With a name that means “hidden” in Spanish, Escondido is a treasure trove waiting to be discovered. The region, located due north of downtown San Diego, occupies a shallow valley ringed by rocky hills. Incorporated in 1888, Escondido is one of the oldest cities in San Diego County. Although Juan Bautista de Anza, a Spanish explorer making his way north in 1776, is credited with its founding, a Native American tribe, known as the San Dieguenos, first arrived into this region over 10,000 years ago.
With yearly average temperatures rarely dropping below 40°F or reaching above 90°F, the temperate clime allows locals and visitors alike to take ample advantage of the region’s cultural, historical, and entertaining amusements. It is here, in Escondido, where there is truly something for every person, of every age.
For the culturally minded, the downtown’s bustling Grand Avenue has experienced a contemporary renaissance of late. The doors of numerous cafes, restaurants, and galleries, such as the Minghei, have recently been opened along this busy, main thoroughfare. In nearby Grape Park, the California Center for the Arts awaits. A 12-acre campus, it features state-of-the-art theaters, a visual arts museum, an educational complex, and a conference center. (
www.artcenter.org)
For the history buff, the Escondido History Museum displays the city's original Santa Fe Depot, first library, Victorian house, barn, and blacksmith shop, while the San Pasqual Battlefield commemorates the Mexican American war. The 50-acre State Historical Park boasts a Visitor Center, an amphitheatre, and a half-mile walking trail, all of which pay homage to the bloodiest encounter the American Army fought in order to win California from Mexico.
Hop on board the “Heart of Africa” safari at the world famous Wild Animal Park and take an open air tour around the thirty acre park where animals roam and fly free just like they do in the African Sahara. (
www.sandiegozoo.com) If it is a free escape that you are looking for then check out
Queen Califia’s Magical Circle. A brilliant mosaic adorned sculpture garden, it is located within the sprawling Kit Carson Park, and is the last major international work by French artist, Niki de Saint Phalle.
Right down the road from our historic ranch sits Lake Wolford, an angler’s dream. Stocked with Rainbow Trout, Channel Catfish, Largemouth Bass, Bluegill, and Crappies, the lake offers inexpensive daily rates and boat rentals. (
www.ci.escondido.ca.us)
With half a dozen wineries, two casinos, shopping, golf courses, the Mt. Palomar Observatory, and San Diego’s renowned beaches all within a short drive, Escondido, California is the ideal destination wedding location. And it is just a heart beat away from the thriving city center of San Diego.
