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Offered languages
- English
- English
- Spanish
- Spanish
Discover the essence of San Diego through five self-guided walking tours, allowing you to explore at your own pace. Stroll through the historic streets of Old Town, immerse yourself in the cultural treasures of Balboa Park, delight in the vibrant atmosphere of the Gaslamp Quarter, enjoy stunning waterfront views along the Embarcadero, and take in the coastal beauty of La Jolla. Each tour features engaging storytelling paired with GPS-triggered audio, enhancing your experience as you walk. Perfect for first-timers or returning visitors, these tours are yours to keep, so you can enjoy them now or on your next trip.
- Five self-guided walking tours covering iconic San Diego destinations
- Blends storytelling with GPS-triggered audio for an immersive experience
- Explore at your own pace, perfect for both first-time and returning visitors
- Tours are yours to keep for future visits, allowing flexibility in your schedule
What's Included
Meeting and pickup
Itinerary
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1
Wander along the waterfront past the maritime museum, USS Midway Museum, cruise ships, public art, and scenic views of the harbor and Coronado Bridge.
10 minutes • Admission ticket free -
2Santa Fe Depot
A living landmark of Spanish Colonial architecture, this elegant train station connects San Diego’s past and present while welcoming travelers from near and far.
5 minutes • Admission ticket free -
USS Midway Museum (Pass by)
Get up close to one of America’s most storied aircraft carriers, now an iconic museum that honors the spirit of those who served at sea and in the sky.
Admission ticket free -
3San Diego Bay Walk
A stretch of waterfront devoted to remembrance, where moving memorials honor courage, sacrifice, and homecoming in America’s military history.
10 minutes • Admission ticket free -
4
Once San Diego’s police headquarters, this artfully restored complex now houses unique boutiques and restaurants—where history meets modern waterfront life.
10 minutes • Admission ticket free -
5Seaport Village
A charming bayside destination filled with shops, eateries, and timeless attractions like a 19th-century carousel—ideal for a leisurely stroll or afternoon treat.
10 minutes • Admission ticket free -
6
It was here in Old Town that Saint Junípero Serra celebrated his First Holy Mass in California on July 2, 1769, near this site of the present-day Immaculate Conception Church.
5 minutes • Admission ticket free -
(Pass by)
This modest structure is California Historic Landmark number 49 and it has one of the most complicated backgrounds of any you’ll see on this tour!
Admission ticket free -
7
Step into one of San Diego’s oldest cemeteries, where 19th-century graves and adobe walls preserve the stories of early settlers, outlaws, and soldiers. El Campo Santo is a quiet, hauntingly beautiful stop that offers a glimpse into the city’s frontier past. Keep an eye out because some say not all of its residents rest in peace.
10 minutes • Admission ticket free -
8
Heritage Park is a charming collection of restored Victorian homes and cottages, each relocated here in the 1970s to save them from demolition. As you explore the park, you'll pass beautifully preserved structures like the Sherman-Gilbert House, Bushyhead House, and Senlis Cottage—each with its own story tied to San Diego’s past. It's a peaceful, walkable glimpse into the city's architectural and cultural legacy, brought back to life through grassroots preservation efforts.
10 minutes • Admission ticket free -
9
This free museum shares the remarkable story of the Mormon Battalion, a group that marched over 2,000 miles west during the Mexican-American War and helped shape early San Diego. Today, the Mormon Battalion Historic Site offers hands-on exhibits, immersive storytelling, and interactive activities like gold panning and brick making. It's a fascinating stop that blends local, military, and religious history in one engaging experience.
10 minutes • Admission ticket free -
10
Once home to one of Old Town’s most prominent families, the Casa de Aguirre now serves as a small museum showcasing artifacts from both the Aguirre household and its later use as a Catholic-run industrial school for Native American children in the late 1800s. Displays include luxury imports, household items, and tools from the era, offering a glimpse into two very different chapters of Old Town’s past. It’s a thought-provoking stop that reflects both wealth and hardship in San Diego’s early history.
10 minutes • Admission ticket free -
11
Once a modest hotel, the Callan is now better known for its ghost stories. Visitors say echoes of its wilder past still linger in its halls.
