Old Town is the site of the first Spanish settlers on the U.S. West Coast. Old Town features acres of Mexican heritage and fascinating historical sites in San Diego.

Old Town is known for its Mexican cuisine and is a vibrant and lively neighborhood. A local favorite, Cafe Coyote is a restaurant that will enchant you with colorful decor and mouth-watering upscale dishes. If you’re a tequila lover, like me, El Agave has a mind blowing tequila collection, along with traditional Mexican fare. Besides the excellent Mexican cuisine, Harney Sushi has creative Japanese dishes and sushi roll concoctions. Try the ‘Mike Check” roll featuring lobster, cilantro, garlic ponzu, and wonton chips.

Old Town State Historical Park boasts beautifully built 19th-century homes and business that provide a glimpse into colonial life in San Diego. Look for the adobe ranch homes, schoolhouse, and graveyard among the occupied areas of Old Town. The Whaley House Museum is an officially designated haunted house in California. Built in 1856 on a former gallows’ site, Whaley home also features San Diego’s first county courthouse and theater.

On the hillside overlooking Old Town is Presidio Park where Father Junipero Serra founded the first California Spanish Mission in 1769. the museums here and at the current mission site, the Mission Basilica San Diego de Alcala in Mission Valley, has excellent exhibits about the area’s early history.

Whether checking out the historical sites, shopping, or dining at one of Old Town’s fabulous restaurants, it’s easy to see why Old Town is one of San Diego’s favorite neighborhoods.

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