The City Between Hillcrest and North Park

University Heights, the city between Hillcrest and North Park, is a popular and somewhat low-key neighborhood. The area is known for it’s small but superb dining options, relatively low congestion, and close proximity to both Downtown San Diego and the beaches.

The name “University” dates back to the land boom of the 1880s and the plan to build a university in the area. That school was never built, but the area is now occupied by the San Diego Unified School District. At the edge of Mission Valley, an ostrich farm and public garden spot were constructed near what is now the corner of Adams Avenue and Park Boulevard. The ostrich farm still lives in the form of the neighborhood signs and markers sporting the ostrich imagery. Later Mission Cliff Gardens were built and became a popular tourist site.

A trolley barn in the area was used for trolley housing and repairs for the Class 1 streetcars and extensive San Diego public transit system that was spurred by the Panama-California Exposition of 1915 and built by John D. Spreckels. This facility was converted into a warehouse for the San Diego Paper Box Company and ultimately demolished in 1980. Developers planned to build a large condominium complex at the site, but residents convinced the city to preserve the land for a park, now Old Trolley Barn Park.

This popular spot in University Heights, Trolley Barn Park, hosts free concerts in the summer and more! The sidewalks around the playground in the park are laid out in a pattern mimicking the local street plan, a design also echoed on the carved stone plaque.

University Heights is just so full of personality and charm.

Looking for fun things to do in University Heights?

Food

Soltan Banoo

El Zarape

Parkhouse Eatery

Adams Avenue Grill

Pop Pie Co.

Entertainment

Small Bar

The Lancers

Twiggs

Diversionary Theatre

La Loupe Vintage

Fun Real Estate Fact:

Many private property owners in University Heights have succeeded in having their homes historically-designated. This not only provides them with the opportunity for significant property tax benefits but preserves just a little bit of our history for generations to come.

Here I am talking about a great listing that holds onto its 1940s character but is modernly updated.