San Diego Old Town Tales, Tacos and Tequila Small Group Tour

San Diego, US
100% of travellers recommend this
Excellent (119 reviews)

Included

  • inclusion
    One Tequila beverage for guests 21+ (or beer, wine or soda of your choice) at a local tequileria
  • inclusion
    Handmade Tortilla Tasting
  • inclusion
    Chips and Salsa
  • inclusion
    Professional Local Tour Guide
  • inclusion
    3 mouth watering delicious Street Tacos
  • inclusion
    Souvenir Margarita Recipe

Excluded

  • exclusion
    Guide gratuity
  • exclusion
    Admission to paid museums

Meeting Point

We will meet at the gate to the Adobe Chapel.

Meeting point

3963 Conde St, San Diego, CA 92110 , United States

End point

What to expect

1
Old Town San Diego

Join us as we discover the full story of San Diego in the location where it all began – Old Town. We’ll learn about the indigenous people of the area, along with the Spanish and visit where they settled, and how this became a part of Mexico before becoming a US State. Along the way we’ll hear tales of the people who lived here and will end with some fantastic tacos and tequila!

Duration 60 minutes
2
Adobe Chapel Museum

We start our tour at the Adobe Chapel, first built as a home in 1850. By 1858 it became a chapel after the Mission was closed and served in that capacity until 1919. We'll learn that it was the setting of the fictional character Ramona’s wedding from the 1884 novel, and how this building saved the neighborhood.

Duration 10 minutes
Admission Admission Not Included
3
Whaley House Museum

There are three historic buildings on this site and we'll talk about all of them, plus admire the century old Pepper Trees. Known mostly for its ghostly residents, the Whaley House is historically important beyond being haunted.

Duration 5 minutes
Admission Admission Not Included
4
Heritage County Park

These Victorian buildings were moved here to preserve them from the expanding city in the 1970s from downtown. All of these houses date to the end of the 19th century.

5

Mormon Battalion Historic Site

The longest infantry march in US history happened during the Mexican-American war in 1846-48 and this site commemorates it.

6

Presidio Park

Where modern San Diego began with the first Mission and first Presidio (fortress) established here in 1769. After this area was abandoned residents moved down the hill to what is now Old Town State Park.

7
Immaculate Conception Church

This is the descendant of the church at our meeting location and is over 100 years old.

Duration 5 minutes
8
El Campo Santo Cemetery

After the Presidio closed, this became the main Catholic cemetery in San Diego, and many of San Diego's early residents are interred here.

Duration 5 minutes
9

El Agave Restaurant & Tequileria

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We've saved the best for last! We'll stop here for a refreshing beverage and some delish bites!

Duration 30 minutes
Admission Admission Included

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
    Guests should be comfortable walking 2 miles - comfortable shoes are a must!
  • Additional information
    Our tortilla tasting happens at the beginning of the tour and our tacos and tequila are at the end (saving the best for last!). Please take that into consideration when planning pre-tour meals (have enough to fuel your walk but not enough to spoil your tacos!).
  • Additional information
    Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Additional information
    Service animals allowed
  • Additional information
    There is plenty of free parking in Old Town but can be hard to find on weekends. Please plan ahead.
  • Additional information
    Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
  • Additional information
    Water in reusable container, hat, sunscreen, sunglasses are all recommended.
Provided by San Diego Walks

What our experts say

  • icon
    Wear comfortable shoes for walking.
  • icon
    Arrive early for good parking spots.
  • icon
    Try to save room for all tacos!
  • icon
    Visit nearby Casa Guadalajara for dinner.
  • icon
    Check out the local shops for souvenirs.

More About this Experience

Introduction

Welcome to the San Diego Old Town Tales, Tacos and Tequila Small Group Tour! If you're looking for a unique and immersive experience that combines history, culture, and delicious food and drinks, then this tour is perfect for you. Join your knowledgeable guide and fellow travelers at the Old Adobe Chapel, a historical site that played a significant role in saving Old Town San Diego.

What to expect?

Prepare to be captivated by the fascinating tales and rich history of San Diego. This tour takes you on a journey through time, exploring the indigenous people, Spanish settlers, and the transition of this area from Mexico to a US state. Along the way, you'll visit iconic landmarks, such as the oldest 18th-century structure and a landmark cemetery with graves dating back to the 1850s. But this tour isn't just about history. Indulge in authentic Mexican handcrafts while avoiding the tourist traps. Then, satisfy your taste buds with gourmet tacos and learn about the intricate world of tequila at a local Tequileria. Whether you're a history enthusiast, a foodie, or simply seeking a memorable experience, this tour offers something for everyone.

Who is this for?

The San Diego Old Town Tales, Tacos and Tequila Small Group Tour welcomes anyone who wants to discover the vibrant past of San Diego while enjoying delicious food and drinks. History buffs will relish in the opportunity to explore significant historical sites and learn fascinating stories about the region. Food lovers will delight in the chance to savor gourmet tacos and discover the nuances of tequila. This tour is suitable for all ages and interests, from solo travelers to groups, locals to visitors.

Why book this?

Uncover the hidden gems of San Diego with a tour that goes beyond the surface. By joining this tour, you gain access to insider knowledge and stories that you won't find in guidebooks. The expertise of your guide ensures a memorable and informative experience as they share their passion for San Diego's history. The chance to sample gourmet tacos and explore a Tequileria adds a delightful culinary dimension to the tour. Discovering the origins of this vibrant city while indulging in delicious food and drinks is an experience you won't want to miss.

Good to know

This tour has a duration of 150 minutes, during which you'll visit various fascinating locations in San Diego's Old Town. The meeting point is at the Old Adobe Chapel, where you'll be immersed in the historical significance of the area right from the start. Don't worry about tourist traps – you'll have the opportunity to appreciate authentic Mexican handcrafts. The tour ends at a local Tequileria, where you can quench your thirst with a refreshing beverage of your choice. It's important to note that this tour is suitable for all fitness levels, as there is no strenuous physical activity involved.

Reviews

Travelers who have experienced the San Diego Old Town Tales, Tacos and Tequila Small Group Tour praise its captivating storytelling, knowledgeable guides, and exciting exploration of San Diego's history. Visitors have particularly enjoyed the mix of cultural insights and culinary delights, making it a well-rounded and unforgettable experience. Many reviewers highlight the unique perspectives provided during the tour and express their satisfaction with the quality of the food and drinks. Overall, this tour receives high praise for its ability to immerse visitors in the captivating tales of San Diego's past while providing a delightful culinary journey.

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