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Tours Old Town

4.7
·2k reviews·San Diego, United States

Step back in time in Old Town San Diego, a vibrant historic park filled with Mexican culture, charming shops, and haunted tales.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, more relaxed exploration

CrowdLow
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Tours Old Town, Tours - Image 1

Tours Old Town

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, more relaxed exploration

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Step back in time in Old Town San Diego, a vibrant historic park filled with Mexican culture, charming shops, and haunted tales.

4.7
(2k reviews)

"It's so worth the price, you get to literally see San Diego. Reddit"

Vertical photo
TIP

Skip the Trolley for Budget

Public transit or ride-sharing is much cheaper than the Old Town Trolley for getting to places like Coronado.

Embrace the Culture

Immerse yourself in the vibrant Día de los Muertos celebrations for a unique cultural experience.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Historic Old Town State Historic Park

Historic Old Town State Historic Park

Old Town San Diego

Step back in time with preserved adobe buildings, charming shops, and vibrant Mexican culture.

Whaley House Museum

Whaley House Museum

Old Town San Diego

Explore one of America's most haunted houses, with a history steeped in paranormal tales.

Día de los Muertos Celebrations

Día de los Muertos Celebrations

Old Town San Diego

Experience colorful ofrendas, traditional music, and a festive atmosphere during this significant cultural event.

Casa De Reyes

Casa De Reyes

Old Town San Diego

Savor delicious Mexican cuisine and enjoy the lively ambiance, especially during festive seasons.

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Planning Your Visit

Beat the Crowds & Save

While Old Town San Diego offers free admission, popular trolley tours can be pricey. Consider public transit or ride-sharing for budget travel. Booking trolley tickets online might offer discounts, and weekdays are generally less crowded than weekends. Reddit

Timing is Everything

Old Town San Diego is vibrant year-round, but special events like Día de los Muertos in late October/early November bring unique cultural experiences and larger crowds. TikTokInstagram

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, more relaxed exploration
Crowd
Low
When
Late October/Early November
Why
Día de los Muertos festivities
Crowd
High
When
Evenings
Why
Lively atmosphere, dining options
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

We took an unforgettable trip to The Whaley House in Old San Diego. I'll follow this video up with some footage from the town and the house itself. #whaleyhouse #thewhaleyhouse #hauntedtiktok #storytime #storytimewithdimeydime #paranormaltiktok #paranormal #ghost #haunted #hauntedhouse
@dimey_dime
93.3K likes • 879.6K views

Skip the Trolley for Budget

Public transit or ride-sharing is much cheaper than the Old Town Trolley for getting to places like Coronado. Reddit

Embrace the Culture

Immerse yourself in the vibrant Día de los Muertos celebrations for a unique cultural experience. TikTokInstagram

Honoring tradition and celebrating life at Old Town San Diego’s Día de los Muertos 🖤✨ #oldtownsandiego #oldtown #diadelosmuertos #mexican #sandiegolife #sandiego #sandiegothingstodo @Visit San Diego #travel #traveltiktok #vi
@chai_ps
48.2K likes • 626K views
Rydables Twilight Tours in Old Town Scottsdale ✨✨✨ Book a tour today! • • #rydables #tour #fun #arizona #az #scottsdaleaz #oldtownscottsdale #travel #adventure #summer #summerfun #summernights #aznightlife #thingstodoinarizona
rydables
37.5K likes • 2.8M views

Explore Beyond the Main Street

Wander off the beaten path to discover hidden gems and local charm. TikTok

Free Parking & Admission

Enjoy free parking and admission to Old Town San Diego, making it an accessible outing. TikTok

Tbilisi, Old Town 🫶 #georgia #oldtbilisi #oldtown #tbilisi #tourism #tours #trip #excursion #weekend #holiday #foryou #happiness #beautifuldestinations #city #tower #follow #like #repost #video #reels #newpost
ako_tours_georgia
636 likes • 11.4K views

Tips

from all over the internet

Skip the Trolley for Budget

Public transit or ride-sharing is much cheaper than the Old Town Trolley for getting to places like Coronado. Reddit

Embrace the Culture

Immerse yourself in the vibrant Día de los Muertos celebrations for a unique cultural experience. TikTokInstagram

Explore Beyond the Main Street

Wander off the beaten path to discover hidden gems and local charm. TikTok

Free Parking & Admission

Enjoy free parking and admission to Old Town San Diego, making it an accessible outing. TikTok

Consider a Guided Tour

Trolley tours offer a fun way to see the city, but locals recommend public transit for cost savings. InstagramReddit

What Travellers Say

4.7
(2k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Old Town San Diego Trolley Tours are highly recommended by visitors for their convenience and informative guides, offering a fun way to see the city's highlights. While pricey, the hop-on-hop-off feature and engaging drivers make it a worthwhile experience for many, especially first-time visitors. However, budget-conscious travelers are advised to explore cheaper public transit alternatives. InstagramReddit+1

