Originally built in 1953 as a meager 40-room roadside lodge, Town and Country helped set the stage for the evolution of Mission Valley. It was the first hotel in Hotel Circle and the first convention center in San Diego. Throughout its history, the resort has played a significant role hosting thousands of important civic events, as well as mayors, heads of state, presidential candidates, cabinet members and industry leaders.
San Diego’s Mission Valley was once a thriving agricultural region, home to pastures, ranches and dairy farms.
San Diego businessman Charlie Brown founded Atlas Hotels and opened Town and Country, Mission Valley’s first hotel. The resort was aptly named for a “town” in the middle of the “country.”
Town and Country expanded to 278 rooms and added a coffee shop and pool.
The Brown family added a multi-million dollar, 68,000-square-foot convention center – the first in San Diego – to draw gatherings and meetings to the region. To give groups more lodging options, they also built the 10-story, 325-room main resort tower.
Muhammad Ali trained for his 1973 fight with Ken Norton at Town and Country. He signed autographs and posed for pictures for three hours before the big fight.
Muhammad Ali teed it up at neighboring Stardust Country Club, now Riverwalk Golf Club, during his visits to Town and Country. While his swing wasn't as legendary as his left hook, seeing "The Greatest" on the course was a memorable chapter in the resort's history.
Town and Country acquired the neighboring Le Baron Hotel, home of the popular 9th floor penthouse Jabberwocky Night Club which regularly hosted a slew of celebrities. In fact, Wolfman Jack would sometimes guest DJ to a full house. Today, the tower is topped by the fitness center.
Crystal T's Emporium was Town and Country's iconic disco-era restaurant and nightclub. Opening in 1977, it dazzled guests with sparkling décor, live entertainment, and a lively dance floor, capturing the playful spirit that made the resort a San Diego favorite. Watch news clip here.
Town and Country’s marquee along Fashion Valley Road became a roadside comedy show in 1997 with lines like, “Welcome to the archery conference, free ear piercing.” The playful messages captured the resort’s cheeky spirit and even caught the New York Times California edition's attention. Today, the tradition lives on with a new sign in the lobby, still spreading smiles.
Town and Country Resort completed a transformative renovation in 2021, introducing redesigned guestrooms, a 10,000-square-foot pool deck with a four-story waterslide, new restaurants and lounges, expanded outdoor event space, and a reimagined lobby. The resort's refreshed mid-century modern design pays tribute to its nearly 70-year history with original artwork by local San Diego artists.
