Town and Country Resort: Where Mid-Century Magic Meets Modern Holiday Cheer

by | Nov 19, 2025 | Partner Content

In San Diego’s sun-splashed Mission Valley, a mid-century legend is shining brighter than ever. The Town and Country Resort, a beloved California icon since 1953, has transformed itself into a modern playground that balances vintage charm with today’s comfort and style. With palm trees wrapped in twinkling lights, a lobby filled with laughter, and a reputation now stamped with national recognition, Town and Country has become the ultimate destination for locals and travelers looking to celebrate the season in style.

Recently named #11 in the Top Southern California Resorts in the 2025 Condé Nast Traveler Readers’ Choice Awards Best Resort in San Diego by San Diego Magazine readers and Cvent’sTop 250 meeting hotels in North America, this 23-acre resort is more than a place to stay. It’s a place to play, to reconnect, and to rediscover what made California cool in the first place.

A California Classic, Reimagined

Before its transformation in 2019, Town and Country already had a story worth telling. Generations of travelers have passed under its orange sign, lounged by its poolside cabanas, and admired its signature blend of California sunshine and carefree hospitality. But the renovation brought new life to every corner while staying true to the resort’s mid-century roots.

Today, the property features 671 renovated guestrooms and suites, all designed with a fresh take on the classic California aesthetic. Think clean lines, vibrant artwork from local creators, and subtle nods to the resort’s retro heritage. The result is a space that feels timeless yet current, stylish yet playful.

Guests can lounge by one of several sparkling pools, race down Twister, the four-story waterslide, or unwind at the firepits. For families, couples, and solo travelers alike, the resort’s mix of relaxation and fun is hard to beat. To view our current room packages, visit https://www.towncountry.com/stay/offers-packages/

Dining with Personality

Food at Town and Country is as much about flavor as it is about fun. The resort’s award-winning restaurant, ARLO, serves up creative California cuisine that celebrates fresh, seasonal ingredients with a side of personality. Dishes are inspired by the region’s diverse culinary influences and the playful energy of the resort itself. Whether it’s DJ brunch or cocktails on the sprawling patio with outdoor fireplace, ARLO embodies the kind of relaxed sophistication that defines San Diego dining.

For something casual, Lapper Sports Bar + Kitchen is the spot for elevated San Diego bites, cold beer, and friendly banter. It’s the kind of place where locals and guests gather to watch a game or swap stories over tacos. The MRKT, the resort’s grab-and-go café, serves up coffee, breakfast burritos, salads, and wood-fired pizzas for guests on the move. For more information, visit https://www.towncountry.com/dine/

Award-Winning Excellence

Recognition has rolled in for Town and Country in the years since its renovation, confirming what loyal guests have long known. The 2025 Condé Nast Traveler Readers’ Choice Award placed the resort at number eleven among Southern California’s best, an honor that underscores its blend of design, comfort, and experience.

The property was also voted Best Resort in San Diego by readers of San Diego Magazine in 2024, making it one of the city’s most celebrated destinations. For a resort that has reinvented itself while maintaining its iconic spirit, the awards feel both well-deserved and deeply symbolic.

Holiday Magic in San Diego

Trade the holiday stress for sunshine, palm trees, and pure cheer at Town and Country Resort. Each December, the resort transforms into a retro-chic wonderland, where mid-century style meets festive fun. Whether you’re planning a family getaway or a quick escape from the holiday chaos, this San Diego icon makes the season bright in every way.

Throughout the season, the festivities continue across the resort. Cozy up at a firepit with a holiday latte or peppermint mocha from MRKT, or savor holiday meals at ARLO, where the culinary team serves up coastal California flavors with a festive twist. Enjoy special brunches featuring the Grinch and Olaf. New this year, we will have a holiday pop up bar at Monkeybar called Fully Lit. Guests can enjoy seasonal cocktails under holiday lights. The fun spills outdoors too, with snow play on December 28, where overnight guests can frolic in real snow under the San Diego sun.

For those looking to give back, Town and Country proudly supports the U.S. Marine Corps Toys for Tots program, encouraging guests to donate new, unwrapped toys for local children in need—a holiday tradition that brings warmth and joy beyond the resort grounds.

