Parking in Hillcrest — the problem is historic.

It remains a challenge to find street parking in Hillcrest (see quote below), but if you are willing to walk a few blocks...free neighborhood parking is available from one side of Hillcrest to the other. (just think how far you walk when visiting local malls.) Think a free shuttle would be a plus? Email us and help work toward making this happen.

HillQuest will continue to share our best tips and tricks with you. Pick up a free copy of HillQuest, an Urban Guide to 92103+, at one of our advertisers. For directions to the closest location, call (619) 260-1929.

“Right now it is very difficult to find parking at certain times of the day.”

— Joyce Beers, Director, Hillcrest Business Association
San Diego Tribune September 10, 1983

“There have always been parking problems in Hillcrest. I think even the Indians had a hard time finding a place for their ponies.”

— Arnold Saaron, Hillcrest jewelry store owner, 1987

Think the Parking Fairy Can Help?

Parking in Hillcrest is a persistent challenge and it has been for decades. While parking spaces may appear to be plentiful in some regions, many lots are restricted, fee-based or permit-only.

Metered parking is available on most streets in the BID, but don’t get a citation. Meters accept credit cards (on a few), cash and parking cards which may be purchased or reloaded at ACE Hardware and the Hillcrest Business Improvement Association office. Never leave your meter empty — parking citations are currently $30. And they’ll probably be going up again!!

Meter problems? Call (866) 470-1308 after making sure to note the meter number.

Signs directing cars to public parking lots were installed in March 2003 by the Uptown Partnership, Inc. When parking in a public fee-based lot, look for a central box to leave your cash. Some lots now also allow parkers to use credit cards at the deposit box.

Note: Many local businesses offer free validation in the parking lots near their stores. Call ahead if you have questions.