Presidio Park: San Diego's Birthplace
Explore San Diego's origins at Presidio Park, where California's first European settlement began. History, views, and natural beauty await!
Presidio Park, a 40-acre historic park in San Diego, marks the site of California's first European settlement, founded in 1769. Overlooking Old Town San Diego, it offers green spaces, picnic areas, and panoramic views. The Junipero Serra Museum, built in 1928, stands as a landmark, commemorating the area's rich history.
A brief summary to Presidio Park
- 2811 Jackson St, San Diego, Old Town, California, 92110, US
- Visit website
- Monday 6 am-10 pm
- Tuesday 6 am-10 pm
- Wednesday 6 am-10 pm
- Thursday 6 am-10 pm
- Friday 6 am-10 pm
- Saturday 6 am-10 pm
- Sunday 6 am-10 pm
Local tips
- Visit the Junipero Serra Museum to delve into the history of the Spanish, Mexican, and indigenous heritage of the San Diego region.
- Enjoy a picnic with panoramic views of the city, San Diego River Valley, and the Pacific Ocean.
- Explore the walking trails and discover historical markers and monuments throughout the park.
- Check out Inspiration Point for sunset views.
Getting There
-
Public Transport
From downtown San Diego, the Green Line Trolley offers a direct route to the Old Town Transit Center. From there, Presidio Park is approximately a half-mile walk uphill. Alternatively, the Route 83 bus connects downtown to Juan Street & Harney Street, a 5-minute walk to the park entrance. A single ride on the bus or trolley costs $2.50.
-
Walking
From Old Town San Diego State Historic Park, Presidio Park is a short but moderately steep walk uphill. Follow Presidio Drive, which winds its way up the hill to the park entrance. The walk takes approximately 15-20 minutes, offering views along the way. There are no fees associated with walking to the park.
-
Taxi/Ride-Share
From San Diego International Airport (SAN), a taxi or ride-share to Presidio Park takes approximately 7 minutes and costs between $29 and $40. The drop-off point is near the Junipero Serra Museum, providing easy access to the park's main attractions.
Discover more about Presidio Park
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Witches Tower
0.1 km
Discover the mystique of Witches Tower, a historical landmark in San Diego's Old Town, blending rich history with captivating views.
Fort Stockton
0.1 km
Explore Fort Stockton, a historical gem in San Diego, where rich history meets stunning views, perfect for every traveler.
Presidio de San Diego
0.2 km
Explore the birthplace of California at Presidio de San Diego, a historic site brimming with rich culture, stunning views, and fascinating stories.
Serra Palm (Site)
0.3 km
Experience the historical essence of Serra Palm in Old Town San Diego, where California's rich legacy unfolds in a beautiful, serene setting.
Derby Dike
0.3 km
Discover the historic Derby Dike in Old Town San Diego, a landmark showcasing the rich heritage and architectural beauty of this vibrant city.
Senlis Cottage
0.5 km
Explore the rich history of San Diego at Senlis Cottage, a beautifully preserved 1880s landmark in Heritage Park.
Sherman-Gilbert House
0.5 km
Discover the Victorian elegance of the Sherman-Gilbert House, a historical gem in San Diego's Heritage Park, showcasing 19th-century architecture and rich cultural history.
Bushyhead House
0.5 km
Discover the rich history and architectural beauty of Bushyhead House, a landmark in Old Town San Diego that brings the past to life.
Christian House
0.5 km
Explore the Christian House, a historical landmark in Old Town San Diego, where rich culture and fascinating history await every visitor.
Burton House
0.5 km
Explore the rich history of California at Burton House, a charming historical landmark in Old Town San Diego, showcasing early settler life.
San Diego Ghosts
0.5 km
Explore the haunted history of San Diego with thrilling ghost tours that blend folklore, history, and spine-tingling stories in a unique adventure.
Old Town - jail
0.6 km
Discover the Old Town Jail, a historic landmark in San Diego that reveals the intriguing stories of the 19th-century Californian justice system.
Mason Street Schoolhouse
0.6 km
Explore the Mason Street Schoolhouse, a captivating museum in Old Town San Diego that reveals California's educational history and charm.
La Casa de Machado y Stewart
0.7 km
Discover the historical significance of La Casa de Machado y Stewart in San Diego's Old Town, where California's rich heritage comes to life.
La Casa de Lopez
0.8 km
Explore La Casa de Lopez, a historical gem in Old Town San Diego, showcasing the city's rich Mexican heritage and architectural beauty.
Unmissable attractions to see
Junípero Serra Museum
0.2 km
Explore California's birthplace at the Junípero Serra Museum in Presidio Park, San Diego, offering historical insights and panoramic views.
Old Town San Diego
0.4 km
Explore the historical charm and vibrant culture of Old Town San Diego, where California's heritage comes alive through authentic experiences and delightful cuisine.
