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Escondido, Spanish for hidden, sits in a sheltered valley in northern San Diego County, surrounded by rocky hills about 30 miles north of downtown San Diego. The land was part of the Rancho Rincon del Diablo, and the town was laid out in 1886 by a group of investors who planted vineyards and citrus. It was incorporated in 1888, and for decades grapes, oranges and later avocados covered the valley, with a lively harvest festival each year.
Downtown Escondido grew along Grand Avenue, which still keeps a classic main street of shops, restaurants and antique stores, and the city's Victorian homes are protected in the Old Escondido Historic District. The California Center for the Arts, with its striking theater and museum, and the San Diego Children's Discovery Museum add culture to the historic core.
Escondido's surroundings are its great draw. The San Diego Zoo Safari Park lets visitors see African and Asian animals roaming large habitats, Lake Wohlford and Dixon Lake offer fishing and hiking, and Daley Ranch protects thousands of acres of oak woodland and trails. The city's wineries and breweries, including the large Stone Brewing, round out a visit.
San Diego Zoo Safari Park covers about 1,800 acres in the San Pasqual Valley of Escondido, with giraffes, rhinos, lions, elephants and many other animals in large open habitats. The Africa Tram tour crosses the main field enclosures. Plan a full day, wear comfortable shoes, and arrive at opening to beat the heat.
San Pasqual Battlefield State Historic Park marks the site of an 1846 battle between United States troops and Californio lancers during the Mexican-American War. A small visitor center tells the story from both sides and a short trail overlooks the valley. Opening days are limited; it is just past the Safari Park.
The Escondido History Center in Grape Day Park preserves several historic buildings, including the town's 1888 Santa Fe railway depot, an old library, a Victorian house and a blacksmith shop. Volunteers explain the area's early farming and grape growing. Opening days are limited, so check before you go.
Daley Ranch is a 3,000-acre open space preserve north of Escondido with more than 20 miles of trails through oak woodland, grassland and boulder-covered hills, plus a historic ranch house. It is used by hikers, mountain bikers and horse riders. Trails are exposed and hot in summer, so start early and bring water.
Dixon Lake is a city-run reservoir in the hills above Escondido with fishing, rowboat and pedal boat rentals, picnic areas, short trails and a campground. It is a calm, scenic spot for a family outing. There is a parking fee, swimming is not allowed, and fishing requires a permit sold at the concession.
Lake Wohlford is a small reservoir in the hills east of Escondido, known for fishing for bass, catfish and trout, with boat rentals and a cafe nearby. It is a quiet place for a morning on the water or a picnic. The lake is open seasonally and on set days, so check the city schedule before driving out.
Queen Califia's Magical Circle in Kit Carson Park is the only American sculpture garden by artist Niki de Saint Phalle, with giant mosaic-covered figures, totems and a snake wall inspired by California myths. It is colorful and great for photos. It opens on limited days and hours, so check the schedule before visiting.
The California Center for the Arts, Escondido is a cultural complex with a concert hall, a smaller theater and an art museum, hosting touring performers, local theater, symphony concerts and exhibitions. It sits at the end of downtown next to Grape Day Park. Check the season schedule and pair a show with dinner on Grand Avenue.
Grand Avenue is Escondido's walkable historic main street, lined with restaurants, wine bars, antique stores and shops in older buildings. It hosts the popular Cruisin' Grand classic car nights on summer Friday evenings and other street events. Park in a public lot nearby and walk the length of the avenue.
The Old Escondido Historic District is a residential area just south of downtown with many well-kept Victorian, Craftsman and Spanish Revival homes from the late 1800s and early 1900s. It is a pleasant neighborhood for a self-guided architecture walk. Stay on the sidewalks, as the homes are private residences.
The San Diego Children's Discovery Museum in Escondido offers hands-on exhibits for young children, with areas for building, pretend play, water and science activities. It is designed mainly for kids up to about age ten. It is next to Grape Day Park, so families can add playground time after the visit.
Stone Brewing World Bistro and Gardens is the large brewery restaurant at Stone Brewing's Escondido home, with a long list of craft beers on tap, a seasonal menu and a big garden with ponds, boulders and shaded seating. Brewery tours are offered on some days. It is family friendly, and reservations help on weekends.
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California, United States
California, United States
California, United States
California, United States
California, United States
California, United States
California, United States
California, United States
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