Explore San Diego
Old Town San Diego State Historic Park
Type: Historic Sites, Parks
10Best Says
Old Town celebrates Dia de los Muertos in style this year between November 1-4. Visitors will be able to take a look at numerous altars of remembrance presented in both traditional and contemporary... Read More
Old Town celebrates Dia de los Muertos in style this year between November 1-4. Visitors will be able to take a look at numerous altars of remembrance presented in both traditional and contemporary ways. Museum altars will also commemorate the people who lived and worked in Old Town during the 1800s. There is also a public altar where people are encouraged to leave their own mementos and tributes. This part of San Diego is considered the birthplace of California. The historic park includes several original adobes as well as a schoolhouse, blacksmith shop, carriage collection and a museum filled with artifacts. Surrounding the park are some of San Diego's best Mexican restaurants, famous for homemade tortillas and fish bowl-sized margaritas. A perfect family day here would include exploring the park and its museums before a meal. Then digest by browsing the nearby shops.
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EXPERT TIPS BY:
Katie Dillon
San Diego Local Expert
- Things to Do in Fall, Parks: "The park is gorgeous but the surrounding area has a lot to offer, too. There are shops, museums, Mexican restaurants with fish bowl margaritas and more. It's a historic area where the kids (and you) can blow off steam."
- Free Things to Do: "Ordering a margarita or burrito is tempting, but it's free and fun to soak up the atmosphere and walk into the shops and free museums.."
- Best Attractions & Activities: "If you plan to indulge in a margarita or two, remember the trolley can take you Downtown and to a few other nearby spots. Also, it can be crowded on the weekends here so call ahead or arrive early to find a parking place."
- Outdoor Activities: "If you plan to indulge in a margarita or two, remember the trolley can take you Downtown and to a few other nearby spots. Also, it can be crowded on the weekends here so call ahead for reservations or get there early to find a parking place."
- Best for Things to Do in Fall Because: They have some of the best Dia de los Muertos decor and celebrations in San Diego.
- Best for Free Things to Do Because: There's a lot to see here between colorful shops, the pretty park (kids love to run around here) and festive ambiance.
- Best for Parks Because: Old Town State Historic Park is considered to be the birthplace of California.
- Recommended as Best Attractions & Activities Because: Old Town San Diego is considered the birthplace of California. The area's shops, museums and restaurants definitely celebrate this!
- Best for Outdoor Activities Because: Strolling the park, drinking a margarita al fresco and browsing kitsch makes for a fun day out.
