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san diego old town trolley

OLD TOWN TROLLEY SAN DIEGO REVIEWS

What Our Guests are Saying

D.M., Escondido, CA

“…I am was in Old Town for the Dias de Los Muertos… and saw the Whaley house was back open. My friend and I squealed like little girls (we get excited over the little things). We bought our tickets and adventured over to check out the house about 1:00 pm. The place looks great and I love that many of the rooms are now opened up. I saw so many new things I had never seen before. Can’t wait for the new rooms to open. The biggest compliment I would like to give is the staff. All the ladies were outstanding. From the lady at the door (her name started with a J) to the ladies at the parlor and in the theater (who along with us and other guests got into a great conversation about archaeology) were so welcoming, knowledgeable, and really interested in sharing the stories and history of the Whaley House. Compliments to them. Great job ladies. Keep up the great work. Thanks again for sharing the wonderful history of this family and an important part of San Diego history. Can’t wait to go back.”

R.B.

“Decided to take this tour at the last minute yesterday. We were not disappointed! Our guide Jardel was the best! His tour was informative and interesting. We especially enjoyed the music he added! So glad we took the tour. It was a pleasant and fun way to spend the day.”

R.B., Milton, MA

“My family and I enjoyed a tour of Nashville last week. Dave was our driver/guide. Dave was spectacular or should I say “SPECTACULAR” in describing the sights and history of your vibrant city. His enthusiasm was palpable.,Dave should be getting the compensation of your CEO but just don’t take him off of his trolley!”

T.G., Louisville, KY

“I just wanted to say how much we enjoyed the tour. It was pretty amazing to see all that was shown, that I would have had no idea were there. It was the best day, out seeing the city and learning so many things that went on through the years in such a close area. We had three drivers and I wish I had remembered the first driver’s name. I really enjoy Sam. His tour was probably my favorite. He was great on the tour and loved that we could ask questions and find out more if he knew. He really made the trip more enjoyable and fun to see the city through his eyes. Thank all of you for today, it’ll definitely be memorable.”

L.R., Santee, CA

“Jeff our tour guide today was great. Tour was fun and informative. As a native San Diegan I appreciate all of the great facts that I did not know. Great Job and worth every penny for the tour.”

R.O., Windsor, Berkshire

“A few days ago my friend and I very much enjoyed the “hop on hop off” tour of San Diego and Old Town.  All drivers were excellent but I would like to mention that Alex was particularly entertaining and informative. He was also helpful at the end of the tour by dropping us off near to our hotel. I will definitely recommend this tour to anyone visiting San Diego. Extremely good value.”

T.L., Launceston, Tasmania:

“My best friend and myself were in San Diego and we used your trolley tours. They were brilliant and such a great way of getting to know the ins and outs of your city and also getting around the city itself. I would just like to give a huge mention to two of your tour guides. Firstly to Tim who was very knowledgeable and very funny (well the jokes… not so sure lol!!!) but the jokes were a great way to get everyone involved and just added that extra entertainment to the ride.  Our other driver was Kaye, who was also very entertaining, funny and knowledgeable. But I must give Kaye extra credit for knowing about the plight of the Tasmanian Devil (where we are from). Not only did he know of Tasmania but also of our native animal and I was very impressed. The rest of Australia (or the mainland as us Tasmanians call it) hardly ever acknowledge our existence so for someone in San Diego to know all about it was very impressive. Well done Kaye!!!!!! And the story of his son at school was classic!!!!  I fell in love with San Diego and would love to spend heaps more time there. You are all very lucky to live in such a beautiful place. I truly enjoyed every minute of the day. So much more I wanted to do but sadly just not enough time in one day. I said to my friend that is what our home town (Launceston) needs for the tourists, a trolley tour scenario just like yours. Such a fantastic idea. Keep up the great work. And maybe one day I can return and ride on your trolleys and listen to the great stories and laugh at the jokes (well groan more like it lol) once again.”

