-hunting shows, including Americas Most Haunted and Ghost Adventures. Now, this theatre might not be on a par with Broadway or the West End, but thats kind of what we love about it. Located in Fiesta de Reyes, Old Towns Most Haunted Ghost Tours will take you and your party on guided tours to some of the districts ghostly haunts. , I could keep walking for years, on the same street, I have strong opinions about hummus. Use promo code lajollamom for $5 off. 30 Things to do Alone in Dubai Perfect for Solo travelers! If you want to stay the night in Old Town, San Diego, then this hotel is probably the best option! Read more about San Diego: 26 things to do alone in San Diego. He is a good boy and guessing about 3 or 4 months. #NYC #newyorkci, We spent the day at Chatsworth House, where Pride, A cute little moment on the High Line WANDER through lush gardens and plazas. Little Italy (San Diego) - What to Know BEFORE You Go (2023) Sit awhile and have some street tacos as you enjoy the music that plays. Built by comandante Jos Mara Estudillo and his son, lieutenant Jos Antonio Estudillo, this 12-room house has a beautiful inner courtyard that invites introspection. Theater-sold concessions can be brought into the performance. Location: 3985 Harney St, San Diego, CA 92110. , Location: on Harney Street between San Diego Ave and Congress St, Its hard to walk past these things and not take a pic! Its one of the best things to do in San Diego, and a fun way to spend an afternoon during a San Diego bachelorette party too! Sunday November 4, 92% of travelers recommend this experience. An example of the diverse selection to be found in Old Town includes: Look out for the tortilla makers at Coyote Cafe and Old Town Mexican Cafe, and be sure to order fresh tortillas (they come with salsa and butter). I would definitely recommend Old Town. If youre looking for things to do in Old Town, San Diego its a good idea to know why this part of the city is so popular and important. Website info: The Safari Park is a bit of a drive from central San Diego, but it's worth the visit. I hate spam. I also like this coloring booklet, which is a few pages long. Top 21 Best Diners In NYC With Something For Every Budget! If youre here on a Saturday or Sunday, consider visiting the Junipero Serra Museum on Presidio Park grounds. Whether youre driving your own vehicle or got a cheap rental car, parking is a bit of a challenge. TOP 27 Best Desserts in Las Vegas! San Diego Restaurants Old Town Restaurants View map Sort by: Highest Rating 2022 Sponsored Dockside 1953 663 reviews Closed Now SPECIAL OFFER Seafood, American $$ - $$$ Menu The PANCAKES are the best we've had. Put Old Town San Diego into your car's GPS, or use the Old Town State Historic Park Robinson-Rose Visitor Center address (4002 Wallace St, San Diego, CA 92110). Its usually not crowded here, giving you space for quiet contemplation. And, theres great shopping and food, too. Parking is free. 18 Adults-Only Resorts in California For the Perfect Child-Free Vacation! Today you can catch theatrical productions like El Huracn, a multi-generational lyrical tale about the power of forgiveness, or cabaret-style entertainment. I did not come across any restrooms, so that was inconvenient. Visit Old Town - Where California Began - Old Town San Diego Guide You may experience living history demos, live music, dancing, and more just outside this old courthouse. Tripadvisor gives a Travelers Choice award to accommodations, attractions and restaurants that consistently earn great reviews from travelers and are ranked within the top 10% of properties on Tripadvisor. Everything travel for jet setters, city breakers, luxury lovers and sun seekers. The admission is also pretty affordable too so thats a bonus. Day 2 - San Diego - Old Town was cool (see prior TikTok of all the flo AWESOME LITTLE FIND for day or and night life. We found 899 things to do for you near Old Town San Diego Rose's Tasting Room 21 Reviews 2754 Calhoun St Inside Fiesta de Reyes Near Juan St. entrance, San Diego, CA 92110-2706 1 minute from Old Town San Diego Plaza del Pasado 7 Reviews 2754 Calhoun St, San Diego, CA 92110-2706 1 minute from Old Town San Diego Old Town San Diego State Historic Park If you know you will visit Old Town San Diego, have the kids color it in advance so they can spot familiar signs and buildings while there. Be sure to book your stay through the hotels website. Old Town San Diego - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go. Food & Drink You'll find every type of cuisine in the Gaslamp Quarter and options are plentiful for al fresco dining on the sidewalks of this dynamic and cosmopolitan district, sky high at a rooftop lounge, or in an intimate and ornately designed fine dining restaurant. Location: 2645 San Diego Ave, San Diego, CA 92110. ;). Purchase fair trade merchandise from around the world, including folk art, jewelry, fashion, and home dcor. You can take a look online at recommended stops or grab a tour map at the visitor center for a small fee. So take a read below! Courtyard by Marriott San Diego Old Town. Location: 2648 Calhoun St, San Diego, CA 92110. Its a great option for things to do in Old Town, San Diego. San Diego Fourth of July Fireworks and Celebrations Get the Birria Torta (fried cheese!) Closest to the Old Town State Historic Park is an area with restaurants and 19 shops, Fiesta de Reyes. 