Cosmopolitan Hotel & Restaurant

A lovely room in a cozy hotel with a ton of ambiance. It's the 1870s, but with indoor plumbing and wifi!

This was an amazing place with an incredible nostalgia. We got there at midnight the first night because of a late flight. One of the members of the family who owned this place, showed up at the gate and let us in. When you get there, you get a key to open the gate into the garden area. The rooms are old, but designed with a lot of charm. We had the bathroom with the pinewood tub. The entire experience was five stars. If you’re looking for brand new and shiny sparkly, this is not your place. If you’re looking for an antique setting in an amazing location, then you’ve found your spot.

The location is great and the beds were comfortable. There are no tvs or smoke detectors. The smoke detector was in the dresser drawer in room 11. The hallway by room 6 was used for a linen closet.

The breakfast was decent, no frills.. Soft butter, jam and cream for the scones would have been nicer.. Overall is is a very delightful place to stay.. Environment and staff are very nice.. Check out time extended to at least 11am..

I rarely have anything negative to say about a lodging because I understand that most places do try hard. But I need to offer some suggestions for Cosmo management. First, the "historically correct" furniture in the room was unusable. The cushions and padding on the chairs and couch were painfully uncomfortable. We brought in the wooden chairs from outdoors for something to sit on. Surely, when Mr. Seeley had the furniture brought around the Cape Horn by ship, the padding and cushions were the best he could buy. So to be historically correct, the padding and cushions should be just as comfortable as when Mr. Seeley was sitting on them. A trip to a local upholstery shop could restore the furniture's usefulness to guests, without compromising the historical appearance. Second, while the clawfoot bathtub was quaint and historic, there were no grab bars to assist in entering and exiting the tub. I know Mr. Seeley did not have these either, but you would think a basic safety feature like grab bars could be added and made to look "historic." Modern guests shouldn't have to risk compound fractures in order to bathe. I'm surprised that the local city codes don't require grab bars. The room does have smoke detectors and I'm certain that Mr. Seeley didn't have those either. Third, some minor things like the loosely attached toilet seat and the room's door not latching could be fixed.

Would definitely stay here again.

it was quiet it looked old and dingy. Beds uncomfortable.

it was quiet it looked old and dingy. Beds uncomfortable.

This was a fun and great experience! The hotel is currently undergoing some changes so it wasn't open we had to call someone to let us onto the property and check us in. Which only added to the experience. The room was old but just what we needed for our short stay. No hauntings but we'll be back soon so maybe they'll say hello next time!

Loved the location and the history of the building and all the spooky tales. Room was cute and clean, staff was so friendly. My only complaint has to be the bed, it wasn't that comfortable. Although, I appreciate the plastic around the mattress, the bed itself wasn't very comfortable.

Loved the location and the history of the building and all the spooky tales. Room was cute and clean, staff was so friendly. My only complaint has to be the bed, it wasn't that comfortable. Although, I appreciate the plastic around the mattress, the bed itself wasn't very comfortable.

Superb

👍

Great location for train/bus travelers because it is just across the street from a major transit hub. The Old Town Park was very nice, lots of things to do and see. The room itself was fine. The breakfast was pretty much non-existent; just chocolate chip scones, mini croissants, coffee and tea. The least they could have added was cereal! How about some fruit? There is NO cleaning while you have the room, NO ONE comes to make the bed, refresh towels, etc. Checking in is confusing because there is NO ONE at the hotel, you have to call the number on the sign outside to get checked in. This is something that you should know BEFORE you reserve a room. Also, be aware that the park is very close to the I5 freeway and therefore noisy late into the night.

Great location for train/bus travelers because it is just across the street from a major transit hub. The Old Town Park was very nice, lots of things to do and see. The room itself was fine. The breakfast was pretty much non-existent; just chocolate chip scones, mini croissants, coffee and tea. The least they could have added was cereal! How about some fruit? There is NO cleaning while you have the room, NO ONE comes to make the bed, refresh towels, etc. Checking in is confusing because there is NO ONE at the hotel, you have to call the number on the sign outside to get checked in. This is something that you should know BEFORE you reserve a room. Also, be aware that the park is very close to the I5 freeway and therefore noisy late into the night.

