5 Things to Do in Hillcrest San Diego
If you love California’s warm and sunny weather, then you should do a little shopping in Hillcrest. Hillcrest, located in San Diego’s Pacific Beach area, is the ultimate gay mecca. Gay life in San Diego has evolved from a handful of men sleeping in parks to the very existence of openly gay clubs and restaurants. It’s no surprise that a lot of gay couples choose Hillcrest as their wedding venue.
The location of Hillcrest makes it a great place for a honeymoon. It is very popular among couples looking for unique and old-fashioned luxury in a new location. There are various locations where you can stay in this beautiful beachfront community. All the more reason why Hillcrest is one of the most popular attractions for couples during San Diego’s gay pride month.
A few of the things to do in Hillcrest include horseback riding, hiking and rafting in the Tijuana River, shopping in its numerous boutiques and shops, and sightseeing at the various locations that line the beachfront. Most of these activities are best done in the evening, especially when the beaches are not too busy with tourists. You can also take a boat tour from Tijuana to learn about the olden days of the Mexican culture in Hillcrest. During the daytime, you can pedal to live music in several of the neighborhood’s downtown venues. The University of California at San Diego is located in nearby North Park, and you can grab a bike and tour through campus landmarks such as Academic Village and Trojan Stadium.
Nightlife is also a big attraction for those in Hillcrest. There are various pubs, bars, clubs and small jazz bars within walking distance. The nightlife is a good time for both singles and couples to come and enjoy themselves. The north park district of San Diego is conveniently close to the main drag in Hillcrest; so you can head over to that area and enjoy some retail therapy at the old globe theatre.
Eating out at the restaurants in Hillcrest includes such treats as pupus con carne (steamed white fish), chimichangas (chocolate shrimp) and hue fritter (fried shrimp balls). There are also a few seafood restaurants here in Hillcrest including La Jolla Shores beach’s Bestie, which is frequented by local residents and tourists alike. If you are looking for more local restaurants, there are quite a few options available to you in San Diego. At the north end of Hillcrest, you will find La Casona Restaurant, a seafood restaurant that offers you some of the best fresh seafood in town. In Hillcrest, you will find The Blue Moon, a local bar and restaurant that serve up delectable seafood concoctions like crab cakes, crab and salmon chimichangas, and paella. In Hillcrest and La Jolla, you will also find the awesome Grilli Martini Bar & Restaurant that sell some of the nicest pasta in town as well as some delicious pizzas.
When you want to get away from all the commercialism, the best things to do in hillcrest are things to do with your family. There are numerous beaches here in San Diego and each has its own character and story to tell. You should consider the San Diego Zoo’s Sea World and Kids Kingdom as they both offer a range of attractions for families. If you are looking for a way to spend a day while in town, you can stop by the Gas Lamp District and grab a few brewskies at the infamous White Gas Station. You can also visit the Tijuana Flats, which is a monument to the cross of the legendary Drug Lord Francisco “Paco” Escalante.
One of the best things to do in San Diego is to check out the many parks that are found in and around the city. In fact, the entire city of San Diego is a national park. Just a few of the parks you will find in and around Hillcrest include Balboa Park, Presidio Park, Carlin Park, Bazaar Del Mundo, Lone Pine Park, and more. You will find several beaches in and around San Diego as well. The entire beach area is known as Torrey pines park and it boasts several miles of magnificent views of the Pacific Ocean and the Coronado Bay.
If you are looking for a way to spend a day, you can check out the numerous hiking trails in and around the Coronado National Forest. Not only will you get to hike along some of California’s most beautiful mountains, but you will also be able to view the many luxurious beaches that can be found here. A popular trail amongst those who enjoy hiking is the Pacific Crest Trail. Many San Diego beaches offer the same amenities and scenic overlooks, so why not spend a day enjoying the various activities available?
