Escondido

Escondido is a city in San Diego County, California, that spreads across a valley northeast of San Diego and is surrounded by hills. Streets connect residential neighborhoods to a busy downtown core where restaurants, shops and cultural venues can be found.

The area became part of the Rancho Rincon del Diablo land grant in 1843 and attracted American settlers after 1850 who began farming. The city incorporated in 1888 and grew as a center for citrus and grape cultivation.

The California Center for the Arts regularly brings performances and exhibitions to town, while several wineries in the surrounding hills open their tasting rooms to guests. Many travelers explore the antique shops and art galleries that line Grand Avenue in the downtown core.

Dixon Lake to the east offers fishing spots and walking trails, with permits required for angling but no state license needed at this location. The downtown area can be explored on foot, while most wineries and attractions outside town require a car to reach.

The San Pasqual Battlefield State Historic Park sits at the edge of town and marks the site of the largest battle in California during the Mexican-American War of 1846. Visitors can walk a short trail on the grounds that traces the troop positions.

Location: San Diego County

Inception: 1888

Elevation above the sea: 197 m

Website: http://escondido.org

GPS coordinates: 33.12472,-117.08083

Latest update: December 14, 2025 22:00