Hotels in Old Town San Diego: Where to Stay for Sunshine, Salsa, and So Much More?

If you’re the type who loves mid-century vibes and swimming pools with retro flair, Kings Inn delivers. One of the top-rated hotels in Old Town San Diego CA, it offers a stylish, throwback setting with all the modern comforts like flat-screen TVs and premium toiletries. Guests rave about the outdoor pool, which is heated and open year-round—perfect for families who need to tire out the kids or grownups looking to unwind.

You also get free Wi Fi, which is a non-negotiable in 2025 (or ever, really). Dining on-site is solid too, with The Waffle Spot serving up breakfast dreams and The Amigo Spot spicing things up with live mariachi on select nights. This place is all about affordability, family-friendliness, and serious charm without sacrificing location.

With sleek rooms and a central location, Hilton San Diego Mission Valley is one of those hotels near Old Town San Diego that balances comfort with convenience. It’s a high-rise stay that feels polished but not stuffy, and the outdoor heated pool is a win for kids and parents. There’s also a fitness center, business amenities, and the on-site restaurant Polanco Kitchen & Bar, which serves Latin-inspired dishes in a laid-back setting.

Rooms are equipped with flat-screen TVs, workspaces, and pillowtop beds for end-of-day relaxation. While it’s not pet-friendly, this hotel makes up for it with proximity to attractions like Balboa Park and the Zoo. It’s great for couples, business travelers, or families who want hotel luxury without the downtown chaos.

This one’s a favorite for families who want it all: breakfast, pool time, and quick access to SeaWorld. Conveniently located near the freeway, Holiday Inn Express makes accessing San Diego Old Town and surrounding attractions ridiculously easy. The free hot breakfast features pancake machines and those signature cinnamon rolls that somehow taste better on vacation.

Kid-friendly amenities like the outdoor heated pool, connecting rooms, and complimentary Wi-Fi make it feel easy-breezy for parents. Plus, it’s just a short drive from the zoo, beaches, and Belmont Park, making it one of the most practical picks on this list. It’s not pet-friendly, but it is super people-friendly.

Mission View Inn & Suites is one of those Old Town San Diego hotels that flies under the radar but checks a lot of boxes. It’s budget-friendly, centrally located, and offers perks like a heated pool, hot tub, and fitness center. Families will appreciate the clean rooms, spacious layouts, and proximity to the Gaslamp Quarter, San Diego Zoo, and SeaWorld.

Pet owners, rejoice—this hotel is pet-friendly (with a small fee), and they even allow birds, which feels wildly niche but good to know. Free Wi-Fi and easy parking make this a smart pick for travelers who want value and accessibility. It’s a solid choice when you need something affordable, comfortable, and close to the action.

Old Town Inn: San Diego Hotel is a total gem and deserves its spotlight in America’s Finest City.. It’s family-owned, charmingly Spanish-style, and located just steps from Old Town Historic Park. This is the hotel for travelers who appreciate thoughtful extras—like a complimentary breakfast that includes make-your-own waffles and steel-cut oats.

There’s a DVD and board games library (yes, really), a pool, and kitchenette options for longer stays. Families will love the vibe here, but it also works for solo travelers and couples wanting something cozy and quiet. Oh, and pets are welcome too—dogs, cats, even birds.

Hotel Iris is ideal for travelers who want location, comfort, and a pet-friendly policy without breaking the bank. This boutique spot earns its place among hotels in Old Town San Diego by being close to Balboa Park, the Gaslamp District, and all the must-see attractions. With pillow-top mattresses, 50-inch TVs, and rooms equipped with microwaves and mini-fridges, it’s surprisingly comfy for a smaller property.

The outdoor pool and spa tub are perfect after a long day of zoo-hopping or museum-strolling. While it doesn’t have a restaurant on-site, it’s surrounded by eateries and coffee shops galore. It’s a no-fuss, easy stay with major value.

If you’re craving resort energy with city access, this one’s got your name on it. As one of the standout Old Town San Diego hotels, the San Diego Marriott Mission Valley brings luxury into family-friendly territory. There’s an outdoor pool with a waterfall, plush bedding, and even fire pits for evening hangs.

You’ll also find cabanas, a fitness center, and The DEN restaurant serving up American faves. Rooms are modern and sleek, some with balconies offering stellar Mission Valley views. It’s not cheap, but it’s the kind of place that makes you feel like you’re really on vacation.

For water lovers, Hyatt Regency Mission Bay is basically a playground disguised as a hotel. It ranks high on the hotels in Old Town San Diego list thanks to its lagoon-style pools, three waterslides, and access to jet skis, kayaks, and paddle boards. It’s less “hotel” and more “mini resort,” complete with a spa, marina, and multiple dining options.

Family-friendly touches include nightly in-room movies, scavenger hunts, and fire pit s’mores kits. Rooms are stylish and pet-friendly, which makes it great for both kiddos and fur babies. If you’re going big on your San Diego trip, this is the place to do it.

Right next to I-5 and a short stroll from Old Town, this hotel blends location with convenience. One of the top-rated Old Town San Diego hotels, Hilton Garden Inn is great for families thanks to its outdoor pool, fire pit area, and spacious rooms with microwaves and mini-fridges. Verde Kitchen & Bar handles food duties, and the 24-hour pantry is clutch for midnight snacks or cranky toddlers.

It’s also pet-friendly (with a deposit), so you can bring your four-legged family member along. The vibe here is relaxed but efficient, with free Wi-Fi and easy access to SeaWorld, Balboa Park, and more. Think: comfort meets logistics, with a pool and some extra perks.