Top Five Hillcrest San Diego Attractions For Families to Visit
There are many Hillcrest San Diego attractions for those who love to travel to distant places with a quick dose of culture. Hillcrest is a hotspot for the gay community, with pulsating gay nightlife and a large gay population. It’s also the nerve center of San Diego’s gay scene, with buzzing, bustling gay bars and the annual Gay and Lesbian Pride Parade.
University Avenue is lined at right with locally owned cafes, restaurants and second-hand stores selling global cuisines such as Vietnamese, Himalayan and Thai. The eclectic mix of cafes, restaurants and small second-hand shops on Fifth Avenue make it an all-time favorite weekend destination for travelers. The weekly Hillcrest Farmers Market offers fresh local produce, flowers and cookware in all season, while the gay community’s Monthly Pride Festival is celebrated every June. Another great reason to visit this area is that it’s the gateway to La Jolla, home to California’s largest gay pride festival. A parade featuring hundreds of gorgeous, colorful costumes along the beach also adds to the fun.
Hillcrest boasts its own zoo and aquatic centre, which offer a range of exhibits. The zoo is designed to look like an old-fashioned African village and is filled with friendly, native-style animals. The Aquatic Centre hosts a number of water displays, such as the Giant Squid and Spotted Wildcat, that educate children about the aquatic world around them. The Whalesback Sea Salt Locker is a natural attraction for both locals and tourists, where travelers can pay to see the rarest and smallest marine animals. This natural attraction is closed on Saturdays.
In addition to these exciting attractions, Hillcrest has several other fun activities for kids. The zoo hosts several animal shows featuring degreasers, snakes and other animals. There are also several play areas, including one that allows the whole family to engage in horseplay. Kids can visit a ferret named Fido who resides at the San Diego Zoo. While the zoo is located right on the water, you can enjoy fishing, sailing and other water-based adventures on the private lake in the area.
While you’re in town, why not take a trip to the Children’s Museum of San Diego, which features a large collection of different types of exhibits? The Tijuana Blondies exhibits is perfect for young children; it allows them to dress up in a biker gear and listen to stories about the cross- Mexico border. You can also visit the Pet Porpoise Pool and explore the fascinating underwater world of captivity. All ages and groups of all ages will enjoy the exhibits at this California-based attraction.
If you are planning a day out of the city, you may want to take the family to the SeaWorld. They feature Shamu showboats as well as a great deal of other aquatic wildlife. The Park is open daily during the summer months, so the hours may vary depending on when it is open. However, during the winter months the Park remains closed to everyone except the owners and employees. So be sure to check in advance to see if the dates still change before you head out.
If your family likes roller coasters and other thrill rides, then Hillcrest’s Six Flags Magic Mountain is the place to go. The park features many thrilling rides that can be enjoyed by both the young and old. The tallest ride at the Park is Needles. There are also numerous water slides that families can enjoy. During the summer months, there are also many events hosted at Six Flags Magic Mountain that is designed especially for families.
One of the best things about Hillcrest’s West Coast Aquarium is that it allows the whole family to participate. With activities for children and adults alike, this is a great opportunity to spend some quality time with your family while not only having fun at the Park. Plus, the Aquarium offers educational experiences for children of all ages from infants to teenagers. It is a well-known area for the breeding of rare species of fish. Therefore, you will find that the West Coast Aquarium is more than just an aquarium – it is a learning experience for everyone in your family.
What To See Around Hillcrest San Diego
What to see around Hillcrest in San Diego? The answer depends upon your lifestyle. If you are a student, a lover of outdoor sports and a person who prefer to be active outdoors, then there are several places you can visit in and around Hillcrest. The first thing to do is to decide what type of person you are before venturing out on a tour of San Diego.
Hillcrest is definitely the heart of San Diego’s lesbian community, with buzzing gay clubs and the annual Gay Pride Parade. University Avenue is lined primarily with cafes, boutiques, second-hand clothing stores and outdoor cafes, while the central Park area is filled with benches, parks and gardens. The large weekly Hillcrest Farmers Market draws people looking for fresh vegetables, fruits, honey and baked goods.
