Neighborhood Spotlight: Old Town San Diego
Head to where it all began at Old Town San Diego. California’s first settlement, created in 1769, boasts a rich history mixed with delicious restaurants, exciting shops, events, and even some haunted sites. The quaint atmosphere makes this a neighborhood you can always enjoy. Keep reading for some of our favorite and can’t-miss spots!
Jack & Giulio’s Italian Restaurant (7.4 miles away)
(Photo: @jackgiulios)
If you’re feeling less like Mexican food and more like Italian food, head over to the delicious Jack & Giulio’s. Here you’ll find hand-rolled pasta made fresh daily, the “best scampi” served since 1961, fresh seafood, and live music. So pop a cork and twirl your your fork as you take in the friendly atmosphere. You’ll see why this Old Town San Diego favorite is considered one of the best!
2391 San Diego Ave, San Diego, CA 92110
Bazaar del Mundo (7.4 miles away)
(Photo: @bazaardelmundo)
Shop ‘til you drop at Bazaar del Mundo. This collection of shops located around the colorful courtyard will make you feel like you’ve been transported to an old Mexican market. Boutiques, art galleries, speciality shops, and more make up this unique shopping experience. It’s here you’ll find authentic Old Town San Diego treasures, unique jewelry, clothing and souvenirs that will hold a special spot on your mantle for years to come.
4133 Taylor St, San Diego, CA 92110, US
Oculto 447 (7.4 miles away)
(Photo: @oculto477)
Dress to impress, and sip a specialty cocktail you won’t find anywhere else at Oculto 447. This speakeasy-inspired tavern is the perfect spot to end your evening. Choose from their stellar selection of whiskies, or enjoy the smokiness of mezcal in their dedicated tasting room. Located next to El Campo Santo Cemetery, this slightly spooky but always classy tavern features a cozy 25-seat room with 477 lights to mark each of the grave sites in the adjacent yard. Oculto 477 will have you dreaming of spirits both living and dead as you sample fantastic cocktails named after famous (and infamous) San Diego pioneers.
2414 San Diego Ave, San Diego, CA 92110
Dia de los Muertos (7.4 miles away)
(Photo: @salgiametta)
Celebrate the Day of the Dead in Old Town San Diego. Held October 29th – 30th, the festival is family friendly and will include memorials and altars set up for those who worked in Old Town in the 1800s. Enjoy live music, entertainment, food, drinks, face painting, public memorials, and more. The community comes together to honor this tradition and share it with others.
Santa Fe Marketplace at Bazaar del Mundo (7.4 miles away)
(Photo: @jwcsandiego)
Located at the Bazaar del Mundo, the Santa Fe Marketplace (occurring Sept. 20 – 22) features authentic Native American jewelry, crafts, and goods. Hand-woven Pendleton blankets, Navajo wood folk art, hand-carved Zuni sculptures, and more will be showcased at the marketplace.
Café Coyote (7.5 miles away)
(Photo: @cafecoyoteoldtown)
It doesn’t get any fresher or more “San Diego” than Café Coyote. Consistently voted the Best Mexican Restaurant, this spot will not disappoint. Sip refreshing margaritas while watching tortillas be made right before your eyes. Located in the heart of Old Town, Café Coyote offers margarita flights, a wide array of Tequila and Mezcal, and fresh food all paired with live music. The friendly staff and festive atmosphere will quickly make this San Diego staple your favorite.
2461 San Diego Ave, San Diego, CA 92110
The Whaley House (7.5 miles away)
(Photo: @whaleyhousesd)
Considered one of the United States’ most haunted houses, construction on the Whaley House was completed in 1857, and it’s home to a number of no-longer-living residents. Embark on a self-guided daytime tour to explore the historic site. If you’re feeling brave, book an evening tour with a guide where you’re sure to experience some haunts. If you really want to experience the “other side,” book an after hours paranormal tour where you’ll have access to the latest ghost hunting technology. The Whaley House is so famous for its supernatural activity that it was featured on a particularly creepy episode of Travel Channel’s popular Ghost Adventures.
2476 San Diego Ave, San Diego, CA 92110
Plan Your Old Town Adventures at Pacific Terrace
Stay at Pacific Terrace to enjoy intimate and inviting accommodations. Looking out over Pacific Beach, our beachfront hotel is the perfect launching-off point for your Old Town adventures. Explore our rooms, amenities, and offers.