Escondido

The Jewel of North San Diego County

Escondido is a city in San Diego County’s North County region, 30 miles northeast of downtown San Diego, 15 miles from the ocean, and 40 miles from the Mexican border. Incorporated in 1888, it is one of the oldest cities in San Diego County with rich history and culture.

This beautiful city has one of the few remaining authentic downtown historic districts complete with vintage buildings filled with eclectic shops, galleries, parks, and amazing restaurants as well as a wonderful historic neighborhood within walking distance of downtown’s Grand Avenue.

The Old Escondido Historic District neighborhood has hundreds of wonderful historically designated homes including stately Victorians, comfortable Craftsman bungalows, and eclectic Art Deco and Post World War II residences built in the mid-1880s to date. You can view their printable map here.

With a beautiful year-round climate, there are many attractions and experiences to explore! This “hidden” city is home to two of North County’s major attractions… the 1,800-acre San Diego Zoo Safari Park and Escondido’s cultural and artistic epicenter, the California Center for the Arts.

There are two major highways that serve Escondido, Route 78 and Interstate 15. The North County Transit District (NCTD) operates local bus service, with the Escondido Transit Center serving as a hub. This transit center has connections to both the San Diego Metropolitan Transit Center and the Riverside Transit Agency. This easily accessible transit system makes Escondido an even more attractive place to live.

Visit the Escondido History Center Complex, enjoy a Historic Walking Tour of the Old Escondido Historic neighborhood, or indulge at one their iconic eateries that have been around for decades like Peterson’s Donut Corner, Lourdes Mexican Cafe or the Forgotten Barrel Winery. Whatever you choose, Escondido has many cultural attractions for you to enjoy!

Things to Do in Escondido

Welk Resorts Theatre

Welk Theatre brings you the best of live entertainment, featuring top-notch actors, musicians and performers in Broadway-style musicals such as Forever Plaid and How to Succeed in Business Without Really Trying, as well as musical performances, comedy shows and illusionists. An evening at Welk Theatre San Diego includes a dinner buffet option and a museum with memorabilia highlighting the life and career of legendary bandleader Lawrence Welk.

Orfila Vineyards & Winery

The exceptional estate wines produced by Orfila Vineyards & Winery are a credit to acclaimed winemaker, Justin Mund. The 70 acre farm just fifteen miles from the Pacific coastline, with a Mediterranean climate, and sandy soils, is ideal for French Rhône varietals. Orfila is located in the heart of San Diego’s greenbelt, in the beautiful San Pasqual Valley.

EcoVivarium

Have you ever dreamed of being able to hold a giant snake, play with tortoises and lizards, or cuddle with a monitor or tegu? Then EcoVivarium is the place for you! EcoVivarium is a one-of-a-kind museum that encourages everyone to touch the exhibits (with help from their staff)! Their guided tours allow everyone to enjoy hands-on interactions with live reptiles, amphibians, and arthropods (bugs)! It’s an excellent adventure for all ages.

California Center for the Arts

With a mission of bringing people together to discover, create and celebrate both the visual and performing arts, the California Center for the Arts, Escondido is the cultural center of North San Diego County.

Stone Brewing World Bistro & Gardens

As strong advocates for environmental responsibility and high-quality food, Stone Brewing World Bistro & Gardens is one of the largest restaurant purchasers of local, small-farm organic produce in San Diego County. With 36 craft and specialty beers on tap, an extensive wine list, and distinctive banquet and wedding accommodations, Bistro has become one of the premier culinary destinations in San Diego County.