Mormon Battalion Historic Site
0.5 km
Explore the captivating history of the Mormon Battalion at this unique San Diego landmark, featuring engaging exhibits and inspiring stories.
Cosmopolitan Hotel and Restaurant
0.5 km
Discover the heart of Old Town San Diego at Cosmopolitan Hotel and Restaurant—a blend of history, hospitality, and authentic Mexican cuisine.
La Casa de Estudillo
0.5 km
Discover California's history at La Casa de Estudillo, a must-visit museum in Old Town San Diego showcasing rich cultural heritage.
Old Town San Diego State Historic Park
0.5 km
Explore Old Town San Diego State Historic Park - a vibrant blend of history, culture, and culinary delights in California's historic heart.
Plaza De Las Armas
0.6 km
Discover the vibrant history and serene beauty of Plaza De Las Armas in San Diego's Old Town, a must-visit park for every tourist.
Old Town Market
0.6 km
Explore the vibrant Old Town Market in San Diego, where rich history meets unique shopping and delightful dining experiences.
Ghosts & Gravestones Tour San Diego
0.6 km
Discover the haunted history of San Diego on the Ghosts & Gravestones Tour, where spine-tingling tales come to life in the shadows of the night.
Immaculate Conception Catholic Church
0.6 km
Discover the serene beauty and rich history of the Immaculate Conception Catholic Church in San Diego's vibrant Old Town.
Old Town Trolley Tours
0.6 km
Explore the vibrant sights and rich history of San Diego with Old Town Trolley Tours, the ultimate sightseeing experience.
First San Diego Courthouse
0.6 km
Discover the historic First San Diego Courthouse, a stunning architectural gem and a gateway to California's rich legal heritage in Old Town.
Heritage County Park
0.6 km
Explore the rich history of San Diego at Heritage County Park, featuring restored Victorian buildings and lush gardens that transport you to the 19th century.
McCoy House
0.6 km
Explore San Diego's vibrant history at the McCoy House, a captivating museum in Old Town San Diego State Historic Park.
Whaley House Museum
0.6 km
Uncover the haunting history of the Whaley House Museum, a historical landmark in San Diego known for its ghostly tales and rich heritage.
Essential places to dine
Casa Guadalajara
0.5 km
Experience authentic Mexican cuisine at Casa Guadalajara in San Diego's historic Old Town - where every meal is a fiesta!
Casa de Reyes
0.5 km
Experience authentic Mexican flavors and vibrant culture at Casa de Reyes in San Diego's historic Old Town.
Barra Barra
0.5 km
Experience the vibrant taste of Mexico at Barra Barra in San Diego's historic Old Town - a must-visit for food lovers!
Old Town Tequila Factory Restaurant & Cantina
0.5 km
Experience the essence of Mexico at Old Town Tequila Factory Restaurant & Cantina with authentic dishes and an extensive tequila selection.
Cafe Coyote
0.7 km
Savor authentic Mexican flavors at Cafe Coyote in Old Town San Diego – where every meal is a fiesta!
Encuentro Cafe former The Congress Cafe
0.7 km
Discover Encuentro Cafe in San Diego: Experience authentic Venezuelan flavors in a charming atmosphere.
Tahona Bar
0.7 km
Discover authentic Mexican cuisine at Tahona Bar in Old Town San Diego—where every dish tells a story.
Trattoria Don Pietro - Sicilian Italian Cuisine
0.8 km
Experience authentic Sicilian cuisine at Trattoria Don Pietro in San Diego's historic Old Town – a culinary journey like no other.
Rockin' Baja Lobster - Old Town
0.8 km
Experience the vibrant flavors of seafood and Mexican cuisine at Rockin' Baja Lobster in Old Town San Diego.
Jack & Giulio's Italian Restaurant
0.8 km
Experience the essence of Italy at Jack & Giulio's Italian Restaurant in Old Town San Diego – where every meal is a celebration of authentic flavors.
The Red Door
2.4 km
Experience the essence of Italy at The Red Door in Hillcrest - where authentic cuisine meets exceptional wine in a charming setting.
Corvette Diner
2.4 km
Dive into retro vibes at Corvette Diner in San Diego – where delicious American food meets arcade fun in a nostalgic setting.
Baci Restaurant
2.9 km
Discover Baci Restaurant in San Diego: A fine dining experience blending Italian tradition with fresh seafood flavors.
Coasterra
3.8 km
Experience exquisite Mexican cuisine and breathtaking bay views at Coasterra – where fine dining meets coastal charm in San Diego.
C Level Lounge
3.8 km
Experience exquisite seafood dining at C Level Lounge with stunning views of San Diego Bay and skyline.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Bazaar Del Mundo
0.4 km
Discover authentic California crafts and unique souvenirs at Bazaar Del Mundo, a vibrant gift shop in San Diego's historic Old Town.
