CBS 8 features the vibrant areas of San Diego County and we are celebrating Escondido and all that makes this community great.
ESCONDIDO, Calif. — Throughout the year, CBS 8 highlights different areas of San Diego County and celebrates what makes each place so special. We now put a spotlight on Escondido, which is one of the largest cities in San Diego County.
Welcome to Escondido, California
People would travel to this North County city for the annual Grape Day Festival in the early 1900s, when it was just a small town. Residents said Escondido still has that small-town feeling.
"One thing I love about Escondido is the spirit that we have in the community," one resident told CBS 8. "Everyone comes together, and we all have the same goals. We all want the community to be stronger."
Escondido means "hidden" in Spanish. The city sits hidden in a valley surrounded by hills. It's home to several wineries and golf courses, and small businesses like Peterson's Donut Corner, which has been around for over 40 years. There are also many cultural attractions in Escondido, including the California Center for the Arts.
There's a lot to do outdoors as well. You can visit the San Diego Zoo Safari Park, or explore the trails at Kit Carson Park. Whether you love hiking, enjoying local wine, or shopping around town, Escondido has something for you.
8 great things to do in Escondido, California
From great restaurants to unique parks, there are so many fun activities and things to see in Escondido. CBS 8 is highlighting eight great stops you need to check out.
Located in the San Pasqual Valley, the San Diego Zoo Safari Park is home to over 3,000 animals. There are plenty of things to see and do, like the Africa Tram or the "Roar and Snore Safari" overnight campout experience.
Located in the 900 block of Escondido Boulevard, the iconic shop offers donuts, coffee, pastries and ice cream. It opened back in 1981 and is open 24 hours.
The landmark Holiday Wine Cellar has been family-owned since 1965. You can find domestic wines, craft beers and spirits. You can also catch a magic show every third Thursday.
The Stone Brewing World Bistro & Gardens location in Escondido offers a wide selection of craft beer. There's also an outdoor garden, which has become a popular attraction.
Located in the 300 block of North Broadway, this place offers hands-on activities for kids of all ages. Check out their website for more information on annual passes and hours.
At the California Center for the Arts, there's a museum, as well as a concert hall. 'A Taste of Ireland-The Irish Music & Dance Sensation' is happening at 7:30 p.m. Friday. Click here for more information about this performance and the center itself.
There are plenty of local businesses to check out on Grand Avenue. Burger Bench, Mikko Sushi and H Brothers are some local favorites.
At Queen Califia's Magical Circle, you can check out a sculpture garden, a snake wall and a maze. It's located in Kit Carson Park.
Escondido's historic charm lives on amid Grand Avenue and creek trail makeovers
The city of Escondido, California, is experiencing significant transformations due to ongoing renovation projects throughout the area, particularly along Grand Avenue and the Escondido Creek Trail. Despite the changes, local officials and business owners are committed to maintaining the city's historic character.
"Preserving that historic charm is relatively easy, because we have so many people here who have been here for such a long time that I think it's on everybody's mind," said Dane White, the mayor of Escondido.
The Grand Avenue Vision Project has already brought improvements to the downtown area. The first two completed phases have introduced string lighting, wider sidewalks and new traffic circles. Local businesses, such as The Grand Tea Room, said they have benefited from these upgrades.
"I have more seating outside, so I used to be able to have two small tables on our patio and now I can fit up to five, six tables out there, so on really busy Saturdays we have some nice business outside," said Louisa Magoon, owner of The Grand Tea Room.
Magoon, who has operated her business on Grand Avenue for 14 years, has witnessed the transformation firsthand. As a member of the business association, she helped provide feedback to the city and kept neighboring businesses informed during the construction process.
"It was hard during construction, because you know, no place for people to park, and you know, I was super busy one day, and that's when they were pouring concrete in my front step, but the city has been great," Magoon added.
Mayor White announced that funding has been secured for the third phase of the Grand Avenue Vision Project. This phase is expected to bring additional improvements, including more lighting, expanded sidewalks, and improved parking.
"[It will] make it easier for businesses to actually have business, make it easier for families to walk around and have fun. It's been a huge improvement for Cruisin' Grand with all the people walking around," said Mayor White.
Beyond downtown, the Escondido Creek Trail is also undergoing renovations. The project includes new lighting, fitness stations and play areas.
Mayor White expressed enthusiasm about the increased accessibility of the trail, saying, "The accessibility, making it so you can get into parks and other places from the Creek Trail, is probably the thing that I'm most excited about."
As Escondido continues to evolve, city officials and business owners remain committed to balancing progress with preservation, ensuring that the city's classic charm lives alongside its new developments.
Exploring Orfila Vineyards and Winery in Escondido
CBS 8’s Eric Kahnert took a tour of Orfila Vineyards and Winery in Escondido and got a behind-the-scenes look at the popular spot's winemaking process.
What's new at the San Diego Zoo Safari Park in Escondido
CBS 8's Neda Iranpour took a tour of the world-renowned San Diego Zoo Safari Park to see what's new.
City of Escondido | For the love of the arts
Escondido is known for its love of the arts. Here's a look at the city's art programs and upcoming events.
Escondido History Center | Collect, preserve, interpret
If you want to check out a cool place in Escondido, head to the Escondido History Center. The Executive Director, Cynthia Castaneda, has details about the history center and how you can see their exhibit at the San Diego International Airport.
Art In The Garden | A time to celebrate local artists
The Downtown Business Association of Escondido is hosting the Art In The Garden Show Sunday, Oct. 19. Here's a preview of what you can expect.
Grand Avenue Festival | Escondido mayor gives a preview
The Grand Avenue Festival is Sunday, Oct 19 and you're all invited! The mayor of Escondido Dane White has a preview and explains all the city has to offer.
Homesteading with the folks at Hawthorne Country Store in Escondido
From gardening to raising your own chickens, the homesteading trend remains popular. Here’s a look at homesteading, which focuses on sustainability and resourcefulness as a way to live a more independent way of life.
Children's Museum of Discovery celebrates 25 years of sparking a love for learning
In Escondido, there are several family-friendly activities. One of them is a visit to the Children's Museum of Discovery.