W.S.:

“On October 14th, my parents advised me we were going on a ‘trolley tour’ and I was not very happy to say the least. We are from Delaware and I am not much into sightseeing. I did as was told, and we got picked up at our Hotel by a nice gentleman who took us to the meeting spot where the tour begins… a trolley pulls up and a young gentleman named KREZ opened his doors and asked us to step on in. Little did I know this fella had the charm and charisma of a professional Broadway superstar! Within minutes he had captured my attention, began teaching us all a plethora of fun/interesting historical facts about the area, and managed to put a smile on the face of a boy whom was not keen on the tour to begin with. As we toured San Diego, KREZ shared historical accuracy, fun facts, all topped with music at just the right spots. His passion for the job was evident; one could tell not only did this man like his job, love his city, but genuinely took care and concern to ensure each of his passengers was safe and engaged every single moment while under his ‘roof’. There are so few people these days with the ability to make a sour-puss such as myself, change their demeanor so effortlessly as KREZ did with me. I applaud his work ethic, punctuality, professionalism, and his kind nature. I recommend this tour to all whom visit San Diego, and if his co-workers are anything like him then you’re in for a real treat. KREZ is a testament to the art of ‘showmanship’ and left me feeling positive, energized, and genuinely excited for the rest of my time in San Diego. I think KREZ could teach us all a little something about taking pride in what you do; he was engaging, kind, funny, caring, authentic, and keen to the History of San Diego which has left me with the desire to return one day and do it all over again. In the words of Fred Rodgers, KREZ – thank you for your being you!”

M.S., Phoenix, AZ:

“We were in San Diego in July. Our tour guide Bob was fantastic! We did a little jump on jump off so we got to experience 2 other tour guides who were ok but did not have the personality, originality and corny jokes that Bob had. We realized very quickly that while the tour itself is great, the driver and tour guide really makes all the difference. Bob ended up picking us up at his last stop and remembered us from earlier in the day and welcomed us back on.”

Irving, TX:

“I was on a Princess cruise down the Pacific Coast… One of our stops was San Diego and I bought my tour from Princess, the Old San Diego Trolley. I have taken over 35 cruises and I wanted to let you know that this operator was the best I have ever met and got to know. His name was Jon and we left the port around 8:30 to 9 a.m. and he made it so interesting. Being born and raised in the San Diego area made him so knowledgeable about the area. He had a quip, quote, pictures, maps or some form of information about everywhere we drove, stopped at and things that most tour drivers wouldn’t bother to tell the passengers. It was the most interesting two hours I have spent and wished I had bought a second ticket to go on the same tour again, just to make sure that I saw everything I wanted to see. I am on another Pacific Coastal with Princess in 2016 and I want to make sure that I take this tour again and hope that Jon might be my tour operator. Everyone on the tour said it was the most interesting tour they had been on. I have been on some tours that I have asked for a refund because the tour driver would say “on your left is the ocean”. That was it, what ocean, what is the water like, are there coral reefs, but nothing else but that is an ocean, WOW! Please thank Jon for the best tour I have ever had and hopefully I will get to meet him again soon.”

R.G.:

“I do a lot of traveling, been all over the world, been on a whole lot of planes/trains/autos during tours… but never have I enjoyed my time as much as I did while riding the trolley around San Diego with “Bonk”! Outstanding employee you have there… combines humor and facts better than anyone I have come across. If I lived there, I would have tried my best to recruit him to my organization. Kudos Bonk, you made my family’s tour of San Diego most memorable.”

T.F., San Diego, California

“Love this tour! I always look forward to having guests in from out of town so I can take them on The Old Town Trolley Tour. I still enjoy it every time I go and so do my guests. It’s like an On/Off bus, getting off at different stops and sightseeing then getting back on and going to another stop. You can get on and off as many times as you’d like during their working hours. The driver/tour guide is very knowledgeable about telling us about facts and sights along the way. It’s a fun way to see San Diego. Also, for local residents, go onto Old Town Trolley’s website and print out the Hometown Pass coupons. Show the coupons and your local ID and you can ride free with one paid guest ticket.”

R.H., Lyles, TN:

“My husband and I spent the week of November 14-21 in San Diego and happened upon Old Town Trolley Tours. We boarded in Old Town and rode the entire circuit with BW. We enjoyed the tour so much, we did not get off at any stops the first time around, so as not to miss anything! BW was so much fun that we still talk about him and the tour. Another driver of note was Tony who was also great! “

C.J.:

I went on your trolley tour about 2 or 3 weeks ago and it was an awesome experience. I learned so much about the area that I had not known was there in my past visits to San Diego. Our tour driver was Tony. You sure are a lucky company to have an employee with such a great attitude and enthusiasm. Tony was the best. He was very friendly and he was very courteous. Honestly, Tony’s attitude throughout the tour made it that much better. He was very knowledgeable throughout the tour, and he kept the customers happy and laughing. He is a great example for your company. The tour was great and our host/driver was awesome. If I was to take your tour again, I would like to make sure that I was on the Trolley that Tony is driving. Thank You.”

