Best Nature and Wildlife Areas in Mira Mesa

"Escondido’s best-known attraction is Safari Park, the sister park to the San Diego Zoo. The Safari Park is 1800-plus acres of exotic animals and botanical gardens galore, carved out of the hills just outside Escondido."

"It's not stunning skyline views you'll find here at Bartiquitos Lagoon, but great views of a different sort: endangered birds that occupy the tranquil lagoons situated near the hustle and bustle of San Diego. Located between Carlsbad and Encinitas and identified as one of the few remaining tidal wetlands in southern California, the area is perfect for hiking and provides outstanding opportunities for bird watching. Interpretive signs along the trails assist with identifying these rare birds."

"Hikers at Batiquitos can look forward to a low-elevation, wetland walk on a 3.25-mile trail that winds through a park-like environment. If you go, you’ll encounter lots of families, dog walkers, and more than a few bird watchers. Owls, ducks, swans and other water-loving birds make Batiquitos their home in large numbers."

"With various parking areas on the northern side, Batiquitos Lagoon is a great stop for a two-mile hike. Just east of Interstate 5, the area is home to 610 acres of lagoon space and has been preserved for public enjoyment from oceanic silt buildup. Bicycles are not allowed, though pets are – provided they are on a leash."

"After taking in some of the best restaurants in Escondido or best brunch spots in Carlsbad, head to Daley Ranch to walk off what you just ate. With over 3,000 miles of conservation area to explore, you can enjoy the natural vegetation, oak woodlands, grasslands, and more. And if you’re interested in some history, there are plenty of old buildings to explore on the property too."

"Daley Ranch was established in 1996 and covers a ground area measuring 3058 acres. The Ranch has been used as a conservation area for protecting and housing various species of animals and plants which are considered endangered in the area. The ranch is also home to a wide range of regional plant species that are not found at other places in the world."

"Daley Ranch has everything a hiker, biker, or runner could ask for. Some trails provide excellent views of Dixon Lake. Dixon Lake will give you immediate shade and a shoreline trail."

"The park was named after Christopher (Kit) Carson, the famous scout who guided Captain John C. Fremont over the Sierra Nevada Mountains during a government exploration expedition. The City of Escondido acquired the land for its largest regional park from the City of San Diego in 1967. Address:3333 Bear Valley Parkway, Escondido, CA 92025"

"Los Peñasquitos (“little cliffs”) is a great beginners’ trail for those who want to enjoy mountain-feel views without having to hire an expedition crew. There are two approaches (east and west), and the trailheads offer a trek of either 6.5, or 5.5 miles, respectively. The terrain is gradual and level, but the trails are surrounded by the sort of views that gave the area its name: scenic rocky outcroppings, and stony formations that ripple with rubble."

"Where: 1955 Julian Ave, San Diego, CA 92113 An expansive former bread factory in Logan Heights is the home of Bread & Salt. To make things simple, you could call it an art gallery, though owner James Brown, an architect by training, bills it as an “experimental center for the arts with strong community ties.” Bread & Salt hosts visual arts and performances, along with educational events and artists-in-residence. For a peek, check out their Facebook feed."

"Bread & Salt (all 45,000 square feet of it) is a unique gallery that currently operates by appointment only. Also known as the Barrio Logan gallery, it has displayed the works of artists such as Melissa Walter, Kaori Fukuyama, and Alanna Airitam. The focus is on international artists here, along with events that can only be described as “eclectic.” Even though you have to make an appointment to visit, it’s well worth the effort."

"A gallery and experimental center for the arts that hosts original works by local and international artists, eclectic events, and a curated assemblage of artisans, educational entities, and non-profit tenants - alongside a robust residency program and publishing house. breadandsaltsandiego.com. 1955 Julian Ave, San Diego, CA 92113"

"Many people forgot about Quint One, as it shut its doors for four years. However, the former Quint Gallery recently returned under the name Quint One. Located in La Jolla, this is an appointment-only gallery."

"You might not know this, but they have a not so secret menu!!. A few must tries from the “secret” menu are animal style fries (french fries with grilled onions, melted cheese and their famous sauce), animal style burger, and a grilled cheese. You definitely don’t want to miss out on this one, because it truly is the one of the best cheap eats in Carlsbad!"

"With 300 locations, In-N-Out is a family owned business, featuring fresh ingredients and great customer service. Building there company on the belief "quality you can taste" this California favorite is a must have."

"This has been they best quality of In and Out I've had in California. Also fastest but could be because I..."

"Every time I eat here I say the same thing: my favorite San Diego area restaurant. What's nice is that they set up a nice sized patio on the street where..."

"Every time I eat here I say the same thing: my favorite San Diego area restaurant. What's nice is that they set up a nice sized patio on the street ..."