Hillcrest, San Diego, is a bustling neighborhood filled with exciting activities and attractions. Whether you’re a foodie looking to indulge in world-class dining, an art lover wanting to explore the cultural scene, or someone looking for outdoor recreation, Hillcrest has something to offer everyone.
In this article, we’ll explore the top things to do in Hillcrest, San Diego, and provide you with an overview of the many attractions worth exploring in this vibrant neighborhood. From its lively nightlife to unique shops and boutiques, and everything in between, Hillcrest is a destination that should be on every traveler’s bucket list.
Key Takeaways
- Hillcrest, San Diego, offers a vibrant and diverse range of activities and attractions.
- Visitors can explore the neighborhood’s lively nightlife scene, indulge in world-class dining, and shop at unique boutiques.
- Hillcrest is home to the world-famous San Diego Zoo, nearby Balboa Park, and several nearby parks and beaches.
- The neighborhood is known for its LGBTQ+ scene and hosts a variety of festivals and events throughout the year.
- Visitors can explore Hillcrest’s rich history and cultural heritage through its historical sites, landmarks, and architecture.
Explore Hillcrest’s Vibrant Nightlife
Hillcrest is not just a place for some of the best dining experiences in San Diego, but also a hub for those who love to party. With a diverse range of options, Hillcrest’s nightlife is simply unmatched. Whether you’re looking to grab a drink with friends or dance the night away, Hillcrest has something for everyone.
Bars in Hillcrest
If you’re in the mood for a casual night out, Hillcrest offers a plethora of bars to choose from. Stop by the iconic Cheers Bar, which has been a staple of the neighborhood for over 30 years. Or check out one of the many sports bars in the area, such as Flicks or Hillcrest Brewing Company, for a laid-back atmosphere and great drinks.
Live Music in Hillcrest
If live music is more your style, Hillcrest has got you covered. The Merrow is a popular spot for local bands and up-and-coming musicians, while Gossip Grill and Martinis Above Fourth offer a mix of live music and other entertainment options.
No matter what your preference, Hillcrest’s nightlife has something for everyone. So put on your dancing shoes or grab a drink with friends, and get ready for a night out in one of San Diego’s most vibrant neighborhoods.
Indulge in World-Class Dining
Hillcrest is a food lover’s paradise, with a plethora of options available for every palate. No matter what cuisine you crave, you’ll find it among Hillcrest’s diverse restaurants.
For a farm-to-table experience, head to Farm House Cafe, where you can enjoy seasonal dishes made with locally sourced ingredients. Fans of Italian cuisine can savor the delicious pastas and pizzas at Cucina Urbana. If seafood is what you’re after, The Fishery serves up the freshest catches of the day.
For a taste of local cuisine in Hillcrest, try Crest Cafe, serving up classic American dishes with a twist. Hash House A Go Go is a crowd favorite, famous for its oversized portions of comfort food. And for a sweet treat, don’t miss Babycakes, a bakery specializing in gluten-free and vegan desserts.
These are just a few examples of the many exceptional dining options available in Hillcrest. Whether you’re in the mood for a fancy night out or a casual bite with friends, Hillcrest’s restaurants are sure to impress.
Shop at Unique Boutiques
One of the biggest draws of Hillcrest is the wide range of unique shops and boutiques that line its streets. From trendy fashion boutiques to specialty stores selling handcrafted items, Hillcrest offers an eclectic shopping experience that caters to all tastes and budgets.
Local Artisans in Hillcrest
If you’re looking for one-of-a-kind items that you won’t find anywhere else, be sure to check out the many local artisans in Hillcrest. These talented artists and makers offer a variety of handmade goods, from beautiful ceramics and jewelry to handcrafted leather goods and textiles.
- Head to Leather Works MN for high-quality handcrafted leather bags, wallets, and accessories.
- Visit Sama Sama for beautiful textiles and clothing made by local artisans.
- Stop by Simply Local for a variety of handmade goods, including ceramics, jewelry, and home decor items.
Boutique Shopping in San Diego
If mainstream shopping isn’t your thing, Hillcrest’s selection of boutique stores is sure to impress. These unique shops offer a curated selection of clothing, accessories, and home decor items that you won’t find at your typical mall.
- Dama offers a carefully curated selection of contemporary women’s clothing and accessories.
- For vintage finds and retro-inspired fashion, head to Frock You Vintage.
- Make Good is a boutique store that offers a variety of handmade items from local artisans, including jewelry, clothing, and home decor.
Whether you’re looking for handmade goods from local artisans or unique finds at a boutique shop, Hillcrest’s shopping scene offers something for everyone.
Visit the San Diego Zoo
When it comes to family-friendly activities, a visit to the San Diego Zoo is a must. This world-famous zoo is just a short distance from Hillcrest and offers a vast collection of animals from around the world. From giant pandas to roaring lions, visitors of all ages will be amazed by the diversity of species on display.
