In search of enjoyable issues to do in Outdated City San Diego? The in depth record under presents loads of concepts, from immersing your self within the space’s wealthy heritage via museums and excursions to indulging your inventive facet with workshops and craft-making.
This vibrant historic district is taken into account the birthplace of California, and time spent right here may be each enjoyable and academic, with a hands-on angle. And, there’s nice procuring and meals, too.
Practically each kind of vacationer visits Outdated City San Diego points of interest, from households and enterprise vacationers to historical past buffs and ghost hunters. Since many actions are free, it fits numerous budgets, too. Under, we talk about which of the numerous issues to are price area in your itinerary.
It can save you on tickets, excursions, and resorts via my affiliations. If you happen to make purchases via the hyperlinks on this put up, I could also be compensated.
1. Begin on the Robinson-Rose Customer Heart
- 4098 Mason St, San Diego, CA 92110
- (619) 220-5422
- parks.ca.gov
As Outdated City’s customer middle and park headquarters, the Robinson Rose Home is a good place to begin. Right here you may study many attention-grabbing issues to do in Outdated City San Diego, view museum displays, and be part of strolling excursions. Decide up among the brochures that discuss native points of interest.
Among the many highlights at this museum are the miniature mannequin shows of what Outdated City regarded like throughout San Diego’s early days. Tour guides wearing interval clothes share tales of fascinating individuals who lived right here again then.
You’ll additionally study the historical past of the constructing itself, a reconstructed reproduction of a grand home constructed by James W. Robinson, a profitable lawyer within the 1850s. You may even expertise a little bit of the paranormal since this constructing is reportedly haunted, like another Outdated City buildings.
2. Turn into a Junior Ranger (And Different Youngsters’ Actions)
The California Division of Parks and Recreation has a Junior Ranger program for youths, making exploring state parks much more enjoyable.
You’ll be able to decide up a free booklet on the Robinson-Rose Customer Heart to fill out as you discover the park. Don’t neglect to show it in for an award on the finish of your go to.
Additionally, don’t neglect to print the free scavenger hunt sheet and produce it with you. I additionally like this coloring booklet, which is just a few pages lengthy. If you already know you’ll go to Outdated City San Diego, have the youngsters coloration it upfront to allow them to spot acquainted indicators and buildings whereas there.
3. Take a Self-Guided Strolling Tour
If you happen to’re uncertain the place to start, take a free, self-guided strolling tour via the historic locations in Outdated City. California Parks and Recreation has outlined excursions beginning at Robinson-Rose Home, which vary from an hour to 2 and a half hours. You’ll be able to have a look on-line at beneficial stops or seize a tour map on the customer middle for a small charge.
This stroll via historical past passes by many historic buildings. There’s the Johnson Home, inbuilt 1870 by George Alonzo Johnson, a steamboat captain on the Colorado River. The Mason Avenue Faculty, inbuilt 1865, was the primary publicly constructed schoolhouse in San Diego County. Many buildings are open with free admission and even have their very own temporary, free excursions.
4. Go to the Free Museums in Outdated City San Diego State Historic Park
So many issues to do in Outdated City San Diego are freed from cost — together with lots of the distinctive museums discovered right here.
Test with the Outdated City Chamber of Commerce and Robinson-Rose Guests Heart to study which museums are free and what their hours are. The record is in depth; we’ve included just a few right here.
The McCoy Home was inbuilt 1869 by Irish-born immigrant James McCoy—who grew to become fluent in Spanish—as a marriage reward for his spouse, Winnifred. James served as county assessor, metropolis sheriff, and state senator. The museum presents an in depth glimpse into life within the space within the late 1800s.
La Casa de Machado y Silvas is one other marriage ceremony current—this one from a father to his daughter—constructed within the early 1840s. La Casa de Machado y Stewart is an adobe home that was lived in till 1966 however has since been restored to its 1830s character.
And, there are just a few others which are free and talked about under. You’ll want to go to Outdated City’s free museums to study San Diego’s multicultural historical past.
You’ll discover over 100 outlets in Outdated City, San Diego, some in market facilities that home a number of stalls and others in historic buildings across the park.
At Outdated City Market alone, you may browse 40 distinctive indoor and outside outlets promoting items from Mexico, Ecuador, Guatemala, Peru, Vietnam, and different areas.
Buying at Bazaar del Mundo is a particular deal with, due to the distinctive treasures you’ll discover and the colourful setting that immerses you in Outdated Mexico’s allure. Buy truthful commerce merchandise from world wide, together with people artwork, jewellery, vogue, and residential décor.
All through Outdated City, you’ll encounter a wide array of specialty outlets that draw you in. Cousin’s Sweet Store sells old style sweets, together with saltwater taffy and home made fudge.
