WELCOME TO SAN DIEGO
STEP INTO A World of
HIDDEN TALES
Daytime Expeditions Through Centuries of Intrigue.
Reveal the Stories That Define Us...
History Tours
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OUR EXPERIENCES
SAN DIEGO HISTORY OLD TOWN WALKING TOUR
Welcome, curious souls, to the enchanting world of San Diego History Tours. Prepare to embark on a journey through time, as we unveil the captivating stories that have shaped the vibrant tapestry of our beloved city.
Step back into the annals of history, where San Diego was once a presidio, a fortified military settlement. It was a land that witnessed the ebb and flow of Spanish, Mexican, and American influences. As we traverse the streets of Old Town, you will witness the remnants of this rich and colorful past.
Our dedicated costumed guides, your humble hosts, will regale you with genuine and well-researched tales that transport you to a bygone era. Be prepared for a delightful blend of education and entertainment, where intriguing anecdotes and the occasional quirky joke await your eager ears.
San Diego History Tours is committed to providing an enlightening and enjoyable experience, where the love for knowledge and appreciation of our city’s rich culture and history converge. Our goal is to ensure that you not only witness history but also forge a personal connection with the stories and characters that have left their mark on these hallowed grounds.
- 2 Hours ish
- 1 Mile Walk
- Kid & Dog Friendly
SAN DIEGO HISTORY GASLAMP WALKING TOUR
Prepare yourselves for an adventure through the shadowed streets of the Gaslamp Quarter, where history and mystery intertwine.
Once upon a time, in the wild west days of yore, the Gaslamp was a haven of saloons, gambling halls, opium dens, and brothels. Oh, the tales we have to share! Join us as we transport you to an era long past, filled with secrets and scandals.
On our tour, you’ll discover the haunts of Wyatt Earp, that infamous gambler and gunslinger. We’ll reveal the secrets of the glass marble exchange and take you to a German spy hideout. Brace yourselves for the tales of the downtown Stingaree raids and the Death Museum of the past, lurking in a likely location, plus many more.
Join our Gaslamp Walking Tour, where the past comes alive and history whispers in every cobblestone. Be entertained, enlightened, and immersed in the darker side of San Diego’s history.
Book your journey with us today, if you dare. Remember, the Gaslamp holds secrets that only the bravest can uncover.
- 2 Hours ish
- 1.5 Mile Walk
- Kid & Dog Friendly
About Us
Ah, dear adventurers, behold the tale of our humble company, Haunted San Diego Ghost Tours and San Diego History Tours! Gather ’round, for we shall unveil the essence of our haunted and historical endeavors.
Since 2006, Haunted San Diego Ghost Tours has been conjuring spine-chilling experiences that send shivers down the bravest of spines. We are the pinnacle of haunted tours in San Diego, with glowing reviews that make our souls soar. Join us, if you dare, as we unveil the ghostly secrets and history that lurk in the shadows.
But fear not, dear souls, for our story does not end there. In 2022, we embarked upon a new adventure, birthing San Diego History Tours. With a passion for our city’s captivating past, we strive to illuminate the historical tapestry that weaves through the streets of San Diego. Join us on a journey that will educate, entertain, and leave you in awe.
Please join us on one of our experiences, satisfaction is guaranteed.
As a local, mom and pop tour company, we pour our hearts and souls into every tour, ensuring a genuine and unforgettable experience. We specialize in San Diego, ensuring the accuracy of our historical tales. Support local, support small, and join us on an adventure that will leave you yearning for more. Don’t be fooled by all of our out of town competitors and their “tales”.
So, dear adventurers, whether you seek the thrill of the paranormal or the knowledge of the past, let us be your guides. Book your voyage with Haunted San Diego Ghost Tours or San Diego History Tours today, and embark on a journey that will ignite your curiosity and awaken your spirit for adventure.
Remember, dear souls, the tales we tell are not mere figments of imagination; they are the echoes of history itself, longing to be heard.
LOVED by our customers
MOST COMMON QUESTIONS
Old Town Historical Tour – A little less than 1 mile paced around 120 minutes. It’s an easy walk for all, and you’ll get standing breaks at each location.
San Diego Downtown Historic Tour – A little over 1.5 miles paced just under 2 hours. It’s an easy walk for all. A wheelchair would be more challenging and can be doable; call for more on that. You’ll get many breaks to hear stories as we stop at over 30 locations.
Wheelchairs and Walkers are a challenge going up and down the hill from Heritage – you will need a strong helper. Call for more on that if curious.
Please don’t bring food or drink on tour. If you stop during the tour to get a drink or food, you will be left behind; we must keep moving to fit it all in.
Please don’t smoke or vape during the tour as a courtesy to others. Deep gratitude.
If you enjoy the performance of your host, yes! It is customary to thank them however you see fit. Your host is a trained, experienced, and knowledgeable professional who puts a lot of effort and energy into your experience. Your generosity is always appreciated. It is how the host makes much of their income. Most people tip around $5-$10 per person, though anything is appreciated.
Yes. There are limited spots for each of our tours, and we often sell out well in advance. To ensure that you can join us, reservations and payment are required ahead of time. You can book online or over the phone. If you prefer to pay cash, your only option is to show up at the meeting location at least 20 min before the tour departure. If we have spots available, you can pay cash at that time. PLEASE NOTE: Reservations are highly recommended as empty spots are rare as the tour time approaches.
When you book online, you will get an email saying your spot(s) have been reserved. If the tour minimum has been met, your card will be charged, and you will get another email with details about the tour, where to meet, and so on. Please be at your meeting location 20 minutes before departure time. Enjoy the tour and have fun!
Our tours are Theatrical History!
We are the local, mom and pop tour company. Unlike our competitors, we specialize just in San Diego and get the history right. If You want support small and local you are in the right place 🙂
As a Tour Guide at San Diego History Tours, we are proud to provide guests with an in-depth look at some of the city’s most iconic places. Whether visiting the mid-century modern buildings of the Gaslamp or the historic Old Town district, we strive to give an entertaining and educational experience that is sure to leave a lasting impression.
We all love sharing fascinating stories and anecdotes with the guests who join us on our tours. My goal is to create an enlightening and enjoyable experience while also providing valuable insight into our city’s past. I’m passionate about history and believe that understanding our past can help inform our present and future. That’s why I’m proud to be part of San Diego History Tours, dedicated to helping people explore and appreciate this amazing city’s rich culture and history.
At night we do Ghost Tours | Haunted San Diego Ghost Tours
Quick History –
San Diego is a city with a rich history that spans more than 200 years. Located in southern California, San Diego was founded in 1769 by Spanish missionaries and has played a significant role in the development of the region. Here are some highlights of San Diego’s history:
The Kumeyaay people were the first inhabitants of the San Diego region, and their presence in the area dates back thousands of years.
In 1769, Spanish missionaries led by Father Junípero Serra established the first European settlement in the region, establishing Mission San Diego de Alcalá. The mission was the first of 21 missions that were established along the California coast by the Spanish.
San Diego became a Mexican territory in 1821 after Mexico gained independence from Spain. During this time, the city’s economy was based on agriculture and trade.
In 1846, during the Mexican-American War, American forces captured San Diego and it became a part of the United States.
San Diego grew rapidly during the late 19th and early 20th centuries, becoming a major port and military center. The city was also a hub for aviation and defense industries during this time.
Today, San Diego is known for its beautiful beaches, diverse culture, and thriving tourism industry. It is also home to a number of important scientific and research institutions, including the University of California, San Diego and the Scripps Research Institute.
Our tours are Theatrical History!