San Diego stands out as a city with a fascinating mix of history, culture, and lively neighborhoods. What makes it especially appealing for historical tours is its diverse past—from dinosaurs in natural history museums to the boisterous, crime-filled streets of the Stingaree era. We’re particularly fond of the San Diego Natural History Museum for its engaging exhibits and family-friendly atmosphere, and the Gaslamp Quarter’s historic walking tours for their colorful storytelling. Whether you’re interested in science, crime stories, or local legends, San Diego has a tour that fits.
If you’re planning your visit, knowing your options helps tailor your experience. From an educational museum visit to an evening of lively pub crawling or a chilling walk through true crime stories, the next sections cover the best historical tours in San Diego, each with unique appeal.
Quick Overview
Our list includes a range of historic experiences to fit different tastes. For those who love hands-on learning, the San Diego Natural History Museum offers an immersive dive into fossil history and natural wonders. If you prefer a lively evening, the History Tour Pub Crawl of the Gaslamp Quarter combines craft beer with stories of San Diego’s colorful past. Lastly, for a darker twist, the Gaslamp Quarter Historic True Crime Walking Tour explores San Diego’s crime-filled history in a fun, engaging way.
Now, let’s explore each tour in detail and find the best fit for your trip.
1. San Diego: San Diego Natural History Museum Ticket
At number one, the San Diego Natural History Museum offers a fun, educational experience perfect for families, science buffs, or anyone curious about the natural world. For just $12, you gain access to an exhibit that spans 75 million years of natural history. The museum is located in the iconic Balboa Park, making it easy to combine with other attractions in the area.
This museum stands out because of its engaging exhibits on Southern California’s fossil history, featuring dinosaurs, mastodons, and other prehistoric creatures. It also celebrates 150 years of its own history with a dedicated photo exhibition, giving visitors a glimpse into its evolution over the years. Film fans will appreciate the giant-screen theater that screens films like T. REX and Wild San Diego daily, adding an immersive dimension to your visit. Plus, the museum has a café—The Craft Taco—for a quick bite and a shop with unique souvenirs.
What makes this visit recommendable is its versatility. The exhibits appeal to all ages, and reviews highlight how the museum manages to be both fun and educational—”very good” with “great time” for families and anniversaries alike. The only downside noted was some elevator issues, so mobility might be a consideration for some visitors.
Bottom Line: The San Diego Natural History Museum offers a comprehensive, family-friendly experience for a reasonable price, blending science, history, and entertainment seamlessly.
2. History Tour Pub Crawl of Famous Gaslamp Quarter
Next on our list, the History Tour Pub Crawl of the Gaslamp Quarter is perfect if you enjoy stories as much as you enjoy a good local brew. For $30 per person, this 2-hour guided tour combines hidden history of San Diego with sampling some of the best craft beers in the area.
Led by an expert guide, you’ll explore the famous bars and breweries in the lively Gaslamp Quarter. Along the way, you’ll hear tales of conquistadors, bootleggers, and aviation pioneers, making the neighborhood come alive with stories from its 19th-century past. This tour balances entertainment with education, giving you a behind-the-scenes look at one of San Diego’s most iconic districts.
The tour’s focus on craft beer makes it particularly appealing for adult travelers who want to combine history with social fun. Visitors rave about the local brews and engaging guides—”a fun, memorable experience” is a common sentiment. It’s worth noting that the tour is short but packed with stories and tasting opportunities, so pace yourself.
Bottom Line: If you’re after a lively, social way to learn about San Diego’s colorful past, the Gaslamp Quarter pub crawl hits the mark, combining history and craft beer for an enjoyable evening.
3. San Diego: Gaslamp Quarter Historic True Crime Walking Tour
For those interested in the darker side of history, the Gaslamp Quarter Historic True Crime Walking Tour offers a captivating look at San Diego’s crime-filled past. Priced at $30 per person and lasting about 1.5 hours, this tour takes you through the Stingaree era and reveals stories of notorious crimes and scandals.
Led by a local crime history enthusiast, the tour provides graphic, compelling accounts of infamous crimes committed in San Diego’s late 19th-century streets. It explores the history of the Stingaree, a neighborhood known for its vice and lawlessness. The guide’s storytelling skills make this a lively experience, and reviews mention how engaging and fun it is—”learning about crimes and the history of the gaslamp district was a worthy endeavor” and “our guide was fun and engaging.”
This tour is best suited for travelers comfortable with darker stories and interested in the city’s less glamorous history. It offers a different perspective compared to the more family-oriented options and appeals to those who enjoy true crime stories.
Bottom Line: The True Crime Walking Tour exposes a gritty, fascinating side of San Diego’s past, perfect for curious travelers who want a story-driven experience.
How to Choose
When picking your perfect historical tour, consider your interests and travel style. Families and those curious about natural history should favor the San Diego Natural History Museum, especially if you have kids or enjoy hands-on exhibits. If you’re seeking social fun combined with learning, the pub crawl offers a lively evening exploring local bars and San Diego’s colorful past. For adventurous souls interested in darker tales or true crime, the True Crime Walking Tour provides a captivating, story-rich experience.
Also think about your budget and time constraints. The pub crawl and crime tour are both under $35 and last 1.5-2 hours, making them ideal for a quick evening activity. The Natural History Museum is a bit more of a day trip but offers a deep dive into the natural and prehistoric world.
Booking early is advisable, especially during peak seasons, and check the availability for specific times to match your schedule.
Final Thoughts
San Diego offers diverse ways to explore its historical layers. Whether you prefer enjoying fossil exhibits, enjoying a craft beer while hearing about city legends, or strolling through haunted streets full of true crime stories, there’s an experience for you. The Natural History Museum is fantastic for families and science lovers, while the pub crawl and crime walk cater to those seeking fun, social, and slightly darker stories.
No matter your choice, these tours provide a meaningful way to connect with San Diego’s past. Consider your interests, budget, and available time to pick the best fit, and don’t forget to book ahead—these popular experiences fill up fast!
Happy exploring!