Join the Excitement: Free Activities and Games at Old Town San Diego State Historic Park
June 14 through June 18 marks the 2nd Annual California State Parks Week, a celebration of the state’s remarkable parks and outdoor spaces. During this …
Category: History
Virtual Adventurer: Explore California’s History and Nature with California State Parks’ New Mobile App
California State Parks has launched an exciting new mobile app called “Virtual Adventurer,” which aims to provide users with an immersive and interactive guide to …
Uncover Hidden Treasures at the Casa de Aguirre
Imagine strolling through the charming streets of Old Town San Diego and stumbling upon a treasure trove of history and unique shopping opportunities. Welcome to …
Asim Gunalp: The Trusted Horologist of Old Town San Diego
In the heart of Old Town San Diego stands a quaint and unassuming shop, adorned with the name Asim Gunalp, Horologist. For over three decades, …
Unveiling San Diego’s Dark Side: Ghosts & Gravestones Frightseeing Tour
Embark on a spine-chilling adventure through the haunted history of San Diego with the Ghosts & Gravestones Frightseeing Tour. This thrilling excursion delves into the …
Not Forgotten: Mormon Battalion to Honor Vietnam Veterans at Flag Day Celebration
Old Town San Diego’s historic Mormon Battalion site will pay tribute to four distinguished Vietnam veterans by inducting them as honorary members of the renowned …
Preserving History: Exploring the Bushyhead House in Heritage County Park
Among the stately homes of Heritage County Park, the Bushyhead House stands as a testament to the city’s rich history and cultural diversity. Built in …
Newspapers on the Frontier: The San Diego Union
By Nathan Fogerson, San Diego State University Intern, Spring 2021 Life on the frontier was isolating in many ways—communities were small and often insular, communication …
Seeley Transportation Tour – State Historic Park
Come on this new 45-minute tour of our Seeley Stables museum learning about the importance of transportation in the development of San Diego. In this tour we …
Save the Date: 4th of July Celebration in Old Town San Diego State Historic Park
Step Back in Time and Experience a Memorable Fourth of July Celebration in Old Town San Diego State Historic Park! Mark your calendars and get …
The Machado Sisters: The Californianas of Old Town, San Diego
Written and published by Victor Walsh, San Diego Coast District Historian II on March 12, 2002. William Heath Davis, an American land speculator and promoter …
Maidhof Bros. Shipware Merchants: Sailing the Seas of Nautical Antiques
Ahoy, mateys! For those seeking a treasure trove of nautical antiques, maritime artifacts, and ocean-inspired collectibles, look no further than Maidhof Bros. Shipware Merchants. Established …
Discover the Enchanting World of Casa de Estudillo!
At the heart of the bustling Old Town San Diego State Historic Park, lies the magnificent Casa de Estudillo – a hidden gem waiting to …
Celebrate Cinco de Mayo at Old Town San Diego State Historic Park with Free Events
Cinco de Mayo weekend is fast approaching, and Old Town San Diego State Historic Park is gearing up for an exciting celebration. The park is …
Free State Historic Park Events – May 2023
Old Town San Diego State Historic Park is a treasure trove of California’s cultural heritage, offering visitors a chance to explore the town’s rich history …
Victorian Splendor in Old Town: Visiting the Christian House
Nestled in the heart of Old Town San Diego lies a hidden gem of historical significance, the Christian House in Heritage County Park. This stately …
Discover the Art of Metal Forging and Woodworking at Blackhawk Livery Stable
The Blacksmith at Old Town San Diego Historic State Park is a fascinating piece of living history that offers visitors a glimpse into the past. …
A Chilling Adventure at the Whaley House
Are you ready for a spine-tingling adventure unlike any other? Look no further than the chilling paranormal investigation experience offered at the iconic Whaley House …
The Mormon Battalion’s Legacy: Exploring the First San Diego Courthouse
San Diego, California, is a city rich in history, with many unique landmarks and attractions to explore. One such landmark is the First San Diego …
The Church of the Immaculate Conception
Nestled in the heart of historic Old Town San Diego lies a true gem of California’s rich religious history – the Immaculate Conception Church. For …
Free State Historic Park Events – April 2023
