6 Best Hotels in Old Town and Uptown, San Diego

Originally opened in the 1940s, the Lafayette was once frequented by stars like Ava Gardner and Bob Hope; it eventually became something of a budget hipster stay, but since its $31 million renovation by local restaurant group CH Projects, the Lafayette has been given a maximalist makeover for the 21st century. The renovation also includes the addition of several distinct dining options, including a 24-hour diner, a bowling alley and bar, and Quixote, a Oaxacan-inspired mezcaleria designed with irreverent (but impressive) Catholic imagery. Be sure to make time for some poolside relaxation before catching a jazz show on the restored 1940s-era clamshell stage at Lou Lou's.

Newly updated after a multimillion-dollar renovation, the Town and Country Resort—a staple of Hotel Circle since 1953—has been given a second life while returning to its stylish roots. Its more than 600 rooms have been spruced up with mid-century modern furniture and a splash of color, while its grounds, rife with a new waterslide pool and various outdoor activities, look brand new. The hotel features a fitness center, lawn games, and wellness classes. It also features five restaurants and bars, including modern Mexican cuisine at Lapper Kitchen and Bar and Mediterranean fine dining at Arlo.

Perched on a hill in the heart of Old Town, this hotel is known for its expansive courtyards, outdoor fountains, and maze of stairs that connects eight buildings of guest rooms. Rooms are decorated in a Southwestern style with colorful artwork and wood shutters; suites include two rooms and a kitchenette. The property is within walking distance of many eateries, and the on-site restaurant, the Old Town Tequila Factory, offers breakfast, lunch, and dinner daily.

Clean and comfortable, the Crowne Plaza may not have the frills of downtown hotels and coastal resorts, but it's a reliable pick for budget-minded visitors. A popular conference location with more than 30,000-square-feet of meeting space, the hotel is best for business travelers and guests looking for an affordable and modest jumping-off point for exploring what San Diego has to offer.

Near the Fashion Valley shopping mall and adjacent to the Hazard Center—which has a seven-screen movie theater, four major restaurants, and more than 20 shops—the DoubleTree is also convenient to Route 163 and I–8 and there's a San Diego Trolley station within walking distance. Guest rooms feature plush-top bedding, 37-inch TVs, and large desks with ergonomic chairs. Public areas are modern yet comfortable, well suited to this hotel's large business clientele. A small café in the lobby, which brews Starbucks coffee, is a convenient spot to pick up snacks or small meals. Other hotel amenities include heated indoor and outdoor pools and a fitness center.

Already an excellent value for Old Town, this cheerful property throws in such perks as a free breakfast buffet, and when you've had enough of the heated pool off the shaded courtyard, you can tackle the historic park's attractions and the restaurants nearby. Rooms are basic but nicely furnished; each one has a microwave, mini-refrigerator, and complimentary Wi-Fi. Conveniently located just off the I–5 exit, the hotel offers free parking and free shuttle service to the airport, convention center, and the cruise terminal.