Rancho Penasquitos - San Diego, CA

Mexico granted Rancho Peñasquitos to San Diego county in 1823, making it San Diego's first Mexican land grant. Ownership of the land changed hands several times over the years, until Peñasquitos, Inc. purchased it in 1962 for real estate development. Growth in the area has coincided with the growth of San Diego county, although the community retains a vibe all its own.

Every year, the Fiesta de los Peñasquitos brings the community and outside visitors together for a showcase of arts, games, rides and foods. Bring the kids so they can check out the family fun zone, then end the day with dinner at the food court. The fiesta provides residents with the chance to have fun while helping the neighborhood, as all the proceeds go to community grant awards.

A mix of upscale cuisine from across the globe characterizes the dining experience in Rancho Peñasquitos.

For a freshly made Vietnamese meal with minimal additives, visit Pho Saigon & Grill. Classy decor provides a quiet, relaxing environment. Make sure to try the crispy egg rolls, and if you enjoy meaty soups, order the rare beef with shrimp pho. This popular restaurant also provides several gluten-free menu options.

Local sports fans enjoy Pitchers Sports Bar on Carmel Mountain Road. Plenty of HD televisions show all the major sporting events, and if you're in a competitive mood, you can play a game of pool or shuffle board. If you feel like exercising your knowledge, stop by for Trivia Tuesdays. The winning trivia team gets a discount on the tab.

Rodrigo's Taco Shop serves up authentic south-of-the-border fare. Order the carne asada fries or the California burrito for a taste that mixes the styles of Mexico and California. Generous portions at affordable prices make this an ideal eatery to grab a quick lunch.

The area's nightlife focuses on local bars and sophisticated restaurants. Head over to Cheers Bar & Grill with friends for an exciting outing. Live music keeps guests entertained, especially for Wednesday night swing dancing. Cheers has an indoor grill and encourages guests to cook their own meat for a unique experience.

Convenient freeway access and multiple public transportation options make this area easy to drive around.

Major roads that connect to both freeways bordering the neighborhood gives motorists a quick, simple commute. Interstate 15, running north and south, borders the area on the east. California State Route 56, running east and west, borders the area on the south. Black Mountain Road and Carmel Mountain Road provide street options for traveling through town. You can park on the streets; make sure to check the signs for hours and rates.

Those without cars can take advantage of the public transportation options. Bus routes 20, 844, 845 and 850 service the area. The buses can also take residents to nearby transit centers, which provide express buses and trolley services to the rest of the county. Taxis and ride-share companies like Uber service the area, although the wait time can be high due to the secluded location.

Bike lanes populate the area, although the hills mean you should be prepared for a workout. You'll enjoy taking relaxing walks through the neighborhood, but most errands will require some form of transportation.

Whether you're looking for a breath of fresh air or an intense workout, the parks and recreation centers in this area will have what you need.

The Hilltop Recreation Center provides activities for everyone. The center includes both indoor and outdoor activities, so you can check it out rain or shine. For a fun evening the whole family can enjoy, sign the kids up for a karate class, then go shoot some hoops in the center's adult basketball league. The outdoor area has playgrounds for the kids and pathways for dogs, so you won't have to leave anyone at home. Annual activities include a winter wonderland with train and pony rides, and an Easter egg hunt.

If you're looking for a more low-key environment, check out Adobe Bluffs Neighborhood Park. Dogs can come along, just make sure you keep them on a leash. This calm, tranquil park lets you witness the beauty of the area with fewer people around.

Life in Rancho Peñasquitos has a higher price tag than most of San Diego due to the luxury it provides. The cost of leasing houses or apartments can be reasonable based on the area and the amenities. A one-bedroom apartment typically costs around $1,600, although cheaper apartments can be found.

A Metro ride to the city center costs about $2.50, and gas prices tend to be about 11 percent higher than the national average. A pint at the local pub will cost you around $7.

This area offers an eclectic mix of large retailers for your essentials and quaint shops with a small-town feel. Plan to spend a day at Plaza Rancho Peñasquitos & Prado, an open-air shopping center designed in the style of a Spanish village.

Whether you need your watch fixed or you want to pick out a diamond bracelet for that special someone, Khai Jewelers has something beautiful for every taste and budget. Drop the kids off at Champion Tae Kwon Do while you pick out plants for the yard at Armstrong Garden Centers, a chain home improvement store that also features patio furniture and decorative items.

The plaza houses Stater Bros. Market for grocery shopping, with Vons a short drive away. Find farmers' markets in nearby Rancho Bernardo. However, Rancho Peñasquitos has its own hidden gem thanks to Paula's Gluten-Free. This bakery boasts an impressive lineup of gluten-free breads, cookies and cakes. Paula's can accommodate any of your pastry needs with dairy-free and vegan selections.