Escondido, California Travel Guide
The Top 5 Can't-Miss Things To Do and See in Escondido, California
Everyone in San Diego County knows what a true gem Escondido is. It derives its name from the Spanish word for “hidden.” Nestled just northeast of the metro about thirty miles, this wonderful treasure of a place has so much to offer, from beautiful scenery, active working ranches, and great dining to even exploring the wildlife as if you were on Safari. If you are looking for a place to relax and refresh your mind and Spirit, this little slice of heaven will provide you with the experiences you cannot find anywhere else.
Escondido is a city of approximately 145,000 residents in the larger San Diego County. It is just 30 minutes from the city center and 20 minutes from the Pacific Ocean. The city's inland location makes the climate more temperate (hotter in summer but more relaxed in winter) and ideal for growing organic grapes. The abundance of lakes provides fishing and hiking opportunities, and many visitors enjoy the more subdued atmosphere than the crowded beaches of Southern Cal.
So let’s explore some of the rich treasures the city and surrounding area offer. Here are our top five things to see and do in Escondido.
What Are the Top Things to Do in Escondido?
There are lots of things to do in this vibrant multicultural community. Escondido has become one of the fastest growing cities in all of California, and from the various joys of everyday life, it is easy to see why.
Explore Dixon Lake - Catch Some Trout
If you are looking for a quiet place to just throw in a line, sit back and work on catching some dinner to cook over some charcoal, this is the place. The area around Dixon Lake is pristine and unspoiled, with outstanding camping facilities. You won’t find any swimming or beach blanket crowds here, just the simple, refreshing solace of a peaceful world. Grab a permit for some trout fishing, or toss your line in from the bank or boat to catch some great bass or a catfish or two. Hiking is plentiful if you prefer, and the well-marked trails make this lovely park the perfect place for a family picnic.
The Escondido area is filled with green space. The San Dieguito River Park is a natural open space that preserves the area's biological diversity. It stretches some 55 miles along the San Dieguito River basin from the ocean at Del Mars to Volcano mountain and has lots of walking, bike trails, and educational activities.
Go on Safari - Get Up Close to Tigers or Elephants
The San Diego Wildlife Safari is a 1,800-acre open, natural habitat for over 300 species of animals. This park is an excellent place to see many exotic animals in their natural habitats. Young children will love the up-close interaction with a kangaroo or seeing the elephants, giraffes, or a tiger stalking its enclosure. Run by the San Diego Wildlife Alliance, the facility is easy to navigate, has lots to explore, and is highly family-friendly. There are educational guides who can answer your children's questions and make the experience even better! This place works with the San Diego Zoo (about an hour away), so plan accordingly.
The Safari park will take four to five hours to walk through. It is spotless and has some beautiful dining spots. Be sure to stop by the gift shops, and pick up a T-shirt or souvenir. You will be supporting the non-profit work of the Sand Diego Wildlife Alliance.
Sip Some Wine - Eat a Meal
Escondido is home to several beautiful wineries for those with a more sophisticated, adult pallette. Deer Park Winery and Auto Museum is a joy to visit, especially to see some other vintage cars and memorabilia and taste some of the most awarded wines in the county. The auto museum has a hundred vehicles to look over. For any car enthusiast, it is well worth the trip.
Several other vineyards can be explored in the Escondido area. Orfila Vineyards and Winery is 70 acres of French and Italian varietals and has won over 1800 international wine awards. Cordiano Winery is a glorious spot for enjoying the pure love of wine and is very popular with the locals. If you prefer a more modern approach, try BK Cellars Urban Winery, a top winery destination for 2022. You’ll be able to sip wine, listen to live music, and sit in a tasting room underneath an exquisite crystal chandelier.
Stone Brewing World Bistro and Gardens is a must-stop if you prefer an excellent brew. This craft brewery ranks among the top ten in the US, producing a wide selection of beers designed to meet even the most discriminating tongue. The lush, shaded gardens are a fantastic place to chill, spend some time relaxing and catch up with friends. The menu is extensive, from simple bites to more substantial buffalo burgers or even full meals.
Ride a Horse - Be a Cowboy
If you have ever dreamed of spending a day just riding a horse or riding your bike through some of the most picturesque countryside imaginable, the Daley Ranch is a 3,058-acre conservation area that can meet that need. Established in 1996 by the City of Escondido to preserve the local habitat, the ranch has several separate trails ideal for hiking, mountain biking, or horseback riding. The Branch Loop Trail is a favorite place for catching a glimpse of birds, waterfowl, and other indigenous wildlife species.
Get A Bit of Culture at The California Center for the Arts
The California Center for the Arts, located on 12 acres in downtown Escondido, is home to a wide variety of experiences, from theater and concerts to corporate gathers or weddings. There is a lovely educational program, and it hosts many cultural and music events throughout the year. The center has a 1,500-seat auditorium, an additional 400-seat theater, and a contemporary art museum.
A delicious restaurant right near the arts center is Hunsaker, a french bistro that serves up some of the most creative and inspiring creations imaginable. The elegant restaurant is a beautiful place to treat your beloved to a romantic meal before heading to a concert at the arts center.
What if I have a Large Group I Need to Transport?
Most attractions in Escondido are happy to accommodate groups of all sizes with discount packages or even special guided tours. From shopping to dining to entertainment, many people have found that hiring a sedan or limousine service is the best and most efficient way to transport their group to and from the destination. Simply call a customer service representative to find out what size of a charter bus or executive coach might work best.
What Are Some Reasons to Consider a Rental?
A Limo or charter bus rental can provide several advantages.
- Keeps Your Group Together and on Schedule
- Keeps From Having a Designated Driver
- Safer than Having Participants Navigate a Strange City
- Makes a Statement – Build a Memory
- Emphasizes the Importance of Romance
- Trained Drivers know The Town
- Celebrates a Special Day in Style
- Ensures Everyone Arrives Safely