In San Diego, warm sunshine transforms the beaches into stretches of shimmering gold and the wind carries the crush of the sea over high, rugged cliffs. With its gorgeous, coastal landscape, world-class attractions, and vibrant neighborhoods, this Californian city is an exceptional destination that exceeds expectations. Roam the sandstone cliffs of Torrey Pines State Reserve and kayak through luminous sea caves in La Jolla. Soak up the sunshine and breathtaking scenery at the stunning Coronado Beach, or surf magnificent waves at Mission Beach. The city is a cultural oasis where you can indulge in global gastronomic fare in the Gaslamp Quarter, delve into history at the Maritime Museum of San Diego, and admire Mission Revival architecture in remarkable Balboa Park. From exploring the amazing exhibits in the San Diego Zoo to paragliding off Point Loma, this city is filled with unbeatable experiences. Revel in the city’s storied past, and check out these gorgeous historic hotels in San Diego
We handpicked these listings carefully, considering (wherever possible) properties with historic significance, recent guest reviews, location, accommodation type, prices, availability of dates, decor, and amenities. The image galleries get refreshed with the latest updates regularly. They were last updated on April 07, 2024.
1. El Cordova (from USD 289)
Reasonable pricing, free street parking overnight, and options for self-serve laundry facilities.
Generous room sizes, charming Spanish/Mexican feel, heated pool, and easy access to shops and restaurants.
Fantastic location close to the beach, restaurants, and shops, with a bus stop nearby for travel to downtown San Diego.
Convenient dining options on the property, close proximity to a variety of restaurants, and a vibrant culinary scene nearby.
A stylish hotel close to a San Diego beach, El Cordova is peaceful and picturesque. The property is built in a classic Spanish style and is located near the breathtaking Coronado Beach, as well as the Coronado Municipal Golf Course. The fantastic location is complemented by the chic rooms, sophisticated pool, four fantastic, on-site restaurants, and courtyard gardens. The hotel also has a spa which offers a wide array of treatments and services and is a wonderful way to unwind after exploring the nearby attractions and sites.
El Cordova
Address: 1351 Orange Avenue
3.03 km (1.9 mi) from Seaport Village
2. Hotel del Coronado (from USD 729)
High prices for rooms, dining, and amenities, with additional charges for parking and resort fees.
Historical property with beachfront location, pools, and shopping options, though some areas are under renovation.
Prime beachfront location on Coronado Island, close to restaurants, cafes, and stores.
A range of dining options available, with some high-quality but expensive food and limited menu choices.
Enjoy a luxurious stay at this pet-friendly hotel in San Diego, tucked among the gentle and golden sand of Coronado Beach. Surrounded by beautiful sea vistas, the Hotel del Coronado has been offering guests exceptional hospitality since it was established in 1888. The hotel provides sophisticated rooms with spa-like bathrooms, a gourmet on-site restaurant, and a spacious pool. Make the most out of your beach holiday with the hotel’s bar-to-beach service, and beach-side massages. In addition to its amazing proximity to the beach, there are plenty of attractions nearby to keep you busy.
Hotel del Coronado, Curio Collection by Hilton
Address: 1500 Orange Avenue
3.16 km (2.0 mi) from Seaport Village
3. Cosmopolitan Hotel (from USD 164)
Reasonably priced for a historic hotel in Old Town San Diego.
Authentic historic decor, no TVs, and antique furnishings create a unique experience.
Conveniently located in the heart of Old Town San Diego, close to attractions and public transportation.
Limited but convenient continental breakfast, with nearby dining options.
Cosmopolitan Hotel features the best of historic charm without giving up modern comforts. Apart from the Victorian-style furnishings, this hotel also offers elegant rooms that come with Wi-Fi and a sitting area. A balcony is also attached to each room so guests can enjoy lovely views of either the historic Old Town State Park or the hotel outdoor courtyard.
Other on-site amenities include a full-service restaurant and bar that serves delicious American and Mexican fare. Happy hour is available daily as well.
Cosmopolitan Hotel
Address: 2660 Calhoun Street
5.56 km (3.5 mi) from Seaport Village
4. The US Grant, a Luxury Collection Hotel (from USD 274)
A famous historic hotel in San Diego, this attractive property offers modern, spacious rooms, excellent service, and a terrific location in the vibrant heart of San Diego. The US Grant has been a feature of the San Diego skyline since 1910 when it was built by the son of President Ulysses S. Grant. The rooms are sophisticated and stylish, and the hotel is well-equipped with thoughtful amenities. Enjoy the hotel’s peaceful atmosphere as you work out in the modern fitness center, sample gourmet food in the on-site restaurant, and indulge in the relaxing treatments at the spa. The hotel sits a block away from the energetic Gaslamp Quarter and is close to many of San Diego’s excellent 24-hour restaurants, attractions, clubs, and bars.
THE US GRANT, a Luxury Collection Hotel, San Diego
Address: 326 Broadway
1.18 km (0.8 mi) from Seaport Village
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5. Gaslamp Plaza Suites (from USD 359)
This lavish, kid-friendly hotel in San Diego takes its name from its location in the animated Gaslamp Quarter. A sophisticated style and exceptional hospitality characterize this hotel where each room is designed with comfort in mind. Enjoy delectable fondue dinners at the on-site Melting Pot restaurant, sample the extensive selection of wines at the Syrah Wine Parlor, and sight-see at nearby attractions like Balboa Park and San Diego Zoo.
