Hillcrest Travel Guide
San Diego
Popular places to visit
San Diego Zoo
See nature up-close and personal at one of the country’s largest and most educational zoos.
San Diego Convention Center
During your trip, find out what's happening in San Diego Convention Center, a top convention centre in San Diego. Experience the area's fascinating museums and acclaimed art galleries.
Mission Bay
Mingle with eccentric locals at bohemian beaches, soak up the sun on a Jet Ski and fish from marshy islands at San Diego’s premier water park.
USS Midway Museum
Experience the thrills and hardships of Navy life at this waterfront museum which has become a San Diego landmark.
Petco Park
Purchase a hot dog and watch the San Diego Padres, California’s southernmost Major League Baseball team, play on their home field.
Mission Beach
A favorite vacation spot for 100 years, this seaside village combines old-fashioned charm with modern amenities.
Things to do
San Diego SEAL Tour by Land & Sea
San Diego's City Harbor Sightseeing Cruise
USS Midway Museum with Direct-to-Gate
City Cruises San Diego: Premier Bottomless Mimosa Brunch Cruise
Top hotels in Hillcrest
Uptown Inn by Vantaggio - Limited Service Apart-Hotel
"Central to everything in Hillcrest! A great room. Small bathroom though."
Reviewed on 20 May 2026
The Sofia Hotel
"A solid downtown base with a few caveats The Sofia does what it needs to do and does it well. The room was clean, the staff was genuinely friendly, and the location is hard to beat — right in the heart of the Gaslamp Quarter, walking distance from restaurants, and a city bus stop. That said, a couple ..."
Reviewed on 21 May 2026
Paradise Point Resort & Spa
"Great location Surprising amount of wild cats on property"
Reviewed on 20 May 2026
Manchester Grand Hyatt San Diego
"I was there for a conference. Food was good"
Reviewed on 19 May 2026
Hard Rock Hotel San Diego
"It was just what we expected. It was a nice room. It was clean and comfortable."
Reviewed on 18 May 2026
The DEXTRO Little Italy, BW Premier Collection
"Conveniently located, nice clean facility & guest room, friendly helpful staff, quick response to needs, free WIFI and mini frig. I highly recommend this hotel."
Reviewed on 20 May 2026
Other neighbourhoods around Hillcrest
Mission Valley
Known for its stunning beaches and popular shops, there's plenty to explore in Mission Valley. Check out top attractions like Mission Valley Mall and Fashion Valley Mall, and jump on the metro at Hazard Center Station or Mission Valley Center Station to see more of the city.
Little Italy
Visitors to Little Italy love its captivating waterfront views, and you can check out Maritime Museum of San Diego and San Diego Bay. If you want to see more in the area, you can get around town on the metro at County Center - Little Italy Station.
North Park
North Park is well liked for its restaurants, and you can visit sights like San Diego Zoo and San Diego Natural History Museum if you have time to explore the area.
Old Town San Diego
The abundant dining options and seaside views are top of the list for many visitors to Old Town San Diego. A stop by Old Town San Diego State Park or Whaley House Museum might round out your trip.
Downtown San Diego
Known for its fantastic nightlife, fascinating museums and beautiful waterfront views, there's plenty to explore in Downtown San Diego. Top attractions like Petco Park and Port of San Diego are major draws. Catch the metro at Civic Center Station or Civic Center Station to see more of the city.
East Village
Travellers choose East Village for its great bars. Hop aboard the metro at City College Trolley Station or Park and Market Trolley Station and check out top sights like Petco Park.