Old Town San Diego State Historic Park is a treasure trove of California’s cultural heritage, offering visitors a chance to explore the town’s rich history …
Discover “Land of the First People” at Old Town San Diego State Historic Park
Old Town San Diego State Historic Park has a new public gathering area named Iipay ~Tipai Kumeyaay Mut Niihepok (Land of the First People). The …
Explore Heritage County Park’s Victorian Treasures
Looking for a unique travel destination that will take you back in time? Look no further than San Diego’s Heritage County Park! This magnificent 7.8-acre …
Remembering Antonio Garra: A Hero of Indigenous Rights and Self-Determination
Antonio Garra was a Native American leader of the Cupeño tribe who lived in what is now Southern California in the mid-19th century. Garra is …
Restoring History: Explore the McCoy House
Looking for a historic destination in sunny San Diego that offers a glimpse into the life of one of the city’s most prominent figures? Look …
Remembering Juana Machado: The Florence Nightingale of Old Town San Diego
The Machado y Silvas Museum in Old Town San Diego State Historic Park is proud to present a temporary exhibit dedicated to Juana Machado Alipas …
Immerse Yourself in Kumeyaay Culture at Kosay Kumeyaay Market
Kosay Kumeyaay Market is a specialty business that proudly offers a diverse selection of handmade products crafted by the Kumeyaay and Yuman people, indigenous communities …
Free Old Town State Historic Park Events – March 2023
Old Town San Diego State Historic Park is a treasure trove of California’s cultural heritage, offering visitors a chance to explore the town’s rich history …
Empowering Native Youth: Youth & Social Pow Wow – March 18
The Youth & Social Pow Wow in Old Town San Diego is a cultural event that celebrates the rich ancestral history of various Native Tribes. …
Save the Date: Antonio Garra Day – March 18
Get ready to celebrate the life and legacy of a remarkable Native American leader at the annual Antonio Garra Day on March 18, 2023 from …
Discovering California’s First Public Schoolhouse
The Mason Street Schoolhouse, located in San Diego, California, is a historic gem that provides a glimpse into the educational system of the late 19th …
Savor the Elegance of Victorian Charm at Coral Tree Tea House
Nestled among the lush greenery of a Victorian-era inspired park is a charming tea house that offers visitors a chance to step back in time …
African Diaspora Museum
The African Diaspora Museum in Old Town San Diego is a unique and fascinating cultural destination that showcases the rich heritage of Africa and its …
Free Hidden History Talks – Feb 2023
Join State Park Interpreters each week to experience untold stories of Old Town San Diego. These free, 15-minute-long talks highlight the underrepresented histories and voices …
Free State Historic Park Walking Tours – Feb 2023
Explore Old Town San Diego State Historic Park with an expert during this hour-long guided tour. This family-friendly ½ mile tour will explore the community that shaped …
February is Museum Month in San Diego
San Diego Museum Month is an annual event that takes place in February where more than 60 museums, historic sites, gardens, zoo/aquariums and other attractions …
Old Town San Diego Celebrates the Mormon Battalion with Successful Parade & Event
The Annual Mormon Battalion Parade & Community event, which took place on Saturday, January 28, 2023 in Old Town San Diego, was a resounding success. …
Small Building, Big Responsibilities: The First San Diego Courthouse
By Nathan Fogerson, Intern, Old Town San Diego State Historic Park, Spring 2021, San Diego State University The origins of the First San Diego Courthouse …
Don’t Miss the Mormon Battalion Annual Commemoration
The Annual Mormon Battalion Parade & Community event is taking place on Saturday, January 28, 2023 in Old Town San Diego, and it’s an event …
Visit the Junípero Serra Museum
The Junípero Serra Museum, operated by the San Diego History Center, continues to be an iconic regional landmark located just above Old Town San Diego …
McConaughy House
Featuring decorative Eastlake brackets, a low-pitched roof and a bay window, this house was built in 1887 by John McConaughy. Born in 1809, he came …
The San Diego Union Building
This prefabricated wood-frame structure probably arrived from the East Coast by ship in 1851. The building was reassembled in Old Town San Diego. In 1868, …
Volunteer at Old Town San Diego State Historic Park!
