Old Town Temecula can be a destination for a day, or a side trip for those visiting the local wineries. Nine blocks of fun, food, fashion, and unique finds, Old Town Temecula is a one of a kind. This old town still hasn’t lost its sense of history and rustic feel since sprouting up in the late 1800’s. The gun slingers and horses may be gone, but this place is a tribute to the past, yet adorned with all of today’s best foods and shopping. My visit took me to Old Town in the morning, pre-opening of most shops, and then back again that same evening. Most shops open at 10:00AM, so my morning visit was an easy and lazy walk about town. The trip back that evening was crowded in both people and cars, very typical of most nights and weekends. Daytime here is all about shopping, eating, and lounging. Nighttime is more of the same, add in the drinking and dancing!
Old Town has it all: feed stores, antique shops, boutiques, candy stores, breakfast joints, coffee shops, wine tasting, dinner houses, saloons, live theaters, hotels, museums, and dance halls. There is not anything lacking in this old town! A day spend in Old Town Temecula brings about an all new meaning to the word “exploring”. There is plenty to see and do for the young and the old! Spouse wearing you out with all the shopping? Plenty of parks, sidewalk benches, coffee shops, or saloons to take a break from the hustle and bustle of it all.
Temecula Valley has been around since the Temecula Indians called the hillsides home as early as 900 A.D. The native people became commonly known as the Luiseños, who maintain a prominent presence in modern day Temecula Valley. Fast forward to 1882, when a rail line was completed between National City and Temecula, which opened up trade and travel to the area. Old Town Temecula was born to accommodate the lodging, banking, eating, and shopping needs of the locals and travelers alike. Unlike many historic old towns in California, Old Town Temecula didn’t bust – it lives on and shines brighter!
Don’t miss Old Town Community Theater, offering memorable and unique performances year round, and the Temecula Valley Museum which offers a look into the areas past through exhibits, education, and special events. Oh and lest I forget, if visiting in the spring you won’t want to miss the annual Temecula Rod Run the first weekend in May. Hands down, three days of the best cruising, car show, and entertainment in So Cal.
My favorite restaurant is, well a few of them. For breakfast I am a chicken and waffles guy at Penfold’s Café and Bakery. Only open for breakfast and lunch, but worth every meal there! My other favorite, for lunch and early dinner, is Texas Lils Mesquite Grill. Yup, you guessed it – BBQ! Too many to list, you will find many a good steak house, fine dining choice, pub grub, and casual dining experiences as well.
My favorite place for coffee is Le Coffee Shop, because I can get my caffeine and sugar fix at the same time. Known for their coffee and authentic French style bakery, this place is a must. They close early, so don’t miss out on some deliciousness!
Old Town Access is easily made from the Interstate 15. Old Town Temecula is largely situated along Old Town Front Street between Moreno Road and 1st Street. From the Interstate 15, you can exit Rancho California Road from the north or Temecula Parkway from the south. Follow the signs!
Plenty of parking along Old Town, curbside and many small lots down the side streets. Larger lots can be found at 6th Street and Mercedes Street and at 2nd Street and Mercedes Street. All parking is free.
