Old Town San Diego Travel Guide
When you think of San Diego, you most likely think about picture-perfect weather and beautiful beaches, but this city has so much more to offer. Old Town San Diego encapsulates that perfectly; it’s full of culture, historic charm, friendly faces, and plenty to see and do. From artisan shops and live mariachi music to breathtaking architecture and museums, there’s something for everyone. As a local, I’ve spent countless hours in Old Town San Diego and below, I’m sharing the best of the best - activities, restaurants, shopping, and more. Plus, as someone who’s tried it all, I’m breaking down where to find the best, most authentic tacos to ensure you have the ultimate Old Town experience.
old town san diego travel guide
best time of year to visit old town san diego
As far as weather and crowds go, the best time to visit Old Town is in the spring or fall. Old Town is a bit inland, so it has less of the coastal breeze and can feel warm at times, so I recommend visiting outside of peak summer season if you can avoid it. Weekdays are best for avoiding crowds, but you may stumble upon school field trips. If you visit on a sunny day, be sure to wear sunscreen and bring a water bottle.
Old Town is also known for their seasonal events, which are always worth checking out. They do draw a crowd, but are a wonderful way to experience more culture and learn about the origins of San Diego. A few notable events and activities:
Fiesta Old Town Cinco de Mayo - Definitely a celebration, try to Uber in as parking is crazy.
Día de los Muertos - Typically takes place November 1-2. Explore traditional altars throughout Old Town and live music/ folklorico dancing, plus family-friendly activities like sugar skull painting, flower making, and face painting. If you want to skip the crowds, decor is up all month long so you can still experience it outside of the festival dates, and there are a few activities each weekend in October.
Mormon Battalion Parade - Every January (typically the last Saturday of the month), there’s a historical reenactment parade, a Dutch oven cook-off, and family-friendly activities. Free for all.
Harney Street Market - Every Saturday and Sunday, recently celebrated their 25th anniversary. Lots of local artisans and small businesses.
parking tips for old town, san diego
Parking can be tricky, especially if there’s a festival going on. It’s mostly street parking with a few free lots, but they fill up quickly on the weekends. Be prepared to walk a few blocks. Another option is the Caltrans parking garage, which is open to the public on weekends (4050 Taylor St). If you want to avoid the hassle altogether, I do recommend taking the Trolley! There’s a stop at the Fashion Valley mall (just under 10 minutes away).
things to see and do in old town san diego
Whaley House Museum - Allegedly the most haunted house in America. Daytime and evening tours available (both self-guided and guided). I personally recommended the self-guided tours; the evening guided tour I did was maybe 35 minutes max and didn’t teach much. As far as the haunted aspect goes, I will say it’s one of those things where if you believe it’s creepy, it will feel creepy, but if you are anti-ghost and think the whole thing is silly, you won’t enjoy it much. My ghost story: I shot about 500 photos throughout the day (including in a dark aquarium) and everything turned out great, but every single photo I took inside the Whaley house was out of focus.
Old Town San Diego State Historic Park - Free, outdoor park with a handful of museums (some are closed on various days so check before). Guided tours are available, but I’ve enjoyed just walking around and reading the signage independently. Museums/ historical buildings include:
Mason Street Schoolhouse
First San Diego Courthouse
McCoy Museum
Robinson-Rose Visitor Center
La Casa de Estudillo
Seeley Stable and Blacksmith Shop
Colorado House
Machado Silvas Adobe
San Diego Union Building
Old Town Trolley Tours - Touristy, but it’s a great way to see Old Town (plus more of San Diego in general). You also don’t have to drive and get to avoid the hassle of finding parking. It’s also hop on/ off style so you can explore at your own pace.
Presidio Park - Home of the first Spanish settlement in California (established in 1769). Check out the Padre Cross monument and Witches Tower (located by the Juniper Serra parking lot), as well as other memorials and statues. Lots of grassy areas for picnics or letting kids run around.
Junipero Serra Museum - Located in Presidio Park, it’s historical but also gorgeous. You can explore the outside daily, but the inside is only open on the weekends. Runs on donations rather than a fixed admission fee. Nice photo spot with sweeping views of Old Town and Mission Valley.
Heritage County Park - Developed to preserve examples of the city’s historic Victorian architecture, they’re stunning and worth the short uphill walk. It’s quieter than the historic state park, and one of my favorite lesser-known spots.
Coral Tree Tea House - Experience authentic afternoon tea in a gorgeous, 19th century Victorian home. Open Friday through Sunday; reservations required. Located in Heritage County Park.
Immaculate Conception Catholic Church - Historic site that still offers church services; love the stained glass windows.
Mormon Battalion Historic Site - Built in honor of the LDS church members who served in the US Army's Mormon Battalion during the Mexican–American War. The interactive tour is around 45 minutes long, and does have religious undertones to it as modern-day LDS church members serve there.
where to eat in old town san diego
coffee + cafes
Flor and Seed Coffee Roasters - Cute, modern coffee shop. The Aztec mochas and dulce de leche latte are excellent; it’s the perfect place to stop before exploring the historic state park. Also love the chai; it’s not too spicy, but not too sweet.