"Worth the price. though little experience side. (around 55-60/person) takes around 1-2hr if you don't get off at any locations. but its easy way to commute to different locations without hassle of car parking. one of the spot worth visit is "Coronado island". not many tourist know about this when they visit sandiego. really nice island acces by the "sandiego-Coronado bridge"."

kazumi makwana

"Old Town Trolly Tours are a great way to experience the "downtown" San Diego vibe! I am a local and tend to take most of my visitors on this trolley tour! The hop on/hop off option is ideal, as you can explore the various areas at your leisure, with trolleys passing through every 20 minutes! If you decide to stay on board to enjoy the entire tour all at once, that takes about 2 hours. Whichever option you choose, you can't go wrong! Even I (the local) learn something new about San Diego on these tours! The drivers make it fun, too! Highly recommend, especially for first-timers to San Diego!"

E Berry

"We took the night city tour and Rico our guide was amazing! He went above and beyond as a tour guide! He has a great personality, very entertaining, engaging and knows a lot history of the city of San Diego and Coronado Island! We highly recommend the night tour to all visitors! You won’t regret it!

To Rico - thank you for showing us a great time!"

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What People Like

Convenient hop-on-hop-off
Entertaining and knowledgeable drivers
Covers many city attractions

What People Dislike

Expensive price point

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Old Town San Diego is accessible by car, with parking available. Public transportation, including buses and the trolley, also serves the area. For budget-conscious travelers, using public transit or ride-sharing services like Uber or Lyft is recommended over the pricier Old Town Trolley Tours for reaching destinations like Coronado. Reddit

Yes, there is parking available in Old Town San Diego, and it's often free, making it an accessible destination. TikTok

While the Old Town Trolley can take you to Coronado, it's quite expensive. Public transit ($2.50) or ride-sharing services are significantly more budget-friendly options. Reddit

Walking is the best way to explore the historic streets of Old Town San Diego. For wider exploration of San Diego, consider the hop-on-hop-off trolley tours, though be mindful of the cost. Instagram

Yes, Old Town San Diego offers various tours, including the hop-on-hop-off trolley tours that cover multiple city stops. Some tours focus on history, while others, like those from So Diego Tours, incorporate food and drink experiences. Instagram+1

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, admission to Old Town San Diego State Historic Park is free. You can wander through the historic buildings, shops, and grounds without purchasing a ticket. TikTok

The Old Town Trolley Tours can be expensive, with prices around $55-60 per person for a 1-2 hour experience. Booking online might offer slight discounts. Reddit

For Old Town San Diego State Historic Park itself, no advance booking is necessary as admission is free. However, for specific attractions like the Whaley House Museum or popular trolley tours, booking in advance is recommended, especially during peak seasons. TikTok

The historic park generally opens around 10 AM and closes around 5 PM, though individual shops and restaurants may have extended hours. Special events can also affect operating times. TikTok

Yes, exploring the historic park, browsing shops, and enjoying the ambiance are all free activities. Special events like Día de los Muertos often feature free admission and entertainment. TikTok

📸 📸 Photography

Capture the vibrant colors of the historic adobe buildings, the festive decorations during events like Día de los Muertos, and the charming details of the shops and courtyards. The Whaley House also offers unique photo opportunities, especially for those interested in its haunted history. TikTok+1

Photography policies inside the Whaley House Museum may vary. It's best to check with the museum staff upon arrival regarding restrictions on flash photography or video recording. TikTok

Evening tours, like the Old Town Trolley night tour, can offer unique photographic perspectives of the city lights and illuminated historic sites. Instagram

A versatile camera, whether a smartphone or a dedicated camera, is ideal. Consider a wide-angle lens for capturing the architecture and a good low-light capability for evening shots. TikTok

Look for colorful murals, intricately decorated doorways, and the festive altars during Día de los Muertos. The general ambiance of the historic streets provides many picturesque moments. TikTokInstagram

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Old Town San Diego is known for its Mexican cuisine. Casa De Reyes is a popular spot for carnitas and a lively atmosphere, especially during Halloween. Many other restaurants offer traditional dishes and margaritas. TikTok+1

Most Mexican restaurants in Old Town will offer vegetarian options like bean and cheese burritos or vegetable fajitas. Vegan options might require specific requests, so it's best to inquire with the restaurant. TikTok

While not a single signature dish, Mexican cuisine, particularly dishes like carnitas, enchiladas, and tacos, are staples. Margaritas are also a popular beverage choice. TikTok+1

Yes, several establishments in Old Town San Diego offer happy hour deals on drinks and appetizers, making it a great spot for evening enjoyment. TikTok

Casa De Reyes offers a vibrant dining experience with delicious food, including carnitas, and often features festive decorations, especially around holidays like Halloween. TikTok