Discover lovingly restored antiques at The Johnson Home, Marine Antiques, and West Sea Co Nautical Antiques. At Tinsmith, you’ll discover beautiful star lamps and different tin-punched ornamental objects to carry house.
The Greatest Locations to Browse
The place to go Buying in Outdated City
We put collectively a listing of the place to seek out enjoyable presents and souvenirs when you discover this historic neighborhood.
6. Stroll By way of a Well-known Haunted Home — Whaley Home Museum
One of the crucial in style issues to do in Outdated City San Diego is to go to the Whaley Home Museum. It was the previous house of a pioneering household, however it’s broadly regarded at the moment as some of the haunted homes in North America, due to the a number of deaths that occurred on the premises.
The Greek Revival-style 1850s home is the oldest brick construction in Southern California. It served as a normal retailer, courthouse, and personal residence. Upstairs, you’ll discover San Diego’s first business theater.
A California Historic Landmark, the Whaley Home has been featured on quite a few ghost-hunting reveals, together with America’s Most Haunted and Ghost Adventures. Guests can take a daytime self-guided, self-paced tour, or a night guided tour.
7. Dine on Mexican Meals and Extra
As a eating vacation spot, Outdated City presents among the finest Mexican eating places in San Diego County and different noteworthy consuming institutions, together with nice sushi locations.
No matter you crave, you’ll discover nice eateries in Outdated City, together with an enormous number of specialty margaritas and each alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks—like the favored horchata.
For many individuals, eating al fresco in vibrant outside areas is likely one of the favourite issues to do in Outdated City San Diego. Many eating places right here provide patio eating, with lovely flowers, effervescent fountains, and firepits so as to add to the ambiance.
An instance of the varied choice to be present in Outdated City contains:
- Casa de Reyes: A vibrant restaurant serving favourite Mexican dishes, together with rolled tacos, tostada salads, burritos, tamales, and rather more.
- Tahona Bar: Collect with associates for an upscale eating expertise in an institution that celebrates mezcal. Tasting room obtainable by reservation.
- Harney Sushi: This elegant sushi place presents a wide array of conventional and up to date sushi creations and cooked Japanese specialties.
- Congress Café: Open for breakfast and lunch, this cozy café with a stunning outside seating space serves Venezuelan favorites, together with arepas and cachapas.
8. Outdated City City Market
A comparatively new addition to the Outdated City scene, this market place is situated simply outdoors of Outdated City San Diego State Historic Park.
Whereas there’s retail area obtainable, proper now, you’d go there to eat. And it’s worthwhile. From the drip-your-own bone marrow on tacos at Tuetano Taquería and ceviche at Mar Rustico to the delectable elote from Elote and shortly donuts from Barrio Donas, it’s a spot for foodies.
You’ll eat on a coated patio that isn’t massive, so get there early. All the things is counter-order, so you can seize it to go for a picnic in Outdated City State Historic Park.
9. Store and Eat at Fiesta de Reyes
Fiesta is a good way to explain this vibrant part of Outdated City, the place you may store, dine, and luxuriate in free, reside musical performances in a singular setting. Fiesta de Reyes is Spanish for “celebration of kings,” and you’ll have fun like royalty with out breaking the financial institution.
Right here you may get pleasure from a number of Outdated City San Diego points of interest with out having to stroll far since all the things is shut collectively but far sufficient aside to present you that satisfying sense of exploring a vibrant district. Mariachi musicians and folklorico dancers entertain guests most weekends.
Dine in consolation on the luxurious backyard patio of Casa de Reyes or inside the enticing, hacienda-style environment of Barra Barra Saloon. Each locations serve genuine Mexican delicacies, from commonplace favorites to new creations and a big number of margaritas.
Store at one of many distinctive retailers, similar to Treasures of Mexico, Outdated City Jerky & Root Beer, and The Tile Store.
10. El Campo Santo Cemetery
El Campo Santo Cemetery dates again to 1849 and is/was the ultimate resting place of many early San Diego residents, together with members of outstanding households such because the Estudillos and Fitchs.
Over time, the realm’s growth modified the boundaries of the cemetery. Some our bodies have been relocated and paved over whereas others stay buried as supposed. This has mentioned to have disturbed some trapped souls and set off some paranormal exercise.
A part of the cemetery was restored primarily based on previous information and guests at the moment can stroll via remaining gravesites.
11. Stroll As much as Presidio Park
An idyllic spot to have a picnic and let the youngsters play awhile, Presidio Park overlooks the Mission Valley space and past. It’s a few 7-minute stroll from the Robinson-Rose Customer Heart.
A number of viewpoints current attractive views — you may see Mission Bay and the coast — whereas nature surrounds you, with a big assortment of gorgeous, mature bushes unfold all through the park.
