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Photo courtesy of Joanne DiBona
Old Town San Diego State Historic Park
Type: Historic Sites, Parks
10Best Says
Find out what life was like in Mexico and early America back in the 1800s. This spot is where the city of San Diego was born, and it contains historic treasures unearthed by archeologists over the... Read More
Find out what life was like in Mexico and early America back in the 1800s. This spot is where the city of San Diego was born, and it contains historic treasures unearthed by archeologists over the years. The historic park includes several original adobes as well as a schoolhouse, blacksmith shop, carriage collection and a museum filled with artifacts (free admission). Surrounding the park are some of San Diego's best Mexican restaurants, famous for homemade tortillas and fish bowl-sized margaritas though you can also bring a picnic. Then digest by browsing the nearby shops. Dance to music in the park on weekends.
EXPERT TIPS BY:
Katie Dillon
San Diego Local Expert
- 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.."
- 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."
- 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 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 Things to Do in Fall Because: They have some of the best Dia de los Muertos decor and celebrations in San Diego.
- 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.