Whether planning a company holiday party, a family getaway, or a romantic weekend, Town and Country makes it easy to celebrate without the stress. Event planners can take advantage of the resort’s sprawling event spaces and expert catering team, who handle everything from décor to custom menus. Guests can choose between intimate dinners under the stars or lively gatherings in beautifully decorated ballrooms.

Even outside the formal festivities, the resort buzzes with activity. Families enjoy poolside movie nights and s’mores under the stars. From poolside cocoa to sparkling cocktails and twinkling nights, Town and Country’s holiday season blends nostalgia and modern comfort into one unforgettable celebration. Visit https://www.towncountry.com/holidays/ for more information.

Giving the Gift of Getaway

For those looking to skip the wrapping paper this year, the resort’s gift cards offer a thoughtful alternative to traditional presents. Perfect for families, friends, or anyone who could use a little sunshine, Town and Country gift cards can be used toward overnight stays, poolside cocktails, or dining experiences at ARLO and The MRKT. As the resort’s marketing team jokes, “Because no one wants to unwrap fruitcake.”

The Perfect San Diego Escape

One of Town and Country’s greatest strengths is its location. Situated just steps from the Fashion Valley Transit Station, the resort offers easy access to San Diego’s best attractions. Guests can hop on the trolley for a quick ride to Snapdragon Stadium, Old Town, Downtown San Diego, or even Petco Park for a Padres game.

Of course, many find they never want to leave the property. Between the pools, restaurants, and endless sunshine, the resort feels like its own little city. Add in complimentary Wi-Fi, in-room refrigerators, a fully equipped fitness center, and pet-friendly accommodations, and it’s easy to see why guests call it a “vacation that takes care of itself.”

For Business and Pleasure

Town and Country Resort thrives on the idea that travel should be joyful. With over 295,000 square feet of meeting and event space, including more than 100,000 square feet outdoors, it’s equally suited for conferences, weddings, or pool parties. But during the holidays, the property transforms into something truly special.

Corporate travelers and event planners find Town and Country to be the rare venue that balances professional functionality with resort relaxation. The property’s extensive meeting facilities have hosted everything from tech conferences to fashion expos, and the resort’s event planners are known for their creativity and ease. For holiday gatherings, they can transform ballrooms into winter wonderlands or create open-air celebrations beneath San Diego’s December sunshine.

With its flexible spaces and experienced culinary team, Town and Country simplifies event planning without sacrificing personality. Guests can celebrate the season with signature cocktails, themed décor, and menus that range from elegant plated dinners to festive buffets. Every detail is handled, so guests can focus on what really matters: enjoying the moment. Visit https://www.towncountry.com/meetings/

The Spirit of Town and Country

What truly sets Town and Country apart is its personality. It’s not just a resort, it’s a feeling. From the witty signs that once dotted its marquee to the friendly faces that greet you at check-in, there’s a warmth and humor here that makes the experience memorable.

The resort’s playful spirit has always been part of its DNA. Before the renovation, its roadside marquee became a local legend, displaying clever one-liners instead of typical hotel promotions. Messages like “There’s no way everybody was kung fu fighting” or “Welcome to the archery conference, free ear piercing” became part of the city’s culture of laughter. Today, that humor lives on in the resort’s voice and its approach to hospitality.

With its award-winning reputation, dedicated team, and vibrant sense of fun, Town and Country is not just a San Diego landmark, it’s a modern destination redefining what resort travel can be. Whether you come for a weekend getaway, a conference, or a holiday escape, one thing is certain: you’ll leave smiling.

From its shimmering pools and buzzing restaurants to its heartfelt holiday traditions, Town and Country Resort is proof that good times never go out of style.

So this season, skip the stress and embrace the joy. Order a peppermint latte, watch the palm trees twinkle, and let San Diego’s most iconic resort remind you what it means to celebrate.

Because at Town and Country, the holidays aren’t just merry. They’re downright legendary. Visit https://www.towncountry.com/ to explore more. Plus follow the fun on Instagram and TikTok @TownCountrySD.