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

25 Forty Bistro and Bakehouse

Address: 2540 Congress Street, San Diego CA , 92110 Make Reservation
Comfortably situated right in the middle of Old Town in a converted wooden house, 25 Forty Bistro and Bakehouse offers an intimate, relaxing atmosphere for friends and couples alike. Chef Mark Peliccia of New York opened the restaurant with the intent to use fresh, seasonal produce to create innovative dishes inspired by the various cooking traditions he studied abroad. He is exceptionally passionate about pastries and desserts, which are offered throughout the day, including the Vanilla Custard Crepe and Warm Chocolate Cake. Boasting an indoor dining room and an outdoor patio for warmer evenings, the restaurant has a modern vibe with classic undertones that are reflected in the food as well. Whether you are looking for a light lunch, three course dinner, Sunday brunch, or something in-between, 25 Forty Bistro has an array of mouth watering options to choose from. More ...

Casa De Guadalajara

Address: 4105 Taylor Street, San Diego CA , 92110 Make Reservation
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Cafe Pacifica - Old Town

Address: 2414 San Diego Avenue, San Diego CA , 92110 Make Reservation
Housed in a small cottage in historic Old Town, Café Pacifica offers a welcome taste of elegance, sophistication, and delicate creativity. The fresh, contemporary menu features a dazzling array of fish and shellfish, which Chef Eddie Zamarripa prepares in his exquisitely innovative style as well as “simply grilled.” A modest selection of chicken, steak and vegetarian options are offered, as are daily specials showcasing seasonally available, and often exceptional, fish. The noticeably cultured wine list, prepared by Owner Frank Busic, offers wines by the glass, half bottle, and bottle, while the Pomerita—the restaurant’s signature twist on the traditional margarita—garners national attention. More ...

El Agave

Address: 2304 San Diego Avenue, San Diego CA , 92110 Make Reservation
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