a trolly pulling up to Old Town San Diego
21 Apr 2025

Old Town San Diego Visitor’s Guide

By builtbygcommerce

History Lesson

Landfall was made in San Diego in 1542 by Spanish missionaries who planted roots in the area now known as Old Town San Diego.

While San Diego is known for its amazing beaches, near-perfect weather, and popular attractions like SeaWorld San Diego and Petco Park to see a Padres game, it is also known as the birthplace of California and has an amazing Old Town district that is a must-see while visiting “America’s Finest City”.

Located just minutes from the Days Inn By Windham San Diego Hotel Circle, Old Town San Diego is one of the most vibrant parts of our coastal city. Known for great shopping opportunities, unique local attractions, and a variety of bars and restaurants, Old Town San Diego should be put at the top of your list during your visit to San Diego.

Here are some activities, events, and places you won’t want to miss when visiting Old Town San Diego this spring, including the exciting Cinco de Mayo festivities in the area!

Things to do in Old Town San Diego

Celebrate Cinco De Mayo in Old Town San Diego

Old Town San Diego is the perfect place to celebrate Cinco de Mayo. You’ll have so much fun experiencing this festive celebration in Old Town San Diego while you shop at over 80 unique stores, take advantage of food and drink specials from restaurants in Old Town San Diego, and enjoy entertainment such as live music, Ballet Folklorico, face painters, Fiesta de Reyes and Lucha Libre matches!

Check out the schedule of events here!

Visit These Old Town San Diego Restaurants for Cinco de Mayo

Some of the most popular restaurants in Old Town San Diego are the local Mexican establishments, making it the perfect place to celebrate Cinco de Mayo in San Diego. In addition to the amazing places to grab a delicious taco (or six) and a scrumptious frozen margarita, Old Town has a variety of planned events this May for Cinco de Mayo. Here are some of the most popular restaurants in Old Town San Diego to visit this spring.

  • Casa Guadaljara – One of the most popular restaurants in Old Town San Diego, Casa Guadaljara offers festive décor, fun Mariachis, amazing patios, authentic Mexican cuisine, and “Birdbath Margaritas”!
  • Old Town Mexican Café – Serving up authentic specialties since 1977, Old Town Mexican Café is known for its handmade tortillas, touted as “the best in the world” by visitors and locals! Try the Molcajete, Carnitas, Pozole, Guacamole, and Carne Asada, which all get rave reviews.
  • Café Coyote – One of the original restaurants in Old Town San Diego, Café Coyote has been serving some of the finest Mexican cuisine for over 30 years. Enjoy delicious food, refreshing margaritas, and a festive atmosphere in the Heart of Old Town San Diego’s Historic Walking District.
  • El Sueno – One of the newest Mexican restaurants in Old Town San Diego, this lively establishment is great for families and offers authentic food and a friendly environment. Popular dishes include Cheese Dip and Tacos Mexicanos!
three tacos with colorfulpaper flowers in the background

(Photo: @cafecoyoteoldtown)

Shopping in Old Town San Diego

The rich history and culture of Old Town San Diego are evident in everything in the area, including the unique shopping opportunities.

  • Bazaar del Mundo – The best place to shop for fair-trade merchandise like fabric, books, jewelry, folk art, and woven textiles from local artisans, you’ll definitely want to visit Bazaar del Mundo during your stay at Days Inn San Diego Hotel Circle.
  • Fiesta de Reyes – Located in the heart of Old Town, Fiesta de Reyes is home to 19 specialty shops offering everything from hot sauce and children’s toys to jewelry, gifts, traditional Mexican chocolate, and more.
  • Old Town Market – Home to a variety of shops, restaurants, and museums, Old Town Market is a must-see when visiting Old Town San Diego. Located in the Old Town Historic State Park, Old Town Market consists of three historic buildings from the 1800s – a former Convent, a Carriage house, and the Casa De Aguirre which also has a beautiful small museum for you to explore.
A colorful corner shop in Old Town San Diego

Live Entertainment in Old Town San Diego

Music is a staple in Old Town San Diego, and you can’t go far without hearing some quality artistic diversions. From buskers and Mariachi to live bands and singer-songwriters on street stages, you’ll be entertained throughout your exploration of Old Town San Diego. Check out the Cygnet Theatre for thought-provoking original work and revivals of iconic shows from the past. And for those looking for a real adventure, visit the Whaley House, one of the most haunted spots in North America, for a great show.