This hill is steeped in historical past. As you stroll the grounds, you’ll discover statues, memorials, and markers commemorating previous influencers and occasions from San Diego’s previous. It was the positioning of a fort and church that date again to 1769, and this spot served because the capital of Baja California when Mexico owned the land.
You’ll discover a number of strolling trails all through Presidio Park, some more difficult than others. It’s often not crowded right here, providing you with area for quiet contemplation.
12. Go to the Mormon Battalion Historic Web site
This historic website commemorates LDS church members who served within the Mexican-American Struggle of 1846-1848 as a part of the U.S. Military’s Mormon Battalion. Whereas stationed within the space, these volunteer troopers and their households constructed water wells and a courthouse in Outdated City.
The middle presents free excursions every day, displaying glimpses of what life was like within the area in the course of the mid-1800s. The tour lasts 45 minutes and contains an interactive video concerning the battalion, plus a take a look at numerous artifacts. You’ll need to allocate an hour to an hour and a half to take part in all the things the middle presents.
All areas of the museum are wheelchair accessible. For guests’ comfort, the positioning has a small car parking zone within the again—just like the museum, parking is free. You’ll want to try the beautiful views from the window as you stroll by.
13. Watch a Efficiency at Outdated City Theatre
- 4040 Twiggs St, San Diego, CA 92110
- (619) 337-1525
- Name or verify on-line for reveals and hours
- cygnettheatre.com
The Cygnet Theatre firm runs some of the distinctive Outdated City San Diego points of interest the place you may get pleasure from all the things from Shakespeare performs to extra up to date musicals. Housed in a constructing nonetheless known as the Outdated City Theatre — on a website that was once a barn — the Cygnet Theatre presents reside performances inside a one-of-a-kind theatrical setting.
An attention-grabbing historic tidbit: between 1986 and 1991, the theater served as a stage for scholar productions. Among the many alumni from this era are actor and singer Jamie Foxx and actor John Barrowman (of Physician Who fame).
At present you may catch theatrical productions like El Huracán, a multi-generational lyrical story concerning the energy of forgiveness, or cabaret-style leisure.
Test the web site to see what’s taking part in and study particular performances, similar to these providing ASL interpretation or evenings devoted to the LGBTQIA group. Assisted listening units can be found freed from cost.
14. Admire the La Casa de Estudillo, a Historic Adobe Home
- 4000 Mason St, San Diego, CA 92110
- (619) 220-5422
- Open Every day: 10 a.m.– 5 p.m.
- parks.ca.gov
As one of many rigorously restored historic adobe homes in Outdated City San Diego, La Casa de Estudillo dates again to 1827 and is a stunning instance of Spanish Colonial structure. As soon as a middle of social gatherings and non secular observations, this museum was the house of a distinguished 19th-century household.
Constructed by comandante José María Estudillo and his son, lieutenant José Antonio Estudillo, this 12-room home has a phenomenal internal courtyard that invitations introspection. Now part of the California State Park system, La Casa de Estudillo is a museum price visiting for its depiction of multicultural life within the early 1800s.
A number of rooms with interval items, together with cover beds, carved tables, and upholstered chairs are open for public viewing. You’ll see a set desk subsequent to a fire within the eating room whereas and one other room homes working instruments of the time, together with a big spinning wheel. Different highlights embrace an out of doors oven and a bell tower.
15. Make Candles at Toby’s Candle Store
- 2645 San Diego Ave, San Diego, CA 92110
- (619) 297-5426
- Open Every day: 10 a.m. – 7 p.m.
- tobyscandles.com
Many issues to do in Outdated City San Diego are hands-on. Making your individual candles at a historic candle store is actually certainly one of these actions. At Toby’s Candle & Cleaning soap Store, you should buy lovely candles in the event you don’t have time to make one.
A bit of concerning the store. It was established in 1981 by burgeoning candle-making fans who started to show candle carving strategies all through Southern California malls and even at Knott’s Berry Farm. Toby’s Candles has been in Outdated City since 1992.
Your candle-making expertise is a chance to make your individual lovely reward for your self or a good friend. The store welcomes walk-ins, however reservations are wanted for teams of ten or extra.
If you happen to’re brief on time, the candle dipping course of is your only option; it doesn’t take lengthy however could be very satisfying. When you have extra time, make your individual sand wax candle. You have to at the least twenty minutes for this enjoyable mission.
16. Spend a Evening on the Cosmopolitan Lodge
If you wish to immerse your self on this historic district to have extra time to get pleasure from all of the Outdated City San Diego points of interest which are obtainable, spend an evening or two on the Cosmopolitan Lodge. This historic resort gives a first-class expertise that takes you again in time.
In your room, you’ll be surrounded by classic vintage furnishings, every bit a real murals. With simply ten rooms to are likely to, the resort employees can ship attentive, personalised service to each visitor.
