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.
Mission Beach
A favorite vacation spot for 100 years, this seaside village combines old-fashioned charm with modern amenities.
SeaWorld
Animal interaction, entertaining rides and informative exhibits are all on offer at this family favorite destination.
Balboa Park
Culture and nature converge in this diverse park located in the heart of the city.
Things to do
USS Midway Museum with Direct-to-Gate
City Cruises San Diego: Premier Dinner Cruise
LEGOLAND® California Resort
Oceanside Whale and Dolphin Watching Adventures
City Cruises San Diego: Signature Dinner Cruise
San Diego Whale Watching & Dolphin Cruise
Top hotels in Hillcrest
Uptown Inn by Vantaggio - Limited Service Apart-Hotel
Central location
Reviewed on 2 Apr 2026
Paradise Point Resort & Spa
Staff was very nice. Open 24/7 for any questions and concerns. Room had good space (we had a Lanai room) so some chairs in the front to sit.
Reviewed on 4 Apr 2026
Best Western Seven Seas
Dated room. Silverfish in the bathroom. The floor was hot so I notified the front desk that they probably have a broken hot water pipe. I had it happen in my house when I lived in San Diego. Silverfish eat mold, which I am allergic to. I won’t be staying there again.
Reviewed on 4 Apr 2026
Hard Rock Hotel San Diego
Great location if you are going to cheer on the Padres!
Reviewed on 5 Apr 2026
Handlery Hotel
Front desk girl wasn’t super welcoming but the guys at the restaurant were awesome!
Reviewed on 5 Apr 2026
DoubleTree by Hilton San Diego - Del Mar
Big size pool with a hot tub including a splash pool for the little one’s. Food was just ok. Not the best, but convenient to order or eat from the property restaurant if you didn’t want to drive anywhere. Breakfast was nothing special and it’s not free. Wished they had more food options. Our room ...
Reviewed on 5 Apr 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.
Gaslamp Quarter
Cosy bars interesting history and top sights from Gaslamp Museum at the Davis-Horton House to Lyceum Theatre – discover Gaslamp Quarter, a destination also famous for its shopping.
