Best Museums in Old Town

We've collected top 10 mentioned museums in Old Town from other articles such as Joy of Museums Virtual Tours, Things To Do, sealtours.com.

Best Museums in Old Town

USS Midway Museum
USS Midway Museum
4.8 (31267 ratings)4.5 (22678 ratings)
Life-at-sea exhibits, restored planes & flight simulators aboard this legendary aircraft carrier.
910 N Harbor Dr, San Diego, CA 92101, USA
Maritime museumMuseumsSpecialty Museums
Mentioned by TheTopTours
7 Popular Museums and Galleries in San Diego (2021)
"Talking about the most popular museum in San Diego, the USS Midway Museum is the only fine name that is topping the chart for years. USS Midway Museum is the longest-serving aircraft carrier that is now floating at the Navy Pier in downtown San Diego. The aircraft carrier has originally served between 1945 to 1992 but is now home to 29 restored aircraft, two flight simulators, over 60 war and military exhibits, a gift shop and a café proudly in name of a museum."
Mentioned by La Jolla Mom
35 San Diego Tourist Attractions: Top Spots for Fun Sightseeing
"As one of the longest-serving aircraft carriers of the 20th century, the USS Midway boasts an extensive and incredible history. Built-in only 17 months and named after the climactic Battle of the Midway in 1942, the USS Midway served the nation honorably during its 50 years in commission. It continues to serve the public as a museum by reminding it of world history and of the U.S. military’s impressive power."
Mentioned by Mapcarta
Coronado Ferry Landing Shopping Center
"USS Midway is an aircraft carrier, formerly of the United States Navy, the lead ship of her class. USS Midway is situated 2 km north of Coronado Ferry Landing Shopping Center. Photo: Wikimedia, Public domain."
The San Diego Museum of Art
The San Diego Museum of Art
4.6 (1368 ratings)4 (258 ratings)
Venerable art museum with acclaimed works, plus a courtyard bar/bistro with sculpture garden views.
1450 El Prado, San Diego, CA 92102, USA
Art museumMuseums
Mentioned by Joy of Museums Virtual Tours
San Diego Museums - Virtual Tour
"The San Diego Museum of Art houses a broad art collection with particular strength in Spanish art. The Museum first opened as The Fine Arts Gallery of San Diego in 1926 and changed its name to its current form in 1978. The museum building was designed in a plateresque style to harmonize with existing structures, in Balboa Park, from the Panama–California Exposition of 1915."
Mentioned by LaJolla.com
The Top Art Museums & Galleries in San Diego
"A post shared by Klinge Realty Group @ Compass (@klingerealtygroup). It’s not a large museum — in fact, it’s one of the smallest in the area — but the Timken Museum of Art is home to art created by Anne and Amy Putnam. The two sisters are well-known throughout the world for creating a variety of American and European paintings during the early 20th century."
Mentioned by UpgradedPoints.com
The 30 Best Things To Do in San Diego [Free Activities & Family-Friendly Attractions]
"Located in Balboa Park, the San Diego Museum of Art is a must-see attraction when visiting the city. The exterior itself is a masterpiece, with an ornamented doorway consisting of life-sized sculptures of Spanish painters and heraldry. Inside you’ll find Spanish and Italian old masters, Asian paintings and sculptures, and a range of touring exhibits."
The New Children’s Museum
The New Children’s Museum
4.6 (1971 ratings)4 (174 ratings)
From creative classes to climbable sculptures, contemporary art for kids, in a bright, modern space.
200 W Island Ave, San Diego, CA 92101, USA
Children's museumMuseumsArt museum
Mentioned by Lonely Planet Top Choices
Top things to do in California
"This interactive children’s museum offers interactive art meant for kids. Installations are designed by artists, so tykes can learn principles of movement and physics while simultaneously being exposed to art and working out the ants in their pants. Exhibits change every 18 months or so, so there's always something new."
