Old Town San Diego State Historic Park (oldtownmarketsandiego.com) is a cluster of 19th-century buildings northwest of downtown, many of which date from San Diego’s Mexican and early American eras. Arguably the most iconic of Old Town’s historic buildings is the Whaley House Museum (whaleyhousesandiego.com; adult/child $13.30/9.50), constructed in 1856 on the site where public hangings once took place. Today, it’s rumored to be so haunted that it’s been featured on many ghost-hunting television shows. At night, they offer ghost tours and after-hours paranormal investigations.
Casa de Estudillo is an original adobe building dating back to 1825 and is furnished with antiques from the 16th to the 20th century. Heritage Park nearby has a collection of preserved Victorian homes. The Junípero Serra Museum (sandiegohistory.org) commemorates Spanish Franciscan missionary Father Junípero Serra, who established the state’s first mission; the event is widely considered to be the founding of California.
You can also make your own candles, buy penny candy and visit Bazaar del Mundo, which brings together merchants selling everything from jewelry to pottery.
Old Town is also the location of must-see events like May’s Fiesta Old Town Cinco de Mayo (oldtowncincodemayo.com), with lucha libre wrestling, music and entertainment. In November, Old Town celebrates one of the most important holidays in Mexican culture with a Dia de los Muertos (dayofthedeadsd.com) parade, music and entertainment in the streets, and public ofrenda remembering those who have passed. December’s Old Town Las Posadas is a Mexican celebration honoring Biblical Christmas stories.
