University Heights

University Heights is one of San Diego’s oldest neighborhoods, incorporated in 1988.  Centered on the intersection of Park Boulevard and Adams Avenue, was Mission Cliffs Gardens and the heart of the early University Heights.  The Gardens were a very popular recreational destination covering over 20 acres of botanical gardens.  The park was free and contained an aviary, deer park, merry-go-round, picnic tables, soda fountain as well as a two-story pavilion known as the “tea garden”.  The popularity of the park helped to draw passengers for the streetcar line.  Directly next to the park was the Harvey Bentley Ostrich Farm which opened its doors in 1904.  Although the ostrich feathers were used in women’s fashion, locals could ride a giant bird for fifteen cents and the farm became quite the attraction.

A large-scale trolley car barn was built next to the Bentley Farm in 1913 where it stood until 1940’s when buses replaced the old streetcars.  Today this rich site is home to the beloved Trolley Barn Park which is popular with local residents, children and pups. June through August, the park opens its grassy lawn to free concerts in the Park- more formally known as “Summer in the Park”.  Locals enjoy wine, and picnic dinners under the stars as the listen to local artists sing the night away.

Although neither the streetcar nor the Ostrich Farm no longer runs in University Heights, the community erected its neighborhood trolley sign, in 2007, to welcome visitors and to honor the long playful history of the area.

University Heights Welcomes You

The streetcar sign is held up by two large stone pillars with gold ostrich statues greeting visitors to University Heights!

University Heights is home to many wonderful and eclectic restaurants and relaxing coffee shops.  Twiggs is a local’s favorite coffee house.  The Park House Eatery serves up delicious breakfast, lunch and dinner plates and is my personal favorite local eatery!  On a budget, try El Zarape for authentic and delicious Mexican cuisine, or Mama’s Bakery and Lebanese Deli or feeling like eating healthy?  Try the new Loving Hut vegetarian and vegan restaurant extraordinary.   University Heights restaurants truly have something for everyone!

University Heights homes and condominiums are as special as the history and present-day charm of the community.  Consisting of a mix of mid-century architecture, Spanish revival and classic craftsman, the architectural diversity of University Heights is what attracts so many residents to the area.  University Heights homes and neighborhoods contain many historically designated streets such as Shirley Ann Place which lies between Madison Ave. and Monroe Ave.  This street has been designated a historic district by the City of San Diego for its 1920s Spanish Colonial Revival bungalows. – source: www.Wikipedia.org

Homes and condos for sale in University Heights range from the very low price points to over 1.1 million.  Many of the lower selling homes for sale in University Heights are early 1920’s bungalows which have been neglected over the years and need a lot of renovation.  Small homes such as these can sell for less than $200K while beautiful canyon rim custom built homes can sell for well over the million dollar mark.

Similarly, condos for sale in University Heights can range from the low $100K to well over $600K.  The diversity of real estate in University Heights is largely driven by its location.  Yet, the real estate of University Heights has something for everyone and for every budget.  But don’t take my word for it, see for yourself.  Starting shopping all homes for sale in University Heights today!