Garden Coffee - Hidden gem with a local neighborhood feel and plenty of patio seating. They offer coffee flights earlier in the day, and the pastries are really good (not an afterthought, like other places). Relaxed, friendly vibe; they also sell plants. 10/10 chai as well.
Encuentro Cafe - Charming Venezuelan with genuine, attentive staff. Go for brunch; they offer classics like banana pancakes and burritos but I highly recommend trying something traditional like the an arepa or the Latin Lover board. Coffee wise, the Mexican mocha is a local favorite.
lunch and dinner
All my favorite taco spots are listed a little further below, but for other options, here’s what I recommend:
Que Sazon! - Tiny, street-style shack located on a side street, so it’s away from the hustle and bustle. Cheap grab-and-go lunch that features traditional Mexican food (tortas, tostadas) as well as simpler options like hot dogs and nachos. Highly recommend their fruit cups, vaso locos, and chamangos (which is kind of like a smoothie /sorbet).
Pizza Bella Italian Bistro - Authentic, thin crust pizza and pasta. Friendly service with indoor and outdoor seating. Go with a group; they don’t sell individual slices.
Jack & Giulio’s Italian Restaurant - Old-school, “treat you like family” dinner spot. Incredible pasta with the freshest ingredients. A little pricier than you’d expert, but on par for Old Town prices.
Rockin’ Baja Lobster - Definitely touristy, but the place to go if you want seafood.
Old Town Urban Market - Located just a block or two from the Whaley house, I recommend this only if you have a large group and don’t want sit-down service. The main taco spot, Flor’s, has you order on an iPad and then they bring it out to you. No substitutions, so not for picky eaters.
dessert
El Mercadito - Best churros; they’re served fresh and you can truly taste a difference. Probably the only time I do not want to share a dessert because they’re that good.
Nibble Chocolate - A small-batch, organic, sustainable, vegan chocolate shop. Most of their chocolate is packaged to be sold, not served, but they do offer hot chocolate, coffee, and champurrado (a traditional, chocolate-corn based Mexican drink). Highly recommend if you want an after-dinner coffee or something sweet that isn’t too sugary.
Korky’s Ice Cream & Coffee - Family owned, traditional ice cream shop that also serves acai bowls, smoothies, coffee, and sandwiches. Go here instead of Cold Stone to help support local businesses.
Cousin’s Candy Shop - Every old town has an old school candy shop, so you might have experienced something similar already. They sell fudge, vintage candy, and scoop-your-own jelly bean bags.
where to get the best tacos in old town san diego
Old Town leans more towards tourist-friendly than traditional, but you can still find great Mexican food here. Prices are a little higher since it is a travel destination, but worth it. I’ve tried them all multiple times; here’s my breakdown:
Casa de Reyes - Located in the heart of Fiesta de Reyes, this is my #1 spot for tacos in Old Town. Plenty of outdoor seating (with a covered patio), can accommodate bigger groups, and service is fast yet friendly. Anytime I’ve talked to a shopkeeper or local, this is where they recommend, too.
Tahona Bar - Date night vibes; very elevated and modern. Portions are on the smaller side; go here if you want a craft cocktail to go with your meal. They also offer flights of mezcal.
Casa Guadalajara - They have their own parking lot and you’ll see a lot of locals dining here. The food is served fresh and hot (including the chips and salsa; you really can taste a difference). The shredded meat for the tacos isn’t very flavorful, though, which is why I prefer Casa De Reyes. If you do go here, get the tequila lime shrimp instead.
Cafe Coyote - The main tourist spot; friendly service with indoor and outdoor seating. At least a little busy all the time, but you don’t have to wait long for food. Big portions, and the margarita flight is always a hit.
El Agave Restaurant & Tequileria - A little more upscale (ex: grilled octopus). To be honest, if you’re going to spend that much, I would venture out of Old Town.
Old Town Mexican Cafe - Second most popular tourist spot. The restaurant is huge and I love that you get to watch them hand-press tortillas, but the service can be a little slow/ impersonal. Good tacos, but not out of this world.
Miguel’s - Middle of the road and a little inconsistent; it’s either really great food/ service or they’re having an off day. It’s a chain, you so may have been to a different location. They offer happy hour every day but Saturday.
Flor’s Farm to Table - Located in the Old Town Urban Market, known for their red snapper tacos. You order on an iPad, but no substitutions are allowed so if you have dietary restrictions, it’s not ideal. Not my first choice.
best shopping in old town san diego
Fiesta de Reyes/ Old Town Market - Lively outdoor market with lots of artisans and craftsmen in small shops; you’ll find everything from handmade Mexican goods to microbrews, old-school candy, stationary, leather goods, and more. Located towards the back of the historic state park.
El Centro Artesano - A vibrant pottery store that also features plenty of smaller goods you can fit in a suitcase to take home. The staff are incredibly friendly; it always feels warm and welcoming stopping by.
Rust General Market - Meant to be a 19th century replica, they sell licorice, spices, olive oil, and home goods. The coffee is hit or miss, though.
Toby’s Candle and Soap Shop - Located in the historic state park, you can dip or make your own candles (no reservations required), which makes for a fun, interactive souvenir.
Bazaar del Mundo - A small outdoor shopping center with Mexican decor, clothing, and home goods. Quieter/ smaller than Fiesta de Reyes.
