Old Town San Diego State Historical Park

San Diego, CA
4.3
3 Reviews
Old Town San Diego State Historical Park
View all photos

Details

Distance
1 miles
Route Type
Loop

Features

Groups
Food Nearby
Ada Accessible
Family Friendly
Bathrooms
Easy Parking
See all 7 tags
Download
Directions
Check-in
Track

About this place

Added by Lucas Bremer

The "birthplace of California" (Old Town San Diego State Historical Park) has become one of San Diego's must-visit spots.

From where Father Junipero Serra established the first of 21 California Missions in 1769, this area was the first permanent European settlement in the San Diego region.

Today, past and present meet in a preserved historical park located near Downtown San Diego. You can explore life as it was in the mid-1800's through historical buildings and museums. There are more than 20 buildings dating back to 1821. In addition, Old Town has amazing Mexican Food, touristy shops, and often live entertainment and concerts. Year round sunshine helps make this a open air attraction with people walking from site to site.

If you are into the paranormal you can book a tour of the Whaley House, said to be America's most haunted.

You can walk from shop to shop, or see the whole mile or two historical park on foot only. Parking is available at the corners of the park or along adjacent streets. More information on the park can be found on the State of California's website.

Show more
Suggest an edit

Leave No Trace

Always practice Leave No Trace ethics on your adventures and be sure to follow local regulations. Please explore responsibly.
Community
Reviews
Photos
Check-ins
Ashley N
10/21/2025
Cute place to walk around. It was easier for us to park at the parking lot of the Caltrans building across the street and ...
Show more
Report
Crystal Sibson
8/14/2020
Fun to Explore
This is such a fun place to explore. Get some good food then walk around to see all the historical sites
Report
Laura Hill
8/9/2020
Fun place to walk a bit
I spent a few hours with my father, wandering around all the museums and touristy spots. It was fun way to spend an ...
Show more
Report