Old Town Walking History Tour in San Diego

San Diego , United States of America

Old Town Walking History Tour in San Diego

Active

(12 reviews)

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Book a tour of Old Town San Diego with our local company for an authentic and memorable experience. Learn about the rich culture and heritage, get exclusive access to Heritage Park, and hear true historical stories.

Our guides are passionate, knowledgeable, and costumed with a sense of humor. Support local business and make the most of your money by choosing us for an unforgettable tour experience.

Don't be fooled by our out-of-town, big budget competitors - we've caught them making up stories many times, seriously.

Our hosts are passionate and costumed individuals who love this city and want you to have an unforgettable tour experience. Real history, done theatrically with a sense of humor.

When you choose us, you're also supporting a local business and feeling great knowing your money is being put to good use. Join us today for an unforgettable tour experience and make the most of your money and time!

Available options

Old Town Walking History Tour in San Diego

What's included

We Pay for Access to Heritage Park. The Only History Tour Allowed Inside

Costumed Entertaining Host

Relive History on an Enchanting Tour of Old Town

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

Overview -- For a thrilling journey through San Diego's rich past, don't miss Old Town and Heritage Park! This beautiful spot is home to handsome Victorian buildings that were saved from destruction, San Diego's oldest house, Casa de Carillo, which serves as the clubhouse for the city's oldest golf course, the renowned Presidio Golf Course where Tiger Woods played in his youth, the grand Cosmopolitan Hotel, which was also a stagecoach stop for many prominent early San Diego families, San Diego's oldest two-story brick building, the celebrated Whaley House, a time capsule of San Diego's amazing history, and the historic El Campo Santo cemetery, the final resting place of many colorful early San Diegans. Come explore this incredible spot of San Diego's past today!

Stop 2 Pass by

See the house, Hear the history even the Whaley's didn't want out.

Stop 3

Old Town San Diego's Cemetary, El Campo Santo, has a long history of macabre. Ghosts there are disturbed as their burial grounds have been disturbed many times. Yet, strange figures still appear to glow and float above the ground. See some of the spirit orbs customers have captured there in our imagery.

Stop 4

Heritage Park is a sacred place developed to preserve examples of San Diego's historic Victorian architecture. You'll visit a total of 7 locations. Our tour pays to gain you entrance to Heritage Park.

What's not included

App/email messages from you are not seen. Vist our website, get our number and text us directly.

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.7

12 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Transportation options are wheelchair accessible

Wheelchair accessible

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Unlike other tours, we take you inside real locations - thanks to our paid partnerships and exclusive access. To keep this premium experience sustainable, we need 6 total guests per tour (including your group). Think of it as joining an exclusive history club.

You walk rougly 1.5 mile over a 2 hour period. It is a brisk walking tour. Wheelchairs and strollers generally do well particularly if you have someone that can help push here and there as there are some hills.

Meeting point

Meet at Senlis Cottage. in Heritage Park Brown and Orange Cottage. This should be the first building you see when you enter the park. Unfortunately there is limited parking in the park, do try though. Across the street is a much larger free parking area.

Important notes

!!! MUST READ !!!
Welcome to San Diego History Tours! This is Brian from https://sandiegohistorytour.com/please read this carefully.

Booking Status
If your tour says “pending” or “not confirmed,” no worries. Hang in there just need to hit the minimum if we have challanges will be in touch before tour day of with options.

Heads Up! No Email or App Messaging Replies
These big booking platforms have their own systems—we can't keep up. Text or call 619‑255‑6170. We do not reply to or see emails or app messages.

MEET
2454 Heritage Park Row San Diego, CA 92110

Meet at Senlis Cottage in Heritage Park Brown Cottage with Orange trim. The first building you see when you enter the park. Parking in Heritage is not available.
Though we do not go into buildings on the tour we do pay to be allowed to tour in Heritage Park - it is our exclusive. :)

Tip nicely if you enjoy the tour. Call/Text me if not.
Use the bathroom before.
Bring a sense of humor, true stories done theatrically.
Comfortable shoes, please.

GO EARLY TO PARK - parking can be competitive.
Free parking map: https://hauntedsandiegotours.com/hertiage-parking.jpg
Give the host your name.

We will see you 15 minutes before tour time. Leave on time firm with no exceptions, refunds, or substitutions.

Photography
Feel free to take pics of the environment—but not the show.

By booking, you agree to our terms:
https://hauntedsandiegotours.com/booking-terms-and-conditions/ https://hauntedsandiegotours.com/terms-and-conditions/

Thanks—you’re in for a good time!
Brian

About San Diego

San Diego is known for its mild year-round climate, extensive beaches, and beautiful parks. It's a vibrant city that offers a mix of urban attractions, cultural experiences, and outdoor adventures, making it a popular destination for travelers of all kinds.