R.P.:

“I just returned from the all day trolley ride in San Diego. What a great experience! The tour guide, Philip, was fantastic. He gave us a great historical tour filled with knowledge and humor. He greeted every rider as they got on and off the trolley. I also did the SEAL ride and toured the Midway. The captain and guide on the SEAL ride were fantastic too. I highly recommend the trolley and SEAL ride to everyone. Thanks for a great day in San Diego!”

T.P., Ely, NV:

“I took the trolley last week when I was in San Diego. I really enjoyed the tour; it is really amazing!! Every one of the tour guides has their our twist. But the history that you get is incredible!! I had the time to hop on & off; but if you don’t, this is a great way to see the city if you are limited for time. A special thanks to hatch the tour guide. I think he is a human encyclopedia!! Can’t say enough good!! Thank you to everyone from the lady at the ticket both on, everyone was so nice & willing to help you!! Thanks again for making my trip amazing!!”

B.M., Camp Springs, MD:

“Some words to say how much we truly loved our trolley tour (last October) in San Diego!!! Our driver and tour guide Brian O’Brian was awesome, fantastic, very funny, and very helpful on the tour for all of us (including and specially with tourists waiting to get back on the trolley). We loved everything, all information, the stories, the songs!! We agreed that the cost of the tour was also very worth every penny. Many laughs and a picture with wonderful O’Brian at the end! We will always strongly recommend this tour to our friends and family, and can’t wait to return sometime in the future again. Thank you all for making our visit what it was – Fantastic! Awesome!!!! Blessings and fondly regards”

A.B., Paderborn, Germany:

“Hello to all People from Old Town Trolley Tours. My Wife and I were there in September in San Diego and we make the Tour with your Company. What can I say? It was the best Sightseeing Tour ever. The Bus is cool, the Drivers are cool and very funny. When we come one Day back to San Diego, we make this incredible Tour again. Thank you for making our Holiday better. Best regards from Germany.”

C. & M.P., England:

“My husband and I would just like to say how impressed we were with our tour guide in San Diego. We have recently been to California for our vacation. We’ve been on the Trolley Tour 3 times already and love visiting San Diego. Our tour guide’s name was B.W – what a lovely gentleman he is… courteous, polite, informative and professional – he was great with the children on board and equally as lovely with some of the older folk on board – taking care to ensure they were looked after. What a rare quality these days. He is a total credit to your company. I also won a token – which is a great touch and will always be a reminder of San Diego and our guide… many thanks from 2 very pleased English customers. Here’s to our next one! kind regards”

K.B., Muncie, IN:

“..My sister, nephew, and I took the Old Town Trolley Tour in San Diego. We thoroughly enjoyed the experience. We got off at four of the stops. Your tour guides were both entertaining and informative. We could tell they really enjoyed their job. I wish that I had written down the name of each tour guide so I could’ve given them a special “shout out.” …I make it a point to tell my friends about your tours. It is the best way to get an informative overall view of the city and its attractions. Thanks for a great experience.”

S.M.:

“Did San Diego city tour today, 4 people including my wife, Mom & wife’s Mom. Fantastic tour led by driver Doc!!! 1st class professional job by Doc! Many laughs & even a picture with Doc at the end. We’ll be telling all Canadians of our great experience with your tour team.”

W.M., Vallejo, CA:

“I took the San Diego Tour – I really liked it! The guide, Vidal, was great, very informative,and super friendly – he is a great asset to your company! Everyone I met from your company was wonderful and so nice. I was so happy I took the tour! I have been telling all my friends how I enjoyed it so! Thanks again – I will do it again!”

B.M., Nanaimo, BC Canada:

“I just wanted to say that my husband and I had the best time on your tour. Our driver was Vidal, and he was just great. He’s got such a great personality. We learned a lot. It was definitely worth every penny. The quality of the tour is incredible. I will definitely take your tours again. Thanks very much!”

J.W., Somers Point, NJ:

“My wife and I took the tour of San Diego this past Monday and found it to be tremendous. Drivers were very knowledgeable as well as entertaining as they conducted the tour. Kudos to the drivers we encountered who were excellent – Todd and Bill. Shuttle to hotels was also a nice feature. Keep up the good work”

C.F. Alexandria, Dunbartonshire:

“I have recently just returned from our San Diego vacation. 8 of us took your trolley tour, and would love to thank you for a fantastic day, your drivers are a credit to your company. We just wish we could remember all their names to thank them personally. Please, can you tell me the name of the tune you play on the trolley when you dropped us off and picked us up from the Zoo? It was such good fun at the time and brings back good memories. Once again we all thank you for our very special day.”