In terms of the downtown district, Hillcrest boasts a large number of loft apartments, lofts and condos. The area is also considered to be one of the hottest areas to live in, especially for those seeking a more urban lifestyle. The five neighborhoods in and around Hillcrest that comprise San Diego’s Mission Hills include Founta Mesa, Terlingua and La Jolla. A number of luxury high-rise apartments and condos are located in the Mission Hills area. The bustling, narrow streets, many of them close to schools and shopping centers, make this an attractive place to live.
The area was originally home to a thriving banking district. The first bank building to arrive on the scene, the First National Bank of San Diego, still stands today. The current town Council is attempting to bring the area back to the style of the 1950s. The small historic district has been divided into six zones. Zoning guidelines allow for many types of development, including but not limited to: single family homes, duplex housing, condominiums and possibly even a small town center or shopping area.
Hillcrest’s neighboring neighborhoods are designed for what the architects called “transitional homeowners”. These are the type of people who either currently own their home, or plan to within the next several years. Two of these communities, La Jolla and Terlingua, have joined together under the auspices of a business association known as the Terlingua Business Association. This association has been helping the neighborhood to maintain its unique character by putting into place a governing board and a select group of volunteer members. One of the board members is Frank Horvath, former editor in chief of the San Diego Reader.
Hillcrest’s neighboring neighborhood, Mission Hills, has its own character. The area has been built up, and there are a variety of different businesses operating here. There is a wide variety of restaurants, movie theaters, bars and nightclubs. There is also an abundance of excellent public school. The Mission Hills Association of Realtors was created to preserve and promote the character of the neighborhood. They sponsor a farmer’s market, hosting a series of open houses and organizing community events.
The area surrounding what to see around hillcrest San Diego contains the world famous Balboa Park. This 3.2-acre park is one of the most visited tourist attractions in the San Diego area. Many tourists and residents come to take in the beautiful views of the local area and to enjoy all that Balboa Park has to offer. A popular attraction for tourists is the Balboa Park Zoo. This zoo features a number of exotic animals, as well as educational exhibits designed to teach children about the nature of the environment as well as how animals interact with people.
If you love what to see around Hillcrest San Diego, but happen to be located right near the internationally recognized Balboa Park, you may want to visit the park. You will be able to view many of the animals that are native to the area, and you can also view the manmade creations in their natural habitats. This Park offers a lot of activities for both natives and visitors. You will find waterfalls, gardens, trails for biking, picnic tables, art shops, and a cafe. The food offered at the park may be one of the best in the San Diego area.
Hillcrest San Diego Facts
One of San Diego’s newest neighborhoods is Hillcrest, a trendy new neighborhood. It is located between La Jolla and Pacific Beach. The community is composed of homes that are very contemporary in design, filled with California accents and surrounded by luxury. This article will give you the latest Hillcrest San Diego facts and some interesting places to visit.
Hillcrest is where you’ll find the city’s gay and lesbian community. Gay bars dot the neighborhood, with pulsating gay nights and buzzing gay communities throughout the town. University Park is lined with cafes, boutiques and second hand clothing shops, while the infamous Fashion District stretches for miles along Fifth Avenue and includes such places as Pure Protein and Pure Vitamin.
One of the most interesting things about Hillcrest is its history. As a community, it has not always been particularly open or welcoming. In fact, it was until recently that there were no gay clubs in Hillcrest. However, things are changing. The Stonewall County courthouse was recently renovated, which means there are now two gay bookstores within walking distance of each other and several lesbian groups have also come into existence.
Many people do not realize that Hillcrest does not have a shopping area. It does, however, have two public parks. However, it is considered a safe neighborhood and crimes are low. You’ll find the best gay clubs and restaurants here. If you are looking for high-end restaurants and other fine establishments, you’re out of luck.
