Pet owners will also find the VCA Hillcrest Animal Hospital, HOWLISTIC pet supply store, and a large chain pet store in the region that are easily accessible to pedestrians and their pets.
Warm weather makes outings with your dog pleasant and enjoyable most of the year with temperatures that are usually not too cold or too hot for walking.
Hillcrest is bordered by Mission Hills on the west, Bankers Hill and the San Diego Zoo on the south, University Heights on the north side, and North Park to the east. The neighborhood is located on elevated ground on a ridge that rises to the east of the San Diego Bay. As a result, there are some steep climbs on the west side of the community, although the main sections of Hillcrest only have gentle inclines.
Two hospitals and their grounds are located in Hillcrest and occupy a significant area. Homes in the Hillcrest neighborhood consist of apartment buildings and vintage character homes such as Craftsman and Mid-century modern homes that add interest to the community. Property is well landscaped with some larger trees. The area has a high population density and lots of traffic as well as a parking shortage, however, there are many natural greenways and canyons along the community's borders that stretch into Hillcrest.
Balboa Park is located on the south side of Hillcrest and borders the San Diego Zoo property. While the zoo is not accessible to dogs, there are hiking trails in the greenway associated with the area you can explore with your leashed pet. For a manicured greenway, you can visit the Mercy Staff Memorial Garden which has lawns, gardens, paved walking paths, fountains, and a plaza located centrally in Hillcrest.