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We’ll wander through historic streets and tucked-away corners as your guide paints a vivid picture of early San Diego: Kumeyaay roots, Spanish and Mexican-era life, the coming of American settlement, and the everyday stories that shaped the city long before downtown existed. Along the way, you’ll learn how Old Town’s distinctive architecture—from adobe homes to wooden storefronts—was built for the landscape, the climate, and the times.
And because Old Town has a reputation for more than just history… we’ll explore its most famous (and infamous) ghost stories. Expect chilling tales of restless spirits, mysterious happenings, and local lore passed down for generations—shared in a fun, engaging way that’s spooky without being over-the-top.
Tour highlights
The key sites that earned Old Town its title as “the birthplace of California”
Adobe-era architecture, hidden details, and how these buildings were made to last
Dramatic true stories from San Diego’s Spanish, Mexican, and early American periods
Classic Old Town ghost legends and eerie local folklore
Good to know
Duration: 90 minutes
Pace: Easy, with frequent stops for storytelling and photos
Perfect for: History buffs, families with teens, curious travelers, and ghost-story fans
Price: $39 per person