Plaza de Las Armas: Heart of Old Town San Diego

Discover the historic heart of San Diego at Plaza de Las Armas, where California's past comes alive through preserved architecture, vibrant culture, and authentic Mexican flavors in Old Town.

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Plaza De Las Armas

Plaza de Las Armas, also known as Old Town Plaza or Washington Square, is the historic heart of San Diego's Old Town. This vibrant park offers a glimpse into California's past, surrounded by preserved and reconstructed buildings dating back to the early 19th century. Once the central gathering place for community events, fiestas, and political rallies, the plaza today provides a tranquil space to relax, explore the adjacent historic sites, and soak in the atmosphere of early San Diego. Visitors can enjoy live music, browse artisan shops, and dine at traditional Mexican restaurants, all while surrounded by the echoes of California's rich history. The plaza serves as a central point for exploring Old Town San Diego State Historic Park, offering a blend of history, culture, and recreation.

A brief summary to Plaza De Las Armas

Telegraph Way, San Diego, Old Town, California, 92110, US

Local tips

Visit during the weekend to experience live mariachi music and folklorico dance performances in the plaza.
Explore the artisan shops surrounding the plaza for unique handcrafted souvenirs and traditional Mexican goods.
Enjoy authentic Mexican cuisine at one of the many restaurants around the plaza, savoring traditional dishes and refreshing margaritas.

Getting There

Public Transport

From downtown San Diego, take the MTS Trolley Green Line to the 'Old Town' station. From the station, it's a short 5-minute walk through the Old Town State Historic Park to Plaza de Las Armas. Alternatively, take MTS Bus Route 8 to the 'Old Town Transit Center' and follow the signs to the park. A one-way trolley or bus fare is approximately $2.50. The 'San Diego Flyer,' a free electric shuttle bus, also runs between San Diego International Airport (SAN) and the Old Town Transit Center, with service every 20-30 minutes.
Walking

If you are already in the Old Town area, Plaza De Las Armas is easily accessible on foot. Simply head towards the Old Town State Historic Park and enter through the main entrance. Walk straight through the park and take a left onto Telegraph Way. The plaza will be on your right.
Taxi/Ride-Share

A taxi or ride-share from downtown San Diego to Plaza de Las Armas in Old Town typically costs between $23 and $28, depending on traffic and surge pricing. The ride is approximately 4.1 miles and takes about 5 minutes.
Driving

If driving, navigate to Old Town San Diego State Historic Park. Parking is available in several lots (A-F) surrounding the park. Parking fees vary, but expect to pay around $10-$20 for several hours, especially during peak season. Note that Lot C may have accessibility issues due to cross slopes. Limited free street parking is also available, but it can be difficult to find, especially during peak hours. Consider using valet parking in Little Italy and then taking public transport.

