Gaslamp Quarter, San Diego (must see)

Gaslamp Quarter is a sixteen and a half block area that surrounds Fourth and Fifth Avenue in the downtown section of San Diego, California. It is one of the most popular historic attractions in town. In 1870, a man named Alonzo Horton built a wharf at the foot of Fifth Avenue. Afterward, the area became so popular that an entire neighborhood and business sector developed here.

The business nature of the community was the interesting thing about Fifth Avenue. In the 1880s, the area was rather seedy in nature – full of gamblers, thugs, and prostitutes. The likes of Wyatt Earp and Ida Bailey have been to this famous red light district of the late 19th Century. Even after the glare of the evening lights settled, the wharf remained a popular port for Navy shore leave until the First World War.

In modern times, there are theatre venues here, famous restaurants, and wonderful hotels. The local San Diego Community has done a lot of renovation on the buildings in the Quarter. You can also take a walk along the historic district and see all the Victorian style homes here. All were built between 1880 and 1910.

Why You Should Visit:
For nightlife, it's definitely the place to be in San Diego – to eat and party, and to see the last two original gas lamps that are still operational!
There are also lots of hotels, a couple of historical museums and theaters, art galleries, boutiques, rental bicycles and scooters, and a shopping mall. The waterfront is close-by.

Tip:
Try to stay in one of the hotels in the Gaslamp area and be part of it.
Strolling the length of 3rd, 4th, 5th, and 6th Avenues is a good idea as they are all well worth the visit.
Make sure to allow a lot of time and wear good walking shoes!