Beautiful room. Quirky Hotel. Right in the centre of Old Town. Free Car Parking. Great view over the park. Feels secluded even tho there's lots of shops and restaurants nearby. Felt like we were the only ones in the Hotel. No TV in Room. Hotel was closed but one phone call and staff arrived to get us all set up. Breakfast was self service and minimal but still very tasty,

Exceptional

Historic rooms. The hotel is understaffed. When I arrived there at 3pm there was nobody there. I had to call a number and leave a voice mail. The hotel did not inform me of this strange practice ahead of time. After checking in, it feels awkward being the only person in this large historic building.

This hotel is so beautiful and well maintained for being a historical site! I absolutely loved the courtyard area with the sitting area and gorgeous plants. Everything was nice and clean. The hotel was quiet and peaceful. Just the vibe of the hotel alone was magical. Our bed was comfortable. The staff were great and check-in and out was very simple and fast. The parking situation was difficult when we arrived for check-in. The listing said it included free parking but we had to keep circling around the small parking lot to snag a spot. It seemed all the tourists have access to the same parking lot. I wish they had their own separate parking for guests only. Also, I didn't find any drinking water available in the hotel during the night.

I only stayed at the Cosmopolitan Hotel for one night, but I enjoyed my time there. It has a unique theme a decor. Moreover, though I arrived after normal check-in time, the staff arranged a creative work-around to assist me. Some of the furnishings did show obvious wear-- not enough to make them less useful, but enough to be noticeable.

I only stayed at the Cosmopolitan Hotel for one night, but I enjoyed my time there. It has a unique theme a decor. Moreover, though I arrived after normal check-in time, the staff arranged a creative work-around to assist me. Some of the furnishings did show obvious wear-- not enough to make them less useful, but enough to be noticeable.

This hotel is so beautiful and well maintained for being a historical site! I absolutely loved the courtyard area with the sitting area and gorgeous plants. Everything was nice and clean. The hotel was quiet and peaceful. Just the vibe of the hotel alone was magical. Our bed was comfortable. The staff were great and check-in and out was very simple and fast. The parking situation was difficult when we arrived for check-in. The listing said it included free parking but we had to keep circling around the small parking lot to snag a spot. It seemed all the tourists have access to the same parking lot. I wish they had their own separate parking for guests only. Also, I didn't find any drinking water available in the hotel during the night.

The location was difficult to find using Google maps because the property is not located on a specific road.

The location was difficult to find using Google maps because the property is not located on a specific road.

I was very happy. All of the staff provided great hospitality

Location and courtyard Difficulty contacting staff on arrival

Difficulty contacting staff on arrival

The wifi worked great. Everything from restaraunts, shopping, museum tours, all walking distance. No car needed

Comfortable. Good location. Excellent staff

Located in Old Sn Diego. A fun area with lots to see and do.

Thank you!

Great staff. Great breakfast. Fascinating history.

Unique stay in walkable part of San Diego. Very refreshing change from the typical box of a room offered by chains. Excellent, personal check-in experience. Clean, spacious room with expected amenities. Simple check-out process. Tasty scones for breakfast.

My stay was like a charming step back into history. Friendly staff and a welcoming, attentive manager made the experience all the more pleasant. The Cosmopolitan is the perfect place to unplug and enjoy the surroundings of a historical era.

Dee, the manager was so wonderful and accommodating! This was a beautiful area to stay in- definitely make time to walk around and explore. I loved going here for a little romantic getaway, and would definitely do so again! The rooms were small, so I can imagine that would be tough with kids, but the area is adorable for all ages!!

Perfection

Very authentic. The hotel is old but the scones are delicious!

We loved our stay staff wise, accommodating, and attentive

Always a great time. This place is timeless

The staff is exceptional. I'm stage with three times now and I'm very pleased with the nice welcome I get in the evening when checking in. After a long day of travels it feels good to be warmly welcomed. This hotel is about the only one that seems to do it so nicely! I appreciate it the property is spick and span. Has nice landscape and that great Santa Barbara feel!

