Discover Beautiful San Diego

Step into the vibrant history of San Diego, a city renowned for its rich heritage and significant contributions to our great nation. Historic Tours of America invites you on a journey that unravels the captivating tales and cherished landmarks of this extraordinary city. For over 36 years, we have been the trusted companion, guiding visitors through the tapestry of San Diego’s illustrious past.

Old Town Trolley logo
San Diego seal tours logo
Old Town Market San Diego logo
Ghosts & Gravestones logo
San Diego Visitor Information Center logo
San Diego City Lights Night Tour logo
Whaley House logo
Holiday Sights and Festive Nights tour logo
San Diego at sunset

Witness Stories of Brave Explorers

As you step aboard our orange and green trolleys, reminiscent of a bygone era, you’ll begin an immersive experience unlike any other. Old Town Trolley Tours, the city’s original sightseeing tour, allows you to explore the city’s iconic and historic landmarks. Led by our knowledgeable and friendly conductors, this tour offers panoramic views of America’s Finest City. From the historic Gaslamp Quarter to the birthplace of California in Old Town, you’ll witness the stories of our founding fathers and brave explorers come to life.

Hop aboard one of our trolleys and you’ll experience Transportainment®, a delightful combination of transportation and entertainment.

San Diego trolley at Balboa Park

San Diego by Sea and Land

But our tours extend beyond just the city streets. Hop aboard the San Diego SEAL Tour and witness the city from a unique perspective by sea and land. Hydra-Terra amphibious vehicles take you on a thrilling adventure, splashing down into the bay after a scenic road trip around the Big Bay. As you glide along the calm waters of San Diego Bay, you’ll be treated to stunning views of the city skyline, the North Island Naval Air Station, and even the playful San Diego sea lions. This is the only amphibious tour in San Diego, offering a comfortable and safe way to experience the city’s wonders.

San Diego SEAL Tours at sea

San Diego's rich historical history and importance to America cannot be understated

San Diego Balboa Park arches

It is a city that holds the stories of pioneers, explorers, and visionaries who have shaped our nation. Preserving its historical sites is not only a testament to the past but also an opportunity to learn from and appreciate the struggles and triumphs of those who came before us. These landmarks serve as living memorials, connecting us to our roots and instilling a sense of pride and identity.

San Diego Ghosts & Gravestones trolley in front of Old Town Market

For those seeking a taste of the supernatural, our Ghosts & Gravestones Tour takes you on a spine-chilling journey through the city’s haunted past. Travel back in time and encounter the spirits of wild characters like Gunslingers, Gamblers, and Ladies of the Night who once roamed the city’s streets. Explore Pioneer Park, where the sun goes down and an eerie atmosphere descends upon the El Campo Santo Cemetery and the infamous Whaley House, widely regarded as America’s most haunted home. Brace yourself for an evening of ghostly encounters and mysterious tales.

A Lasting Legacy

At Historic Tours of America, we are proud to showcase America’s rich history and the cities that have shaped our nation. San Diego, with its stunning natural beauty, vibrant culture, and captivating landmarks, stands as a shining example. We feel privileged to bring these stories to life through immersive experiences that combine entertainment, education, and exploration. We are also deeply committed to giving back to the community and supporting the towns we serve. Through partnerships with local organizations and active participation in educational programs and community events, we strive to make a positive impact. Together, we create a lasting legacy that preserves the heritage of San Diego for future generations.

family at Old Town San Diego State Park

San Diego Mayor Todd Gloria welcomes visitors to America’s Finest City!

From stunning coastal views to historic landmarks and world-class attractions, San Diego is a destination like no other. Join Old Town Trolley Tours® as we share the city’s rich history, culture, and unique neighborhoods — all while connecting you to the best sights and experiences San Diego has to offer.

Embark on a journey through time, weaving together the threads of history that have shaped San Diego into the extraordinary city it is today.

Hotel Del Coronado beach

Join us as we celebrate the allure of San Diego and its extraordinary attractions. From the Old Town Market, where you can indulge in homemade tortillas and experience the city’s earliest years, to the Whaley House Museum, a Greek Revival masterpiece steeped in mystery and paranormal tales, our tours offer a comprehensive glimpse into Old Town San Diego’s charming past.

TICKETS

Choose Your Tickets

Whether you’re just breezing through or enjoying an extended stay, we’ve got several options to choose from to help you maximize your time in San Diego and still see the best first!

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SEE THE BEST OF SAN DIEGO & CORONADO IN ONE DAY
1-Day Old Town Trolley Tour
☆☆☆☆☆
★★★★★

