5 (111)
San Diego
Old Town San Diego: Tales, Tacos & Tequila Tour
150
Overview
San Diego Old Town Tales, Tacos and Tequila Small Group Tour invites guests to step back in time and discover the captivating stories of Old Town San Diego. This walking tour explores historical landmarks and hidden gems, offering a unique blend of history, culture, and culinary delights. Guests will learn about the area's origins, from its indigenous roots to its Spanish colonial past, and its evolution into a vibrant Mexican-American community.
The tour begins at the Old Adobe Chapel, a site credited with saving Old Town San Diego. The adventure continues to the Whaley House, known as one of Southern California's most haunted homes. The tour route then passes by Victorian-era architecture and the original sites of the Presidio and Mission, offering glimpses into San Diego's layered past. Guests will also admire the oldest 18th-century structure in the area and learn about the indigenous tribes who lived there for thousands of years.
The experience culminates with a visit to a local tequileria, where guests can learn about and enjoy a tasting of different tequilas (or another beverage of their choice for guests 21+), paired with delicious gourmet tacos. The tour also includes stops at authentic Mexican handcraft shops, a historic Catholic church, and El Campo Santo Cemetery, where graves date back to the 1850s. Included in the tour are chips and salsa, three street tacos, a handmade tortilla tasting, and a souvenir margarita recipe. Not included are guide gratuity and admission to paid museums. 
Highlights
Explore Historic Old Town: Discover the rich history and culture of San Diego's oldest settlement.
Taste Authentic Flavors: Enjoy delicious street tacos and a tequila tasting at a local tequileria.
Visit Haunted Landmarks: See the Whaley House, known as one of Southern California's most haunted homes.
Small Group Experience: Enjoy a more personalized and intimate tour with a small group.
Expert Local Guide: Learn from a knowledgeable guide who brings the history to life.
Perfect Blend of History and Food: Combine sightseeing with a culinary adventure for a memorable experience.
Sentiment Analysis
Most customers rave about the engaging tour guides, delicious food and drinks, and the unique blend of history and culture in Old Town San Diego. While some find the walking tiring or want more time at certain spots, the overall experience is highly rated.
Customers love the fun and informative tour guides who bring the history of Old Town to life.
Many reviewers highlight the delicious tacos and tequila tasting as a major plus.
Visitors appreciate the walking tour format, allowing them to experience the area up close.
Guests enjoy the combination of historical sites, cultural insights, and culinary treats.
Some found the amount of walking to be tiring.
A few guests wished for more time at certain stops.
The Journey
Old Town San Diego
Step back in time in Old Town San Diego, the birthplace of California. Discover the legacy of the Kumeyaay people, the arrival of Spanish settlers, and the area's transition through Mexican rule to becoming a US state. Immerse yourself in the stories of early San Diegans as you explore historic adobes and conclude your journey with the authentic flavors of tacos and tequila, offering a true taste of San Diego's vibrant heritage.
Adobe Chapel
Visit the historic Adobe Chapel, originally built as a home in 1850 and transformed into a chapel in 1858 after the mission's closure. Discover its connection to the beloved novel 'Ramona' and the fictional wedding scene that saved the neighborhood from demolition. Explore this iconic landmark, a symbol of resilience and a testament to San Diego's rich literary and architectural history.
Whaley House
Explore the Whaley House, a historic landmark known for its ghostly residents and fascinating past. Delve into the history of the three historic buildings on the site and admire the century-old pepper trees. Uncover the stories behind this 1857 Greek Revival house, which served as a family home, a granary, San Diego's first commercial theater, a courthouse, and a school. Experience its haunted ambiance and learn about the Whaley family's legacy in shaping early San Diego.
Victorian Buildings of Old Town
Wander through the charming collection of Victorian buildings relocated to Old Town in the 1970s. These beautifully preserved houses, dating back to the late 19th century, offer a glimpse into San Diego's architectural evolution and the city's commitment to preserving its past. Discover the unique stories behind each structure and admire the intricate details of these historic homes.
Mexican-American War Commemoration Site
Reflect on the significance of the longest infantry march in US history, which took place during the Mexican-American War (1846-48), at this commemoration site. Learn about the strategic importance of this region during the conflict and the lasting impact of the war on the borderlands and American expansion.
Presidio of San Diego
Visit the Presidio of San Diego, the site where modern San Diego began with the establishment of the first Mission and Presidio (fortress) in 1769. Discover the origins of the city and the stories of the early settlers who eventually moved down the hill to create what is now Old Town State Park. Explore the archaeological remains of the Presidio, offering a tangible link to San Diego's founding.
Descendant Church
Visit the descendant of the original church at our meeting location, a testament to the enduring legacy of faith in San Diego. This historic church, over 100 years old, represents the evolution of religious life in the city and the community's commitment to its spiritual heritage. Admire its architecture and reflect on its significance as a place of worship for generations.
El Campo Santo Cemetery
Explore El Campo Santo Cemetery, San Diego's main Catholic cemetery after the Presidio closed. Wander through the final resting place of many of San Diego's early residents, each tombstone whispering stories of the past. Reflect on the lives and legacies of these pioneers who shaped the city's history and culture.
Local Eatery in Old Town
Conclude your historical journey with a delightful stop at a local eatery in Old Town. Relax and savor refreshing beverages and delicious bites, immersing yourself in the vibrant culinary scene of San Diego. Enjoy the flavors of the region as you reflect on the rich history and cultural experiences encountered throughout the tour, leaving you with lasting memories of your San Diego adventure.
Know Before You Go
This San Diego Old Town tour includes chips and salsa, a professional local guide, three delicious street tacos, a handmade tortilla tasting, and one tequila beverage for guests 21+ (or beer, wine, or soda) at a local tequileria, plus a souvenir margarita recipe. It excludes guide gratuity and admission to paid museums. The meeting point is at the Old Adobe Chapel.
Hot Tip
Wear comfortable shoes, as this is a walking tour. Also, consider bringing a hat and sunscreen, as much of the tour is outdoors. Don't forget your ID if you plan to participate in the tequila tasting.
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