Tours & Programs

Explore Old Town San Diego!

Want to find out everything there is to know about Old Town San Diego State Historic Park? Sign up for a walking tour to embark on a journey of discovery with one of experienced guides. Explore California's rich cultural history and uncover the full story of San Diego's past.

Bring your camera, wear comfortable shoes, and get ready to connect with the history that continues to thrive in Old Town!

If you are interested in exploring at your own pace, visit our Self-Guided Tour page to enjoy Old Town San Diego SHP on your own.

**All public programs and events subject to change or cancellation, for daily updates contact the Robinson Rose Visitor Information Center**

Historic Walking Tours

Step back in time as we take you on a journey through the historic streets of Old Town San Diego State Historic Park! Our expert guide will share how converging cultures that transformed San Diego from a Kumeyaay village to a Mexican pueblo to an American Settlement. Hear stories about early trade, military life, and settlers and Kumeyaay people who shaped this vibrant community. We’ll visit original adobe homes, historic gardens, and hidden gems where you can immerse yourself in the sights, sounds, and culture of 19th-century San Diego.

Days Offered: Tours are offered regularly depending on staff. Reach out to Oldtown.sandiego@parks.ca.gov, call the Robinson Rose Visitor Information Center at 619-220-5422, or visit the Statewide Event Calendar to check the dates and times tours are being offered.
Time: 10:30 A.M. 12:00 P.M. 2:00 P.M. 3:30 P.M.
Duration: 45 Minutes
Signup location: Robinson Rose Visitor Information Center
Price: $10 Adults, $5 Children (4-12 years old)

Please note space is limited to 18 individuals. To reserve your space, sign-up at the Robinson Rose Visitor Information Center on the day of your visit.

If you are bringing 10 or more people, please schedule a Private Walking Tour.

Private Tours

Do you want a private experience for your group? Schedule a private tour of Old Town San Diego State Historic Park with an experienced guide! Our guides are excited to take you inside the original adobe homes, historic gardens, and will reveal how converging cultures that transformed San Diego from a Kumeyaay village to a Mexican pueblo to an American Settlement. If you have a group that is interested in learning about the rich history of California and discovering the stories about early trade, military life, and settlers and Kumeyaay people who shaped this vibrant community, please reserve a private tour today!

Days Offered: As requested.
Time: As requested.
Duration: 45 minutes
Signup Instructions: Reach out to oldtown.sandiego@parks.ca.gov at least three weeks in advance of your desired tour date. Please provide your desired date and time for the tour and the number of participants attending.
Price: $10 per participant, minimum $100

Little Rangers & Junior Rangers

Self-guided Junior Ranger booklets are available in the Robinson Rose Visitor Center.

Little Rangers Story Time
Rotating Themes: Native Plants, Polinators, Birds, Caring For the Earth, & Fiesta Story Time

Are you excited to become a Junior Ranger but not quite old enough yet? Come start your journey as a Little Ranger! Meet a State Park Interpreter for age-appropriate activities including interactive storytime, song, and activity to earn a Little Ranger souvenir!

Days Offered: Saturdays
Time: 10:30 A.M.
Duration: 30 Minutes
Location: Mason Street School House
Signup: While not required, spaces are limited so to garentee your spot please sign up through the Robinson Rose Visitor Information Center. Our phone number is: 619-220-5422
Price: Free
Ages: 6 & Younger

Junior Rangers

Join us on Saturdays for our FREE Junior Ranger programs, where State Park Interpreters introduce youth, ages 7-12, to the diverse natural and cultural resources of Old Town San Diego State Historic Park. Each month, we offer different programs where participants can earn a stamp in their Junior Ranger logbook. Our Junior Ranger programs change monthly so check out the Statewide Events Calendar to learn about dates and locations for this month's program. With over 100 parks across the state that offer Junior Ranger programs, participants can learn, have fun, and collect stamps all over California, and take home a souvenir for their efforts! Sign up to become a Junior Ranger today!

Days Offered: Saturdays
Time: 12:00 P.M.
Duration: 45 Minutes
Location: Check in at the Robinson Rose Visitor Information Center
Signup: While not required, spaces are limited so to garentee your spot please sign up through the Robinson Rose Visitor Information Center. Our phone number is: 619-220-5422
Price: Free
Ages: 7-12

Hidden History Talks

Hidden History Talk
July Theme: San Diego Gold Rush

Days Offered: July 10th, July 11th, July 17th, July 26th
Time: 3:00 P.M.
Duration: 15 Minutes
Location: Outside the Colorado House
Price: Free

Are you interested in learning more about San Diego's rich cultural history? Join a State Park Interpreter for a free 15 minute Hidden History Talk regarding the stories of individuals and events that are often underrepresented in history. Hidden History Talks bring to light accounts of African American history, LGBT+ history, and Women's history throughout San Diego.This month, State Park Interpreters are highlighting San Diego County's involvement in Gold Rush history! Learn about the story of Fred Coleman and how his small discovery would lead to gold mining encampment that would eventually develop the town of Julian. Drop in to learn something new during your visit to Old Town San Diego State Historic Park.