Old Town, California (San Diego)

The rich heritage of both California and the city can be traced to the one-and-a-half mile area of Old Town San Diego. The fusion of history, people and cultures that came together to create the birth of California are carefully preserved by a number of city, state and national landmarks and parks.

Old Town State Historic Park recreates the birth of the city taking visitors back to 19th century life. The park is the most visited amongst California's state park system. Landmark buildings, museums and exhibits inform visitors about the early history of San Diego. Among them are five original adobes, a schoolhouse and a blacksmith shop.

San Diego history is also encapsulated at Heritage Park, located just up the hill. Original Victorian homes from the founding of the city have been moved and fully restored for visitors to experience them in their original glory.

San Diego Avenue is the main street in Old Town and home to San Diego's first commercial theater, the former county courthouse and many other historic buildings. One of the most famous addresses on the street is the Whaley House, which is believed to be the most haunted place in the nation. Tours of the home are available if you dare!

A trip to Old Town is not complete with out sampling the authentic regional cuisine. Many of the restaurants have developed their menus with genuine recipes from the early history of the area. Although Mexican and regional fare is what the area is famous for there are is also a wide array of styles to choice from including Creole, Italian, Peruvian, Japanese, and fresh seafood.

The culture and history of a city and state await to be discovered in Old Town.

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Travel & Events

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• la jolla cove
• la jolla shores
• UCSD
• scripps
• salk institute
• old town
• mexican food
• mexican
• birth of california