When we arrived around 6:00 PM, the main entrance was locked. We were instructed to call a number, and shortly afterward a man—without any visible uniform or identification—opened the courtyard gate. We assumed he was affiliated with the hotel, though this was never clearly stated. The interaction that followed was uncomfortable. He asked multiple questions unrelated to the check-in process and walked us to our room, entering the room with us and remaining inside longer than necessary despite our repeated attempts to thank him and conclude the interaction. While we understand that boutique properties operate differently than larger hotels, the combination of a locked entrance, lack of visible identification, and the nature of the interaction felt unusual and unsettling. We wanted to bring this to your attention, as guest safety and comfort should always feel clear and professional.

The hotel itself was very clean and had a museum like atmoshere. Our room was very clean and well decorated. Service was great as well. Unfortunately the restaurant and bar areas were closed and there was some construction on the exterior of the building. I cant wait to go back when the restaurant and outside bar area opens up again.

First time been here my and wife she got scared for the stories we heard, but other than that is good.

Love the ambiance!!! We had a view of the central plaza!

The Cosmopolitan Hotel has never disappointed. When I want to get away from modern times and get into a time machine, I stay here.

Breakfast included which is a plus!

Host was super friendly and accommodating, who called ahead of our stay to welcome us! He did an excellent job in explaining the history of the hotel and its amenities. The sheets were stained and the window blinds had gaps that were difficult to cover up for more privacy.

They have let that hotel gone down. I stayed in there 6 years ago and the bed was very nosy when I turned. I decided to stay again and figured the bed is fixed by now, surprisingly the noise was there and much worse. Breakfast was at 8 which is very late for passengers. I he said she comes at 7 and BF is at 8. So we left at 7 without BF.

A charming property in the middle of Old Town.

I did absolutely love the pastries and tea in the morning. Wish a lot more of the grounds was accessible.

Keep up the good work

The manager Dee was fantastic. This is a great historic property right on the Old Town San Diego State Park property. It is fun and a very educational location.

Nice to stay in a vintage hotel. Loved the ambiance, comfy bed and good continental breakfast: coffee, juice and croissants. It was noisy at night, you could hear the train, traffic from freeway and people talking. It would’ve been nice if the restaurant was open.

Great stay! Very well maintained for a vintage property. Dee is a gem! We highly recommend this property!

It was fun to stay in a vintage hotel room. We really enjoyed it.

My husband and I loved the ambiance and charm of the hotel. Our rooms were vintage to the time it was built. It was a nice surprise to see there was no TV, Phone or clock in the room. This was good because we were able to enjoy each other without the distraction of a TV. Second story rooms offer a beautiful view of the sunset!

Definitely a unique and cool stay!

I apologize for not calling to cancel. Sickness throughout our home. We'll be back again. Thank You

Our check in was smooth and efficient . The manager Dee greeted us in the parking lot and guided us on a tour of the hotel and our room.Dee was AlWAYS there to help and answered all our questions. We enjoyed the decor and history. In the morning we had tasty scones. Thank you for a memorable stay.

Great facility! It's like stepping into a tume capsule to turn of the century

Loved the unique experience

Dee was our amazing host. He’s the manager. Everything from towels to ice to serving us breakfast top cabin service.

It was like going back in time. The antique decor made it a nostalgic experience. The comfortable, clean and cozy bedding was very nice too. Our check-in was great. Dee was very friendly, efficient and helpful.

Staff at check in was very attentive and pleasant. Room was very relaxing and overall experience was great.

This was such a unique place to stay. We loved the historic vibe and the area (Old Town) was so fun to explore. The walkable restaurant options were also incredible.

It was great just slept and had morning breakfast but the room and the hotel over all was gorgeous, love the history, and being able to read people’s stories of those who have stayed there was fin

Cute but not what I we Were Looking dor

The absolute most romantic, antique, & wonderful place!

Staff was friendly and helpful but the room was full of webs and a large black spider ran across the bed. Underneath the bed was a network of webs and creepy things. Won't be back.

Unique hotel, loved everything about it.

I had heard about old town in San Diego, but I had never stayed there and it was a wonderful refresher from the usual places you stay on business trips like downtown. I would definitely definitely stay here again.

The place has character.

Everything about the Cosmopolitan is wonderful. It is a restored historical hotel right in the middle of Old Town. Staying here makes one feel like you have stepped into the past. The staff and service has been amazing. I will stay here every time I come to San Diego!

Great people. Cleanliness average/below average. Check in slow.

This hotel is amazing. The staff are super friendly and helpful. The room has everything that we needed and the bathtub was amazing for taking baths. The location is very nice and safe. I would stay there again!

