Welcome to University Heights/Hillcrest
An eclectic, close-knit community in the center of San Diego.
The University Heights and Hillcrest communities of San Diego represent two downtown neighborhoods with a vibrant, relaxed vibe. Though it's a colorful area and located very near Balboa Park, it doesn’t attract too many tourists. Approximately 24,000 people call this area home.
Both neighborhoods offer a plethora of eateries, bars, and unique shops, and it's also very pedestrian friendly. Some say Hillcrest presents a Bohemian feel as it often gets compared to places such as Castro and Greenwich Village.
The name University Heights comes from the fact that when established in 1888, the intention was to make it the location for a branch of the University of Southern California.
A delightfully quirky thing about the area involves the ostrich-themed decor across the city. In the early 1900s, a large ostrich farm was one of the area's attractions. Harvey Bentley owned the farm and would charge visitors a small fee to view and sometimes even ride the ostriches. The ostrich farm no longer exists, but they remember it through paintings, sculptures, and other images.
San Diego's temperatures range from 50 to 77 degrees. The temperatures seldom fall below 44 degrees or above 84 degrees.
What to Love
- Eclectic shops and eateries
- Close to Balboa Park
- Walkable
- Strong sense of community
- Near perfect weather
Local Lifestyle
Residents of University Heights and Hillcrest love their neighborhoods. They feel a strong sense of community whenever they run errands or meet up with friends for coffee. They're a vibrant population that enjoys the arts and appreciates nature.
The central location makes it convenient to get to everything San Diego offers. However, the comfortable feel, the plethora of shopping and entertainment, and the close-knit community result in most University Heights residents staying close to home. You'll often hear them say they live in the best San Diego neighborhood.
Dining, Entertainment, & Shopping
The wide variety of restaurants in the University Heights and Hillcrest area is part of the reason it's such a fun and comfortable location. Baja Betty's in Hillcrest serves authentic Mexican fare in a beautiful and festive setting. They offer memberships to their Agave Club for those passionate about mezcal and tequila, and you’ll get invitations to monthly tastings and become part of the Baja Betty's family.
You'll experience an upscale yet friendly feel at Madison's restaurant. They offer elegant indoor or outdoor seating and specialize in handcrafted cocktails, small plates, brunch, and delectable desserts.
Parkhouse Eatery oozes casual and intimate charm. The converted house offers three seating areas, including the living room and patio, but the locals especially love the hearth room with the wood-burning fireplace.
And if you're hungry for an unbelievable sandwich or delicious salad, head over to the Big Front Door in University Heights. This buzzy restaurant continues to win awards as one of San Diego's best delicatessens.
Things to Do
The pleasant San Diego weather sets the stage for lots of fun outdoor activities in the University Heights neighborhood. The University Heights Summer in the Park Concert Series takes place in Trolley Barn Park and offers weeks of free concerts. It's a great event for locals and visitors alike.
The San Diego Gay Pride Parade in mid-June is another fantastic event that draws the crowds to Hillcrest. The Pride events attract thousands of spectators, and many make sure to get a viewing spot for the parade. It's a huge single-day event with colorful floats, marching bands, and many participants representing and celebrating the LGBTQ community.
Schools
The University of California San Diego is the college most associated with the University Heights area. This prestigious school's undergraduate enrollment stands at about 35,000. It's regionally accredited by the WASC Senior College and University Commission.
