Historical Walking Tour of San Diego

San Diego, US
100% of travellers recommend this
Excellent (19 reviews)

Included

  • inclusion
    Gratuities

Meeting Point

Josh will be wearing a tour guide name tag and will meet you in the lobby of the Courtyard Marriott San Diego Downtown. Please plan to arrive 10 minutes early to ensure the tour starts on time.

Meeting point

530 Broadway, San Diego, CA 92101 , United States

End point

End Point

The tour will end in front of the USS Midway Museum. The tour does not include entrance to the museum.

Meeting point

910 N Harbor Dr, San Diego, CA 92101 , United States

End point

What to expect

1

Gaslamp Quarter

Josh will meet you in the lobby of the historic San Diego Trust and Savings Bank Building (now a Courtyard Marriott) to share information on how San Diego became the birthplace of California. You will learn about Spanish explorers, the first settlement of Old Town, the Mexican-American War, and becoming the 31st state in the U.S.

Duration 15 minutes
2

Horton Plaza Park

After passing through the Gaslamp Quarter you will learn about the growth of the city and the visionary creation of downtown San Diego in the late 1800s (including international recognition and the development of the San Diego Zoo).

Duration 15 minutes
3

Santa Fe Depot

The tour will stop outside of the historic Santa Fe train station to learn how the east coast and west coast were connected by train. Train access led to an age of prosperity and rich elites visiting San Diego, especially with the opening of the famous Hotel Del Coronado.

Duration 15 minutes
4

USS Midway Museum

The tour will end outside of the USS Midway Museum to discuss San Diego's role in world wars and the modern day military industry. Please note the tour does NOT include entrance to the USS Midway Museum and the tour will NOT go inside the museum.

The experience can be subject to change due to bad weather or unforseen circumstances. We always endeavour to give you the best possible experience.

Additional Information

  • Additional information
    Wheelchair accessible
  • Additional information
    Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
  • Additional information
    Service animals allowed
  • Additional information
    Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Additional information
    All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible
  • Additional information
    Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Provided by San Diego Historical Walking Tour

What our experts say

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    Arrive 10 minutes early to meet the guide
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    Check out nearby restaurants in Gaslamp
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    Visit the USS Midway Museum after the tour
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    Bring a water bottle for the walk
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    Wear comfortable shoes for walking

More About this Experience

Introduction

Welcome to the Historical Walking Tour of San Diego, a captivating journey through the rich history of this vibrant city. Immerse yourself in the fascinating tale of San Diego's evolution from its humble beginnings in 1542 to its role as a modern-day metropolis. This group walking tour is the perfect opportunity to discover the founders and visionaries who shaped the city, explore iconic landmarks, and gain a comprehensive understanding of San Diego's captivating past.

What to Expect?

During this 75-minute tour, you can anticipate a captivating exploration of San Diego's historical highlights. Join your knowledgeable guide, Josh, for an enlightening experience that will take you through centuries of history. Starting from the lobby of the Courtyard Marriott San Diego Downtown, you'll embark on a mesmerizing journey through the Gaslamp Quarter, where you'll learn about Spanish explorers, the Mexican-American War, and San Diego's role in becoming the 31st state of the U.S. Next, discover downtown San Diego's visionary creation in the late 1800s and its transformation into a bustling city. Marvel at the landmark Santa Fe Train Station, which connected the east and west coasts by rail and ushered in a new era of prosperity. Finally, the tour concludes outside the renowned USS Midway Museum, where you'll delve into San Diego's involvement in world wars and the thriving military industry.

Who is this for?

The Historical Walking Tour of San Diego appeals to anyone with a passion for history and a desire to uncover the hidden stories of this remarkable city. Whether you are a local resident looking to deepen your knowledge or a visitor seeking an engaging cultural experience, this tour is designed for all curious souls. No matter your age or background, join us on this journey to explore San Diego's captivating past.

Why Book This?

Embark on the Historical Walking Tour of San Diego and unlock the secrets of this vibrant city's past. Josh, your experienced guide, will bring history to life with captivating stories and insights. From the birthplace of California in the Gaslamp Quarter to the influential Santa Fe Train Station and the historic USS Midway, this tour will transport you through time, immersing you in the thrilling narratives that have shaped San Diego into the city it is today. Book now and embark on an unforgettable journey into the heart of San Diego's history.

Good to Know

As you prepare for the Historical Walking Tour of San Diego, remember to meet Josh, your guide, in the lobby of the Courtyard Marriott San Diego Downtown. Arriving 10 minutes early will ensure the tour starts promptly. While the tour does not include entrance to the USS Midway Museum, you'll have the chance to explore the exterior and learn about San Diego's military history. Prepare for an approximately 75-minute walking experience, so comfortable shoes are recommended. Get ready to immerse yourself in the captivating stories of San Diego's past on this truly enlightening tour.

Reviews

Stephanie, a recent tour participant, raved about the experience, saying, "The Historical Walking Tour of San Diego was an absolute delight. Josh's deep knowledge and passion for the city's history made the tour exceptional. I learned so much about San Diego's fascinating past and felt truly connected to the city. I highly recommend this tour to both locals and visitors who want a unique perspective on San Diego's history." John, another satisfied participant, shared, "This tour exceeded my expectations. Josh's storytelling skills and attention to detail transported us through time. The tour was well-paced, allowing time to absorb each stop's significance. If you're interested in understanding the captivating history of San Diego, don't miss this tour!" Join us on the Historical Walking Tour of San Diego and witness the city's past come alive while creating memories that will last a lifetime.

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