Experience Old Town San Diego State Historic Park just steps from the front door. An easy and quick 2-minute walk to the city's finest authentic Mexican cuisine, vibrant shops, and historic landmarks. The magic of Old Town the Birthplace of California awaits you.

A split image showing an outdoor scene of a vintage trolley bus with people standing nearby on the left, and a hotel room interior with two beds, green and white walls, and hardwood floors on the right.

THE GATEWAY TO OLD TOWN

Old Town San Diego is the historic heart of the city and the site of the first permanent Spanish settlement in California. Established in 1769, the neighborhood features the Old Town San Diego State Historic Park, which preserves authentic adobe homes, museums, and 19th-century colonial life. Today, it is a vibrant cultural hub known for its lively Mexican restaurants, boutique shopping, and historic sites. History and Culture Birthplace of California: The area marks the first European settlement in California, starting with a Spanish mission and presidio. Kumeyaay Nation: Long before European arrival, the area was the ancestral home of the Kumeyaay people, who lived there for thousands of years.

  • State Historic Park: The park includes over 30 historic sites and museums across 230 acres.

    • Many of the restored 1800s buildings are used for living history demonstrations and exhibits.

  • Dining:

    • Over 30 restaurants operate in the district, highly regarded for authentic Mexican food, colorful patios, and live mariachi music.

  • Shopping:

    • The area features more than 70 unique shops, markets, and plazas, such as Bazaar del Mundo and Fiesta de Reyes.Museums & Tours:

  • Attractions:

    • The Whaley House Museum, often cited as one of the most haunted houses in the country, and the Wells Fargo Museum located in the historic Colorado House

  • Located just northwest of downtown San Diego, the neighborhood is bordered by Interstate 8 and Interstate 5.

    • It features the Old Town Transit Center, providing direct and convenient public transit via Amtrak, the Coaster, and the San Diego Trolley.