Old Town San Diego, California’s first Spanish settlement and the birthplace of San Diego, is rich with the ambiance of the early 1800s. With historic buildings, museums, and Mexican restaurants lining the streets, it’s a popular spot where families and tourists can enjoy a taste of Mexico.
The Main Street of Old Town
Old Town centers around San Diego Avenue, its main street. Here, you’ll find souvenir shops, cafes, and restaurants, and with Mexican music playing, you’ll feel as though you’ve stepped into a street corner in another country.
The Tequila Lovers’ Paradise: El Agave Restaurant & Tequileria
Located at the intersection of San Diego Avenue and Old Town Avenue, El Agave Restaurant & Tequileria is a must-visit spot for tequila lovers. The outdoor area is filled with a Mexican ambiance, allowing you to enjoy a resort-like atmosphere and meal.
The authentic Mexican cuisine is delicious, and the impressive tequila collection, displayed on walls and ceilings, is a sight to behold! It’s truly remarkable, with over 2,000 varieties, including limited editions and vintage tequilas. The tasting flights offer a chance to sample and compare several types, allowing you to experience the depth and complexity of tequila.
Colorful Crafts and a Frida Kahlo Mural
Walking down San Diego Avenue, you can hear Mexican music playing, creating a wonderfully exotic atmosphere! The mural of the famous Mexican artist Frida Kahlo catches the eye, with many tourists stopping to take photos.
Walking through stalls selling colorful handmade crafts, clothing, and accessories, it feels like you’ve wandered into a Mexican town.
Fresh Tortillas at Cafe Coyote
Cafe Coyote is located along San Diego Avenue and is a popular spot to enjoy fresh tortillas and authentic Mexican cuisine. You can watch skilled artisans make tortillas right before your eyes, and tasting freshly made tortillas is truly exceptional! They also offer plenty of classic margaritas to enjoy. Situated within the Esplanade Shopping Center on San Diego Avenue, it’s convenient to drop by during your stroll, with public restrooms in the shopping center.
Historical Landmarks and Must-See Spots
One of Old Town’s landmarks, the Immaculate Conception Church, features beautiful Spanish Colonial Revival architecture, with its striking facade and stained-glass windows as highlights. Beyond this church lies the Old Town San Diego State Historic Park, adding even more historical charm.
Nearby, Casa de Estudillo, built in 1827 in the adobe style, stands as one of San Diego’s oldest buildings. This house was a social hub constructed by the influential Estudillo family during the Spanish colonial and Mexican eras. Now a museum, it provides a rare glimpse into the lives of early settlers.
Fiesta de Reyes: A Celebration of Traditional Mexican Culture
Fiesta de Reyes is an area where you can enjoy shopping, dining, and entertainment, enhanced by traditional Mexican decor and live music. The area has shops selling colorful handmade pottery, jewelry, clothing, and accessories. Even just walking around is enjoyable, thanks to the vibrant and lively atmosphere.
The meaning of the three colors of the Mexican flag: green represents hope and independence, white stands for purity and peace, and red symbolizes the unity of the people and the blood shed during the war of independence. Knowing these little facts makes looking at the flag more intriguing.
Festivals and Events Bring Old Town to Life
In Old Town, you’ll find a variety of shops selling Mexican traditional handicrafts and antiques, including the History Museum and McCoy House Museum. Throughout the year, events, festivals, and traditional Mexican celebrations are held, making weekends especially lively. It’s a wonderful place where tourists and locals alike can enjoy a leisurely stroll while soaking up the Mexican atmosphere.
Why not take a trip to Old Town San Diego to experience the charm of a foreign culture and history while immersing yourself in Mexican culture?
Old Town San Diego
The area’s main streets include San Diego Avenue, Twiggs Street, Congress Street, and Juan Street, centered around Old Town San Diego State Historic Park.
The area map is here.
El Agave Restaurant & Tequileria: A delicious restaurant with a fantastic tequila collection
2304 San Diego Ave, San Diego, CA 92110
Cafe Coyote: This is the place to go if you want freshly made tortillas.
2461 San Diego Avenue, San Diego, CA 92110
Immaculate Conception Church
2540 San Diego Ave, San Diego, CA 92110
Fiesta de Reyes
2754 Calhoun St, San Diego, CA 92110
Comments