Discover more about Plaza De Las Armas

Plaza de Las Armas, steeped in history and brimming with cultural significance, stands as the vibrant heart of Old Town San Diego. Also known as Old Town Plaza or Washington Square, this landmark marks the original center of the Pueblo de San Diego, offering visitors a captivating journey back to the early days of California. Founded in 1835, the plaza served as the nucleus of community life, a bustling hub for gatherings, celebrations, and pivotal moments in the region's history. Imagine a time when this open space was alive with the sounds of music, the vibrant colors of traditional attire, and the passionate debates that shaped the future of San Diego. From lively fiestas to political rallies, Plaza de Las Armas was the stage upon which the drama of early California unfolded. Today, the plaza retains its historical charm, inviting visitors to step back in time and immerse themselves in the atmosphere of the 19th century. The meticulously preserved and reconstructed buildings that surround the plaza offer a tangible connection to the past, showcasing the architectural styles and lifestyles of the Mexican and early American periods. Wander through the grounds and discover the stories etched into the adobe walls of these historic structures. Dominating the southern end of the plaza is La Casa de Estudillo, a grand adobe mansion that once belonged to one of San Diego's most influential families. Built between 1827 and 1829 by Jose Antonio Estudillo, this impressive residence boasts twelve rooms arranged around a central courtyard. The Estudillo family played a significant role in the development of San Diego, and their home stands as a testament to their wealth and status. During the Mexican-American War, the Silvas family famously hid the Mexican flag here to prevent its capture by American forces. Another notable landmark is La Casa de Machado y Silvas, one of the original adobe houses that lines the plaza. This historic home was once owned by the Machado family, who played a prominent role in the early days of San Diego. In 1852, Maria Antonia, a member of the Machado family, transformed the house into a restaurant, offering visitors a taste of traditional Mexican cuisine. The family retained ownership of the house until the 1930s, leaving behind a legacy of hospitality and culinary excellence. Adding to the plaza's historical tapestry is La Casa de Rodriguez, another original adobe house that dates back to the early days of Old Town. Built by Juan Rodriguez, a retired soldier from the Presidio, this structure has served various purposes throughout its history. In 1851, it became the Exchange Hotel, offering lodging to travelers passing through San Diego. Later, in 1869, it was transformed into a general store specializing in tobacco, pipes, and cigars, becoming the first tobacco shop in San Diego. Though destroyed by fire in 1872, it was rebuilt in 1974 and continues to operate as a tobacco shop, carrying on the legacy of Racine and Laramie. The plaza is also home to a reconstruction of the original flagpole, commemorating the raising of the first American flag in San Diego in 1846. This event marked a significant turning point in the region's history, symbolizing the transition from Mexican to American rule. Standing tall against the backdrop of historic buildings, the flagpole serves as a reminder of the events that shaped the destiny of San Diego. Beyond its historical landmarks, Plaza de Las Armas offers a vibrant cultural experience. Stroll through the plaza and enjoy the sounds of live mariachi music, a quintessential element of Mexican culture. Talented musicians fill the air with their lively melodies, creating a festive atmosphere that transports visitors to another time and place. On weekends, the plaza comes alive with the colorful performances of folklorico dancers, showcasing traditional Mexican dances in vibrant costumes. The plaza is surrounded by a variety of artisan shops, offering visitors the opportunity to browse unique handcrafted goods. Discover traditional Mexican pottery, textiles, and jewelry, each piece reflecting the rich cultural heritage of the region. These shops provide a glimpse into the artistry and craftsmanship of local artisans, allowing visitors to take home a tangible piece of San Diego's cultural identity. No visit to Plaza de Las Armas is complete without indulging in the flavors of traditional Mexican cuisine. The restaurants surrounding the plaza offer a tantalizing array of dishes, from savory tacos and enchiladas to flavorful moles and refreshing margaritas. Savor the authentic tastes of Mexico while enjoying the ambiance of this historic setting. Plaza de Las Armas serves as the central point for exploring Old Town San Diego State Historic Park, a seventeen-acre park that encompasses the original settlement of San Diego. The park features a collection of preserved and reconstructed buildings, offering visitors a glimpse into life during the Mexican and early American periods. Explore the park's museums, shops, and restaurants, and discover the stories of the people who shaped the destiny of San Diego. While exploring Old Town, take the time to visit the nearby Presidio Park, the site where Father Junipero Serra founded the first California Spanish Mission in 1769. The park offers panoramic views of the city and the Pacific Ocean, providing a stunning backdrop for a historical journey. Plaza de Las Armas is easily accessible by public transportation, with several bus and trolley lines serving the Old Town Transit Center. The park is also within walking distance of many hotels and attractions, making it a convenient destination for visitors. Whether you're a history buff, a culture enthusiast, or simply seeking a relaxing escape, Plaza de Las Armas offers a captivating experience that will leave you with a lasting appreciation for the rich heritage of San Diego and California.

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Plaza de Las Armas: Heart of Old Town San Diego

A brief summary to Plaza De Las Armas

Local tips

Getting There

Public Transport

Walking

Taxi/Ride-Share

Driving

Unlock the Best of Plaza De Las Armas

Buy tickets

Book tours with entry

Book tours without entry

Discover more about Plaza De Las Armas

Iconic landmarks you can’t miss

Old Town - jail

Mason Street Schoolhouse

La Casa de Machado y Stewart

La Casa de Lopez

San Diego Ghosts

Fort Stockton

Senlis Cottage

Sherman-Gilbert House

Burton House

Bushyhead House

Christian House

Serra Palm (Site)

Witches Tower

Derby Dike

Heritage County Park

Unmissable attractions to see

Old Town San Diego State Historic Park

First San Diego Courthouse

Old town San Diego

McCoy House

La Casa de Estudillo

Cosmopolitan Hotel and Restaurant

Ghosts & Gravestones Tour San Diego

Old Town Market

Old Town Trolley Tours

GoCar Tours

Immaculate Conception Catholic Church

Mormon Battalion Historic Site

Whaley House Museum

Casa Del Rey Moro African Latin Museum

The Adobe Chapel

Essential places to dine

Barra Barra

Casa de Reyes

Encuentro Cafe former The Congress Cafe

Casa Guadalajara

Rockin' Baja Lobster - Old Town

Old Town Tequila Factory Restaurant & Cantina

Cafe Coyote

Tahona Bar

Trattoria Don Pietro - Sicilian Italian Cuisine

Jack & Giulio's Italian Restaurant

Corvette Diner

The Red Door

Baci Restaurant

Coasterra

Island Prime

Markets, malls and hidden boutiques

Old Town Gifts

Tienda de Reyes

The Johnson House

La Paloma Old Town

Best of old town

Pablo’s of Old Town

Inka's Art

Bazaar Del Mundo

FIVE AND DIME GENERAL STORE

Treasures By the Sea

San Diego's Largest Vintage and Antique Mall

Beach House

Stroll

Vervor Shop

Vitreum

Essential bars & hidden hideouts

Rose's Tasting Room

Old Town Saloon