Old Town San Diego is San Diego's oldest neighborhood, spanning 230 acres near Mission and Bankers Hills. The neighborhood was the site of present-day California's first European settlement, established in 1769 as the San Diego Presidio and Mission San Diego de Alcalá, and remained San Diego's city center until the mid-19th century. Today, the neighborhood is home to the National Register of Historic Places-listed Old Town San Diego State Historic Park, which is home to a wide variety of preserved historic buildings and public educational visitor attractions. Additional historic buildings are preserved as part of Heritage Park, including the city's first synagogue. More than 100 specialty shops are located throughout the neighborhood, including 12 art galleries and the authentic Mexican-style Bazaar del Mundo Shops. Public special events held in the district include the Old Town Art Festival, San Diego's Dia de los Muertos, and the two-day Fiesta Navidad holiday festival.
Ready to go?
Step 1: Visit the website and book directly and/or call ahead to confirm their hours.
Step 2: If you are spending the night, search for Hotel Deals nearby. Read the reviews, then call the hotel directly to book and ask for a romantic, kid-friendly or pet-friendly amenity if you need it.
Step 3: If you are flying, compare Flights. Book directly with the airline, add your frequent flier number and reserve your seat.
Step 4: Estimate your driving time using Google Maps (click the blue 'Directions' arrow in the search box).
Need some more help?
Read our Reservations & Travel Planning Tips guide.