The Historic Yuma Building

Discover the Yuma Building in San Diego's Gaslamp Quarter: a historic landmark with Victorian architecture, Native American culture, and a vibrant past, offering a unique glimpse into the city's heritage.

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Yuma Building

The Yuma Building, a striking Victorian Italianate Revival structure in San Diego's Gaslamp Quarter, stands as a testament to the city's rich history. Built in 1882 by Captain Alfred Henry Wilcox, a key figure in San Diego's early development, it's one of the first brick buildings downtown. Named for Wilcox's Colorado River transport ventures supplying Fort Yuma, the building has housed diverse businesses, from a Japanese bazaar to medical offices. Notably, it was the first establishment closed during the 1912 Stingaree District raids. Today, it remains a captivating landmark, showcasing the architectural and cultural evolution of the Gaslamp Quarter, and is home to the first Native American boutique in California.

A brief summary to Yuma Building

631 Fifth Ave, San Diego, Gaslamp Quarter, California, 92101, US

Local tips

Explore the Gaslamp Quarter's architecture by taking a walking tour to fully appreciate the intricate details of the Yuma Building and its neighbors.
Visit Native Star Boutique inside the Yuma Building to discover unique Native American designs and support Indigenous artists.
Check out the Gaslamp Quarter Historical Foundation's website for upcoming events and exhibits related to the Yuma Building and the area's history.

Getting There

Walking

The Yuma Building is located in the heart of the Gaslamp Quarter and is easily accessible on foot from most points within the district. If you are coming from the San Diego Convention Center, walk north on Fifth Avenue for approximately 5 blocks. The Yuma Building will be on your left, between F Street and G Street. This is a pedestrian-friendly area, allowing you to enjoy the sights and sounds of the Gaslamp Quarter along the way.
Public Transport

The Gaslamp Quarter is well-served by San Diego's Metropolitan Transit System (MTS). The Gaslamp Quarter Station trolley stop (serviced by the Green and Silver lines) is located at Fifth Avenue and L Street, a few blocks south of the Yuma Building. From the station, walk north on Fifth Avenue. The Yuma Building will be on your left. A one-way trolley fare is around $2.50. Several bus routes also serve the Gaslamp Quarter, with stops along Fifth Avenue and Market Street.
Taxi/Ride-Share

Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are readily available throughout San Diego. Simply request a ride to 631 Fifth Avenue, San Diego. Be aware that traffic in the Gaslamp Quarter can be heavy, especially during evenings and weekends. A short ride from the Convention Center or downtown hotels will typically cost between $8 and $15, depending on demand.
Driving

If driving, navigate to the Gaslamp Quarter. Parking in the immediate vicinity of the Yuma Building can be challenging, especially during peak hours. Street parking is limited and metered. Several parking garages are located within a few blocks, including the 6th & K Parkade (289 6th Ave) and Park It On Market (614 Market St). Expect to pay between $15 and $30 for parking, depending on the garage and the time of day. Some garages offer flat rates during evenings and weekends. $5 Flat Rate parking at the 6th & K Parkade Sunday-Thursday, 6:00 PM to 3:00 AM.

