Old Town San Diego marks the site of the first Spanish settlement on the U.S. West Coast and features 12 acres of Mexican lore and historical sites, colorful shops, restaurants and more.

The entrance of Old town. Old Town is a neighborhood in San Diego, California. It contains 230 acres (93 ha) and is bounded by Interstate 8 on the north, Interstate 5 on the west, Mission Hills on the east and south. [1] It is the oldest settled area in San Diego and is the site of the first European settlement in present-day California. [2]

Special Events. Old Town buzzes with a vibrant mix of historical attractions, lively eateries, and bustling shops, offering a rich cultural experience all day.

Learn about the Kumeyaay, the original inhabitants of San Diego County, and the founding of California at Old Town San Diego, the first permanent Spanish settlement in California. Explore the historic buildings, museums, and exhibits that preserve the rich heritage of 1821 to 1872 period.

Explore the birthplace of California and the heritage of San Diego at Old Town. Learn about the history, culture, and ghosts of this area through museums, parks, markets, and trolley tours.

Discover historical landmarks, delicious food, and cultural experiences in Old Town San Diego with this guide to top activities.

Through museum exhibitions, restored historic buildings, living history demonstrations and special events, Old Town San Diego State Historic Park offers visitors a glimpse at the converging cultures that transformed San Diego from a Kumeyaay village to a Mexican pueblo to an American Settlement.

San Diego Old Town invites you to eat regional and Mexican specialties, or try Italian, Thai or Japanese food - you have an array of options in San Diego Old Town. Dine on traditional Mexican food at Barra Barra Restaurant & Saloon, or for homemade pastas, eat at Jack & Guilio's Italian Restaurant.

Old Town San Diego Guide: Restaurants, Shopping, Parking, and Things to Do. Find out what the best restaurants, shopping and attractions are in the historic Old Town San Diego area for a half-day visit. Last updated: February 4, 2024