Fun weekend getaway with my wife was cozy and comfy in room 6. Dee was very welcoming and the hotel is beautiful and in a great walkable area!

I only hope their rates stay down and people use the showers properly. This location deserves so much recognition and respect. They even called me to clear up some confusion after. Very professional and kind staff.

Great location in Old Town.

Nice hotel. We were looking to get scared but bo ghost showed up. Lol. We had a great time staying here.

This property has a lot of history! Right in the middle of Old Town San Diego. Close to shopping and restaurant. Every room is characteristic of the original house.

Everything was perfect except the breakfast. Cold cereal was an unwanted surprise. But at least the coffee was good.

Good ol fashion hotel with very warm hospitality. Thank you Dee.

Extremely haunted, no kidding

Lovely aesthetic and hospitality! It was a comfortable stay, the shower head needed a replacement or clean but otherwise it was nice. Thank you cosmopolitan!

Had an amazing stay here with my boyfriend for my 23rd birthday we would definitely be coming back, the host was very kinda, great service, he made her our stay was comfortable and made sure we had everything we needed. He also gave us a bit out the background history we ould definitely be returning, we loved it there and can’t wait to come back.

Was a nice, relaxing place. Was old fashioned but that is the whole point of the hotel. There was a lot see at walking distance.

Historic hotel built in1826 so neat in that regard. The inn keeper was super helpful. Right in the middle of Old Town.

No idea this is Haunted Hotel. Spooky creepy. Man in-charge leaves before it gets dark said it’s Under Renovation—a LIE. Bed is many decades old. Tablet wont power on. Bed is facing the door. Great great grandma’s bedroom no tv no fridge no microwave anywhere. Room was dusty so he plugged weak portable air filter. Won’t recommend. Hotel charge the same amt as other nice modern hotels. Frustrating disappointing. Ground floor not clean.

The hotel is a historic experience, and Dee was a genuine pleasure as a host.

The staff was great, D especially. Definitely recommend to anyone exploring Old Town.

So historic. Lovely antiques. Continental breakfast was nice. Coffee excellent. Friendly staff.

Amazing opportunity to stay in a hotel with so many stories to tell. We felt privileged to be there and enjoyed it very much. The staff were attentive and responsive. Parking was convenient and safe. Hotel was quiet and peaceful (except for the train horns every so often). Loved the furnishings and of course the pine tub in room 1 was unique and a fun complement. Breakfast was nothing to brag about but it worked for us and if you want more there are plenty of eateries within easy walking distance. Being in the heart of old town there is plenty of exploring to do, and some guided tours in the area as well. We hope to return.

This property was surprisingly excellent. It was like stepping back in time .. think old western .. with modern upgrades. I especially liked that there was no television to distract you from the beautiful surroundings. The hotel is ideally situated so that you are able to enjoy the attractions. I throughly enjoyed our stay and we look forward to returning.

I loved everything about this Hotel. It was definitely a unique experience!

This hotel is a hidden gem. Great location and service, cannot ask for more. We will be returning!

The bed was so comfortable and the room was historic and calming!!!! It had all the amenities one could need and I love the history! Dee was a great and helpful host!

Excellent time in an 1870s hotel. We’ve been staying there since 2011 and enjoy the hotel, staff and food. Dee Carey was A tremendous help. He made everything easier. Outstanding Mother’s Day buffet. The wife is extremely happy with this trip!

A quiet charming hotel.

Comfortable clean room, close to museums, shops, eateries, and especially the Old Town Trolley. Ghost stories abound, but no ghosts. You can hear trains, freeway traffic, as well as footsteps of other residents passing by your window. The little bar offers Happy Hour drinks, munchies, and friendly conversation

We had a short but really enjoyable stay. We had a late check in and Filberto greeted us. The property is beautiful and the area very quaint! Would highly recommend.

It was cozy, convenient to old town. Nice to walk around and lots of food options. The staff were very friendly and accommodating.

It was my 1st time visiting the Cosmopolitan and it was awesome! When we arrived we called and D met us at the front gate. He was so friendly and welcoming. The hotel was absolutely beautiful when walking in. The rooms were very clean and the decor was awesome! The beds were very comfortable too! I cannot wait until to go back!

