City Heights is a neighborhood located a short 15-minute commute from San Diego's downtown area. This neighborhood is highly walkable with many ethnic restaurants and shops located along the main thoroughfares. Pedestrian travel in the region is common and public artworks including murals and sculptures can be enjoyed by local foot traffic.
A thriving farmers market, art district, nightlife, and music venues dot the area. There are even some veterinarians and pet stores in the region for dog owners to visit with their pets.
Walking in the City Heights region, people and their pups will enjoy beautiful warm weather throughout the year. Winter days can be cooler, but are still mild with temperatures well above freezing. Summer days can see the mercury rise to uncomfortable levels, however, you can venture out at cooler times of the day to beat the heat. Overcast days and rain are more common in spring, but with warm temperatures, a little rain does not have to prevent you from venturing out.
There are several natural greenways with rough, hilly terrain, mostly concentrated on the east and south sides of the neighborhood that also impede pedestrian traffic. Some areas have long, gentle hills, however, they can be taxing on long walks in the area. Some sections of the community are more level, especially where commercial activity is centered.
A golf course on the northeast side provides manicured landscaping and green space while homes in the area are mostly single-family detached dwellings of moderate size with yards that are also moderately landscaped. Sidewalks are prevalent in the area and create safe walkways for you and your furry friend.
Natural areas like Manzanita Canyon and Hollywood Canyon extend through the City Heights neighborhood. Hiking trails in these areas are dirt surfaced and are attractive places for dog walkers, however, terrain can be rough with steep elevation changes and surfaces may be treacherous in wet weather. Keep an eye out for any closed off areas to avoid when you're taking a day trip out into the greenway.
Parks in the area include Hollywood Park, Sunshine Berardini Park, and the Azalea Community Park which have open spaces, recreational facilities, and athletic fields with paved paths.
A short drive north will take you and your canine companion to the Ward Canyon Dog Park. This park has enclosed off-leash areas for large and small dogs and a shredded bark surface. You must supervise your dog in this park and pack your water and waste supplies as these are not provided.