One of the most interesting aspects of San Diego is its topography. Much of its land is a series of rolling hills and small mountains. These natural features have restricted urban sprawl. Instead, dozens of small welcoming neighborhoods have sprouted up along the city hilltops. University Heights is one such neighborhood. Nestled along the southern ridge of Mission Valley, the predominantly residential area is known for its green spaces, fabulous restaurants, homegrown businesses, and seemingly endless charm. Residents enjoy quick access to freeways and San Diego’s most popular attractions. The name may be a little misleading as there are no universities here. In the late 1800s there had been a plan to build a branch of the University of Southern California in the area. However, the plans fell through and the land was later used for the State Normal School which would ultimately lead to the development of San Diego State University just a few miles away. Today the beautiful Normal School is the headquarters of San Diego unified school district. So, not only is this historic University Heights neighborhood located near some of San Diego’s most renowned college campuses, it is also the heart of San Diego’s most comprehensive school district. University Heights checks off all the boxes for anyone seeking a laidback lifestyle in the heart of one of the world’s premier destination cities.