The proprietor, Dee went above & beyond to make us feel, not just welcome, but special. The hotel was built in 1869 as a stage coach stop & Dee loves to show her off & share her rich history. What the rooms lack in luxury, they make up for in charm, and a sparking of the imagination for times gone by. Our room was clean & furnished with antiques. The bed was very comfortable. The courtyard was beautifully landscaped. Continental breakfast served adjacent to the hotel saloon. And OldTown right outside your door. We really enjoyed our stay. Thanks again, Dee for all your hospitality.

This hotel is an authentic historical gem right inside Old Town. One of a kind and a real treat who like unique places to stay. The people are super friendly the environs are interesting. The courtyard saloon has tasty light bar menu during happy hour Wednesday through the weekend unless there’s an event.

If you want to watch TV in your room, forget about it, as there are no TVs. They do have free Internet however, it is fairly slow. Very comfortable beds and a wraparound porch with tables and chairs in front to sit in. They have an excellent happy hour from Wednesday through Saturday at least. The restaurant is currently closed but they do offer a continental breakfast. Small round “old time” toilets so if you are larger, you may not appreciate that. Not a lot of counter space in the bathroom, and there are no closets, but they do have some hooks on the wall. Overall, a fun experience.

It was out dated and for the price and not worth it

Have stayed at the Cosmopolitan multiple times, and I was once again very pleased with my stay. Very nice, quiet, and relaxing. Will return!

I loved this place! I plan on coming back very soon! The location is amazing, the staff is so kind and the hotel is so cool! I had a few accommodations I needed and they were very helpful.

This hotel is so unique. We love the vibe. The rooms are clean and the decor was what we were hoping for. Everyone here has been kind and helpful. We will definitely be coming back.

Staff was nice. Room was slightly dirty/dusty. Overall an ok stay. Lots to do and see around the property

The Cosmopolitan was amazing. From the way we were greeted in the parking lot, to the intimate happy hour and general stay. The staff is second to none.

Great experience. It was nice to go back to the 1800s for a night. Quiet stay and nice view outside the balcony.

I will return there again soon.

The staff is amazing! The property is historic and well maintained. I plan on coming back.

Lovely historic property. The hostess was very kind. A very light continental breakfast & free parking is provided. Finding the entrance was confusing. Once the restaurant reopens, it may be easier. Light sleepers beware of train horns blowing late night and early morning.

The Restaurant was closed but they also manage two other restaurants in the park a simple one minute block away. We had lunch at Birria Birra and our waitress Gabriela was fantastic. Now for our room, we stayed in room 7 which is The Caldron Suit. Stepping into the room was like stepping back in time in the most glorious way. The decor is stunning and all the little touches make staying in this room breathtaking. The bed was huge and comfortable but the most amazing part is the copper tub! It is big, like Big BIG, my husband fit in it with room to spare but me, I was swimming in it (lol not really but still, I easily laid down in the tub and my feet didn’t touch the end of the tub. Bring your bath bombs and enjoy a good soak, I took 3! And outside each room is a little table and chairs to sit and enjoy the scenery of surrounding old town as well. Staying at the Cosmopolitan is like staying at your families home, while there isn’t much staff on duty they are always a phone call away and will happily get you whatever is needed. Thank you so much to Dee and The Cosmopolitan!!! We look forward to our next stay, which I am already planning

A wonderful welcome and a special place to stay. Re-experience the old town way of life.

Dee was amazing and kind. He made sure our stay was as comfortable as possible. He gave great stories about the history of the hotel and his own experiences. We are definitely coming back in the future.

Fun place, well appointed boutique hotel. Beautiful setting. Great staff and highly convenient to Old Town and Airport.

The hotel is a very nostalgic but yet very modern. The cozy accommodations from the room, vintage bed frame and restroom certainly through you back to the late 1800. Dee the manager was very delightful and was very helpful with to both our booking and check in. We will certainly revisit here in the future.

We come every year around this time. And this year didn’t disappoint. Dee an amazing general manager. He goes above and beyond to make sure you’re comfortable with your stay. This is a nice staycation, nice escape from the technology of today and go back to the old times and enjoy the rustic part of old town. Made friends with our neighbors in the rooms next to us. Got to explore the Whaley house this time.

