Old Town San Diego

The basics

The main attraction is Old Town San Diego State Historic Park, which offers insight into life in early San Diego. Stop by an old schoolhouse and Casa de Estudillo, a restored adobe home filled with period furniture. Other diversions include Mexican restaurants and live mariachi performances. Don't miss the Bazaar del Mundo, an open-air market full of shops selling jewelry, pottery, and other goods. 

Old Town San Diego tours are great if you want an insider's take on this historic part of town, and some combine food and drink tastings with visits to historic buildings and spots such as El Campo Santo Cemetery. Many city tours of San Diego stop in Old Town, including hop-on hop-off trolleys, food tours, and ghost tours.

Things to know before you go

• Old Town is a must for history buffs and first-time visitors to San Diego.

• There's a visitor center in the main plaza where you can ask questions and pick up brochures.

• Public parking lots and street parking are available.

How to get there

Old Town is northwest of downtown San Diego, about a 10-minute drive from Balboa Park. A good place to start your visit is at the Old Town State Historic Park, at the intersection of San Diego Avenue and Twiggs Street. The Old Town transit center on Taylor Street serves San Diego trolleys and buses.

When to get there

Go during the day to see the historical sites of the park, or arrive around dinnertime to enjoy the area's lively evening atmosphere. Cinco de Mayo festivities take place every year; and for live entertainment such as folk dancing, head to the Fiesta de Reyes Stage.

Whaley House Museum

Many people consider Old Town's Whaley House Museum one of the most haunted houses in the city, making it a popular visitor attraction, especially on ghost tours (most of which also stop at the allegedly haunted Hotel del Coronado). More recently it's been featured on TV and in books for paranormal activity.

Ways to explore

At Old Town San Diego State Historic Park, stop by Casa de Estudillo, a restored adobe home. Other diversions include Mexican restaurants and live mariachi performances—don't miss the Bazaar del Mundo, an open-air market full of shops selling jewelry, pottery, and more.

Old Town San Diego tours are great if you want an insider's take on this storied part of town, and some combine food and drink tastings with visits to historic buildings and spots such as El Campo Santo Cemetery. Many city tours of San Diego stop in Old Town, including hop-on hop-off trolleys, food tours, and ghost tours.

Accessibility

Old Town San Diego State Historic Park offers wheelchair-accessible pathways, accessible restrooms, and more. Some original adobe buildings have uneven surfaces and steps.

Age limits

None

What to pack

Sunscreen, hat, water bottle, cash for small vendors and street performers

What to wear

Casual, comfortable clothing, comfortable shoes for walking

Not allowed

Smoking, public disturbances, vandalism

Amenities

Restrooms, gift shops, visitor center, benches throughout

Address 

Old Town San Diego is located just north of downtown San Diego. It’s easily accessible from Interstate 5 and Interstate 8 by car, rideshare, or taxi.

Driving

Look for the Old Town Avenue exit. Free parking is available in several lots around the historic area, including on Juan Street and Twiggs Street.

Public transportation

The Old Town Transit Center is a major hub within walking distance of the Old Town State Historic Park, and is served by the San Diego Trolley (Blue and Green lines), Coaster commuter rail, and multiple bus routes.

Best times to visit

Weekday mornings tend to be quieter, while evenings bring a livelier atmosphere with music and outdoor dining.

Best days to visit

Weekdays can offer a more relaxed experience with smaller crowds. Weekends feature more street performers, mariachi bands, and demonstrations.

Best months to visit

Spring (March–May) and fall (September–November) offer comfortable temperatures and fewer tourists. Winter months are pleasant, but it can be cooler in the evenings.

Special events

Old Town celebrates just about everything it can think of, from Cinco de Mayo to Flag Day to Day of the Dead. There are also weekend markets and concerts happening all the time—check the official calendar to see what’s on.