Planning a ~4 day trip to San Diego in January. We like to stay in areas where it's easy to walk around to shops, restaurants, etc. So, we're looking at Old Town vs. the Gaslamp Quarter. Which is a better dhoice? Thanks.

Gaslamp in the downtown SD area would be my choice..
Old Town is sketchy to stay and the only decent hotel is the Hacienda.
Some great deals right now for 4* hotels on expedia.com
You can take the trolley to Old Town for some decent Mex food.

I live in downtown SD. Gaslamp is great location. Very close to a lot of restaurants, etc. Walking distance to waterfront, USS Midway, near public transportation, etc. I do have to question what 'ksucat' means by Old Town is sketchy? How? Do you mean safety wise? Or do you mean too touristy? I would never say it is sketchy in terms of safety. It's perfectly safe.

Thanks. Any suggestions for hotels in Gaslamp?

I agree that staying in the Gaslamp would suit your needs better. There are a lot of hotels there, so rather than just list a bunch of them coud you give some lue about your criteria, budget, etc.

Oops, Clue!

We've stayed at both the Omni and the Marriott in Gaslamp. Both were excellent location and amenities. They are very close to each other, just a couple of blocks apart.

Deb

Gaslamp hands down.

Hotels? I would have to plug the dates in and see what comes up with good rates.

I love the US Grant, Marriott Gaslamp...

hi elizzie..native here and when I stated Old Town as 'sketchy' not all of OT but there are pockets that I would stay away from..from a tourist perspective.

we have stayed at Hotel Solomar, US Grant, Marriott Gaslamp, Omni, Grand Hyatt, Ivy and they all are great 4-5*hotels.
expedia and other sites are offering great deals.

love Cafe Chloe in East Village.

gaslamp.org

I have mntioned/recommended Cafe Chloe elsewhere, but you must be aware that the menu is very French, and not to everyone's liking:

http://www.cafechloe.com/

Cafe Chloe is a classic French bistro..can't imagine many who would not like it.
Cowboy Star would be another alternative in the East Village.

Stayed in Gaslamp area several times. Have stayed at the US Grant and Hyatt Manchester. Would stay at the US Grant if the rates are reasonable. Either way very walkable area, great for the weekend, lots of activity nearby.