Old Town San Diego: The Birthplace of California

When most people think of Link, their mind goes to sandy beaches, surfer bros and carne asada burritos. While those things should definitely not be forgotten, there’s a historical landmark in the Southern California city that should spring to mind as well. Old Town San Diego is the birthplace of California, and a wonderful spot to visit whether you’re a visitor or local.

Although Native Americans populated the land of what is now San Diego more than 9,000 years ago, it’s commonly thought San Diego was really born in 1769 when the first permanent Spanish settlement was established. Under Father Junipero Serra, 21 missions were constructed in the area to form the cornerstone of California’s colonization. A small Mexican community of adobe buildings was formed in the 1820s, some which you can visit today.

Nowadays, Old Town San Diego includes a main plaza filled with boutique stores and souvenir shops, cultural exhibits and museums and a variety of authentic Mexican restaurants. Check out Casa Guadalajara and Cafe Coyote for two local favorites. Spend an afternoon strolling through the old streets and you may even come across a live history demonstration or event. The little town comes alive on Cinco de Mayo, when 20- and 30-somethings fill the streets, dancing together and clinking margarita glasses all day and night.