Mentioned by HereIn
Art Guide
"A new model of children’s museum whose mission is to stimulate imagination, creativity and critical thinking in children and families through inventive and engaging experiences with contemporary art."
Museum of Photographic Arts
Museum of Photographic Arts
4.5 (426 ratings)4 (108 ratings)
More than 7,000 photos from 850 artists are showcased in a replica of a grand, ornate 1915 building.
1649 El Prado, San Diego, CA 92101, USA
Art museumMuseumsArt galleryMovie theater
Mentioned by San Diego 2 days itinerary
48 Hours in San Diego: Highlights Itinerary for 2 Days
"Even if you’re broke, the Timken Museum of Art is always free, and if you have a Bank of America card, the San Diego Museum of Art and the Museum of Photogenic Arts are free on certain days. If you love art, check out the Spanish village. These are historic buildings turned art galleries and stores which have a lot of their work for sale. Even just walking through this area is a fun experience."
Mentioned by Joy of Museums Virtual Tours
San Diego Museums - Virtual Tour
"The Museum of Photographic Arts was founded in 1974 and opened in 1983. It is one of three museums in the US dedicated to the collection and preservation of photography. The museum’s mission is to inspire, educate, and engage the broadest possible audience through the presentation, collection, and preservation of photography, film, and video."
Mentioned by HereIn
Art Guide
"An independent institution devoted to photography, film, and video. Founded in 1983, MOPA consistently addresses cultural, historical, and social issues through its visual learning programs."
Fleet Science Center
Fleet Science Center
4.5 (2604 ratings)4 (300 ratings)
Educational center featuring hands-on exhibits, a planetarium, IMAX theater & interactive displays.
1875 El Prado, San Diego, CA 92101, USA
Science museumMuseumsIMAX theaterChildren's MuseumsObservatories & Planetariums
Mentioned by UpgradedPoints.com
The 30 Best Things To Do in San Diego [Free Activities & Family-Friendly Attractions]
"The Fleet Science Center is a fun and educational museum for visitors of all ages. Kids will love the hands-on experience of exploring atoms and molecules in the Nano exhibit, and those under 5 can ride a fire truck in Kid City. In 1973, the museum opened the first IMAX dome theater in the world, and to this day, the IMAX continues to dazzle audiences with immersive adventures through space, rainforests, and oceans."
Mentioned by UpgradedPoints.com
The 16 Best Things To Do in San Diego With Kids
"The Fleet Science Center, also known as “The Fleet,” is a science museum and planetarium located in the popular Balboa Park in San Diego. With over 100 interactive exhibits with something for all ages, a visit to The Fleet will give your kids a better understanding of science and how it impacts the world around us. Spend your time exploring space, electricity, water, and virtual reality, or play around in Kid City."
Mingei International Museum
Mingei International Museum
4.6 (170 ratings)4.5 (113 ratings)
Museum located in a historic building showcases folk art, craft & design from all over the globe.
Balboa Park, Plaza de Panama, 1439 El Prado, San Diego, CA 92101, USA
Art museumMuseumsSpecialty Museums
Mentioned by 10Best
Learn and Go Hands-On at San Diego's 10 Best Museums
"This museum presents exhibits of folk art from around the world, including Indonesia and New Guinea (multicolored masks, dolls, fertility symbols and shadow puppets) and Japan (decorative bottles, bowls and jars). Children will delight in the displays of international toys and antique carousels. Don't forget to visit the Collectors' Gallery/Museum Store for a wide selection of modern and antique arts and crafts."
First San Diego Courthouse