Take an Old Town San Diego Trolley Tour

Old Town Trolley Tours offers excellent hop-on / hop-off “transportainment” tours through some of Old Town San Diego’s most can’t-miss sightseeing spots, all narrated by friendly local historians who know the city inside and out. Expect fun stories, informative trivia, and more than 100 points of interest during this relaxing ride around Old Town.

a vibrant red and green trolley

Visit a Museum in Old Town San Diego

Learn all about the history of Old Town San Diego by visiting some of the city’s most celebrated museums.

  • Junípero Serra Museum – Offers exhibits on the West Coast’s earliest settlers.
  • McCoy Museum House – A recreation of a house originally built in 1869 for the city’s first police sheriff.
  • Seeley Stables – Provides guests with a closer look at the earliest days of San Diego transportation.
  • Wells Fargo Museum – Offers an informative peek into the West Coast gold rush era.
a large, colorfully painted victorian house

Visit a Historic Haunted Jaunt in Old Town San Diego

The lively neighborhood of Old Town is rich in history, including a variety of haunted locations. Here are a few of the most popular haunted jaunts in San Diego to visit if you dare!

  • Whaley House – Known as the most haunted house in America, tons of visitors flock to this famous location in Old Town San Diego each year.
  • El Campo Cemetery – One of the oldest cemeteries in San Diego, El Campo Cemetery holds a rich historical significance that dates back to the early 19th century.
  • Pioneer Park – Pioneer Park, formerly known as Calvary Cemetery, served as a Catholic cemetery for almost a century, with the earliest graves dating back to the 1870s.
  • Ghosts and Gravestones Tour – Board the Trolley of the Doomed and visit some of San Diego’s spookiest sights as seen on the Travel Channel.
the exterior or a colonial style brick building with large white columns and a sign that says Whaley House

Days Inn San Diego Hotel Circle – The Best Hotel Near Old Town San Diego

Plan your San Diego escape this spring to the Days Inn By Wyndham San Diego Hotel Circle to be close to all the exciting things to see and do in Old Town, including the festive Cinco de Mayo celebrations.

Our pet-friendly hotel in San Diego is the perfect location to join in the holiday festivities, visit local attractions, and learn about San Diego’s culture and history. Make your reservation today to enjoy relaxing guest rooms, resort-style amenities, and a near-perfect location near Old Town and the exciting events, attractions, and planned activities in San Diego.

the San Diego Skyline
06 Jun 2025

How to Spend 48 Hours in San Diego

By builtbygcommerce

Who’s ready for a fun getaway to San Diego? Whether you are local to SoCal and are looking for an amazing staycation at the best San Diego hotels with pools, want a last-minute escape for a weekend of fun in San Diego, or need a budget-friendly getaway that won’t break the bank, the Days Inn Hotel Circle in San Diego is the perfect choice! We have planned the perfect 2-day itinerary in San Diego that includes some great restaurants, exciting activities, and even some special San Diego hotel deals for your stay at our pet-friendly Days Inn Hotel Circle in San Diego.

Here is the exciting line-up of fun things to do in San Diego near our Mission Valley hotel during your weekend vacation at our Days Inn Hotel.

The Perfect 48 Hours in San Diego

Days Inn exterior

Day 1 – Arrival at the San Diego Days Inn Hotel Circle

After a quick check-in for the weekend at Days Inn Hotel Circle in San Diego, it’s time to start enjoying your vacation. Tacos, anyone? If your answer is “yes, please and thank you,” you won’t want to miss having dinner at one of the best food trucks San Diego has to offer. Choose your favorite from the best food trucks San Diego including Baja and Ensenada Style Tacos from Fused World Tacos or enjoy local favorites like Shrimp Tacos and Asada Tacos from Mariscos La Reyna Del Sur to sample the local cuisine. After dinner, spend some time outdoors in our city by the sea. Catch a breathtaking sunset from the Ocean Beach Pier, where you can also catch a glimpse of playful dolphins and other marine life. Explore the Ocean Beach area and discover shopping on Newport Avenue and Voltaire Street, live music and theater at Ocean Beach Playhouse, and San Diego festivals and events, including fireworks for July 4th celebrations!

