As the part of San Diego where the first Spanish settlements of the early 19th century were built, Old Town offers many different historical attractions to those who are visiting the city. This neighborhood of San Diego is located at the very center of the city, where Interstates 5 and 8 intersect. In addition to sites of historical significance such as the Old Town State Historical Park and several museums, the neighborhood also showcases the interesting cultural blend of Spanish, Mexican, and Californian traditions that is an important characteristic of the entire city of San Diego.
History
The earliest Spanish establishments were seen in the area in 1769, when the Mission San Diego de Alcala was founded. Although the Mission was soon relocated several miles away, the town of San Diego began to grow up around the original site of the Mission. While the development of the downtown area of San Diego took attention off of this Old Town neighborhood as the 19th century progressed, Old Town has always remained the traditional heart of the city. Many annual events of cultural significance that celebrate San Diego's connection with Mexico occur in the Old Town neighborhood each year, including the city's Cinco de Mayo and Dia de los Muertos celebrations.
Attractions
One of the most prominent attractions in the Old Town neighborhood is the Old Town State Historical Park. This state park features many historical buildings, including preserved 19th century residential and commercial structures that allow visitors to get a taste of what colonial life was like in San Diego. The state park includes five adobe structures that form a complex of museums, shops, and restaurants. Among the museums featured at the park are the San Diego Union Museum, the Sheriff's Museum, the Casa de Machado y Stewart, and the Casa de Estudillo. The San Diego Union Museum is a preserved newspaper office and offers exhibits on printing during the colonial period, while the Sheriff's Museum showcases police equipment and uniforms from the past. Admission to the Old Town State Historical Park is free.
Other attractions of note in Old Town include the site of the original Spanish missions and the Junipero Serra Museum at Presidio Park. Old Town offers a great deal of culinary attractions in addition to the historical offerings at Presidio Park and the Old Town State historical Park. Old Town is a great place to experience Mexican cuisine. Two possible restaurants to visit include the Old Town Mexican Cafe y Cantina and the Cafe Coyote.
Special Events
Guests who really want to fully experience the flavor of Old Town should come when one of the major annual events are taking place. To get the full cultural experience, consider visiting in May to see the Cinco de Mayo celebration. If you visit at Christmas time, you can also experience Mexican/Spanish culture by seeing Las Posadas, which is a reenactment of the birth of Christ.
