Gaslamp Quarter – The District

The 16 1/2 block historical neighborhood, listed on the National Register of Historic Places, located in downtown San Diego was developed in 1867. Alonzo Horton bought the land in hopes of creating a city center closer to the bay. The neighborhood underwent urban renewal in the 1980’s and 1990’s and has become  an energetic business and entertainment district.

The Gaslamp Quarter was formerly known as New Town, in contrast to Old Town. The Gaslamp District got its name from the gas lamps that were common in San Diego in the 19th and 20th centuries. Today, gaslamps still line the intersection of Market Street and 5th Avenue.

Gaslamp  extends from Broadway to Harbor Drive, and from 4th to 6th Avenue.  It is home to 94 historic buildings, which are still in use as restaurants, shops, and nightclubs.

This area is home to many events and festivals: Mardi Gras, Taste of Gaslamp, ShamROCK St. Patrick’s Day, Easter Bonnet Parade and Hat Contest, Cinco de Mayo, and PETCO park is located only a block from the East Village.

Croce’s Restaurant & Jazz Bar, named after Jim Croce the famous singer, is also located in the Quarter.

The Gaslamp Quarter has about 100 retail establishments, over 100 dining facilities, more than 35 entertainment clubs, and approximately 3,000 residents. This San Diego attraction is a fantastic place for all visitors seeking shopping, food, and nightlife.

Places to See

U.S. Grant Hotel

Horton Plaza

5th Avenue

Things to Do

Shopping

Nightlife

Spas and Salons

Finding Gaslamp Quarter

From I-5 South
Drive past the airport toward Downtown. Take the Front Street/Civic Center exit. Continue down Front Street twelve blocks to Market St and turn left (east). The intersection of 5th and Market is the center of the Gaslamp Quarter.

From I-5 North
In Downtown San Diego, take the 6th Ave. exit. Go left (south) on 6th Ave. In nine blocks you will cross Broadway to enter the Gaslamp Quarter at it’s top!

From Highway 94 West
The highway ends and becomes F Street in Downtown San Diego. Continue west down F Street twelve blocks to enter the Gaslamp Quarter at Sixth Ave from it’s east

From Highway 163 South
Drive south through Balboa Park and the highway becomes 10th Ave. Continue south on 10th Ave six blocks to F Street. Turn right (west) on F Street and go four blocks to enter the Gaslamp at 6th Ave near the north end.

A closer look into Old Town is part of our new series called Sights of San Diego, check back each week for a new local discovery!

Photos: Jacky Lopez