L. Y., London:

“Just a quick line to say how much we truly loved our trolley tour in San Diego and we have not stopped talking about it and where we went. Our driver and tour guide Steve was fantastic and very funny and very helpful whilst on the tour and we agreed that the cost of the tour was also very worth every penny. We would strongly recommend this tour to our friends and family and can’t wait to return next year again. Thank you all for making our visit what it was – Fantastic. cheers. the Yeowells.”

G.S., Buckley, WA:

“On March 19th my wife, Shannon, and I were with your San Diego tours. We had a wonderful time seeing and hearing all about the history of the city. As our last guide of the day took us to our hotel, I accidentally left my cell phone on the Trolley. A few minutes after we were checked into our hotel, I realized I had left the phone on the Trolley. After a few attempts of calling my cell phone, “JC” answered and advised that he was en route to our hotel so he could drop my phone off for me. We were so relieved that I was able to get my phone back. Like so many people, I rely on my phone to stay connected to my family and the world. The thought of losing all of the important numbers as well as pictures and videos of my family made me feel ill. I was so happy that ‘JC’ was going out of his way to make sure that I got my phone back. All of your tour guides were very friendly and knowledgeable. In particular I would like to extend a gracious ‘thank you!’ to ‘JC’ for him realizing who lost the phone and his being so willing to get it back to me. You should be proud to have such wonderful employees. The next time we visit a city where your company operates, rest assured, we will be a guest again. Thank you.”

S.S., Bordentown, NJ:

“My mom and I enjoyed our trolley experience tremendously! It went off without a hitch! The guides were all very informative and really added to the sightseeing experience. We were able to see and do so much more because of the trolley. We were also pleased to see that you have wheelchair accessible options, as next time we will be traveling with a wheelchair user. We have already recommended you to several people. Old Town Trolley Tours really made our whole trip!”

T.S., Fullerton, CA:

“I took both the Old Town Trolley and Seal Tours and was very impressed with both. Your Old Town Trolley drivers were very informative and manage to impart that large amount of information while safely navigating San Diego traffic. The Seal Tour was great fun and the views of San Diego from out on the bay alone were worth the fare. Thank you for a great day in San Diego.”

P.C. Lexington, Kentucky:

“The tour of San Diego was extremely informative. All of our guides were friendly and have a humorous and knowledgeable tour. We especially enjoyed Balboa Park.”

J.P. Cranston, Rhode Island:

“A friend in Rhode Island recommended your tour and we found it superlative! I loved each driver’s humor, knowledge of the city and friendliness. Convenient stops, lots of info and great music as well. We loved our San Diego visit and look forward to a return trip!!”

C.M. Franklin, Wisconsin:

“All of your guide/conductors were very informative and did a great job. I recommended the San Diego tour to several guests at our hotel before we left town. I think your tour is great when you just want to relax and leave the driving to someone who knows the area. Thanks again!”

P.H. Christchurch, New Zealand:

“We had a great day. Your drivers were very good and made us feel safe and happy, told us good stories and information about the great city of San Diego. Thank you very much.”

R.B. Brownstown, Michigan:

“My daughters bought these tickets for my first day in San Diego. It was perfect! I was able to see the highlights of San Diego and knew exactly where I wanted to return. The guides really made the tour the best one I’ve ever been on! Thanks!”

M.D. Operations Team, PRA, San Diego:

“Old Town Trolley has provided PRA with only positive experiences. All trolleys have arrived in great condition and on time. Their drivers have very extensive knowledge of the city and share it with pride and professionalism.”

K. W. Republic, MO:

“I loved it! Our driver was great and so very entertaining. I loved the music he played to go with the things along the way. He made it interesting and fun and I had a great seat for taking photos. It was a great way to see the city since I have flown out for the NECC technology educator’s conference and I didn’t have a car there. The location pick-ups close to the hotels were great! It was so fun and I’m really glad we took the time to do it. It was well worth it and I’m recommending it to everyone. Thanks for the fun!”

D. M. San Diego:

When I booked “Felicity”, the wedding trolley, for my daughter’s wedding, I thought it would be a fun idea instead of a limo for our wedding party. I had no idea what a “great idea” it would turn out to be. Not only was the entire bridal party excited when the trolley pulled up, but they had the best time ever!!!!!!! She is so roomy and full of history. The bride had a full dress and long train and everyone had sooo much room and were very comfortable. The driver, David, was delightful and everyone had a fantastic time. Not only do we recommend this for everyone that is having a wedding, we almost insist. Perfect beyond our wildest expectations and very easy for making the arrangements. You made what could have been very stressful a complete joy. Many, many thanks to you, David and mostly “Felicity”. Thanks again, very sincerely.