a baseball game at Petco Park

Day 2 – Explore San Diego

Treat yourself to breakfast at Bunz San Diego Café, our onsite eatery featuring classic favorites with a fresh twist. Enjoy delicious breakfast burritos or classic French toast while enjoying the beautiful SoCal weather from our inviting outdoor patio. Next on the agenda for Day 2 in San Diego is a visit to the San Diego Zoo. This popular San Diego attraction is perfect for family time or a great date opportunity. One of the best things to do in San Diego, you will enjoy unique wildlife encounters, watch a 4-D Theater movie, take a guided bus tour, have a fun ride on the miniature train, and so much more! Summer is the perfect time to explore the San Diego Zoo during your stay at the Days Inn Hotel Circle. While in town, be sure to cheer for the home team at a San Diego Padres baseball game at Petco Park! There’s nothing better than a Major League Baseball game experience during your San Diego adventure! See the Padres live in action and grab a cold beer for a night of baseball fun in San Diego you won’t soon forget!

All of that excitement should have you ready for dinner in San Diego! After a great day at the San Diego Zoo and a Padres baseball game, enjoy dinner with a view at an amazing rooftop restaurant and bar in San Diego. Cannonball at Belmont Park is always a fun place to watch the sunset and sip on craft cocktails at San Diego’s largest oceanfront rooftop bar. Enjoy a leisurely dinner of sushi, steak tataki, or bao buns on the amazing rooftop terrace with ocean views!

two women shopping in a clothing store

Day 3 – Before You Go

Liberty Station is a great place to start the day in San Diego. The 360-acre entertainment complex offers a variety of delicious restaurants, unique retail shops, amazing art galleries, and exciting live entertainment options for your last morning in San Diego. Grab brunch at Breakfast Republic, where you can choose from unique dishes including Oreo Pancakes, Chicken Wing Breakfast Bowls, and S’mores French Toast! After brunch, explore the unique shops and activities at Liberty Station for a great morning in San Diego. Next, since you are staying at one of the best San Diego hotels with pools, be sure to take a dip in our sparkling pool at Days Inn Hotel Circle and relax a bit before you head home from your amazing San Diego vacation!

Money-Saving Tips for your San Diego Getaway at Days Inn Hotel Circle

Start your San Diego vacation off right with our San Diego hotel deals created to help you get the most from your hard-earned vacation dollars. Also, be sure to inquire about San Diego Military hotel discounts at the Days Inn Hotel Circle to help you save even more!

Another great way to save money during your San Diego vacation is to use local transportation to get to all the places you want to visit. Old Town Trolley Tours and the San Diego Metropolitan Transit System (MTS) are convenient and affordable ways to get around the city during your San Diego vacation. The cost to ride the MTS trolley/train is $2.50 for a one-way ticket and $6 for a day pass. The Old Town Trolley Tours is a popular sightseeing company that takes you to all the best attractions around San Diego. In addition to being able to hop on and off the trolley at your favorite San Diego spots, every Old Town Trolley Tour also includes complimentary admission to 10 of San Diego’s best museums for more savings! Both of these transportation services offer pick-up at or near the Days Inn Hotel Circle and can take you to all the most popular attractions, including San Diego beaches, restaurants, Old Town San Diego, Downtown San Diego/Gaslamp Quarter, Balboa Park, San Diego Convention Center, Petco Park, Liberty Station, and more.

Plan the Perfect San Diego Vacation at the Days Inn Hotel Circle

We invite you to plan your San Diego vacation at the Days Inn Hotel Circle today. For the budget-conscious traveler, inquire about our San Diego military hotel discounts at the Days Inn Hotel in San Diego and also be sure to book direct for the best deals!

Plan your SoCal vacation now by booking one of our amazing San Diego hotels deals here. We can’t wait to see you and help you spend the best 48 hours in our amazing coastal paradise!

Group of friends enjoying drinks and food at an outdoor restaurant booth.
01 Feb 2023

The Best Restaurants in Mission Valley

By builtbygcommerce

San Diego’s reputation as a “foodie” town isn’t an accident. Our melting-pot culture, age-old status as a shipping port, and easy access to the fruits of California’s amazing agriculture and fishing make our local eateries some of the most celebrated in the world. In fact, our hotel’s surrounding neighborhood is a shining spot even within a larger city brimming with near-endless choices. On the hunt for your next culinary adventure during your stay at the Days Inn Hotel Circle? Take a look at our picks for the best restaurants in Mission Valley, San Diego.