5 minutes • Admission ticket free -
(Pass by)
The oldest surviving structure in downtown, this house now serves as the Gaslamp Museum. Its rooms and exhibits bring the neighborhood’s layered history to life.
Admission ticket free -
12
The iconic gateway welcomes you into the heart of the district. It’s one of the most photographed landmarks in San Diego.
5 minutes • Admission ticket free -
13
Built in 1890, the Keating was San Diego’s first skyscraper. Its Romanesque Revival design still dominates the block with confidence.
5 minutes • Admission ticket free -
(Pass by)
This elaborate French Renaissance Revival landmark was once a bank—and later a notorious brothel. Its towers and ornamentation make it one of the Gaslamp’s most photographed buildings.
Admission ticket free -
(Pass by)
This grand building once served as San Diego’s City Hall. The clock tower and bold design still stand as a symbol of civic pride.
Admission ticket free -
(Pass by)
Restored to its 1920s glory, the Balboa Theatre is still a working performance venue. The theatre’s Spanish Revival style makes it one of downtown’s most elegant landmarks.
Admission ticket free -
14
A lively public space since the 1870s, this plaza has hosted rallies, concerts, and celebrations. The park is a vibrant gathering spot at the edge of the Quarter.
5 minutes • Admission ticket free -
15Coast Walk Trail
Take in the views from this beautiful section of La Jolla's Coast Walk Trail. We'll point out prominent landmarks such as La Jolla Shores, the Scripps Pier, and Torrey Pines Golf Course.
10 minutes • Admission ticket free -
16Goldfish Point
Learn about the secret history of Sunny Jim Cave (as you stand above it) and how it got its name. If you decide to pay for admission (not included) you can descend the dark staircase and get a chance to view the cave for yourself.
5 minutes • Admission ticket free -
17La Jolla Cove
Take in the iconic sights of La Jolla Cove as you hear about some of the birds and marine animals that share this beautiful location.
10 minutes • Admission ticket free -
18Ellen Browning Scripps Park
Hear the fascinating history of Ellen Browning Scripps and the enormous impact her philanthropic activities have had on San Diego.
10 minutes • Admission ticket free -
19Children's Pool
Soak up more incredible views as you gaze out over the La Jolla Children's Pool, another historical piece of La Jolla's past.
10 minutes • Admission ticket free -
20La Valencia Hotel
Pop your head into this historic La Jolla hotel as you hear about its interesting history that involves some of Hollywood's early celebrities.
5 minutes • Admission ticket free -
21
One of Balboa Park’s most photographed spots, this 1915 lath structure is a lush showcase of tropical plants and seasonal floral displays—reflected beautifully in the serene lily pond out front.
5 minutes • Admission ticket free -
22
Spanning Cabrillo Canyon, this dramatic arched bridge offers panoramic views and a grand approach into the heart of the park. It’s also a striking symbol of Balboa Park’s early 20th-century design ambition.
5 minutes • Admission ticket free -
(Pass by)
This ornate, Spanish Colonial Revival tower rises above Balboa Park with distinctive flair. Once closed for decades, it now offers one of the best skyline views in San Diego—along with layers of history.
Admission ticket free -
23
This elegant bronze honors the Mother of Balboa Park, who transformed much of the park’s landscape with her visionary plantings. A fitting tribute to one of San Diego’s great unsung heroes.
5 minutes • Admission ticket free -
24
This central plaza links many of the park’s biggest attractions and offers space to rest, reflect, or people-watch. It’s a social crossroads surrounded by striking architecture and history.
5 minutes • Admission ticket free -
25
Colorful tiles lead the way into a working artists’ colony filled with open studios and galleries. From ceramics to jewelry, you can meet the makers, watch them at work, and even take home a handmade piece of San Diego.
15 minutes • Admission ticket free
Additional info
- Service animals allowed
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Tags
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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Cancellation Policy
- For a full refund, you must cancel at least 24 hours before the experience’s start time.
- If you cancel less than 24 hours before the experience’s start time, the amount you paid will not be refunded.
- Any changes made less than 24 hours before the experience’s start time will not be accepted.
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the experience for a full refund.
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