South Park is one of the oldest neighborhoods in San Diego in the vicinity of Balboa Park. South Park is actually east of Balboa Park, but it is south of the North Park neighborhood, hence its name. It is predominantly a single-family home neighborhood, with a few duplexes, bungalow courts, and small apartment buildings.
South Park history
South Park was one of the first suburbs of downtown San Diego. The first houses in South Park were built in 1906. Steady growth continued to be built into the 1930s. The small number of lots that were left vacant after 1941 were built in the 1950s. Commercial and mixed-use structures built in the 1910s and 1920s, they ran down 30th and Beech streets. Although the streets were not paved, the sidewalks were poured in 1906. Many of the sidewalk stamps from 1906 still exist.
What makes South Park special?
In addition to the quiet, tree-lined streets, South Park is special for its old San Diego charm. South Park homes were built primarily in the Craftsman and Eclectic Spanish styles, prevalent styles in Southern California during that period. It is notable for its fine and varied collection of Spanish colonial and artisan style houses built in the 1905-1930 period. These include works by well-known architects Irving Gill, William S. Hebbard, and Richard Requa.
What defines South Park?
South Park has long been home to a group of residents with diverse income, age, sexual orientation, and race. As with other urban neighborhoods north of Balboa Park like Hillcrest and North Park, pedestrian activity and lifestyle is high compared to the rest of San Diego. The authentic architecture of Spanish colonial and artisan houses gives the neighborhood its charm and identity. The South Park business community organizes quarterly walks to better familiarize yourself with local businesses.
What to do in South Park?
South Park is all about a time of relaxation, whether you’re looking for a cold beer or a leisurely walk. A small business area is concentrated along Fern Street and 30th Street. Restaurants, pubs and shops make it ideal for a stroll. And the classic architecture of the home offers scenic walks through the quiet streets. There’s a playground along 28th Street and a place to hang out with dogs at Grape Street Dog Park.
The best bets for eating in South Park
South Park has many restaurants in the neighborhood and none are as famous as the Big Kitchen Cafe, a beloved little institution known for its great breakfasts. Rebecca’s Coffee Shop is a great place to start your day with coffee and pastries.
Best bets for drinks and entertainment
Believe it or not, peaceful South Park has several hot spots for drinks and fun. The Whistle Stop is a hipster hangout – your classic dive bar with live music, movies, and a pool. Hamilton’s Tavern is for beer lovers, with a great selection of beers on tap.
Purchases
South Park is home to a number of galleries and specialty shops. The Next Door Gallery features affordable artwork. The Grove specializes in organic and natural products. Thomas Bike Shop caters to this bike-friendly neighborhood.
How to get there
From I-805 take University Avenue west. Turn south on 30th Street. From SR-94 West, take the 30th Street exit and head North. 30th Street becomes Fern Street in the center of the neighborhood and business area. Public transportation is served by bus route 2.