Discover more about Yuma Building

The Yuma Building, located at 631 Fifth Avenue in the heart of San Diego's vibrant Gaslamp Quarter, is more than just a building; it's a living chronicle of the city's dynamic past. Constructed in 1882, this striking Victorian Italianate Revival structure stands as one of the earliest brick buildings in downtown San Diego, a testament to the city's burgeoning growth and ambition during the late 19th century. The building owes its existence to Captain Alfred Henry Wilcox, a pivotal figure in San Diego's early development. Wilcox, who arrived in San Diego in 1849, was a man of many talents and ventures. He captained the U.S. Invincible, a transport ship that brought an engineering crew to San Diego with the ambitious goal of turning the San Diego River into a false bay, now known as Mission Bay. Beyond his maritime endeavors, Wilcox was deeply involved in various commercial enterprises, including supplying water to the city, contributing to the San Diego Daily Bulletin, and serving as president of the Commercial Bank of San Diego. The name "Yuma Building" itself is a nod to Wilcox's extensive involvement in maritime activities along the Colorado River, particularly around Yuma, Arizona. He played a crucial role in transporting supplies to Fort Yuma, a vital outpost in the region. The building's name serves as a lasting reminder of his contributions to the development of the Southwest. The original Yuma Building was a modest, single-story brick structure, a pioneering example of brick construction in San Diego. Following Wilcox's death in 1883, his widow, Maria Antonia Arguello, oversaw the building's expansion into its current three-story form. This expansion solidified the Yuma Building's presence as a prominent landmark in the evolving cityscape. Throughout its history, the Yuma Building has been home to a diverse array of businesses, reflecting the changing economic landscape of San Diego. From a Japanese bazaar offering exotic goods to medical offices serving the community's health needs, and dry goods stores providing essential supplies, the building has adapted to the times while maintaining its architectural integrity. In 1912, the Yuma Building gained a certain notoriety when it became one of the first establishments targeted and shut down during the infamous Stingaree District raids. These raids aimed to curb brothels and illicit activities in the area, marking a significant moment in San Diego's social history. The Yuma Building's architectural details are a testament to the Victorian Italianate Revival style. The building features thick brick walls, intricate iron cladding, and distinctive bay windows. A large skylight once illuminated the upper stories, adding to the building's grandeur. The interior originally housed sixteen rooms and a store on the ground level, with a lovely stairway gracing the northwest corner. The basement served as storage and cellars. In 1989, the Yuma Building underwent a significant restoration, revitalizing the structure while preserving its historical character. This restoration ensured that the building would continue to stand as a symbol of San Diego's past for generations to come. More recently, in November 2024, the Yuma Building achieved another milestone when it was acquired by Ruth-Ann Thorn, a member of the Rincon Band of Luiseño Indians. This acquisition marked a historic moment, as Thorn became the first Native American to own property in the Gaslamp Quarter. In addition to owning the Yuma Building, Thorn operates Native Star Boutique, the first Native American boutique of its kind in California, located within the building. This boutique showcases the designs of the original people of the northern continent, further contributing to the visibility and celebration of Indigenous heritage in the historic Gaslamp Quarter. Today, the Yuma Building stands as a captivating landmark, drawing visitors and locals alike. Its rich history, architectural beauty, and cultural significance make it a must-see destination in the Gaslamp Quarter. Whether you're admiring its intricate facade, exploring the unique shops within, or simply soaking in the atmosphere of this historic neighborhood, the Yuma Building offers a glimpse into San Diego's vibrant past and its promising future. As one of the most photographed buildings in the Gaslamp Quarter, the Yuma Building is a testament to San Diego's commitment to preserving its heritage while embracing progress. Its story is a reminder of the city's evolution, its diverse communities, and its enduring spirit.

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The Historic Yuma Building

A brief summary to Yuma Building

Local tips

Getting There

Walking

Public Transport

Taxi/Ride-Share

Driving

Unlock the Best of Yuma Building

Buy tickets

Book tours with entry

Book tours without entry

Discover more about Yuma Building

Iconic landmarks you can’t miss

Independent Order of Odd Fellows Building

Louis J. Wilde Monument

Martin Luther King Jr Promenade

Gaslamp Quarter Sign

San Diego Free Tour

The Grand Stairway

Flame of Friendship

MTS Clock Tower

Balboa Landing

La Punta de los Muertos

La Punta de los Muertos HISTORICAL MARKER

Seaport Village

USS San Diego Memorial

Coronado Ferry Terminal

Amici House

Unmissable attractions to see

Ghirardelli Ice Cream & Chocolate Shop

Gaslamp Quarter - The Historic Heart Of San Diego

barleymash

Gaslamp Quarter

WNDR Museum

Whiskey Girl

San Diego Fun Tours

Prohibition Lounge

The Tipsy Crow

Gaslamp Quarter Historical Foundation

Gaslamp Museum at the Davis-Horton House Museum

Tivoli Bar and Grill

Mad House Comedy Club

Another Side Of San Diego Tours

Balboa Theatre

Essential places to dine

Fogo de Chão Brazilian Steakhouse

Greystone Prime Steakhouse & Seafood

Werewolf

Osteria Panevino

Rustic Root

Asti Ristorante

The Rooftop by STK

Lionfish Modern Coastal Cuisine- San Diego

The Melting Pot

Water Grill San Diego

Cafe Sevilla of San Diego

Rockin' Baja Lobster - Gaslamp

Union Kitchen and Tap Gaslamp

Cowboy Star Restaurant and Butcher Shop

The Old Spaghetti Factory

Markets, malls and hidden boutiques

San Diego Trading Company

Great souvenirs of San Diego,inc.

Dream Boutique

Wotown Vintage

Wild Dove Boutique

IT'SUGAR

Gaslamp Garage

Eclectique Boutique

Bay Company

Madison San Diego Boutique

Urban Beach House

Urban Girl

Wheelhouse Gift Shop

Rosamariposa

Vitreum

Essential bars & hidden hideouts

The Smoking Gun SD

The Shout! House