Visit the Old Town San Diego
Published On February 15, 2018

The neighborhood called Old Town spanning two hundred and thirty acres is around four miles north of downtown San Diego. It is bounded by Bankers Hill in the south, Interstate 8 in the north, Mission Hills in the east and Interstate 5 in the west. The neighborhood is so called because it was the first area to have a permanent settlement. The history dates back to the first European exploration and eventual setting up of a colony. The place has a continuous history of habitation since then to present day.

About San Diego’s Old Town

It is estimated that the area we know today as San Diego was first inhabited some nine thousand years ago. These people were called Kumeyaay. The Spanish were the first Europeans to arrive in the region, and they referred to the natives as Diegueño. Of course, most of the history in the interim is not documented and hence can only be subjected to informed speculation. The history since 1542 is reasonably evidenced.

As with any old neighborhood anywhere in the country or the world, there are innumerable historic sites. Some of the most popular historical attractions in San Diego’s Old Town are the Church of the Immaculate Conception, Colorado House, El Campo Santo Cemetery, Heritage Park Victorian Village, the houses of Johnson, McCoy, Alvarado, Derby Pendleton and Robinson Rose, Mormon Battalion Historic Site, Old Adobe Chapel and Plaza Viejo. There are plenty of old homes that are now of historical interest, such as Casas de Aguirre, de Bandini, de Estudillo, de Lopez, de Pedrorena, de Wrightington, Machado Silvas and Machado Stewart.

Two more noteworthy attractions are Presidio Park and Old Town Historic Park. The historic park is a protected area. Most buildings are a hundred and fifty to two hundred years old. The park was established in 1968, and it is a historical landmark in the state of California. It is also listed in the National Register of Historic Places. Other notable attractions in Old Town are Racine and Laramie Store, San Diego House, Sheriff’s Museum, Seeley Stable, Whaley Museum and Serra Museum. There are plenty of events almost throughout the year. Check the calendar for latest updates.

Stay at Hotel Iris

San Diego’s Old Town is two miles west of Hotel Iris. Take the Mission Valley Freeway and then exit at Taylor Street. You would reach Old Town in less than five minutes. Reserve your stay online at the hotel to get the best deal.