2023 is a new year, and a new chance to become a California State Parks Volunteer with Old Town San Diego State Historic Park! Volunteer …
Captain Fitch’s Mercantile Closes After 44 Years
It was a sad day for the Old Town San Diego community when it was announced that the beloved local business, “Captain Fitch’s Mercantile,” would …
History Selects: A Grave Concern
Originally published in Journal of the California Missions Foundation. Written by Paul G. Chace Introduction Father Junipero Serra’s heart carried a grave concern, a personal …
Free Hidden History Talks – Jan 2023
Join State Park Interpreters each week to experience untold stories of Old Town San Diego. These free, 15-minute-long talks start at 2:00 p.m. and highlight …
Free State Historic Park Walking Tours – Jan 2023
Explore Old Town San Diego State Historic Park with an expert during this hour-long guided tour. This family-friendly ½ mile tour will explore the community …
La Pastorela Exhibit at Casa de Machado y Silvas
The Old Town San Diego State Historic Park has launched a small holiday exhibit in Machado y Silvas/Commercial Restaurant on La Pastorela! It will be …
Burton House
Burton House Pediments and dentil cornices, attributed to classic sources, mark this 1893 Classic Revival house. It was built during a trend that began to …
Seeley Stables Museum
Seeley Stable was a “well built and sturdy” two-story, square-sided, shingle-roofed barn used to stable horses and house stagecoaches. It was probably the first structure …
Kumeyaay Plant Walk
The Kumeyaay have an intimate knowledge of the flora (plant life) of San Diego County. Join us for Native American Heritage Month to learn how …
Bushyhead House
Bushyhead House. Built by early San Diego County Sheriff and newspaper owner Edward Wilkerson (Ned) Bushyhead, this 1887 Italianate style house combines double doors with …
Ghosts & Gravestones Frightseeing Tour
Presented by Old Town Trolley Tours. “Join us for a spirited & entertaining tour built on stories of history, mystery and legends of San Diego’s …
Casa de Aguirre
Casa de Aguirre In 1853, Don Jose Antonio Aguirre builds one of the first houses in Old Town San Diego, the Casa de Aguirre. Don …
La Casa de Estudillo
Home to one of the state’s most distinguished 19th century families, La Casa de Estudillo was San Diego’s social and religious center during the Mexican …
Celebrating Indigenous Peoples’ Day in Old Town
Since 2019, California has proclaimed the second Monday in October to be Indigenous Peoples’ Day. In his proclamation, Governor Newsom said, “Today we celebrate the …
Whaley House After Hours Paranormal Investigation
Recognized as America’s Most Haunted HouseSM and shrouded in mystery, ghost-hunters flock to the iconic Whaley House, grounds of the original Old Town gallows site. Join …
Temple Beth Israel (1889)
Temple Beth Israel San Diego’s first synagogue was built by Congregation Beth Israel in 1889 in the Classic Revival style. The temple also served as …
Coral Tree Tea House: an Experience Fit for Royalty
You’re invited to visit the Coral Tree Tea House located in Old Town’s historic Heritage County Park! No where else can you relax in a …
Fiestas Patrias 2022
Fiestas Patrias Celebrate Mexico’s Independence Day at Old Town San Diego State Historic Park on September 17. Visitors can partake in historic 19th century crafts …
Movie Night: “Some Like it Hot” – Heritage Park
MOVIE NIGHT: “SOME LIKE IT HOT” (Sat, Sept. 17, 2022) Released 1959. After two male musicians witness a mob hit, they flee the state in …
Sherman-Gilbert House (1887)
Sherman-Gilbert House (1887) This house was built and first owned by John Sherman, cousin of General William Tecumseh Sherman. The “widow’s walk” and circular window are …
Heritage Park is September’s Rad Regional Park!
Heritage Park is the Rad Regional Park for the month of September! The County of San Diego features one park per month, highlighting all of …
McCoy House (1869)
Originally built in 1869, the McCoy House is the reconstructed wood-frame residence of Sheriff James McCoy and his wife Winnifred. McCoy came to San Diego …
Christian House (1889)
This graceful residence was constructed by Harfield Timberlake Christian, founder of an early San Diego abstract company. It is built in a popular late Victorian …
Seeley Stable Museum
The original Seeley Stables were built circa 1869 to support the transportation services offered by Albert L. Seeley. It was said that Seeley once purchased …
TwainFest 2022
TwainFest Free celebration of the literature, culture and history of 19th Century America, has become a tradition for many San Diego families and provides something for …
![Welcoming Iipay-Tipai Kumeyaay Mut Niihepok [Land of the First People] to OTSD State Historic Park](https://www.oldtownsandiego.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/Intro-sign-kumeyaay-park-890x530.png)
Welcoming Iipay-Tipai Kumeyaay Mut Niihepok [Land of the First People] to OTSD State Historic Park
A new public gathering area at Old Town San Diego State Historic Park named Iipay ~Tipai Kumeyaay Mut Niihepok (Land of the First People)—pronounced “Ee-pie …