Southern California’s iconic beach town of San Diego is well-known for its surf and sand, but beyond the shore, the city is filled with charismatic neighborhoods worth a bit of exploration. Here’s a guide to some of San Diego’s best neighborhoods to visit on your next trip to the city.
Little Italy
Little Italy (Image: MrLunch used under a Creative Commons Attribution-ShareAlike license)
The bustle of downtown San Diego slows down a bit in Little Italy, where the streets are brimming with quaint cafes and one-of-a-kind restaurants. You’re sure to find plenty of savory pastas and prosciutto along Little Italy’s main drag, India Street. After tasting your way through the neighborhood, relax under the San Diego sun at Amici Park, where you can play bocce ball or hang out in the open-air amphitheater.
Normal Heights
Better known as “Abnormal Heights,” this San Diego neighborhood is best known for its endless array of eclectic pubs, taverns and coffee shops. There’s an artsy and creative air to Normal Heights, as well. A stroll down Adams Avenue will reveal gems like antique shops and quaint book stores between a slew of diverse watering holes.
Gaslamp Quarter
Gaslamp Quarter (Image: Leandro’s World Tour)
This historic neighborhood is San Diego’s pride and joy, filled with contemporary skyscrapers and Victorian brick buildings that house some of the city’s finest restaurants and bars. During the day, you can splurge at Horton Plaza, an upscale outdoor shopping mall. By night, take your pick of San Diego’s top nightlife offerings: theater, concerts, fine dining, dance clubs and trendy bars.
Hillcrest
Hillcrest (Image: rabbot)
This LGBT-friendly neighborhood is right next to San Diego’s famous Balboa Park, home to a Japanese zen garden, botanical gardens and the San Diego Natural History Museum. After a day at Balboa Park, retreat to The Village for dinner at one of Hillcrest’s acclaimed casual restaurants and entertainment options ranging from cabaret to country line dancing.
North Park and South Park
North Park (Image: Allan Ferguson)
Channel your inner independent spirit in North Park, an eclectic community where every shop and cafe seems to have its very own distinct personality. Among the finds in North Park are colorful coffee shops, vintage lounges and local art galleries. If you wander over to South Park, don’t let the residential appearance fool you; between the single-story houses of South Park you’ll find some of San Diego’s best craft beers and innovative dining experiences.
What’s your favorite San Diego neighborhood? Let us know in the comments!
(Main image: tombothetominator)