First San Diego Courthouse
4.7 (7 ratings)4 (12 ratings)
2733 San Diego Ave, San Diego, CA 92110, USA
Historical place museumMuseumsSpecialty Museums
Mentioned by Old Town Trolley Tours
Complete List of Free Museums and Attractions in San Diego
"The First San Diego Courthouse, rebuilt in 1992, was originally the town hall. Constructed by the Mormon Battalion, the first brick building in San Diego became the courthouse when the city was incorporated in 1850. It also served as a school, church and polling place."
Coronado Historical Association
Coronado Historical Association
4.5 (215 ratings)4 (8 ratings)
Nonprofit association with permanent & special exhibits of local history & art, plus vast archives.
1100 Orange Ave, Coronado, CA 92118, USA
Local history museumMuseumsSpecialty Museums
Mentioned by Moke Experience
Top 10 Things To Do on Coronado Island
"Coronado’s rich and complex history is a fascinating subject even for those that don’t consider themselves history buffs. The Historic Walking Tour sponsored by the Coronado Historical Association is a great change of pace and something your whole family will enjoy. Stroll through historic Coronado while a knowledgeable guide spills all the details behind the architecture and adventure that makes Coronado so unique."
Mentioned by Leisure Pass Group
Top Museums in San Diego to Visit During Your Trip
"Take a trip out to Coronado Island right off the coast of San Diego and learn about the fascinating and rich history of this unique resort town and active Navy Base. You'll get to explore lots of topics, including art, architecture, history, preservation, and more Getting in: Coronado Museum of History & Art tickets are included on the Go San Diego Card All-Inclusive Pass."
Junípero Serra Museum
Junípero Serra Museum
4.4 (131 ratings)4 (33 ratings)
A Spanish Revival-style structure built to showcase the collection of the San Diego History Center.
2727 Presidio Dr, San Diego, CA 92101, USA
History museumMuseumsSpecialty Museums
Mentioned by La Jolla Mom
100 FREE Things to Do in San Diego, CA: Fun Museums, Attractions, Tours & More
"Therefore, it’s possible to walk into this museum to learn about California’s mission history (the museum sits on the first European settlement site in California) for free. If you did enjoy your visit and feel compelled to donated upon exit, this is possible. (Location: Presidio Park / Old Town)"
Mentioned by San Diego 3 days itinerary
3 Days in San Diego Itinerary – What to See and Do
"Within Old Town don’t miss Casa de Estudillo, which is one of the few original buildings (many are reproductions), Whaley House and Museum, which is believed to be haunted and Junípero Serra Museum, literally the place where California began. You can get more information here."
San Diego Chinese Historical Museum
San Diego Chinese Historical Museum
4.2 (101 ratings)4.5 (34 ratings)
Open since 1996, museum celebrating Chinese-American culture & art in a restored mission building.
404 Third Ave, San Diego, CA 92101, USA
History museumMuseums
Mentioned by Old Town Trolley Tours
Literally The Only List of San Diego Attractions You Need 2020-21
"The San Diego Asian Pacific Historic District, San Diego’s historic Chinatown, is an eight-block district adjacent to and in part overlapping with the Gaslamp Quarter Historic District. The San Diego Chinatown is bounded by Market Street on the north, 2nd Ave. on the west, 6th ave. on the east and J st. on the south. 22 structures are considered historically contributing."
Mentioned by Old Town Trolley Tours
Complete List of Free Museums and Attractions in San Diego
"The Chinese Historical Museum displays Chinese-American art, culture and history. Housed in a restored mission-style building, exhibits include miniature models, historic photographs and rare artifacts related to the heritage of San Diego’s Chinese community. *Small donation requested."

