No Badge
San Diego Gaslamp Quarter Walking Tour
Secret history and scenic sites on the downtown strip
Highlights
- Learn how New Town San Diego went from lawless frontier to tourist hotspot.
- Visit places known to be haunted and hear the ghostly stories.
- See ornate buildings with some of the best preserved Victorian architecture in the city.
- Find out the darker history of the area known as The Stingaree.
- Get the inside scoop on the best local food and entertainment from your expert guide.
What you'll do
This tour of the Gaslamp Quarter is a fascinating look back to the early days of San Diego. Once known as “The Stingaree,” the town started out on a sour note. You’ll hear tales of its crime-ridden history and how it became a thriving port.
Read more
This tour of the Gaslamp Quarter is a fascinating look back to the early days of San Diego. Once known as “The Stingaree,” the town started out on a sour note. You’ll hear tales of its crime-ridden history and how it became a thriving port.
Our immersive Gaslamp Quarter Walking Tour starts at The Spreckles Theater and continues past several historic structures from the late 1800s and early 1900s. Each building has a story to tell, from former brothels to gambling halls, and the beautiful details of the windows and facades are a feast for the eyes.
As we walk through the Gaslamp District, your guide will share little-known facts about what it was like to live in this once rough-and-tumble town. You’ll even learn about that time Harry Houdini made a stop in San Diego!
Your tour guide will leave with insider recommendations for must-try restaurants in the area plus tips for more to see and do if you have time, including shows, nightlife, and activities that take place daily.
Itinerary
-
Spreckles Theater
A marvel of design in continuous operation since 1912
-
Horton Plaza Park
Formerly a hitching post and carriage stop
-
The US Grant Hotel
An opulent and haunted 1910 landmark on the National Register of Historic Places
-
Balboa Theater
Where sailors stayed on their way to World War I
-
The Louis Bank of Commerce
One of the most photographed buildings downtown, once home to an infamous San Diego madam
-
The Yuma Building
A beautiful example of Victorian architecture made entirely of brick
-
Ghirardelli Chocolate Shop
Opened in 1913 as a theater, now home to the world-renowned chocolatier
-
The Davis Horton House
The oldest structure downtown, rumored to be one of the most haunted homes in the country
-
The Horton Grand Hotel
Built in 1887, once home to several dignitaries and now home to several ghosts
-
The Old Spaghetti Factory
An iconic restaurant with historic architecture
-
Gaslamp Quarter Archway
Symbolizing that San Diego was committed to continuing the redevelopment of Downtown
Plan your trip
Accessibility
This tour is accessible for strollers and wheelchairs.
Tour ending point
This tour ends at the Gaslamp Quarter Archway.
Refund policy
We offer a 100% refund up to 24 hours before the start time.
Meeting point
Meet your guide at the entrance to the Spreckles Theater, 121 Broadway, #600, San Diego, CA.
FAQs
How much walking is there?
This tour covers approximately one mile at a leisurely pace. If mobility is an issue, please contact us for a private tour.
What is the rescheduling policy?
We understand plans change. We offer a 100% refund or the option to reschedule up to 24 hours prior to your tour start time. Within 24 hours of your tour, we would have incurred hard costs and therefore cannot allow rescheduling or cancellation without costs.
When should I get there?
Plan to show up 15 minutes early. The tour starts promptly, and you may not be able to catch up if you arrive late.
What if it rains?
Our tours run rain or shine. If there’s extreme weather and we have to cancel, you’ll get a full refund.
Are gratuities included?
Tips aren’t included but are always appreciated by our guides. If you think your guide did an outstanding job, a tip is a great way to show that.