1300 reviews

Old Town Trolley Tours of Boston
4.3

  • 1 day of free unlimited re-boarding
  • Hop on & off at 11 Old Town Trolley stops
  • FREE discount coupons ($30 value)
  • FREE Self-Guided Walking Tours
  • FREE map brochure with day planner
  • Open-air sightseeing perfect for taking pictures
  • More than 100 points of interest
  • Only hop-on and off tour over the bridge to Coronado
  • San Diego’s largest fleet with the most frequent service
  • 100% satisfaction guarantee
  • Kids Free in October. One Free Child per Adult.
San Diego trolley at Visitor Center
San Diego trolley at Balboa Park
couple in San Diego
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SEE THE BEST OF SAN DIEGO & CORONADO IN TWO DAYS
2-Day Old Town Trolley Tour
  • 2 consecutive** days of free unlimited re-boarding
  • Hop on & off at 11 Old Town Trolley stops
  • FREE discount coupons ($30 value)
  • FREE Self-Guided Walking Tours
  • FREE map brochure with day planner
  • Open-air sightseeing perfect for taking pictures
  • More than 100 points of interest
  • Only hop-on and off tour over the bridge to Coronado
  • San Diego’s largest fleet with the most frequent service
  • 100% satisfaction guarantee
  • Kids Free in October. One Free Child per Adult.
San Diego skyline at night
San Diego Balboa Park at night
San Diego Fly Navy at night
San Diego at night
San Diego Navy at night
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SEE THE BEST OF SAN DIEGO AT NIGHT
San Diego City Lights Night Tour
  • Choose your own start and end point: Seaport Village or Old Town Market
  • Hop aboard the Trolley for a picturesque evening you won't forget
  • Open-air sightseeing perfect for taking pictures
  • Approximately 1 hour and 40 minute tour
  • See San Diego’s famous sights illuminated at night
  • Take in romantic views of the city and cruise past notable landmarks
  • Highlights include The Historic Gaslamp Quarter, Balboa Park, Coronado’s Ferry Landing, USS Midway and more
San Diego ghost host and trolley
San Diego Ghosts & Gravestones Tour at Old Town Market
San Diego Ghosts & Gravestones Tour ghost hosts
San Diego Ghosts & Gravestones Tour at Whaley House
San Diego ghost hosts
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DYING TO TAKE A RIDE ON THE DARK SIDE?
Ghosts & Gravestones
  • Hop aboard the Trolley of the Doomed
  • Join our spirited & entertaining tour built on stories, history, mystery and legends
  • Travel back and hear about the spirits of characters who lived & died in San Diego
  • Hear stories of how Pioneer Park changes to the darker side when the sun goes down
  • Journey through Old Town, walking through El Campo Santo Cemetery
  • Includes outside of the Whaley House and grounds. Tour does not enter the house.
Whaley House at night
Whaley House at night
Whaley House courthouse
Whaley House stairs and hallway
Whaley House family
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AMERICA'S MOST HAUNTED HOUSE®
Whaley House Haunted Evening Guided Tour
  • As seen on the Travel Channel, SyFy Channel and Discovery Channel.
  • Be part of the historic legacy, mystery and legends of the Whaley Family, and hear of their myths and misconceptions.
  • Approximately 30 to 40-minute guided tour through the historic Whaley House and the surrounding grounds.
  • Regale in the tales of the spirits from the past and perhaps even experience the paranormal.
Whaley House
Whaley House hosts
Whaley House courthouse
Whaley House hosts
Whaley House sign
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TAKE A GLIMPSE INTO THE PAST
Whaley House Daytime Self-Guided Tour
  • Self-paced tour through the interior and surrounding grounds of the House.
  • Immerse yourself into the history that makes the property a unique legacy site.
  • Discover the heritage that leads many to believe that the Whaley House is America’s Most Haunted!
  • Get an unparalleled peek into early California history.
guests at San Diego paranormal investigation
Whaley House haunted bedroom apparition
Whaley House and gaslamp
Whaley House stairs and hallway
Whaley House haunted bedroom apparition
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PARTICIPATE IN A PARANORMAL INVESTIGATION
Whaley House After Hours Paranormal Investigation
  • Participate in an actual Paranormal Investigation with our experienced guide
  • Get hands-on with the latest ghost hunting equipment
  • Learn the darker side of the Whaley House and the spirits that refused to move on
  • Intimate, small group experience
  • As seen on Ghost Adventures, Ghost Files, and Buzzfeed
SEAL Tour and SEA IT ALL
San Diego SEAL Tours at sea and guests viewing seals
San Diego SEAL Tours vehicle splashing into the water
San Diego SEAL Tours on land at Visitor Center
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SEE THE BEST OF SAN DIEGO BY SEA AND LAND
San Diego SEAL Tour Tickets

Splash into San Diego and Sea It All with our Ultimate SEAL Tour! Journey through both the city streets and the sparkling bay in our unique “Hydra-Terra” amphibious vehicles, which are Coast Guard-approved for safety and fun. This unique, one-of-a-kind tour allows you to truly see it all—from San Diego’s hidden gems on land to a spectacular splash into the water for a different perspective.

Book your ticket now and embark on an unforgettable adventure where the city’s vibrant life meets the tranquility of the sea.

  • Choose your own start and end point: Seaport Village or Embarcadero
  • 100-minute, fully narrated SEAL Tour
  • Open-air sightseeing perfect for taking pictures
  • Wind your way through picturesque San Diego streets
  • Splash down for a cruise through the waters of San Diego Bay
  • FREE Self-Guided Walking Tours (adult ticket)
  • 4.5-star review rating
  • 100% satisfaction guarantee
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MUSEUMS & ATTRACTIONS

Step Back in Time and Explore San Diego Culture

SHOPPING & DINING

Sample Tastes, Sights, and Sounds

Groups, Charters & Weddings

Plan an unforgettable experience for your group event with Historic Tours of America.

Groups & Charters

  • Enjoy discounted rates
  • Custom design your rental
  • Private tour guide provided for charters
  • Combine a rental with attractions

Weddings

  • Bring your guests to your event on time
  • Ride in classic San Diego style
  • Personalize your trolley ride
  • Be treated to a red-carpet experience!

Hometown Pass

Locals receive Free Admission!

Included* with Your San Diego Hometown Pass:

  • Old Town Trolley Tours
  • SEAL Tours
  • Whaley House Day Tour
  • Ghosts & Gravestones
San Diego trolley at Visitor Center

Our Free Hometown Pass is the best way to entertain visiting friends and family!

All residents of San Diego County can take advantage of some of our tours and attractions for FREE when accompanied by an adult full-fare paid guest.* It’s Simple, Fast & Best of all… Free!

guests boarding San Diego SEAL Tour
San Diego trolley at Visitor Center