Hillcrest in San Diego

Hillcrest is the thriving center of San Diego’s LGBTQ+ community, just north of Balboa Park. Its pedestrian-friendly streets host an energetic atmosphere and some of San Diego’s top restaurants. Within its dozen square blocks, you can taste worldly cuisines or shop for fresh produce at the Hillcrest Farmers Market. The weekly market operates on Sundays and is among the city’s best places to find local handmade crafts. And with specialty boutiques lining the streets, you’ll find an array of other unique products.

Stroll the bustling University Avenue to find the Hillcrest sign and the giant Pride flag marking the entrance. July’s annual Pride parade is one of the country’s largest LGBTQ+ celebrations, with crowds upwards of 200,000 people. The LGBTQ+ Community Center supports residents, and many LGBTQ+-owned businesses reside here. The contagious energy doesn’t stop at sundown, and Hillcrest has pulsating gay bars to spend the evening.

Hillcrest in San Diego - one of the highlights of 10 Most Popular Neighbourhoods in San Diego and 10 Best Places to Go Shopping in San Diego (Read all about San Diego here)

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What are the highlights and features of Hillcrest?

Hillcrest earns praise for its friendly atmosphere to make every visitor feel part of the family. Rainbow crosswalks and bright murals add splashes of color to the spirited streets of the Uptown neighbourhood. Enjoy those balmy San Diego days by dining on sidewalk patios or have a brew inside cozy cafés. Join friends for beverages at fabulous wine bars like The Wine Lover and Two Seven Eight. Hillcrest Brewing Company is the world’s 1^st “Out and Proud LGBT Brewery” and serves craft beer by the pint or growler.

Walk along University Avenue or 5^th Avenue to find a diverse collection of eateries, shops, and bars. Hillcrest has an artistic flair, and you’ll discover handmade crafts, home décor, fashion, jewelry, and more. With its fun-loving crowd, Hillcrest has raucous nightclubs, cozy lounges, and everything in between. Rich’s is San Diego’s hottest gay nightclub, and #1 Fifth Avenue is a chill dive bar for everyone.

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What are the best places to eat in Hillcrest?

Hillcrest is renowned for its eclectic food choices, and it’s one of San Diego’s best neighbourhoods for foodies. On University Avenue, you’ll find a mouthwatering list of ethnic restaurants with cuisines from every pocket of the globe. With over 200 restaurants in the entire neighbourhood, Hillcrest lets you travel the world through your taste buds. From upscale dining to laid-back cafés, you’re in for a culinary treat eating around Hillcrest.

Arrivederci serves authentic Italian cuisine, and Khyber Pass offers a rare taste of Afghani delights with chic décor. Lotus Thai whips up traditional Thai dishes, while La Bonne Table is an elegant bistro with French recipes. Stop by Bronx Pizza for a tempting late-night snack or visit Baja Betty's for a Mexican-style happy hour. For a sweet treat, head to Chocolat for scrumptious desserts. And for healthier options, Deli Llama has award-winning sandwiches and Freshii serves salads, wraps, and soups.

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Good to know about Hillcrest in San Diego

If you’re looking for an exciting San Diego neighbourhood outside of downtown, Hillcrest might be your best option. The Uptown district has a distinct vibe but is only minutes away from many of San Diego’s finest attractions. You’re less than 1 mile from the 1,200-acre Balboa Park and its museums, gardens, and theaters. And if you brought the kids, Hillcrest is close to the world-renowned San Diego Zoo. Whenever you want to go downtown from Hillcrest, catch the trolley from Balboa Park.

Hillcrest is also an excellent base for its proximity to the San Diego International Airport. It’s around 3 miles from the airport to Hillcrest, and there are buses, shuttles, and taxi cabs available. During your stay in Hillcrest, check the calendar for annual festivals. While the LGBTQ+ Pride parade is Hillcrest’s biggest event, it’s not the only celebration. Catch beads and have a feast at Hillcrest Mardi Gras or dance to a pulsing DJ at the CityFest Street Fair.

Location: Hillcrest, San Diego, CA 92103, USA

Daniel Grenier | Contributing Writer

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