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

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxed exploration
Tours Old Town
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxed exploration

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.
"It's so worth the price, you get to literally see San Diego. "
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.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
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
Old Town San Diego
Explore one of America's most haunted houses, with a history steeped in paranormal tales.
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
Old Town San Diego
Savor delicious Mexican cuisine and enjoy the lively ambiance, especially during festive seasons.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Crowds & Save
Timing is Everything
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
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.
Explore Beyond the Main Street
Wander off the beaten path to discover hidden gems and local charm.
Free Parking & Admission
Enjoy free parking and admission to Old Town San Diego, making it an accessible outing.
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.
Embrace the Culture
Immerse yourself in the vibrant Día de los Muertos celebrations for a unique cultural experience.
Explore Beyond the Main Street
Wander off the beaten path to discover hidden gems and local charm.
Free Parking & Admission
Enjoy free parking and admission to Old Town San Diego, making it an accessible outing.
Consider a Guided Tour
Trolley tours offer a fun way to see the city, but locals recommend public transit for cost savings.
What Travellers Say
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.
"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!"
Wake Riderz Boat Rental Lake Austin
What People Like
What People Dislike
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.
Yes, there is parking available in Old Town San Diego, and it's often free, making it an accessible destination.
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.
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.
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.
🎫 🎫 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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
📸 📸 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.
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.
Evening tours, like the Old Town Trolley night tour, can offer unique photographic perspectives of the city lights and illuminated historic sites.
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.
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.
🍽️ 🍽️ 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.
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.
While not a single signature dish, Mexican cuisine, particularly dishes like carnitas, enchiladas, and tacos, are staples. Margaritas are also a popular beverage choice.
Yes, several establishments in Old Town San Diego offer happy hour deals on drinks and appetizers, making it a great spot for evening enjoyment.
Casa De Reyes offers a vibrant dining experience with delicious food, including carnitas, and often features festive decorations, especially around holidays like Halloween.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
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. 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.
💰 Budget Travelers
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. This approach allows you to experience more of San Diego without breaking the bank.
👻 Paranormal Enthusiasts
Beyond the Whaley House, the general atmosphere of Old Town, especially during the evening or around Halloween, can lend itself to spooky vibes. 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.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Old Town Trolley Tour Experience
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. 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.
Some tours, like the night city tour, are highlighted for their unique perspectives and engaging guides who go above and beyond. 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.
Cultural Immersion: Día de los Muertos
The celebrations are known for their free admission and parking, making it an accessible event for everyone. The atmosphere is described as both spooky and celebratory, with a strong sense of tradition and community. It's an opportunity to witness authentic Mexican culture and traditions firsthand, making it a highlight for many visitors.
Beyond the ofrendas, the event often includes live performances, food vendors, and artisan crafts, creating a lively and engaging experience. It's a chance to connect with the rich heritage of San Diego and participate in a meaningful cultural observance.
Exploring Historic Old Town
A key attraction within Old Town is the Whaley House Museum, famously known as one of America's most haunted houses. Visitors can take tours to learn about its history and alleged paranormal activity. The area also boasts a variety of shops selling unique souvenirs, crafts, and clothing, offering a chance to find treasures while exploring.
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. 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.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit