Old Town San Diego State Historic Park, located in the Old Town neighborhood of San Diego, California, is a state protected historical park in San Diego. It commemorates the early days of the City of San Diego and includes many historic buildings from the period 1820 to 1870. The park was established in 1968.
Old Town San Diego State Historic Park presents the opportunity to experience the history of early San Diego by providing a connection to the past.
Learn about life in the Mexican and early American periods of 1821 to 1872. Even today, life moves more slowly in this part of San Diego, where the hustle and bustle is balanced with history and fiestas. Visitors are offered a glimpse into yesteryear, as converging cultures transformed San Diego from a Mexican pueblo to an American settlement. San Diego became California's first Spanish settlement when a mission and fort were established here in 1769. Later, it passed into the hands of the newly made Mexican government before gaining statehood in the United States after the Mexican-American War.
The core of restored original historic buildings from the interpretive period are complemented by reconstructed sites, along with early twentieth century buildings designed in the same mode. Five original adobe buildings are part of the historic park, which include museums, unique retail shops, and several restaurants. The Historic Plaza remains a special place for gatherings and historic activities. Visitors can also experience a working blacksmith shop, enjoy music, see or touch the park's burros, and engage in activities that represent early San Diego.
Location-Directions
The park is located on San Diego Avenue and Twiggs Street in San Diego, and is conveniently adjacent to the Old Town Transit Center, with Coaster, Trolley, and MTS Bus service.
Free Parking Lots near Old Town San Diego State Historic Park.
Visitor Center & Museums
10:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Yes
Dogs allowed only in outdoor areas like the plaza. Dogs not allowed inside museums or buildings.
Exhibits/Programs
Many barriers to accessibility have been removed however, a few entries remain with stairs, narrow doors, and high thresholds that may require assistance. Concessionaires and park staff are available to aid, when requested.
Shops and Restaurants: The ground floors of many of the shops and restaurants are generally accessible but aisles may be narrow and merchandise unreachable for some. The Old Town Theatre and Cosmopolitan Hotel are accessible, while the Fiesta de Reyes is generally accessible.
Museums: The ground floors and exhibits of the museums are generally accessible including the Robinson Rose House (Visitor Information Center), Seeley Stable Museum, La Casa de Estudillo Museum, Union Printing Office Museum, Mason Street School Museum, La Casa de Machado y Stewart Museum, First San Diego Courthouse Museum, La Casa de Machado y Silvas Museum, and the McCoy House Museum.
For visitors that are unable to access the second floor of the Seeley Stable Museum, a booklet containing photos and descriptions of the second floor artifacts is available.
Other Information
Parking: Six parking lots (lots A-F) serve Old Town San Diego SHP. All lots have accessible parking. In Lot C, excessive cross slopes in the accessible parking spaces may present barriers for some users.
Routes: Routes throughout the park are accessible. Accessible benches are available in various locations throughout the park.
Restrooms: Accessible restrooms are located on Wallace Street adjacent to the Robinson Rose House (Visitor Information Center), on Calhoun Street within the Fiesta de Reyes, on Calhoun Street across from the Seeley Stable Museum, and on Mason Street adjacent to Toby’s Candle and Soap Shop.