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Old Town San Diego offers a fun and educational experience for families. The historic park provides a glimpse into the past with its preserved buildings and interactive exhibits. TikTok Many shops offer unique souvenirs, and the abundance of Mexican restaurants means plenty of kid-friendly food options. TikTok Consider visiting during special events like Día de los Muertos for added excitement and cultural immersion. TikTok

While the Whaley House Museum has a haunted reputation, it can be an engaging experience for older children interested in ghost stories, though parental discretion is advised. TikTok The hop-on-hop-off trolley tours can also be a convenient way to keep younger ones entertained while seeing different parts of San Diego, though they can be pricey. Instagram

💰 Budget Travelers

Old Town San Diego is a fantastic destination for budget travelers as admission to the historic park is free, and parking is often complimentary. TikTok You can spend hours exploring the grounds, browsing shops, and soaking in the atmosphere without spending a dime. TikTok For dining, look for happy hour specials or opt for more casual eateries offering traditional Mexican fare. TikTok

When it comes to getting around San Diego, avoid the expensive Old Town Trolley Tours. Reddit users strongly advise using public buses or ride-sharing services, which are significantly cheaper for reaching attractions like Coronado Island. Reddit This approach allows you to experience more of San Diego without breaking the bank.

👻 Paranormal Enthusiasts

For those fascinated by the supernatural, the Whaley House Museum in Old Town San Diego is a must-visit. TikTok It's widely considered one of the most haunted houses in America, with a rich history of reported paranormal activity. TikTok Guided tours delve into the house's eerie past, sharing stories of its former residents and the spectral encounters that have occurred within its walls. TikTok

Beyond the Whaley House, the general atmosphere of Old Town, especially during the evening or around Halloween, can lend itself to spooky vibes. TikTok While not explicitly paranormal, the historical context and old architecture contribute to a sense of mystery and intrigue that appeals to fans of the eerie and unexplained. TikTok

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Old Town Trolley Tour Experience

The Old Town Trolley Tours are a popular way for visitors to see San Diego, offering a hop-on-hop-off service that covers major attractions like Old Town, Balboa Park, Coronado Island, and the Gaslamp Quarter. Instagram While many find it a convenient way to navigate the city without the hassle of parking, it comes at a cost, with prices around $55-60 per person for a 1-2 hour tour. Reddit The tours are praised for their informative and entertaining drivers who share local history and jokes, making the experience enjoyable even for locals. InstagramReddit

Travelers often recommend the 2-day pass for those who want to fully explore all the stops at their leisure, as trolleys typically pass every 20 minutes. Reddit However, for budget-conscious travelers, Reddit discussions strongly suggest opting for public transit or ride-sharing services, which are significantly cheaper for reaching specific destinations like Coronado Island. Reddit

Some tours, like the night city tour, are highlighted for their unique perspectives and engaging guides who go above and beyond. Reddit Ultimately, the trolley tour is considered a worthwhile investment for first-time visitors who want a comprehensive overview of San Diego's diverse neighborhoods and attractions without the stress of driving and parking. Reddit+1

Cultural Immersion: Día de los Muertos

Old Town San Diego comes alive during the Día de los Muertos (Day of the Dead) celebrations, typically held in late October and early November. TikTok This vibrant cultural event honors deceased loved ones with colorful ofrendas (altars), traditional music, and festive decorations. Instagram Visitors can experience over 40 unique altars created by local businesses and museums, offering a deeply moving and visually stunning display of remembrance and celebration. Instagram

The celebrations are known for their free admission and parking, making it an accessible event for everyone. TikTok The atmosphere is described as both spooky and celebratory, with a strong sense of tradition and community. TikTok+1 It's an opportunity to witness authentic Mexican culture and traditions firsthand, making it a highlight for many visitors. TikTok

Beyond the ofrendas, the event often includes live performances, food vendors, and artisan crafts, creating a lively and engaging experience. TikTok It's a chance to connect with the rich heritage of San Diego and participate in a meaningful cultural observance. TikTok

Exploring Historic Old Town

Old Town San Diego State Historic Park is a living museum that transports visitors back to the early days of California. TikTok It preserves and showcases the adobe buildings, courtyards, and shops that were central to life in the Mexican and early American periods. TikTok Wandering through the park allows you to step into the past, with many buildings now housing museums, artisan shops, and restaurants. TikTok

A key attraction within Old Town is the Whaley House Museum, famously known as one of America's most haunted houses. TikTok Visitors can take tours to learn about its history and alleged paranormal activity. TikTok The area also boasts a variety of shops selling unique souvenirs, crafts, and clothing, offering a chance to find treasures while exploring. TikTok

Old Town is also a culinary hub, particularly for authentic Mexican cuisine. Restaurants like Casa De Reyes are popular for their traditional dishes and lively ambiance, especially during festive seasons. TikTok The vibrant atmosphere, combined with the historical significance, makes Old Town a must-visit for those seeking a blend of history, culture, and local flavor. TikTok