Gaslamp Quarter

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San Diego’s top neighborhood destination for culture and nightlife, the Gaslamp Quarter is one of the city’s most scenic and entertaining destinations. Originally called New Town, the Gaslamp District has a long and colorful history of evening diversion. In the 1860’s, the historic district was a favorite stomping ground for Wild West luminaries like Wyatt Earp, who ran three gambling halls there.

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Nicknamed Stingaree, perhaps for the stingrays in the San Diego Bay, the Gaslamp Quarter was San Diego’s red light district until a 1912 police raid that arrested 138 prostitutes. The red lights of the seedy neighborhood were finally turned off, but the Gaslamp Quarter did not experience a complete revival until 1976. Neighborhood businesses and city officials worked together to give the district a complete makeover. By 1980, the Gaslamp District was put on the National Register of Historic Places.

Gaslamp Quarter Sights and Attractions

The Gaslamp Quarter has experienced a complete cultural renovation since the 1980’s. Today, it has over 200 restaurants. Bars and cafes, in addition to some of the best boutiques and art galleries in the city can be found here. Check out The Tipsy Crow (770 5th Avenue), San Diego’s longest—standing bar, located in a historic building that dates back to 1874. It’s really three bars in one: The Nest, The Underground and the Main Bar— and they also have a locally famous comedy act every Thursday and Friday. Noble Experiment (777 G St) is a top local’s pick for an unconventional atmosphere. A witty reference to the 1920’s prohibition, this modern—day speakeasy has great art and award—winning cocktails.

Historical buildings in the Gaslamp District include The William Heath Davis Historic House Museum, which is the neighborhood’s oldest surviving building. The Gaslamp District is filled with Victorian—style commercial buildings that were built between the Civil War era and World War I.