San Diego Gaslamp Quarter Small Group Walking Tour
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.
Overview
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
A marvel of design in continuous operation since 1912
Commissioned by the Sugar Magnate John D. Spreckles, this theater is considered acoustically perfect.
15 minutesHorton Plaza Park
Formerly a hitching post and carriage stop, the park was created by Alonzo Horton as a respite for the guests of the Horton Hotel.
5 minutesAn opulent and haunted 1910 landmark on the National Register of Historic Places. Built by Ulysses S. Grant Jr. and his wife, this hotel spared no expense and is still the premier destination for presidents and dignitaries who visit San Diego.
15 minutesBalboa Theatre
Beautifully constructed to coincide with the Pan-American Exposition, the theater has two working waterfalls that were designed as an early cooling system. In World War II the offices upstairs were used to house sailors going off to war.
10 minutesMad House Comedy Club
Known as the Ingle Building, it was the original home to Ye Old Golden Lion, a mens only restaurant. The upstairs space was used as a front for two "mens clubs" that circumvented the prohibition laws of the day.
5 minutesHistoric Louis Bank of Commerce
One of the most photographed buildings downtown, once home to an infamous San Diego madam who used a unique way to communicate with foreign sailors interested in her "Ladies." The bottom storefront was an oyster bar favored by Wyatt Earp.
10 minutesYuma Building
A beautiful example of Victorian architecture made entirely of brick. The building was constructed by Captain Wilcox, the same man who designed the false bay that we know as Mission Bay.
10 minutesOpened in 1913 as a theater, you could see two feature films, a comedy short, a cartoon and a western serial for ten cents.
It is now home to the world-renowned chocolatier.
5 minutesGaslamp Museum at the Davis-Horton House
The oldest structure downtown, rumored to be one of the most haunted homes in the country. Moved from it's original location to where it stands today, it is the home of the Historical Society of San Diego.
15 minutesBuilt in 1887, once home to several dignitaries and now home to several ghosts. It was moved to it's current location brick by brick. It's original bar and front desk were found in a church basement in New York and returned to the hotel.
15 minutesThe San Diego Old Spaghetti Factory is located in the old McKenzie, Flint and Winsby building, in the heart of the historic Gaslamp Quarter of downtown San Diego. The building was constructed in 1898.
The Gaslamp Quarter Archway was symbolic as a declaration that the City of San Diego was committed to continuing the redevelopment of Downtown. This stop also includes a story about Harry Houdini and his one and only stop in San Diego.
10 minutes
Location
Address
121 Broadway, San Diego, CA 92101, USA
Inclusions
- Local guide
Exclusions
- Food and Drink
- Gratuities
Additional Information
- Wheelchair accessible
- Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
- Service animals allowed
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Specialized infant seats are available
- All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Guide Languages
English
Cancellation Policy
A full refund will apply if you cancel more than 24 hours before the activity start time.
No refund is possible if you cancel less than 24 hours before the activity start time.
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4.7 / 5
4.7 out of 5 stars
Based on 10 reviews
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