Best Pastries in Old Town

Sugar and Scribe Bakery - Fine Food
Sugar and Scribe Bakery - Fine Food
4.5 (394 ratings)
Quaint bakeshop featuring sweet treats & a selection of sandwiches & light meals to go.
7660 Fay Ave Suite I, La Jolla, CA 92037, USA
Brunch restaurantBakeryBreakfast restaurantCake shopCoffee shopCookie shopLunch restaurantPastry shopPie shopWedding bakery
Mentioned by lajollavacationrentalsca.com
The Best La Jolla Bakeries | La Jolla Vacation Rentals
"Sugar and Scribe is a quaint bakeshop located in the heart of downtown La Jolla. Voted the best bakery by San Diego Magazine and La Jolla Village News the bakery serves freshly made bread, pastries, cupcakes, cookies, and cakes. All of their pastries and bread are made in-house daily and they use all seasonal and local ingredients."
Mentioned by The Millennial Source
Who has the best pastries in San Diego?
"Sugar and Scribe serves up freshly made pastries each day along with custom cakes, artisanal bread and more. Food Network Champion Chef Maeve launched the bakery to fame, going on to win awards like 2017 Best Bakery. Nibble on the scrumptious petit fours to feel like a certified Francophile."
skybound coffee + dessert lounge
skybound coffee + dessert lounge
4.3 (410 ratings)
181 W Market St, San Diego, CA 92101, USA
Coffee shopBagel shopBreakfast restaurantBubble tea storeDessert restaurantDessert shopJuice shopPastry shopSandwich shopTea store
Dripz Coffee
Dripz Coffee
4.9 (24 ratings)
613 Pearl St, La Jolla, CA 92037, USA
Coffee shopPastry shopTea house
Mentioned by La Jolla Mom
La Jolla Happy Hour: 25 Best Bars and Restaurants to Try
"Time: Tuesday – Friday from 4:00 – 8:00 p.m.Specials: $2 off of appetizers and other food and drink specialsOcean View: Panoramic ocean viewWhy Go: Counter-serve café serving mostly Italian cuisine adjacent to UCSD with views in addition to indoor and outdoor seatingNeighborhood: Torrey Pines/UCSDAddress: 2880 Torrey Pines Scenic Drive, La Jolla, California 92037"
Mentioned by restaurantji.com
The Best Coffee Shops in La Jolla, CA
"It's always good, but the drinks are pretty inconsistent in quality. It seems like they always have new employees making the drinks different ways."

Best Nature and Parks (RV, National, Dog, etc) in Old Town

Pacific Beach
Pacific Beach
4.5 (1155 ratings)
Pacific Beach is a relaxed neighborhood by the beach, popular with sunbathers and surfers. Trendy hotel bars and casual cafes line the boardwalk, while Mission Boulevard and the surrounding streets are dotted with women’s clothing boutiques, yoga studios and casual drinking spots that draw a young, bar-hopping crowd. Inland, the grassy slope of Kate Sessions Park has sweeping views of the city and San Diego Bay.
San Diego, CA, USA
Nature & ParksBeaches
Mentioned by San Diego 5 days itinerary
San Diego – The Perfect Itinerary for First-Timers
"If you want a beach that’s bit more lively, you can head down to Pacific Beach and Mission Beach. Both beaches are great for people-watching on the boardwalk. Make sure to grab drinks at a beachy bar, and even perfect your surfing skills at The Wave House. Yep, at The Wave House, you can surf an artificial wave (or watch others do it)!"
Mentioned by San Diego 5 days itinerary
5-Day Best of San Diego Itinerary
"Catch a morning surf lessons from Surfari Surf School at north Mission Beach, and enjoy some prime people-watching on the Pacific Beach Boardwalk while you catch your breath. You’ll have worked up quite an appetite, so sate it the way a local surfer would—with fish tacos from Oscars Mexican Seafood."
Mission Trails Regional Park
Mission Trails Regional Park
4.7 (6757 ratings)4.5 (160 ratings)
7,220-acre recreational park featuring 60-miles of trails, along with a lake for boating & camping.
1 Father Junipero Serra Trail, San Diego, CA 92119, USA
ParkNature & ParksNature preserve
Mentioned by The Crazy Tourist
50 Best Things to Do in San Diego (California
"This whopping 5,800-acre natural preserve is inside San Diego’s city limits to the northeast, and is the sixth-largest municipal park in the United States. Snaking off into this rugged wilderness of scrubby hills and canyons are 60 miles of marked hiking, cycling and horse riding trails. One route will take you to the summit of Cowles Mountain, the highest point in San Diego at 486 metres and with a panorama of San Diego County that merits the climb."
Mentioned by UpgradedPoints.com
The 30 Best Things To Do in San Diego [Free Activities & Family-Friendly Attractions]
"Located just 12 miles from downtown San Diego, Mission Trails Regional Park is an excellent spot to escape the city for hiking and mountain biking. The 8,000-acre area is mostly rugged hills and canyons, with 55+ trails of varying lengths and difficulty. Rent a boat or kayak and head out on Lake Murray or explore the visitors center to learn about the plant and animal life that can be found in the park."
Mentioned by snappr.com
Top 5 Spots for Landscape Photography Near San Diego
"This is also another big place that packs plenty of alternatives for your landscape photography. The paths here are quite romantic with amazing views of the hills. And the sky usually reflects attractively of the peaceful lake."
Blue Sky Ecological Reserve
Blue Sky Ecological Reserve
4.7 (684 ratings)4.5 (26 ratings)
Wild 700-acre canyon habitat for myriad flora & fauna, with hiking trails & guided tours.
16275 Espola Rd, Poway, CA 92064, USA
Hiking areaNature & ParksHiking Trails