This mattress and breakfast institution serves home made pastries with sizzling espresso and tea within the constructing’s old style saloon. For a lot of friends, among the finest components of staying right here is getting away from all of it — there are not any telephones or TVs within the rooms, though you’ll have entry to WiFi.
Loosen up and luxuriate in your keep on the Cosmopolitan, as soon as the house of Peruvian-born Juan Bandini, a California politician born in 1800 who helped form San Diego and was recognized to throw nice events.
The Greatest Locations to Keep
Prime Outdated City San Diego Resorts
Historic, price range, and pleasant resorts and motels to think about to your trip.
17. See Stagecoaches and Extra at Seely Steady Museum
- 2648 Calhoun St, San Diego, CA 92110
- Friday – Sunday: 9 a.m. – 5 p.m.
- Closed Monday – Thursday
- parks.ca.gov
A favourite amongst youngsters, the Seely Steady Museum homes a set of previous coaches, wagons, and buggies, every lovingly restored and cared for at this distinctive museum devoted to California’s stagecoach historical past.
Learn the way mail, items, and passengers have been transported throughout the nation earlier than the railroad traces have been established. Stagecoach journey was a deadly method to journey between locations, however the California gold rush inspired vacationers to enterprise west regardless of the risks. On the museum, you’ll see maps displaying previous stage routes—the popular journey mode earlier than the times of practice tracks and freeways.
By the best way, the museum is called after Albert Lewis Seeley, who, at 17, grew to become a stagecoach driver and established the US Mail Stage line. He continued rising his enterprise by increasing stagecoach routes to move mail and passengers between San Diego and Los Angeles, San Diego, Yuma, and different itineraries.
18. Take the Outdated City Trolley Tour
If you happen to’re uncertain what to do in Outdated City San Diego, place to begin is likely to be getting there by way of the Outdated City Trolley. This hop-on, hop-off expertise runs via a number of components of San Diego and contains eleven stops. You’ll be able to hop off and store, eat, or sightsee earlier than hopping again on and persevering with along with your tour.
Purchase a ticket as soon as, after which spend the remainder of the day conveniently hopping on and off. Along with taking you thru Outdated City, the trolley-style tour bus takes you thru the Embarcadero, Seaport Village, Barrio Logan, Coronado, Balboa Park, Little Italy, and extra. An effective way to see all of it at your individual tempo.
EXCLUSIVE LA JOLLA MOM DISCOUNT
Use promo code WINTER to use an additional $8 off the 1-Day Tour, $15 off the 2-Day Tour, $4 off the Ghosts and Gravestones Tour, and $10 off the San Diego Metropolis Lights Tour.
19. Look Out for Residing Historical past Demonstrations
- 4002 Wallace St, San Diego, CA 92110
- (619) 220-5422
- Wednesday and Saturday: 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. (verify the schedule earlier than you go)
- parks.ca.gov
As a part of the California Division of Parks and Recreation, Outdated City makes residing historical past packages obtainable to all ages. Individuals put on interval clothes, answering questions concerning the area’s historical past for memorable, interactive exchanges. Stay demonstrations carry San Diego’s historical past alive for locals and guests alike.
On a Wednesday or Saturday, see residing historical past demonstrations of all the things from furnishings constructing to quilting. Demos range from week to week. You may learn the way individuals used to spin wool into thread and see previous blacksmithing strategies in motion.
On the Kosay Kumeyaay Market, the traditions of the area’s first peoples are preserved and demonstrated. You may see time-honored basket weaving strategies or maybe different artisans at work.
As you browse Outdated City, you could encounter numerous residing historical past demonstrations, re-enactments, performances, and mini-talks. If you happen to see somebody in interval clothes, be happy to ask questions on what life was like right here previously.
20. Sip San Diego’s Greatest at Rose’s Tasting Room
- 2754 Calhoun St San Diego, CA 92110 (inside Fiesta de Reyes)
- rosestastingroom.com
- Observe: All friends should be ages 21+
I really feel like Rose’s is a little bit of a hidden gem. In any case, you’re within the birthplace of California and maybe targeted on the actions it’s well-known for — fishbowl margaritas, Mexican meals, free museums, a grassy park, Whaley Home, and so on.
However you could be stunned to know that there’s a little bit tasting room with indoor and outside seating that may can help you style among the craft beer San Diego is known for (do you know that we’re a craft brewery vacation spot) along with some wine made in San Diego (sure, it’s good). And, they even provide just a few cocktails on the menu.
It makes for a stunning cease in between sights. Outdated City San Diego, we expect, is finest skilled on a sunny day whenever you’re not in a rush. And, you could end up having fun with sips and suds at Rose’s for longer than anticipated.
What do you assume are the most effective issues to do in Outdated City San Diego?
