[1] The first European settlement on the West Coast of the present-day United States was the San Diego Presidio, a military outpost of Spanish California, founded by Gaspar de Portolà in 1769.

Presidio Hill remained the primary settlement for several decades because it was defensible against attack by European enemies or hostile Native Americans.

[5] During the pueblo period following Mexican independence, the Old Town area was the commercial and governmental hub of the region, even though its population was never more than a few hundred.

All imports and exports had to be brought ashore in Point Loma and carried several miles over La Playa Trail to the town.

The state park itself hosts several eating establishments, and other restaurants and gift shops are found in the surrounding neighborhood.

Other historic buildings include a schoolhouse, a blacksmith shop, San Diego's first newspaper office, a cigar and pipe store, houses and gardens, and a stable with a carriage collection.

The museums include: The commercial facilities in Old Town State Park, such as restaurants and gift shops, are managed by outside contractors.

[14] In spring 2009, Delaware North withdrew from its contract with the state and management changed hands to the Old Town Family Hospitality Corporation, headed by local restaurateur Chuck Ross.