In addition to providing a fun outing for families, the San Diego Zoo is also committed to wildlife conservation. The zoo works to protect endangered species and their habitats, offering visitors a chance to learn about the importance of conservation efforts.
Enjoy Outdoor Activities in Balboa Park
Balboa Park, located near Hillcrest, offers an abundance of outdoor activities for visitors to enjoy. Whether you’re looking to relax among beautiful gardens or go for a bike ride, there’s something for everyone in this expansive park.
Take a Stroll Through the Gardens
With over 17 gardens to explore, Balboa Park is a paradise for nature enthusiasts. Admire the vibrant colors of the Rose Garden or take a peaceful walk through the Japanese Friendship Garden. Don’t miss the California Native Plant Garden, which features a diverse range of plants native to the state.
Rent a Bike and Explore the Trails
Looking for a more active way to experience the park? Rent a bike and explore its extensive trails. Wind your way through the lush vegetation or take a leisurely ride around the central Plaza de Panama. With over 65 miles of trails to choose from, there’s no shortage of routes to explore.
Picnic in the Park
Take advantage of the open spaces in Balboa Park and enjoy a picnic in the sunshine. Spread out a blanket in one of the grassy areas or reserve a picnic area for larger groups. Whether you’re looking for a quiet spot to relax or a fun family outing, Balboa Park has plenty of options for outdoor relaxation.
Visit the Botanical Building
One of the most iconic landmarks in Balboa Park is the Botanical Building, featuring an impressive collection of over 2,100 plants. Admire the vibrant colors of the exotic flowers or take a peaceful walk through the orchid garden. Don’t miss the Lily Pond, which adds a beautiful touch to the already stunning scenery.
With its diverse range of outdoor activities, Balboa Park is the perfect destination for anyone looking to enjoy the great outdoors during their visit to Hillcrest and San Diego.
Experience the LGBTQ+ Scene
Hillcrest is a welcoming and inclusive neighborhood, and home to San Diego’s vibrant LGBTQ+ community. Visitors to Hillcrest can enjoy its lively and diverse LGBTQ+ scene, attend fun-filled Pride celebrations, and support LGBTQ-owned businesses.
Attend Hillcrest’s Pride Celebrations
Every year, Hillcrest hosts one of the biggest Pride celebrations in the country. The annual event attracts visitors from around the world, all joining together to celebrate diversity and equality. With lively parties, colorful parades, and inspiring speeches, Hillcrest’s Pride celebrations are not to be missed.
Explore LGBTQ-Friendly Businesses
Many businesses in Hillcrest proudly display rainbow flags, showing their support for the LGBTQ+ community. Visitors can enjoy a night out at LGBTQ-friendly bars and clubs, or shop for unique gifts at LGBTQ-owned boutiques.
Embrace the Diversity of Hillcrest
Hillcrest’s inclusive atmosphere makes it the perfect destination for anyone looking for a welcoming and accepting community. Whether attending Pride celebrations or simply exploring the neighborhood, visitors can embrace the diversity of Hillcrest and celebrate the LGBTQ+ community.
Attend Festivals and Events
For those who love culture and community celebrations, Hillcrest offers a variety of festivals and events throughout the year. From street fairs to live music performances, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
CityFest Street Fair
One of the largest events held in Hillcrest is the CityFest Street Fair, which takes place annually in August. This lively event features multiple stages of live music, local vendors, and a vast array of food and drink options. For those who love people-watching and exploring new trends, this is an event not to be missed.
Hillcrest Farmers Market
For those who love farm-fresh food, the Hillcrest Farmers Market is held every Sunday throughout the year from 9am-2pm. This vibrant market offers a variety of locally grown produce, specialty foods, and artisan crafts. Visitors can also enjoy live music performances, cooking demonstrations, and other activities.
San Diego LGBT Pride Parade and Festival
Hillcrest is known as the heart of San Diego’s LGBTQ+ community, so it’s no surprise that the annual San Diego LGBT Pride Parade and Festival takes place here. Typically held in July, this event celebrates diversity and equality with live entertainment, food and drink vendors, and a colorful parade through the neighborhood.
Other cultural events in San Diego that take place in Hillcrest include the Hillcrest Mardi Gras and the Hillcrest Taste ‘N’ Tinis.
- Hillcrest Mardi Gras: This festive event takes place every February and features live music, dancing, and plenty of beads and masks.
- Hillcrest Taste ‘N’ Tinis: Held during the holiday season, this event is a food and drink lover’s dream. Local restaurants and bars offer tasty bites and cocktail samples while visitors can explore the neighborhood’s holiday decorations.
Whether you’re a music lover, foodie, or cultural enthusiast, Hillcrest’s festivals and events offer something for everyone. Be sure to check the local calendar to find out what’s happening during your visit.
