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Mormon Battalion Historic Site, San Diego

4.6
Historic Site · Hidden Gem · Tourist Spot
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Visit the stomping grounds--quite literally--of a Mormon military unit from the Mexican-American War at Mormon Battalion Historic Site. Unique for being the only religion-based military unit in American history, this battalion included roughly 550 volunteers led by Mormon officers. The battalion is well-known for its gruelling march of almost 3,219 km (2,000 mi) from Iowa to San Diego. The site reveals the historic significance of the march and the battalion's triumphs through a series of interactive exhibits. Animation, video, and costumed actors enhance the guided tours, led dutifully by knowledgeable staff. Plan my day in San Diego using traveler tips and tourist information provided by Klarna Trips.
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Mormon Battalion Historic Site reviews

TripAdvisor traveler rating
TripAdvisor traveler rating 4.5
1,021 reviews
Google
4.8
TripAdvisor
  • This is ranked as the #4 thing to do in all of San Diego by Tripadvisor? Doesn't make sense. Something is off. 
    This is ranked as the #4 thing to do in all of San Diego by Tripadvisor? Doesn't make sense. Something is off.  more »
  • Really interesting story is shared here about how the army recruited Mormon pioneers to fight in the war against Mexico, and how that played into settling the San Diego area. The Historic Site is... 
    Really interesting story is shared here about how the army recruited Mormon pioneers to fight in the war against Mexico, and how that played into settling the San Diego area. The Historic Site is...  more »
  • Totally surprised at how fun this was! Set the bar high for a fun, informative historic presentation. Wow! 
    Totally surprised at how fun this was! Set the bar high for a fun, informative historic presentation. Wow!  more »
Google
  • This was such an amazing experience. I would highly recommend to visitors of all faiths not just Mormons. They truly bring the history to life! The tour guides were so sweet. The message was very informative as to the history of the Mormon Battalion. It was touching in that they shared portrayals of several historical figures both Mormon and non Mormon. It was by far the best historical visitor center tour I have ever been to. It is FREE and a must see!
  • My family loves this place! Fun interactive exhibit hosted by incredible docents and done in the Harry Potter style. The pictures talk, the exhibits are immersive and sight, sound and historic artifacts are used to depict a time and place in history of the Mormon Battalion (the sole US Army unit to be formed from a single religious organization). It really is a fun family experience - great for all ages!
  • Aust visit for history buffs. I really enjoyed learning the history of those who helped to settle San Diego and open up the roads for those coming out west. The presentation was set up like a tour, but indoors and in the air conditioning! The kids liked the panning for gold afterwards. Having our family picture taken afterwards was a really nice thing and it didn't cost a thing! There are artifacts and I loved the story of the trek.
  • I really enjoyed this tour! I didn’t know what to expect, but I was definitely blown away by what I experienced. Really informative and cute and makes you feel good after going through. I’m not Mormon but I feel like the messaging is still very relatable!
  • Great interactive experience! After the tour we walked across the road to the oldest synagogue in San Diego and hiked up a trail for a beautiful view of the sun setting behind the historical district. This is a popular destination for school groups studying California state history, and I can see why. There’s even free parking at the Mormon Battalion center or behind the Historical Park. Very worthwhile.

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