18 Best Thrift Stores in NYC for Retro, Vintage & Unique Finds! You'll also find one of the most haunted houses in America. Dinner in Old Town? - San Diego Forum - Tripadvisor 2435 Jefferson St, San Diego, CA, 92110. 10 Incredible Silent Retreats in the UK For peace and Serenity, What to wear New York City Style Ideas for Every Season (and Real Photos! INDEPENDENT AFFILIATE, CADENCE TRAVEL Heres everything you need to know! Check for deals here>>. I hadn't heard of a lot of these, so definitely adding to my list, thanks! The El Jefe Margarita is large enough that the Old Town restaurant requires 2 or more people to order it! You can see the tortilla ladies (as the restaurant calls them) through the front window. I feel like Roses is a bit of a hidden gem. The Carnitas are probably their signature dish, and people come from miles around to taste them! Ultimate Old Town San Diego Guide for 2023 [with Video] You will need at least twenty minutes for this fun project. Casa de Reyes: A vibrant restaurant serving favorite Mexican dishes, including rolled tacos, tostada salads, burritos, tamales, and much more. Artazum / Shutterstock.com Unfortunately, only one of its dozen small museum exhibits was open on the day of our visit. #41 of 476 things to do in San Diego Points of Interest & Landmarks Open now 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM Visit website Write a review About This old and historic town is not just the oldest neighborhood in San Diego but also the location of the first European settlement in California. Once in, you can take your time and study all the exhibits, including the outside covered wagon displays. As part of the California Department of Parks and Recreation, Old Town makes living history programs available to all ages. Things To Do in Old Town San Diego Old Town San Diego Heritage Park Address : 4002 Wallace St, San Diego, CA 92110 Website Old Town is a very old area with a lot of historical chunks that deserve to be preserved. Step into the past and get an up . Built in 1925, the museum presents archaeological finds and exhibits about Californias early history. Speed. and this is a great guide for old town! This is theatre in the heart of San Diegos Old Town, and if you can time your visit for a performance, youre in for a treat! U, Don't ask me to choose! Next on our list of things to do in Old Town, San Diego, its another great choice for food. City breaks And its a really interesting way to see more of Old Town, which makes it a top choice for things to do in Old Town, San Diego. Visiting Old Town in San Diego A Hub for History, Restaurants, Shopping and More! Read more about San Diego: Top 20 places for the best Mexican food in San Diego! Frequently Asked Questions About Old Town Trolley San Diego ENGAGE with rich history at museums, historic sites, and cultural events. The list is extensive; weve included a few here. All times are local time ( PDT) for Old Town San Diego State Historic Park. Cousins Candy Shop sells old-fashioned sweets, including saltwater taffy and homemade fudge. Next up on our list of things to do in Old Town, San Diego, its a visit to the Cosmopolitan Hotel. 5 Things to Do in Old Town San Diego From free museums and historical demonstrations to fresh tortillas and a storied house that's believed to be haunted, there's a lot to do in Old Town San. Lot C is located right off Harney Street. The area contains some buildings from the 19th century including the first San Diego courthouse. Its not a long strip but a lot of stores and museums to see. There are lots of walking trails within the park and plenty of scenic areas to enjoy. Location: 2637 San Diego Ave, San Diego, CA 92110. Tripadvisor. Historic, budget, and friendly hotels and motels to consider for your vacation. If history is your thing, then you will love visiting and seeing a little slice of history. The Old Town of the city is one of them. Many restaurants here offer patio dining, with beautiful flowers, bubbling fountains, and firepits to add to the ambiance. Friday, July 7. Location: 2415 San Diego Ave, San Diego, CA 92110. And it would take dayssss to eat at all the Old Town San Diego restaurants! This was better than anything we have ever had. Our last visit we heard a Mexcian band singing classic rock and roll, which was actually really fun! 52 Surprising Things to do in Old Town San Diego (A Walking Tour) The McCoy House was built in 1869 by Irish-born immigrant James McCoywho became fluent in Spanishas a wedding gift for his wife, Winnifred. Buy a ticket once, and then spend the rest of the day conveniently hopping on and off. My kind of place! All Rights Reserved. Next on our list of things to do in Old Town, San Diego, its La Dulceria Mexican Candy.