Explore the History of Hillcrest
Hillcrest has a rich history that is reflected in its unique architecture and landmarks. Visitors to the area can explore the neighborhood’s cultural heritage through its many historical sites.
Architecture
One of the most striking features of Hillcrest is its architecture. The neighborhood boasts a variety of architectural styles, including Craftsman, Spanish Colonial Revival, and Art Deco. Many of the buildings in Hillcrest have been designated as historical landmarks, offering a glimpse into the neighborhood’s past.
One of the most notable examples of historical architecture in Hillcrest is the Marston House Museum. Built in 1905, this stunning home has been preserved as a museum and offers visitors a glimpse into the lifestyle of the city’s early residents.
Historical Sites
In addition to its impressive architecture, Hillcrest is home to several historical sites that offer a deeper understanding of the neighborhood’s cultural heritage.
The San Diego History Center, located in nearby Balboa Park, features exhibits that explore the history of the area, including Hillcrest’s role in shaping the city’s cultural landscape.
The Egyptian Garage, located on University Avenue, is another notable historical site in Hillcrest. Built in the 1920s, the building was one of the first gas stations in the neighborhood and has been preserved as an example of early 20th-century architecture.
Cultural Heritage
Hillcrest’s cultural heritage is reflected in its diverse population and vibrant community. The neighborhood has long been a hub for the LGBTQ+ community in San Diego, and visitors can experience this inclusive atmosphere through Hillcrest’s many LGBTQ+-owned businesses and events.
Additionally, Hillcrest is home to several cultural institutions that celebrate the area’s diverse heritage. The San Diego LGBT Community Center, for example, offers programs and services that support the LGBTQ+ community, while the WorldBeat Cultural Center showcases the music, art, and dance of cultures from around the world.
Overall, a visit to Hillcrest offers a unique opportunity to explore San Diego’s rich cultural heritage and learn about the diverse communities that have helped shape the city over the years.
Relax in Nearby Parks and Beaches
When it comes to outdoor activities, Hillcrest is surrounded by some of the most beautiful parks and beaches in the San Diego area. Whether you want to soak up the sun or take a leisurely hike, there are plenty of options for outdoor relaxation.
San Diego Parks
- Balboa Park: Located nearby, Balboa Park is one of the largest urban parks in the country. With over 1,200 acres of lush greenery and gardens, it’s the perfect place for a peaceful stroll or a scenic bike ride.
- Mission Bay Park: This sprawling park features miles of cycling paths, waterfront picnic areas, and great views of the bay. It’s a popular spot for family outings and water activities like stand-up paddleboarding and kayaking.
- Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve: This stunning nature reserve offers hiking trails that wind through rugged cliffs and canyon valleys with panoramic ocean views. It’s also home to the rare Torrey Pine tree, found only in this area.
Beach Activities
With over 70 miles of coastline, San Diego has some of the best beaches in the country. From surfing to sunbathing, there’s no shortage of beach activities to enjoy.
- La Jolla Cove: This idyllic cove offers crystal-clear waters and stunning views of the surrounding cliffs. It’s a popular spot for swimming, snorkeling, and scuba diving.
- Coronado Beach: With its wide stretch of white sand and historic Hotel Del Coronado in the background, this beach is a favorite for families and sunbathers alike.
- Ocean Beach: Known for its bohemian vibe and eclectic shops, Ocean Beach is a popular spot for surfing and beach bonfires.
Whether you’re looking for a peaceful hike or a day in the sun, Hillcrest’s proximity to these beautiful parks and beaches makes it an ideal destination for outdoor enthusiasts.
Discover Hillcrest’s Art and Culture
For art lovers and culture enthusiasts, Hillcrest offers a vibrant scene with a wide range of options to explore. Hillcrest is home to many art galleries showcasing works by local and international artists. Visitors can immerse themselves in the vibrant colors and styles of various forms of art, from paintings to sculptures.
The Performing Arts in Hillcrest
Hillcrest is also known for its performing arts scene. The neighborhood has several theaters that regularly host live performances, including plays, musicals, and concerts. Visitors can enjoy a variety of shows throughout the year, ranging from Broadway-style productions to experimental performances.
Cultural Institutions in San Diego
In addition to its art galleries and theaters, Hillcrest is also home to several cultural institutions that offer a glimpse into the neighborhood’s history and heritage. The San Diego History Center, located in Balboa Park, showcases exhibits and artifacts that tell the story of San Diego’s past. The San Diego Natural History Museum, also located in Balboa Park, displays exhibits related to the natural world and the environment.
Another notable institution is the San Diego Museum of Art, which features an impressive collection of artworks ranging from old masters to contemporary pieces. The museum offers free admission to visitors on the third Tuesday of every month.
Overall, whether visitors are interested in art, theater, or history and culture, Hillcrest offers a diverse range of options to explore and enjoy.