Top Attractions

San Diego Zoo

The San Diego Zoo is one of the most famous zoos in the world, known for its extensive collection of animals and beautiful landscaping. It's a must-visit for animal lovers and families.

Zoo 4-6 hours Expensive (around $60 for adults, $48 for children)

Balboa Park

Balboa Park is a 1,200-acre urban cultural park that houses museums, gardens, and the San Diego Zoo. It's a great place to spend a day exploring art, history, and nature.

Park Half day to full day Free (some attractions require admission fees)

La Jolla Cove

La Jolla Cove is a beautiful coastal area known for its sea caves, tide pools, and marine life. It's a popular spot for snorkeling, kayaking, and whale watching.

Nature 2-4 hours Free (some activities require fees)

USS Midway Museum

The USS Midway Museum is a historic aircraft carrier that has been converted into a museum. Visitors can explore the ship's decks, hangars, and exhibits, and even take a simulated flight in a fighter jet.

Museum 2-3 hours Moderate (around $26 for adults, $12 for children)

Gaslamp Quarter

The Gaslamp Quarter is a historic neighborhood known for its Victorian-era buildings, restaurants, bars, and nightlife. It's a great place to explore the city's history and enjoy its vibrant atmosphere.

Historical 2-4 hours Free (some attractions require fees)

Must-Try Local Dishes

Fish Tacos

A San Diego specialty, fish tacos are made with fresh, locally caught fish, usually served with cabbage slaw and a creamy sauce.

Lunch/Dinner Gluten-free options available

Burrata

A creamy, rich Italian cheese made from mozzarella and cream, often served with bread and olive oil.

Appetizer Vegetarian

Birria Tacos

A Mexican dish made with slow-cooked, spiced meat, usually served with corn tortillas and consommé for dipping.

Lunch/Dinner Vegetarian options available

Avocado Toast

A popular breakfast and brunch dish made with toasted bread, mashed avocado, and various toppings.

Breakfast/Brunch Vegetarian, Vegan options available

Popular Activities

Surfing Kayaking Hiking Beachcombing Picnicking Spas Museums Art galleries

Best Time to Visit

March to May and September to November

These months offer pleasant weather and fewer crowds. It's ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing.

15-24°C 59-75°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: English
Widely spoken: Spanish
English: Widely spoken

Currency

US Dollar (USD)

Time Zone

GMT-8 (Pacific Standard Time, PST) or GMT-7 (Pacific Daylight Time, PDT) during daylight saving time

Electricity

120VV, 60HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

San Diego is generally a safe city, with low crime rates compared to other major cities in the United States. However, as with any destination, it's important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to protect yourself and your belongings.

Important Precautions:

• Be aware of your surroundings and keep an eye on your belongings, especially in crowded areas.
• Use licensed taxis or rideshare services, and avoid unmarked taxis.
• Keep your valuables secure and out of sight, especially in your car or when using public transportation.

Getting there

By air

San Diego International Airport • 3 miles (5 km) from downtown

By train

San Diego Santa Fe Depot

By bus

Greyhound Station, San Diego Metro Transit Center

Getting around

Public transport

The MTS bus system covers the entire city and is affordable and reliable. Buses are a good option for getting around, especially during off-peak hours.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, Lyft

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Gaslamp Quarter La Jolla Little Italy Pacific Beach Hillcrest

Day trips

Coronado Island

6 miles (10 km) from downtown • Half day to full day

Coronado Island is a beautiful beach town known for its historic Hotel del Coronado, sandy beaches, and scenic views. It's a great place to relax, enjoy the sun, and explore the island's history.

Tijuana

20 miles (32 km) from downtown • Full day

Tijuana is a vibrant border city known for its Mexican cuisine, nightlife, and cultural attractions. It's a great place to experience authentic Mexican culture and enjoy its culinary scene.

Temecula Valley Wine Country

60 miles (97 km) from downtown • Full day

Temecula Valley Wine Country is a picturesque region known for its wineries, vineyards, and scenic views. It's a great place to spend a day tasting wine, enjoying the countryside, and relaxing.

Festivals

Comic-Con International • July San Diego International Film Festival • October San Diego Street Food Festival • June

Pro tips

Visit Balboa Park early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds and heat.
Explore the city's beaches and coastal areas, such as La Jolla Cove and Coronado Island, for stunning views and unique experiences.
Try San Diego's famous fish tacos and craft beer at local restaurants and breweries.
Take a guided tour of the USS Midway Museum for a behind-the-scenes look at this historic aircraft carrier.
Visit during the off-peak season (December to February) for fewer crowds and lower prices.