Posts Categorized: Things to Do

Acclaimed New Village Arts Theatre in Carlsbad

The artistic heart of Carlsbad Village, the New Village Arts Theatre (1) at 2787 State St. (760-433-3245) is the most critically acclaimed theatre in North County. They present exciting, risk-taking live theatre and are currently in their tenth season. They have produced over 40 plays since 2001, and have a new, impressive line-up planned for… Read more »

Whaley House Museum Shop Carries Unusual and Hard-to-find Museum Quality Gifts & Collectibles

The Whaley House Museum Shop is a great source for regional history and for those interested in learning more about San Diego’s exciting past. Located in the charming 1870s Verna House, the shop offers visitors a distinctive mix of books and unique period style gifts from early California through Mid-Century Modernism. Visitors will find signature… Read more »

Santa Ysabel Store & Backcountry Visitor Center offers Heirloom goods & foods with 19th Century General Store Ambiance

The historic Santa Ysabel General Store, an iconic landmark, is now open for business with an innovative dual purpose. Dating from 1884, the store is now being restored, bringing a unique emporium brimming with heirloom and artisanal foodstuffs, back-to-nature gifts, wares for home and garden, and books and guides for the naturalist or cultural tourist…. Read more »

Adobe Chapel is the Real Ramona’s Marriage Place

The Adobe Chapel was originally built in 1850 as a home, and was converted to a church by Don José Aguirre in 1858. After having been bulldozed for street realignment in the 1930s, the WPA reconstructed the adobe chapel in 1937. Much of the interior artifacts from the original chapel have been retained, including the… Read more »

Warner-Carrillo Adobe Ranch House Wasthe Butterfield Stage Stop from 1858 to the Civil War

Built in 1857 by Vincenta Carrillo, a prominent early Californio woman rancher, the adobe known as the Ranch House at Warner’s served as the Butterfield Stage Stop from 1858 until the beginning of the Civil War in 1861. As California’s first regular overland transcontinental stage connection with St. Louis, this pioneering stage route ran along… Read more »

Marston House Museum & Gardens: The Finest Example of the Arts & Crafts Movement

One of California’s finest examples of the Arts and Crafts movement, the Marston House was constructed in 1905 for George W. Marston and his wife, Anna Gunn Marston. George Marston is noted for many things but most prominently as a civic leader whose interest and work in historic preservation, conservation and history is well known…. Read more »

Old Town San Diego’s Haunted Whaley House

A classic example of mid-nineteenth century Greek Revival architecture, the Whaley House was formally dedicated as a historic house museum on May 25, 1960 and has been open to the public ever since; it is one of southern California’s most popular visitor destinations. Over 100,000 people visit the Whaley House annually, with guests traveling from… Read more »

SOHO San Diego Preserves Historic Sites

Since 1969, the Save Our Heritage Organisation has lead San Diego County as a powerful voice for historic preservation. They believe that the historic architecture and sites entrusted to this generation should be passed down to the next, so that they too will know the unique character of San Diego County. Through education, advocacy and… Read more »

Ghirardelli Ice Cream and Chocolate Shop Is a Popular Destination for Hot Fudge Sundaes

A Ghirardelli® Ice Cream and Chocolate Shop is the perfect destination to experience decadent chocolate & irresistible World Famous Hot Fudge Sundaes topped with freshly homemade hot fudge. While at a Ghirardelli Ice Cream Shop, you can also indulge in unforgettable fountain treats including shakes, floats, malts and other delectable fountain creations. Look for friendly… Read more »

Veterans Museum & Memorial Center in Balboa Park Honors the Memories & Contributions of the Men & Women who Gallantly Served this Country

The Veterans Museum & Memorial Center (31) houses military artifacts and memorabilia from the Civil War to the present. Impressive murals of Pearl Harbor and significant historical military events adorn the walls. The bold faced number in the text corresponds to it’s location on the Balboa Park Map. A tour of Balboa Park would not… Read more »

Old California Restaurant Row in San Marcos

San Marcos is home to Old California Restaurant Row, where you will discover over 15 impressive restaurants and a diverse selection of cuisine from around the world. Many of these restaurants are great for live entertainment, dancing, happy hour and group dining. Enjoy an afternoon of shopping at the charming Village Boutique stores in their… Read more »

Experience the Historic Carlsbad Village

Carlsbad Village is home to romantic restaurants and fascinating little shops. One great discovery is Carlsbad’s most photographed historic site, which is now home to the Ocean House Restaurant (7). Ocean House was originally one of two Victorian homes. This building was constructed in 1887, which was a year before the construction of the famous… Read more »

Serra Museum is an Old Town Landmark Museum

Serra Museum, in Presidio Park, is one of the most familiar landmarks in San Diego. As a major symbol of the city, it stands atop the hill recognized as the site where California began. It was here in 1769 that a Spanish Franciscan missionary, Father Junípero Serra, with a group of soldiers led by Gaspar… Read more »