Cosmopolitan Hotel vs Horton Grand Hotel

Normally, we like to do a pool comparison between different hotels. However, since neither hotel has a pool, we’ll look at another aspect: their histories.

Moonrise at the Cosmopolitan Hotel in Old Town San Diego

Humble Beginnings at the Cosmopolitan Hotel

The Cosmopolitan San Diego was originally constructed not as a hotel, but instead as the home of a man named Juan Bandini. He had it built between 1827 and 1829, and was later given new life as a hotel.

Looking around the first floor today, you can still see the original adobe that has since been renovated while still maintaining the authentic look and feel. It’s one of only five standing adobe buildings in Old Town.

Horton Grand Hotel

Merged Histories at the Horton Grand Hotel

Considered the oldest currently operating hotel in San Diego, the Horton Grand Hotel San Diego had a similarly unique start.

The Horton Grand was initially two different hotels at the modern-day Horton Plaza mall. The original buildings were The Grand Horton Hotel and the Brooklyn-Kahle Saddlery Hotel.

Later, these hotels were dismantled, relocated, and combined to form one hotel. This was the Horton Grand Hotel as we know it today.

Our Vote: It’s a Tie

Both hotels have their own stories to tell from the past, and either makes an ideal getaway for any history buff looking to learn more about San Diego’s past.

From modern comforts to historic recreations, let’s take a peek at the room styles at both of these hotels.

Bedroom at Cosmopolitan Hotel

Your Stay at the Cosmopolitan

Everything at the Cosmopolitan Hotel aims to provide guests with an immersive experience, including furniture and decor choices in the rooms. Each room evokes images of the old west with period-accurate details.

You’ll miss out on some modern conveniences, but disconnecting and enjoying a more authentic stay is an experience like none other.

Suite bedroom, Horton Grand Hotel

What to Expect from Rooms at the Horton Grand

At the Horton Grand, the decor in the rooms and common areas focuses on history. You’ll see art and furniture designed to resemble what you might expect to find back when the original two hotels were constructed.

Alongside these historic touches, you’ll also have access to modern amenities in the rooms. It’s a good balance for people who want to see history but who still want the conveniences of the current age.

Guest Room at Cosmopolitan Hotel

Which Hotel has the Better Rooms: Cosmopolitan Hotel

While some may prefer the added comforts of the rooms at the Horton Grand Hotel, for my money, I prefer getting the whole immersive package at the Cosmopolitan Hotel.

No matter where you stay, a Go City San Diego pass is your ticket to discounts in San Diego County. Use our discount code GVSD5OFF to save on admission to attractions like the San Diego Zoo in Balboa Park and haunted houses like the Whaley House Museum.

The Cosmopolitan Hotel in Front of the Old Town San Diego State Historic Park

What’s Around the Cosmopolitan

The Cosmopolitan Hotel is located right in the main plaza of San Diego Old Town. I found tons of excellent restaurants, bars, and places to shop within walking distance of the hotel.

To better explore the area, book a walking tour to see Old Town San Diego State Historic Park and haunted places like El Campo Santo Cemetery.

Sidewalk in the Gaslamp

The Horton Grand’s Surroundings

Like Old Town, the Gaslamp Quarter is filled with stores and restaurants in walking distance from the doors of the Horton Grand Hotel. The nightlife is among the best in San Diego.

There are also some great food and drink tours here, with one of my favorites being the Brothels, Bites & Booze Tour which is part of the Go City San Diego pass.

Comparing Locations: A Tie

Since there’s so much to do in both Old Town and the Gaslamp Quarter, I’m calling this comparison a tie. The winner comes down to personal preference.

You won’t find a full suite of resort-style amenities at either of these historic hotels, but you will find great food and drinks.

Birria Tosada at Tahona Bar in Old Town San Diego

Amenities at the Cosmopolitan

I’ve already mentioned how much I like the lobby bar at the Cosmopolitan Hotel, but it bears repeating. It’s such a cool theme.

Though the Cosmopolitan doesn’t have its own restaurant, Old Town has many restaurants. One of my favorites is Tahona, which serves authentic Mexican fare.

Inside the Salt and Whiskey Bar at the Horton Grand Hotel

Horton Grand’s Amenities

The Horton Grand’s Salt & Whiskey is one of my favorite Gaslamp Quarter bars. With a food and drink menu that matches the hotel’s Victorian era theme, you absolutely must dine here at least once during your stay.

Bar Seating at the Salt and Whiskey Bar at the Horton Grand Hotel

Our Choice: Horton Grand

I love the Horton Grand Hotel’s Salt & Whiskey bar so much that it’s my favorite pick between the two hotels’ offerings.

Second Story at the Cosmopolitan Hotel

We love both of these hotels and wouldn’t have taken the time to write a comparison article if we didn’t! But we must pick just one winner in our friendly battle of ghostly, historic San Diego hotels.

Whether you’re looking for ghosts, want to learn more about San Diego’s history, or you’re simply seeking a great hotel, the Cosmopolitan Hotel is our team’s choice!