In 1542 the Spanish first came to what is now San Diego, but settlement did not start until 1769. In 1821 Mexico won independence from Spain, and along with it, California. In 1848 the Mexican War saw the annexation of California to the United States.

From about 1868, San Diego's "New Town" began to be built in what is now downtown San Diego. This led to a general decline of Old Town up until 1969 --the 200th anniversary of San Diego-- when the city's Bicentennial celebration returned Old Town to the public eye, and to the heart of San Diego.

Old Town San Diego, reachable from downtown via the Trolley, is now a state historical park holding a number of original adobe dwellings, plus the inevitable souvenir shops.

The stores and restaurants stay open until 10pm or later, but the best time to be around is during the afternoon, to enter the more interesting of the adobes on the daily free walking tour (2pm), which leaves from the Seeley Stable , just off the central plaza, home to many nicely preserved horse-drawn carriages and wagons from the nineteenth century. Details are available from the visitors center , 4002 Wallace St (daily 10am-5pm; tel 858/220-5422).

Old Town Links
Hotels | Restaurants | Attractions | Tours | Map | Bazaar Del Mundo | State Historic Park

Address: 4041 Harney Street, San Diego CA, 92110 Check Rates
Hotel Chain: Best Western
The Hacienda Hotel, likened to many world-class resorts, is where you can experience classic California tradition... Enjoy the atmosphere of a secluded hillside resort... Relax in the spacious comfort of your own suite, balcony, or courtyard. It's all in the heart of San Diego --- and for no more than you would expect to pay for an ordinary hotel room. More info Address: 1955 San Diego Avenue, San Diego CA, 92110 Check Rates
Hotel Chain: Comfort Inn
The Comfort Inn Airport at Old Town is a Mediterranean inspired Inn with a Southern California flair. Located in historical Old Town, we overlook San Diego Bay and Lindbergh Field. We offer 123 luxuriously appointed rooms, which include microwave/refrigerators, data ports, hairdryers, and iron/boards. Non-smoking rooms are also available. More info Address: 2435 Jefferson Street, San Diego CA, 92110 Check Rates
Hotel Chain: Courtyard by Mariott
Welcome to the Courtyard by Marriott Old Town, situated in the heart of San Diego's famed Historic Old Town. Take in a cozy fireside conversation in the comfort of our lobby sitting room or stroll amidst the variety of restaurants, shops, historical sites, art galleries and live entertainment in Old Town. Our gracious staff provides impeccable service and our central location makes us ideal for leisure and business travelers alike. More info Address: 4444 Pacific Highway, San Diego CA, 92110 Check Rates
Hotel Chain: Independent
The Old Town Inn is located just 2 1/2 miles from Sea World, 3 miles from the San Diego Zoo and minutes from San Diego's most famous attractions and beaches. Within walking distance of the Inn, you will find Historic Old Town State Park, featuring restaurants, shops, museums and artisans. Across the street from Old Town Inn is the San Diego Trolley/Transit Station. Here you can hop on the trolley and head to Downtown, the Convention Center, Qualcomm Stadium, the Mexican border and much more. More info

Baci Ristorante

Address: 1955 Morena Blvd., San Diego CA , 92110 Make Reservation
Baci Ristorante offers diners a hint of old world Italian charm, with plush booths, white tablecloths, and gracious servers clad in tuxedos. While the decor is subtly modern, the menu is classic, celebrating Northern Italian cuisine. Specialties include classic pasta dishes, veal, and fresh seafood, with especially tempting daily specials offered by Executive Chef Domenico Alioto. In addition to the cuisine, the restaurant’s charming and welcoming features--including an extensive wine list, elegant patio setting, and romantic main dining room--have made Baci a consistent favorite among locals for close to 30 years. More ...

Tio Leo's

Address: 5302 Napa Street, San Diego CA , 92110 Make Reservation
Tio Leo’s has provided San Diego with quality Mexican food since 1979. The family owned and run restaurant started with one location and expanded to four, by consistently sticking with their motto of “Great Food, Great Service, and Generous Portions.” Tio Leo’s menu offers a wide range of traditional Mexican dishes, as well as some unique specialties. The health-conscious will love Tio Leo’s “Healthy Choice” selections, such as Grilled Eggplant Tacos and Pollo Asado Rice Bowl; the ravenous will appreciate Tio Leo’s Ole’, a platter with a taco, chile relleno, tostada, enchilada, carne asada, beans, rice, sour cream and guacamole. Live Zydeco, Tango, and Jazz music provide entertainment on select evenings, while a weekday happy hour offers food and drink specials. More ...

El Agave

Address: 2304 San Diego Avenue, San Diego CA , 92110 Make Reservation
Seeped in the history and grand gastronomic traditions of Mexico, El Agave treats dining as a serious art. Ancient Mayan and Aztec techniques influence the preparation of dishes, while native Mexican ingredients such as Cuitlacoche pepper the menu. Bold flavors prevail, and seafood, steak, and chicken dishes are served with dramatic presentation and an almost mystical allure. One whole section of the menu is dedicated to Moles, dishes served with the richly complex sauce that embodies the essence of mestizo, or mixed influences of El Agave’s cuisine. A separate tequila menu offers over 750 selections of the mythical elixir. More ...

El Fandango

Address: 2734 Calhoun Street, San Diego CA , 92110 Make Reservation
Located in the heart of Old Town, El Fandango is a tribute to San Diego’s culinary history. Its name alludes to elaborate parties that were in vogue in California during the Gold Rush era, a time when the influence of French, English, and Eastern American cuisines mingled with local American and Mexican fare. El Fandango’s menu reflects this melding of traditions, offering both regional and “Cosmopolitan” dishes. Tacos de Pescada and the Burrito de Carnitas share a menu with Stuffed Lamb Chops, Barbequed Pork Spareribs, and Crepes a la Reina, resulting in a wonderfully diverse selection of authentic dishes. The historic atmosphere reflects the humble architecture of the 1800’s, providing an authentic setting for a deliciously unique dining experience. More ...