Old Town Gifts
0.5 km
Explore Old Town Gifts in San Diego for unique souvenirs and local artisan treasures that embody California's rich culture.
Tienda de Reyes
0.5 km
Explore Tienda de Reyes: A Treasure Trove of Local Crafts, Clothing, and Souvenirs in San Diego's Historic Old Town.
The Johnson House
0.5 km
Explore a treasure trove of antiques and vintage clothing in San Diego's historic Old Town at The Johnson House, where every item tells a story.
La Paloma Old Town
0.5 km
Explore La Paloma Old Town, a charming gift shop in San Diego's historic district, offering unique souvenirs and local crafts that celebrate California's culture.
Best of old town
0.5 km
Explore Old Town San Diego, a vibrant blend of history, culture, and authentic Mexican cuisine in California's birthplace.
Inka's Art
0.6 km
Explore Inka's Art in Old Town San Diego for unique crafts, vintage clothing, and local artistry that captures the spirit of the region.
Pablo’s of Old Town
0.6 km
Discover unique handcrafted gifts at Pablo’s of Old Town, celebrating San Diego's vibrant culture and local artisans.
FIVE AND DIME GENERAL STORE
0.6 km
Explore the Five and Dime General Store in Old Town San Diego for unique gifts, local snacks, and a taste of the region's vibrant culture.
Treasures By the Sea
0.6 km
Explore Treasures By the Sea in Old Town San Diego for unique gifts, local artisan crafts, and delightful souvenirs that capture the spirit of your travels.
San Diego's Largest Vintage and Antique Mall
1.6 km
Explore the largest vintage and antique mall in San Diego, where every corner holds a unique treasure waiting to be discovered.
Beach House
2.9 km
Explore the Beach House in Point Loma, San Diego - your ultimate destination for stylish beachwear and accessories to elevate your coastal experience.
Stroll
3.9 km
Explore Stroll Boutique in Downtown San Diego for unique fashion and gifts that embody the coastal charm of California.
Uncommon Thread Vintage
4.3 km
Discover timeless fashion and unique gifts at Uncommon Thread Vintage, San Diego's premier vintage clothing and gift shop.
Vitreum
4.5 km
Explore Vitreum, San Diego's unique gift shop offering locally crafted treasures and artisanal gifts that capture the city's vibrant spirit.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Rose's Tasting Room
0.4 km
Experience a delightful blend of local wines and craft beers in a warm, inviting atmosphere at Rose's Tasting Room in San Diego's Old Town.
BW Hacienda Hotel Old Town
0.6 km
Discover the vibrant history and culture of San Diego at BW Hacienda Hotel Old Town, your gateway to unforgettable experiences.
Old Town Saloon
0.6 km
Experience the lively atmosphere of Old Town Saloon, a historic dive bar in San Diego with affordable drinks and a welcoming vibe.
Oculto 477
0.7 km
Discover Oculto 477, a vibrant bar in Old Town San Diego, offering unique cocktails and an eclectic atmosphere perfect for relaxation and socializing.
El Agave Restaurant & Tequileria
1.0 km
Discover the vibrant flavors of Mexico at El Agave Restaurant & Tequileria, a fine dining experience in the heart of San Diego's Old Town.
Home & Away
1.2 km
Discover the ultimate sports bar experience in San Diego at Home & Away, where great food, drinks, and excitement await every sports fan.
Sidecar Bar
1.7 km
Discover Sidecar Bar in San Diego – a lively spot with craft beers, cocktails, and a fun atmosphere perfect for a night out.
The Corner Drafthouse
4.3 km
Experience the best of Californian cuisine and craft beer at The Corner Drafthouse, a vibrant bar and restaurant in San Diego's Bankers Hill.
Wet Stone Wine Bar & Cafe
4.7 km
Discover the exquisite flavors and cozy ambiance at Wet Stone Wine Bar & Cafe, a San Diego dining destination for wine lovers and food enthusiasts alike.
False Idol
4.8 km
Discover False Idol, a tiki bar in San Diego offering exotic cocktails and an immersive island atmosphere that delights every visitor.
Lady Carolyn's Pub
4.9 km
Experience the charm of Lady Carolyn's Pub in Balboa Park, where cozy ambiance meets delightful beverages in San Diego's cultural heart.
Lucy's Tavern
4.9 km
Discover Lucy's Tavern, a lively cocktail bar in San Diego's Point Loma, offering creative drinks and a welcoming atmosphere for all.
The Tilted Stick Bar & Grill
5.0 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere and delicious grill offerings at The Tilted Stick Bar & Grill, a favorite among locals and tourists alike in San Diego.
Northside Tavern
5.0 km
Experience the ultimate sports bar atmosphere at Northside Tavern with delicious food, refreshing drinks, and live music in Point Loma, San Diego.
Club Marina
5.1 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at Club Marina, a top cocktail bar in San Diego's scenic Point Loma, known for its signature drinks and lively atmosphere.
