This Underrated San Diego Neighborhood is a Gem for Families

Families heading to San Diego often look for big-ticket thrills like Sea World and San Diego Safari Park, but sometimes it’s the neighborhoods that let you get the most out of a visit. It’s how you get to discover the personality of San Diego.

The city’s historic Chinatown, also known as the Asian Pacific Thematic Historic District, covers eight blocks of the city right next to the popular Gaslamp Quarter (there is actually a slight overlap), so it’s easy for families to visit during their stay. The neighborhood was first settled in the 1860s by local abalone fishermen, and quickly became a hub of Chinese culture for the area.

It has been quite some time since the area was exclusively home to the city’s Chinese population, but today, visitors to this charming little part of San Diego can pay homage to an important part of the population that persevered and thrived despite being forced to reside within this small section. In addition to wandering the neighborhood to take in the 22 historically significant structures and experiencing great food, you can also spend some time learning about the cultural history of the city and its Chinese heritage at San Diego Chinese Historical Museum. The museum is open every Saturday and Sunday and provides great opportunities to take part in local activities that support its mission, such as the annual Dragon Boat festival that will take place on May 17.

The neighborhood received historical designation in 1987 and is a popular place for a self-led walking tour while you take in the architecture and Asian-inspired street lights. Simply start at the two giant stone Chinese dog statues outside the museum and have fun exploring the area. You’ll have no problem staying within the boundaries of the neighborhood, which lie between Market Street and J Street and between 6th Avenue and 2nd Avenue.