Of course, if you want to play some darts or visit the gym, there is no shortage of these things in Hillcrest. The truth is that Hillcrest has maintained its reputation as a gay community yet is very welcoming and civil. This is due in part to the fact that there are no large corporations here. Many of the residents are small businesses and families. Here, people are more focused on creating lasting relationships and socializing with like-minded people than they are on earning money or becoming rich.
One of the most interesting Hillcrest San Diego facts is that it is not simply a beach town. It is actually divided roughly into two halves: the coastal and inland sections. The coastal area is bordered by the Pacific Ocean and the San Diego Bay. The inland area is bordered on three sides by the Coronado Mountains. The Coronado Mountains runs right through the middle of Hillcrest.
Hillcrest is known for its extreme temperatures. The winters are cold and unbearable in the inland section but are much more bearable in the coastal area. It can get very hot in the summer but with a bit of insulation and proper airflow, it doesn’t get too hot at all. You may wonder why all the hype about being able to participate in winter sports when it is not even possible to do so. Well, the answer is that if you are looking to participate in winter sports, you need to find a resort that has an indoor facility for you to use.
Once you are done taking in the beautiful views of the area, head over to the local shops. Hillcrest offers some of the best shopping in the San Diego area. If you are interested in antiques, there are plenty of antique shops. If you want to buy a trinket, there are some amazing options for buys. As you can see, Hillcrest has plenty of options and as such, is one of the best places to go if you want to spend a few days in sunny San Diego.
Once you have everything packed, head back to your rented house. Enjoy yourself and try not to think about your family because chances are they will be getting bored with watching you. Enjoy the fact that you won’t be having to deal with the kids because most of the resorts are family friendly and have ski slopes for adults. On top of skiing and enjoying the sun, there are two other activities that you can enjoy during your stay at Hillcrest. First of all, you can go tubing or paragliding. Of course, you won’t do this while you are on vacation but it can be a great option if you are in town for a few days.
If you want a true adventure, then consider the waterslides in Hillcrest. The waterfalls in San Diego are breathtaking but many don’t like to climb the steep sides. You also won’t be able to see the spectacular wildlife in the national park. However, if you enjoy jumping off the slides, you will enjoy this activity in the summer months when the waters are warm enough.
There are also some great biking routes in town. Try to find a route that is off of the beaten path so that you won’t get lost. In fact, it can be fun to explore the countryside along with your bicycle. As you can see, there are a lot of options for tourists who want to enjoy a night in Hillcrest. They have plenty of things to do and see. You can also learn some local San Diego facts when you visit this beautiful area of San Diego.
Top 3 Restaurants in San Diego
Hillcrest is a popular favorite for many visitors to San Diego. It is located in the Rancho Park district, just a short distance from the airport and downtown San Diego. In Hillcrest, you will find two-story homes with views of the canyon, hills, and river. So, when you are planning your next vacation or business retreat to San Diego, Hillcrest could be your ideal place to relax and unwind, away from the hectic world of city life.
The restaurant and boutique atmosphere at Hillcrest is just one reason it is such a popular destination. The combination of outdoor dining and breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean provide a relaxed atmosphere, while the cuisine and wine are top notch. Here, you’ll find casual delis, sidewalk cafes, cozy sidewalk pubs, gourmet restaurants, gourmet coffee shops, art galleries, a spa, an indoor/outdoor market, and a tiki bar. Here, you won’t feel like you’re being isolated by the sophistication of the area. Instead, you will feel like you are part of a secret oasis tucked away in the middle of Hillcrest, where nature and people came together.
A few blocks west of Hillcrest is Tustin, where you can find a laid-back cafe with a small outdoor patio and cozy seating. With plenty of delicious food choices and great cuisine, Tustin makes a great base from which to explore all of the amazing cuisines available in and around Hillcrest and San Diego. Across town, you will find a larger selection of upscale restaurants with waterfront cafeterias. Whether you are looking for upscale seafood fare or elegant tapas, you will have plenty to choose from in San Diego and Tustin.
