San DiegoSights

Square, Plaza sights in San Diego

  1. A

    Hillcrest

    Just up from the northwestern corner of Balboa Park, you hit Hillcrest, the heart of Uptown (buses 1, 3 and 25 go to/from downtown along 4th and 5th Aves). The neighborhood began its life in the early 20th century as a modest middle-class suburb. Today, it's San Diego's most bohemian district. University and 5th Aves are lined with coffeehouses, thrift shops and excellent restaurants in all price ranges.

    The Hillcrest Gateway, a neon sign that arches over University Ave at 5th Ave, marks the center of the action.

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  2. B

    Presidio Hill

    In 1769 Padre Junípero Serra and Gaspar de Portolá established the first Spanish settlement in California on Presidio Hill, overlooking the valley of the San Diego River. The walk from Old Town along Mason St rewards you with views of the bay.

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