Romantic Restaurants

(Photo: @eatatarlo)

Looking to take that special someone out for a cozy Valentine’s Day dinner? You’ve certainly got some very tempting options in the Mission Valley area. Candlelight, champagne and sumptuous flavors abound at these couples’ favorites, all perfect for dreamy dining.

  • ARLO: Shareable entrées, soft lighting, and an excellent wine list.
  • Wolf in the Woods: An intimate European-feel experience you won’t forget.
  • Farmer’s Bottega: Simple, elegant, farm-to-fork plates in a rustic atmosphere.

Tasty Tacos

(Photo: @eatpuesto)

Our proximity to the border (and vibrant Latino community) means San Diego is well-known for having the best tacos in the country — and it’s not even close. Here are some nearby spots that offer superb examples of San Diego’s favorite foldable fare.

  • Puesto: Delicious Mexican cuisine and drinks in a hip, modern setting.
  • Crack Taco Shop: Don’t miss trying their famous burgundy pepper tri-tip.
  • El Tianguis: Rolled tacos are the specialty here, but everything’s a winner.

Pet-Friendly Spots

(Photo: @lazydogrestaurants)

Traveling with a four-legged friend? You and your buddy are both welcome at these pet-friendly establishments (as well as our hotel, of course). Just be sure to call ahead before you and Spot head to these spots — some prefer to perch pets on the patio, and alfresco options might be seasonal.

  • Lazy Dog: Classic comfort food you and your canine companion will love.
  • TBS Tavern: Short for Tacos, Bites and Salads. Always fresh and tasty here.
  • Lucca’s Pizza & Market: Artisanal pizzas and fresh Italian in a relaxed setting

Pan-Asian Plates

(Photo: @356bbq)

San Diego’s Asian communities comprise a vital aspect of the city’s culture, and superb restaurants are a huge part of it all. Whether you favor Japanese, Chinese, Korean, Vietnamese, or any pan-Asian flavors, Mission Valley has you covered in grand fashion.

  • Negihama Sushi: Fresh and flavorful edible art in the timeless tradition.
  • 356 Korean BBQ: Marinated meats, seafood and more, all cooked at your table.
  • Ka Pro Thai: Bright curries, noodles and rice dishes. Outdoor seating available.

Scrumptious Steaks

(Photo: @yardhouse)

When you’re in the mood for a prime cut of steak, nothing else will do. So it’s a good thing you can enjoy cooked-to-order filet, ribeye, strip or porterhouse at any of several locations near to us. Just be sure to bring your appetite!

  • Bully’s East Prime Bistro: A lively sports bar with mouthwatering prime rib.
  • Wood Ranch: Known for steaks, BBQ, burgers, chicken and excellent service.
  • Yard House: In addition to sublime steaks, Yard House boasts more than 100 beers on tap.

Viva Variety 

(Photo: @silverlakeramen)

If you’re feeling indecisive, that’s understandable. You’re certainly spoiled for choice here. So if you know you’re hungry, but don’t quite know exactly what you’re in the mood for? Nearby Fashion Valley Mall has plenty of “I’ll know it when I see it” places you’ll love.

  • Silverlake Ramen: Savory noodle soups that are guaranteed to satisfy.
  • True Food Kitchen: Simple, sustainable, and unquestionably scrumptious.
  • Poki One N Half: Build your own perfect seafood bowl combo at this Hawaiian hideaway.
  • Crust Kitchen: Scratch cooking — delivery, or just a few steps from our front door.

Family-Friendly Fare

(Video: @daysinnhc)

Taking the whole crew out for a satisfying sit-down? You’ve got no shortage of options nearby. Even the finickiest of young diners will have no problem finding plenty to love on these menus — and neither will the grown-ups tagging along in their entourage.

Enjoy Delectable Deals at Days Inn

Your stay at Days Inn will have you only minutes away from every stop on your culinary tour of Mission Valley. Not to mention that our excellent rates, guest-first amenities and stellar service are just as tasty. Start your planning at our exclusive specials and offers page, and we’ll see you soon!

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