E. L.W. Roxbury, MA:

“I was traveling alone on business and had 2 days in San Diego. I have a bad knee and can’t do a great deal of walking. This was the best, thoroughly entertaining and informative. It was the perfect introduction to San Diego! The conductors are wonderful!”

L. R. – Covington, LA:

“We had one of the most pleasant experiences of our lives. It was our honeymoon. We lived in New Orleans and had nothing left but made an effort to go to San Diego. Our driver made us laugh and did some of the greatest shticks. He is wonderful and you need more employees like him on your tours. We will be back and you can guarantee we will only be riding your trolley!”

K. E. – Burgettstown, PA

“When accompanying my husband to conventions I always try to take a tour of the city to get a little history and feel of where to spend more time. My only mistake is I don’t take the tour the 1st day I’m here! (so I know where I want to explore and spend more time.) The guides are wonderful, knowledgeable and very courteous (helped young mothers with strollers.) Definitely worth the time and price. Always recommend to others!”

H.B. West Chester, PA:

“My Captain was Murphy and the 1st mate was Tosh. I spent 3 days in San Diego and the SEAL tour was the best thing we did. ALL of the staff, from the information booth to the end of the tour, were top notch. The tour was fun and informative. I would rate the tour as excellent, well worth the price and I already have recommended the tour to others. Thanks for a wonderful tour!”

L.B.:

“Please commend your employees in San Diego, notably, Carol, and the tour guides Jim and Pearce. I lost my debit card on one of the San Diego tours, and not only did the driver turn it in, but Carol offered to meet me ANYWHERE to return it to me. They certainly went above and beyond on my behalf, and I am most appreciative! (also loved the tour!) Thank you, sincerely.”

K.S.:

“My mother and I recently visited San Diego and took your tour. We have been doing girls’ vacations together since 2004. During the tour, one of your guides mentioned the other cities you provided service. Imagine our surprise, when we found out we have gone on one of your tours every single year! We have been to Boston (twice), Washington DC, Savannah, and San Diego. We laughed about what a coincidence it was that we have inadvertently chosen cities every year where you are. In order to keep up tradition, we are including Key West and St. Augustine in our possibilities for next year. Keep up the good work! “

R.P., Sylvan Lake, AL

“My family and I were in San Diego last week on a holiday. Your driver “Jim” is due for a big raise! Driver of the year! He absolutely amazed us with his people skills and narrating. We would be curious to know how many trips he has actually toured in San Diego. We were on board with him twice. Our hats go off to people such as him who are so dedicated, enthusiastic and genuine about their work. It’s individuals such as “Jim” that will keep people returning again and again. GREAT JOB!”

B.Z.:

“Your website is wonderful! Great information in regards to all the stops, what to do there, where to eat, distance to the hotels and hotels in the area. Love the pictures of where the stops are on the routes. Nothing worse then standing around hoping you are in the correct spot. Recently went to San Francisco & did the double decker bus tour & their website or info doesn’t even compare to yours. Traveling with my 81-year-old Grandma & this website provides me with information to help her have a wonderful visit. See you the last week of September!”

E.M., Windsor, ON:

 “You have one of the Best websites we have encountered. It is easy to navigate and is not “clogged” with non-related information.” – M.G., Jamison, PA orange line “My wife and I boarded your Old Town Trolley around 10am on Harbour Dr. near Anthony’s Restaurant for of 1st tour of San Diego. We were greeted by “Lee”… in any event we just wanted to express our gratitude, say how pleased we were with “Lee”, his knowledge of the City, his numerous hats, theme music that he played throughout the tour…. he made our 37th anniversary unforgettable… we are still telling everyone we can about our City Tour, what a pleasure it was to be on “Lee”s” trolley that day….WOW!!! Your CEO needs to know what a special employee you have in “Lee”. “

C.G.:

“Night Lights Tour – We really enjoyed the new Night Lights Tour, which had only been operating for two weeks. Since we had enjoyed the daytime tour earlier, which follows the same route, we were pleased to find that the night time sights allowed the driver to introduce us to many different buildings that were not particularly noticeable in the daytime and tell us about their history. The 20-minute stop on Coronado Island was well-timed and appreciated. We had time to stroll along to the beach to get night time views of Coronado Bridge and Downtown San Diego. Although we had learned about many of the historic buildings earlier in the day tour, they appeared quite different at night, and the tours were different enough to make them both worthwhile.”

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