Witness the living legacy of California's birthplace walking around Old San Diego streets. Get a glimpse into the past, when converging cultures transformed San Diego from a Mexican town to an American settlement after the Mexican American War in 1848.Today, life moves more slowly in this neighborhood, where the hustle and bustle are balanced with the vibrant atmosphere of its picturesque squares, mariachi performers, museums, original adobe buildings, unique retail shops and many authentic Mexican restaurants!