For the Golden State, it all began here in 1769. Old Town San Diego, a community situated around 3.5 miles northwest of downtown San Diego, was the site of the first Spanish settlement in California. This neighborhood was the center of the city until the 1860s, when development and businesses started to shift to the present-day downtown area.
While its glorious past is long gone, the Old Town today remains home to several historic adobe buildings from the 1800s and features a wide selection of Mexican shops, crafts, and restaurants. Spend an afternoon here, and you will savor the vibrant history and culture that San Diego has to offer!
Photos taken at Old Town San Diego State Historic Park.
Tips
- Come visit during the weekday if possible, as parking can be quite a challenge over the weekends. More details on where to park: https://www.oldtownsandiego.org/parking/
- Be sure to check out Fiesta de Reyes, a great plaza to dine, shop, or just immerse yourself in some lively entertainment!
- (Ghost aficionados only) Tour The Whaley House, widely recognized as the most haunted house in America.