Our lovely dinner in the pizzeria in the Old town inspired us to take a stroll around this historic part of San Diego. Located north of downtown, Old Town San Diego provides a little insight into the history of California; a connection with the past.
When you are in one of the (free-entry) museums, it feels as if you traveled back in time. Original, preserved carriages, furniture and various items bring back the ambiance of the 1800’s. Walking among old horse carriages, surrounded by the sound of a horse shoe maker busy at work; it’s easy to imagine life in early California. Take yourself back two hundred years ago and picture someone sitting on top of one of the carriages, managing the horses that were pulling it. Original horse saddles and brushes, suitcases and personal belongings will help your imagination. You can peek into the dining room of an ordinary family of the nineteenth century in Casa de Estudillo, a historic house constructed by early San Diego settlers, and wonder what life was like back then. You can let your imagination run looking at original woman’s boots (quite different from Sex and the City stilettos, let me tell you!) and read about the woman who wore them. (provide name)
If you would like more details from the past, and to hear some of the legends from a professional tour guide, take one of the free guided tours that leave daily from the visitor center. Arrive during the day to walk around the historic buildings and museums, and stay into the evening to have dinner in one of the many authentic, family-owned restaurants. Besides regional and Mexican specialties, you will find many different cuisines such as Italian, Japanese or Peruvian.
The atmosphere is unforgettable: sidewalks are buzzing with visitors, delicious scents are coming from the restaurants; and lining the sidewalks are countless shops offering a wide variety of hand made souvenirs and clothes. End your day with the famous Ghost Tour. I am sure James won’t mind when I talk him into that next time we visit!
