Exploring Old Poway Park

San Diego County has been my home for most of my adult life, yet it continues to surprise me with hidden gems waiting to be explored. One such discovery was Old Poway Park. Though the park itself isn’t expansive, its quaint historic buildings, vintage trains, and scenic walking paths create a delightful atmosphere. To top it off, my visit coincided with the bustling Saturday Farmers’ Market, which was a feast for the senses.

For this outing, I brought along a Fujifilm X-M5, a compact yet powerful camera currently on loan from Fujifilm. Designed for photographers stepping up from smartphones, its interchangeable lenses and intuitive features have made it a joy to use. One feature I’ve especially enjoyed experimenting with is Fujifilm’s Film Simulations, which bring a unique creative flair to every shot.

Challenging myself creatively, I decided to shoot exclusively in black and white using the ACROS film simulation. I captured my images in RAW+HEIF, allowing me to use the black-and-white previews as inspiration while preserving the option to revert to full-color files when needed—a choice I made for a few frames from this shoot.

Back home, my workflow brought everything together. I imported the files into Mylio Photos, my go-to image management system, and polished the edits in Adobe Camera Raw via Photoshop. This combination allowed me to craft the final images that reflect the park’s timeless charm and the creative possibilities of the Fujifilm X-M5.

Old Poway Park History

Old Poway Park offers a glimpse into California’s history around the turn of the 20th century. Spanning nearly five acres in the heart of Old Poway, the park features historic buildings and a working railroad that reflect the early days of Poway Valley, a once-thriving agricultural community.

The park’s origins trace back to retired Army Colonel John S. Porter, who moved to Poway in 1948 with a dream of creating a historic village that celebrated the Old West. Colonel Porter began assembling his vision with the acquisition of a 1907 Baldwin Number 3 Steam Engine, a half-mile track, and the creation of “The Poway Village & Rattlesnake Creek Railroad,” which operated during local events in the 1960s. Although Colonel Porter passed away in 1979 before his dream was fully realized, his efforts laid the groundwork for what the park would become.

In 1986, the City of Poway purchased the property and set out to bring Colonel Porter’s vision to life. Historic buildings from the area, such as Templar’s Hall and the Nelson House, were relocated to the park and restored. The Porter House and Hamburger Factory, an early local eatery, were refurbished, while new additions like Overshiner’s Blacksmith Shop, a train barn, and a gazebo were constructed to enhance the park’s turn-of-the-century ambiance. The grounds also include a two-acre green park inspired by the Teddy Roosevelt National Park system, perfect for picnics and leisurely strolls. The park officially opened in 1993.

Poway Farmers Market

While the park itself was delightful, one of the standout moments for me—especially as a foodie—was exploring the Farmers’ Market. Held every Saturday from 8 AM to 1 PM, this vibrant market boasts over 65 vendors offering everything from fresh produce and flowers to mouthwatering prepared foods. I couldn’t resist leaving with several bags brimming with goodies, including homemade tamales, fresh ceviche, pastries, and even a jar of fermented hot sauce. It was a feast in every sense of the word!

Closing Thoughts

Old Poway Park is more than just a picturesque spot; it’s a window into the past and a vibrant part of the present. From its charming historic buildings and vintage trains to the lively Saturday Farmers’ Market, the park offers something for everyone.

For me, this visit was a perfect blend of discovery and artistry. The Fujifilm X-M5 added a creative edge to my experience, allowing me to capture the park’s timeless charm through the lens of black-and-white photography. Pairing that with the sensory delights of the Farmers’ Market made for a fantastic start to my weekend. If you’re looking for a unique outing that combines history, community, and plenty of photo opportunities, Old Poway Park should definitely be on your list.

What about you? Have you ever visited Old Poway Park? Let me know in the comments below! And while you’re there, tell me which photo from this article was your favorite—I’d love to hear your thoughts!