San Diego: 5 Neighborhoods You Should Explore

Thanks to its proximity to the Mexican border, its variety of cafés, shops and dining experiences to choose from, its stunning beaches and trendy quarters, San Diego’s bustling heart is a must during your next adventure to California. Explore these five energetic neighborhoods that will keep you asking for more in USA!

North Park

Up and coming North Park finds itself packed with the cool kids and modern hipsters looking to score some great java or sip on microbrewery gems. From the delectable Underbelly to the scrumptious Nomad Donuts, 30^th Street takes you on a journey through San Diego’s entertaining hub, with mouth-watering tacos and contemporary shops. Like the vibe? Extend your explorations to South Park down below for some eclectic outlets as well as meeting points such as Captain Kirk’s Coffee Stand and diversified food trucks.

Balboa Park

Just west of North Park, San Diego meets green in this 1400-acre urban solace. Stroll the Prado for a peek into the park’s best features. Spanish revival and colonial buildings invite you to discover dozens of different museums ranging from aerospace to photography! Balboa Park also houses one of the world’s most renowned animal estates, the San Diego Zoo.

Little Italy

Once home to San Diego’s tuna fishermen and transformation plants, Little Italy is now a quaint neighborhood filled with sun-soaking patios. Indulge in some of the city’s best food along India Street or try your hand at bocce in one of the district’s many parks. Whatever you do, don’t miss a visit to the Saturday market boasting with fresh produce and local souvenirs.

La Jolla

Designer names and coastline collide in the tiny paradise of La Jolla, a 30-minute drive from San Diego’s center. Although on the expensive side, its boutiques, coves, boardwalk and noisy sea lions shouldn’t be overlooked. Book a tide pooling activity with the Birch Aquarium at Scripps or hike the Torrey Pines State Reserve for some quality time in nature. Who knows? You might even run into a celebrity!

Gaslamp Quarter

How could a visit to San Diego be complete without a stopover in the Gaslamp Quarter? Considering it was formerly the town’s red-light district, it won’t come as a surprise that this neighborhood gets the most action, with a multitude of dining and nightclub options. It serves as a great base with its hotel-lined streets, and once night falls, it’s the place to be! Although if you’re looking for a good night’s sleep, you may want to stay away from 5^th Avenue…

These five unforgettable San Diego neighborhoods are only the beginning of what the city can offer for your next vacation to California. Add day trips to its pristine Ocean, Mission and Pacific beaches or explore the residential parts of town to grasp a better understanding its rich cultural, natural and historical heritage!

Have a safe trip to San Diego!

Jennifer Doré Dallas
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