Gaslamp Plaza Suites
Address: 520 E Street
1.23 km (0.8 mi) from Seaport Village
6. The Sofia Hotel (from USD 315)
The Sofia Hotel places an emphasis on comfort and relaxation. Located near the Gaslamp Quarter, there are plenty of ways to unwind at this wonderful accommodation. Enjoy exercise classes from the 24-hour yoga center, in-room spa services, a fantastic on-site restaurant and bar, and comfortable amenities in the elegantly styled guest rooms. The hotel also offers guided walking tours of the area, as well as urban cruiser bikes for solo explorations.
The Sofia Hotel
Address: 150 West Broadway
981 meters (0.7 ft) from Seaport Village
7. Horton Grand Hotel (from USD 618)
A peaceful, serene stay can be expected from the Horton Grand Hotel. Set in the charming Gaslamp Quarter, each guest room in this Victorian-styled hotel combines timeless appeal and modern allure, and is tastefully decorated with period furnishings. The hotel also has a delectable on-site restaurant which features live and local entertainment on certain nights.
Horton Grand Hotel
Address: 311 Island Avenue
898 meters (0.6 ft) from Seaport Village
8. Courtyard by Marriott San Diego Downtown (from USD 467)
Reasonable pricing for downtown location, but valet parking is expensive
Beautiful historic building with spacious and clean rooms, friendly and helpful staff
Excellent downtown location within walking distance to restaurants, bars, and attractions
Variety of nearby eateries, but breakfast not included and onsite dining options can be pricey
With great restaurants and attractions nearby, this hotel makes it easy to explore the Gaslamp Quarter. The Courtyard by Marriott San Diego Downtown has a terrific location, as well as stylish rooms and convenient services. In addition to the cozy rooms, the hotel offers guests a modern fitness center, a Starbucks espresso bar, a 24-hour snack shop, and an on-site restaurant.
Courtyard by Marriott San Diego Downtown
Address: 530 Broadway
1.32 km (0.9 mi) from Seaport Village
9. Andaz San Diego (from USD 179)
Set in the energetic Gaslamp District, Andaz San Diego is a stylish property offering plenty of amenities and stunning views. Each of the elegant bedrooms has a comfortable bed, a flat-screen television, complimentary snacks and beverages, and a private, spa-like bathroom. The property also has a modern fitness center, a spacious pool, and a meeting and event space. The on-site restaurant, The Rooftop by STK, is sophisticated and contemporary and offers gorgeous panoramas of the notable San Diego neighborhood. Guests can also enjoy close proximity to renowned attractions like the San Diego Zoo and Balboa Park.
Andaz San Diego - a concept by Hyatt
Address: 600 F Street
1.27 km (0.8 mi) from Seaport Village
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10. The Westgate Hotel (from USD 279)
If you want to stay at a place conveniently located in the heart of San Diego, the Westgate Hotel should be at the top of your list. Its interior is fitted with hand-made European furniture. The property itself also has an outdoor pool, a spa, and a fitness center, as well as a restaurant that all guests can access. Apart from being at the center of the city, it’s also near several San Diego attractions, such as Gaslamp Quarter, SeaWorld, and San Diego Zoo.
The Westgate Hotel
Address: 1055 2nd Avenue
1.15 km (0.8 mi) from Seaport Village
11. The Keating Hotel by Pininfarina (from USD 139)
A charming hotel in the Gaslamp Quarter, the Keating Hotel is comfortable and elegant. Plenty of shops and restaurants surround the area, and the renowned Balboa Park is within walking distance. The hotel’s tour desk can provide you with more information about how to make the most of the historic area! The great location is complemented by the tasteful rooms which offer an HD entertainment system and free Wi-Fi.
The Keating Hotel by Pininfarina
Address: 432 F Street
1.11 km (0.7 mi) from Seaport Village
12. Ramada by Wyndham Gaslamp Convention Center (from USD 108)
Established in 1913, the Ramada by Wyndham Gaslamp Convention Center has a serene ambiance and deluxe amenities. This charming hotel is luxurious and modern while maintaining the timeless appeal of the neighborhood. In addition to its fantastic location in the historic neighborhood, this hotel has chic, spacious rooms with Wi-Fi and deluxe bathrooms, an on-site restaurant, and a fantastic bar. The beautiful rooftop terrace offers tranquility after busy days of exploring nearby sights like the San Diego Zoo and SeaWorld San Diego, both of which are within driving distance.
Palihotel San Diego
Address: 830 6th Avenue
1.22 km (0.8 mi) from Seaport Village
13. The Lafayette Hotel, Swim Club & Bungalows (from USD 399)
Nestled along El Cajon Boulevard, The Lafayette Hotel, Swim Club & Bungalows is a beautiful blend of modern and historic charm. This Colonial-style hotel offers individually styled rooms that come with Wi-Fi and a cable TV. It also features a restaurant that serves delicious fare and provides lovely pool views to complement the dining scene. Other hotel features include a fitness center, a business center, and a pool club.
Because of the hotel’s convenient location, guests can enjoy easy access to several points of interest, including Balboa Park, the San Diego Natural History Museum, Mission Beach, and the historic Gaslamp Quarter.
The Lafayette Hotel, Swim Club & Bungalows
Address: 2223 El Cajon Boulevard
5.84 km (3.7 mi) from Seaport Village
Endless fun and sun in scenic San Diego
With its beautiful natural scenery, fascinating museums, brilliant beaches, and unique array of attractions, there are endless opportunities for entertainment in San Diego. This charming coastal city never fails to delight. Whatever your passion, San Diego is the perfect destination for fun. Start planning your trip today, and check out these wonderful historic hotels!
Frequently asked questions about historic hotels in San Diego
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