For some of the most unique dining and cocktail experiences, head to the cozy Balboa Park Inn for some of the best restaurants and coffee shops in San Diego. Balboa Park Inn conveniently merges designer hotels with affordable accommodations, providing travelers with easy access to great food and entertainment. If you are looking for a private dining space, consider the wonderful private villa rentals available at the nearby Coronado Hotel & Gardens. The Balboa Park Inn offers many of the same conveniences and features as the Coronado but is located only minutes from the world-class San Diego attractions.
If you are looking for a contemporary restaurant, head to Spago in downtown San Diego’s Gaslamp District. Spago is a contemporary gastronomic restaurant with award-winning menu, world class wine and beer selections, extensive wine list and special tastings. Join their dinner program for a gourmet dinner and experience the California cuisine like never before with a Spago meal.
If you are looking for a comfortable and elegant dining room, head to Hillcrest San Diego. The newly renovated Hillcrest offers both casual dining and fine dining with an emphasis on presenting truly traditional and ethnic foods. A vegetarian restaurant is on the premises, so if you are allergic to meat, you will not be sorry. Choose from a variety of traditional Mexican dishes, as well as traditional Filipino favorites, Chinese delights and Mediterranean fare such as kebabs. The restaurant is also known for its wide variety of cocktails and wines that offer guests the chance to try some unusual flavors they may have never tried before.
Of course, no discussion of Hillcrest San Diego would be complete without mentioning the fabulous brunch menu. With many local and international dishes on the menu, guests can relax with a nice glass of wine and sit down to one of the best brunches they have ever had. There are some top-rated brunch locations in the city, so guests can easily choose one that fits their taste and budget. The brunch menu at Hillcrest includes everything from grilled vegetable and gluten-free sandwiches to decadent pastries and teas. Make sure to stop by at the Westgate Hotel while you are in the area to enjoy one of the best brunches in San Diego.
Another great place to eat in San Diego is Balboa Park’s Tandoori Restaurant. The restaurant offers a variety of entrees, from authentic Indian to vegetarian and beyond. Guests can enjoy their meal along with a selection of chilled drinks, tea, desserts and other beverages. This is one of the more popular Balboa Park restaurants, so be sure to visit while you are in the area. You won’t be disappointed by this delicious Indian entree that features ingredients like cashew nuts, coconut, caramelized onions, yogurt and mint.
Staying at One of Hillcrest San Diego Hotels
WHAT IF you could combine the luxury of Hillcrest San Diego hotels with the beaches of La Jolla and enjoy a week of SAN DIEGO events? It’s possible! Host a fabulous San Diego wedding or corporate retreat in one of the many unique venues at Hillcrest. Whether it’s romantic dining with a private bar, or live entertainment by local bands, you won’t be disappointed with the service or the ambience of Hillcrest.
Join us for our second hotel week in June! At Hillcrest Hotel downtown, located at 615 S. Beach Avenue, are a terrific value, only Adult-oriented escape which provides FREE Stay & Play, FREE Food & Drinks, FREE shuttle service to and from La Jolla-La Jolla Airport and FREE parking at the hotel. The Hilton San Diego Resort & Spa, one of the most sought-after hotels in Southern California, hosts a summer resort party each Tuesday, featuring live entertainment by local musicians, karaoke at The Tower Restaurant, and an opportunity to try new delectable seafood entrees. The Westin Horton Plaza Hotel, an historic landmark on the Historic Coast Walk, also features a beachside location and is home to award-winning cuisine. Beachgoers will appreciate complimentary beach chair rentals, along with sunscreen, hats, towels and water bottles.
The seventh annual Surfers Paradise Surf Festival is coming to La Jolla on June 3rd. Featuring world renowned surfers, water sports, instructors, food festivals and street activities, Surfers Paradise is one of Southern California’s premiere seaside destinations. Leave your heavy heels at home this summer as you celebrate this year’s Surfers Paradise event with discounted hotel stays and beach packages. Enjoy amazing seaside and desert views while enjoying Surf Fest or simply stroll down the beach between events to enjoy the warm days and cooling breezes.