This is a great historic property. The staff was friendly and knowledgable. The bed was comfortable and the room spacious. A great spot in the heart of historic San Diego.

In continuation with my previous comment. The reception is a bit weird as there was no one but I has to call to get someone to come. The hotel itself was funky as it has the old town style. Ut it looks like the staff was at its minimum… the restaurant was closed. It felt like an empty hotel.

This was overall a good XP as it very well located in the old town. It can be quite noisy in the evening and night though.

What a nice find. Quiet, safe, within in walking distsnce of so many options for good, drink snd entertainment. We were disappointed that the restaurant & bar onsite were not yet open and only for evrnt use. Such a great space for both, good luck with opening in January. Your guests are going to love it.

Quaint and convenient

Your stay would be in a very historic building, the rooms are very clean but resemble checking into a charming 19th century hotel. Don't expect a tv, but be charmed by the building, the center garden and the staff.

The Hotel has no reception, restaurant and ice machine on the premises. The room was cold and the fireplace was not working as it stated when I reserved the room. Also it had a small heater and dust came out when I turned it on the entire room needs a good dust cleaning. Also at night the bright lights outside come through the windows they have no blinds couldn't sleep. The rooms could use a mini fridge or even an Ice machine on the premises would help.

I enjoyed the stay. Me and my wife like the quiet and relaxation.

The rooms are clean, west facing rooms have a beautiful sunset. It's the building & history of this place that is the big draw &, unfortunately, the majority of the building - the interior dining & grand bar spaces are blocked off or being used for storage - and not open to the public. (Incidentally - those are the more supposedly 'haunted' areas of the property as well). Continental breakfast has a very poor selection. Check-in MUST be arranged - as everything is locked up & entry is through a side gate that leads to the patio dining area. There is no dining on-site. Know that rooms, while clean & comfortable - have no TV/radio (that could be a plus for some). WiFi is fine. Beds are not bad, but not great for my comfort. There was a weird little heating unit in our room - good thing we didn't need it as it made a terrible noise. I may do this again when the entirety of the experience - the building, the dining, the live entertainment - is back. Otherwise - it's too pricey just to have a no frills room in the heart of Old Town (& we didn't even get visited by the resident spirits)

The good points stop there. On check in at 6pm I had to call to get access but it went to voicemail. Luckily another couple let me in to the lobby/courtyard. I wandered around looking for staff but no one was there. Eventually someone came in from outside the hotel and checked me in. The hotel restaurants and bars are all closed. Apparently they have been since Covid. As a result the place felt eerily empty and unwelcoming The website still mentions they have these facilities and needs updating. Sad to see such a great building going to waste.

The manager was so nice, he saw us waiting at one of the restaurants that they also managed, he took us in right away and made sure we were served well and with good foods. Thanks a million for a great stay and good service.

Great hotel! I will definitely be back!

WE always stay here when going to visit our son at SDSU.

I loved it, so peaceful and cozy 😊 the Manager Dee was the greatest 👍

Perfect distance from everything we wanted to do. Clean and quiet.

The cosmopolitan is just plain cool!

Historic & charming bed/breakfast type place. Beautiful inner courtyard. Convenient location.

The rooms had character- you are renting a room- no reception, no restaurant, bar, internet or amenities like coffee in room. We arrived and had to find a phone number posted on a gate to call and have someone come to let us in- we were told breakfast was served in a room beside ours, but nobody was there from 7am-9am so really nothing was happening. There was nobody on-site all day/evening. We called once and got a vmail with nobody returning a call. Would NOT recommend for the money we paid.

Excellent staff very helpful and amazing security very safe property

From check-in to check-out, the staff was so friendly, personable, informative and so pleasant!!! Especially, Dee the manager. He made sure everything was in perfect order for our stay. We'll definitely come back soon and highly recommend staying there.

Clearly the location is great for being able to walk around Old Town. The grounds are a bit weary, and unfortunately the restaurant is closed. It needs attention (paint) on the outside, but I'm sure the fact that it's actually owned by the state and considered a bit of a historical landmark probably makes that complicated. There is no television, which was fine for us but might be a deterrent for others. The tub was absolutely wonderful

Unique beautiful property

Friendly reception, welcoming! Love this place.

Great location, friendly staff, it got old charms and wild wild west feel about it, which is so cool and unique .

Good experience