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Welcome to

Hillcrest

The center of San Diego's LGBTQ+ community

Everyone is welcome

Located only a few miles north of San Diego's bustling downtown, the vibrant uptown neighborhood of Hillcrest stands as San Diego's LGBTQ+ central hub, offering an array of bars, restaurants, coffee houses, boutiques and unique shops.

Lauded for its welcoming vibe and pedestrian-friendly streets and sidewalk patios, the area's east end is marked by a towering rainbow Pride flag just off Hillcrest's main thoroughfare of University Avenue, at the corner of Normal Street. The landmark serves as the starting point for San Diego LGBTQ+ Pride's annual mile-long parade held each July. A block away, down Harvey Milk Street, is where the San Diego LGBTQ+ Community Center resides.

Spanning a dozen blocks west from the Pride flag along University Avenue is a colorful mix of ethnically diverse restaurants, nightclubs and acclaimed wine bars. You'll also discover home decor shops, distinctive boutiques, the Uptown District shopping plaza and the country's only openly gay brewery, Hillcrest Brewing Company. This lively stretch also hosts one of the largest farmers markets in San Diego from 9AM – 2PM on Sunday. A great place to shop for local produce, arts and crafts, the market also offers a wide range of gourmet stalls with hot and cold cuisine.

University Avenue leads into the neighborhood's "village" area designated by the historic, neon "Hillcrest" sign. On intersecting Fifth Avenue, you'll find a concentration of new and established restaurants, as well as a few dessert-centric eateries. Thrown into the mix are vintage clothing shops, book outlets and the multiplex Landmark Cinemas for taking in independent and foreign films.

Just south of Hillcrest sits Balboa Park, the largest urban cultural park in North America and a hub for recreation, arts and culture, and community gatherings. The park is home to 16 museums and performing arts venues, ornate Spanish-Renaissance architecture, 1,200 acres of beautiful gardens and the world-famous San Diego Zoo.

View the LGBTQ+ Travel Guide for more on planning a trip to San Diego.

Find a place to stay

Book online or call 1-800-350-6205 to speak with a local expert

Getting to Hillcrest

Just a stones throw from Balboa Park and downtown San Diego, Hillcrest is accessible from three primary directions. From downtown, head up Fifth Avenue, along Balboa Park's western edge and through Bankers Hill. Once you've reached Robinson Avenue, you'll be in the heart of Hillcrest. As the neighborhood is popular with the San Diego LGBTQ+ community, look for businesses flying a rainbow flag and you'll know you've arrived! From the east, exit University Avenue from Interstate 805 and head west. A few short blocks places you squarely in the center of the main shopping and dining area. For those traveling from the airport or Interstate 5, exit on Washington Street, and head east "up the hill" and exit on University Avenue. You'll pass through Mission Hills (worth the stop too!) before entering Hillcrest. 

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What's Hot|
What's On|

San Diego LGBTQ+ Pride Parade & Festival

With world-famous Balboa Park as its festival site and a mile-long parade route stretching through one of the most gay-friendly neighborhoods in the nation, San Diego LGBTQ+ Pride attracts nearly 200,000 locals and visitors to its annual three-day celebration in July.

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Nightlife and Day Drinks

A happening spot for San Diego's LGBTQ+ community with bar, nightclubs, restaurants and Pride.

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San Diego Farmers Markets

Find open-air shopping all around the county!

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Taste of Hillcrest

Apr 13, 2024

Over 25 fantastic Hillcrest restaurants are participating, giving foodies a chance to sample some of their best and signature dishes. From quaint cafes, French and Italian style bistros to five-star dining delights, this is the most anticipated self-guided culinary walking tour in San Diego! Sample bites such as Pad Thai, Sashimi, Italian Antipasto, or Classic American Comfort Food! Your taste buds are going to go wild on this culinary journey throughout Hillcrest! Enjoy with your friends, the gorgeous weather, and one unforgettable tasting adventure!

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Hand to God at The Roustabouts Theatre Co.

Mar 7 - Mar 31, 2024

The Roustabouts Theatre Co is thrilled to announce its upcoming production of HAND TO GOD directed by Artistic Director/Founder Phil Johnson. A darkly comedic and outrageously entertaining play that will leave audiences laughing, gasping, and questioning their own beliefs.

 

 

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Romantic Winery Adventure

Mar 8 - ongoing

Book your tour now or buy a gift certificate for future. It's the perfect Valentine or ANY DAY celebration. 

Treat your loved one, YEAR ROUND!

Enjoy door-to-door transportation, award-winning wines, a full meal and romantic vineyard views.

This luxurious chauffeured tour will take you through San Diego's scenic countryside, where you'll have the opportunity to taste the finest wines in the region. You'll also get an exclusive behind-the-scenes look at the winemaking process, as well as learn about the history and culture of San Diego.

Relax and unwind as you soak up the sun and take in the stunning views of the vineyards. Our expert guide will ensure that you have a fantastic time and that your needs are taken care of.

Celebrate love with a delightful day of wine and treats!

Book your elevated experience NOW!

 

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FIGHT INFLATION on This Elevated Wine Tasting

Mar 11 - ongoing

We call ourselves “The Inflation Fighters”. We LOVE to bring you a high-end; VIP wine tasting experience for a low price. We haven’t changed our all inclusive pricing since 2010!

You get door-to-door transportation; ample pours of wine; wine tour; and a winery meal included in ONE-LOW-PRICE!

 

You deserve the very best! Book your deluxe, elevated experience NOW!

Available Wed through Sundays, for 2 to 100 guests. Single guests welcome.

 

WHY CHOOSE US?

“TASTE and SEE the best of San Diego’s wine, food and sights for one low price!”

• Enjoy local San Diego County wineries (the original California Wine Country) not Temecula.

• With thousands of 5-STAR reviews, you’ll receive a top-notch adventure!

• Serving tens of thousands of happy guests since 2010.

 BOOK NOW: https://sandiegobeerwinespiritstours.com/tours/chauffeured-vineyard-adventure/

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What's Hot

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San Diego LGBTQ+ Pride Parade & Festival

Discover

Nightlife and Day Drinks

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San Diego Farmers Markets

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What's On

View More Events

Taste of Hillcrest

Apr 13, 2024
Discover

Hand to God at The Roustabouts Theatre Co.

Mar 7 - Mar 31, 2024
Discover

Romantic Winery Adventure

Mar 8 - ongoing
Discover

FIGHT INFLATION on This Elevated Wine Tasting

Mar 11 - ongoing
Discover

Hillcrest on Instagram

 

Deals just for you

Tours & Sightseeing

Save 20% on an Amazing Scavenger Hunt Adventure

Amazing Scavenger Hunts by Urban Adventure Quest
Valid: Feb 2, 2024 - ongoing

Turn San Diego's Old Town or Balboa Park into a giant game board with this fun Scavenger Hunt Adventure. Combine the excitement of the Amazing Race with a three-hour city tour. Guided from any smart...

Activities

For a Great Time this Memorial Day- Just Add Wine!

San Diego Beer, Wine & Spirits Tours
Valid: Feb 21 - ongoing

BOOK YOUR CHAUFFEURED VINEYARD ADVENTURE this month and receive a FREE souvenier tote bag when you mention this ad.  Sun & sip your way through ample tastings and large pours of local...

Activities

Show Your Badge & Save at So Diego

So Diego
Valid: Jul 10, 2023 - ongoing

So Diego is a San Diego Tour company offering locals and visitors unique ways to explore America's Finest City. Learn the history of the Gaslamp Quarter, Little Italy, Old Town and La Jolla while...

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