For travelers who prefer to stay closer to the beach, Hillcrest San Diego is perfect. Located just minutes from the hotel, guests will find great amenities and access to fun beaches, shopping and dining. Choose from deluxe hotels that offer spacious rooms, fireplaces and lush landscaping, to economical hotels located nearby and convenient to shopping, beach access and many other fun amenities. Hillcrest is proud to offer complimentary shuttle service to and from the hotel during events and summer concerts.
Visitors to the nearby Jack Nicklaus Desert Resort can stay at the Park Grand hotel located less than one mile from Hillcrest. With over seven miles of oceanfront property, this hotel is perfect for couples and families looking to experience Southern California’s natural charms at its best. Guests can dine at one of the hotel’s 18th century sunbeds or enjoy beach weddings and parties at their spacious beaches.
To keep things exciting, guests are encouraged to stay at one of the many outdoor activities located nearby. The Del Mar Fairgrounds is one of the most popular destinations in Southern California, hosting festivals and competitions all year around. The Park Grand Hotel is only one block away and is home to the Del Mar Racquet Club, one of the most popular sports clubs in Southern California. If it’s a competition you are looking to attend, the hotel is close enough that you can be just a short drive away from your tickets.
Located just a few blocks from Hillcrest, you’ll find the Hotel Pacific. The hotel was built in 1923 and has quickly become a trend-setting favorite among locals and visitors alike. The hotel offers a variety of guestrooms, including deluxe suites with king and queen beds. Each guest room is equipped with a private terrace, Jacuzzi, fireplace, wet bar, kitchenette, and valet parking. The hotel is also located near several fine restaurants and bars, as well as a variety of specialty shops for souvenirs and gifts.
If you are planning to stay in Hillcrest San Diego during any part of May or June, the Holiday Inn Express will prove to be a wonderful choice. The hotel is located a short distance from Hillcrest beach and is conveniently located for guests to make day trips or short excursions to their favorite local attractions. While at the hotel, look out for the hotel’s free parking lot and complimentary shuttle service. The Holiday Inn Express also offers a full range of services, including complimentary continental breakfast daily, health clubs with full gyms, valet parking, pet services, valet scheduling, laundry and quick pick up, a pool, Wi-Fi internet access, business centers, dry cleaning, airport transportation, and premium hotel rooms.
Snakes in Spain | Everything You Need to Know Before Traveling
Contents5 Things to Do in Hillcrest San DiegoTop Five Hillcrest San Diego Attractions For Families to VisitWhat To See Around Hillcrest San DiegoHillcrest San Diego
Does Chicago Have Good Shopping?
Discover the vibrant shopping scene in Chicago! From luxury boutiques to local treasures, this city has it all. Find out where to shop and uncover hidden gems in the Windy City.
How Far From Miami To The Bahamas
Discover the distance between Miami and the Bahamas, direct and indirect routes, transportation options, and popular destinations. Start your tropical adventure today!
Why Do People Love Chicago?
Explore the reasons why people can’t help but love Chicago, from its vibrant cultural scene and historical landmarks to its architectural marvels and culinary delights. Discover the city’s sports culture, music scene, beautiful beaches, charming neighborhoods, and thriving fashion industry. Don’t miss out on the festivals and events that make Chicago an exciting and unforgettable destination.
Drive From Seattle To Yellowstone National Park
Embark on a scenic road trip from Seattle to Yellowstone National Park, taking you through breathtaking landscapes, charming towns, and abundant wildlife. Plan your trip, prepare your vehicle, and explore the wonders of both the journey and the park itself.
What Makes The City Of Chicago Unique?
Discover what makes the city of Chicago truly unique. From its architectural marvels to its cultural diversity and iconic cuisine, Chicago has something for everyone. Explore its famous landmarks and experience the charm of this one-of-a-kind city.
