Old Town San Diego is considered the “birthplace” of California. San Diego is the site of the first permanent Spanish settlement in California. In 1968, the State of California Department of Parks and Recreation established Old Town State Historic Park to preserve the rich heritage that characterized San Diego during the period of 1821 to 1872. The park includes a main plaza, exhibits, museums and living history demonstrations. Near Old Town is San Diego Historic State Park, where you’ll find Heritage Park.

Here, several of San Diego’s most notable Victorian homes have been relocated and authentically restored to their original splendor. Just a short walk down San Diego Avenue is the Whaley House, an officially designated haunted house, the Little Adobe Chapel on Conde Street, the first Church in Old Town San Diego and El Campo Santo on San Diego Avenue, an 1850 Catholic Cemetery.

Old Town is full of history and it can transport you to another place in time, yet there also are so many “new world” places available for your entertainment, such as Sea World. This place is a favorite among youngsters and adults alike and will help you to create memories to last a lifetime. Come visit the original and reconstructed buildings that illustrate the ambiance of 1800’s San Diego… where California began!