Cultural Center in Old Town

Japanese Friendship Garden
Japanese Friendship Garden
4.6 (4829 ratings)4 (284 ratings)
Balboa Park's Japanese gardens have koi ponds, bonsai trees, a teahouse, garden tours & more.
2215 Pan American Rd E, San Diego, CA 92101, USA
Non-profit organizationNature & ParksCultural centerGardenHistorical landmark
Mentioned by The Atlas Heart
101 Things to do in San Diego, California (From a Local) | Bucket List
"Located in Balboa Park, the Japanese Friendship Garden is a relaxing spot to spend an afternoon in San Diego. The garden was built to represent the friendship between San Diego and its sister city in Japan, Yokohama, and provides a unique and chilled out experience for visitors. Besides its zen atmosphere and impressive garden and architecture designs, the Japanese Friendship Garden hosts regular events throughout the year, such as yoga classes, meditation sessions, and the San Diego Sake Day."
Mentioned by y Travel Blog
16 Awesome (& Free) Things to do in San Diego With Kids
"There is an extra fee to enter the Japanese Friendship Garden, which is an expression of friendship between San Diego and its sister city, Yokohama. There’s an upper and lower strolling path where you can see koi pond, landscaped gardens and a Zen garden viewing deck. It’s a very tranquil space."
House of Pacific Relations - Hall of Nations
House of Pacific Relations - Hall of Nations
4.6 (91 ratings)4 (22 ratings)
Hosts to outdoor concerts & food fairs, these cozy cottages share the traditions of diverse nations.
2191 Pan American Rd W, San Diego, CA 92101, USA
Cultural centerMuseumsHistory MuseumsSpecialty Museums
Mentioned by La Jolla Mom
100 FREE Things to Do in San Diego, CA: Fun Museums, Attractions, Tours & More
"The House of Pacific Relations International Cottages showcases the traditions of 34 national groups, some of which have their own cottages (build originally for the 1935 Exposition). The goal is to promote multicultural understanding through exhibits and programming. (Location: Balboa Park)"
Tijuana Cultural Center
Tijuana Cultural Center
4.8 (14823 ratings)4.5 (700 ratings)
Modern museum with exhibits & installations on Mexican history & culture, plus an IMAX theater.
Paseo de los Héroes 9350, Zona Urbana Rio Tijuana, 22010 Tijuana, B.C., Mexico
Cultural centerMuseumsIMAX theaterSpecialty Museums

Vacation Rentals, Airbnb, Hotels & Cabins near Old Town

3.8 (1285 reviews)
Ramada by Wyndham San Diego National City
Hotel
$101 /night
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3.9 (157 reviews)
Hotel Milagro
Motel
$72 /night
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3.7 (360 reviews)
PB Surf Beachside Inn
Motel
$129 /night
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