Touring San Diego Culture, Cuisine and History in Mission Valley

Mission Valley has so many malls and entertainment options, the art and culture within the neighborhood are sometimes overlooked. In addition to the great hiking and historic adventures highlighted in the video above, Mission Valley boasts art, food, and beer you won't want to miss.

Plenty of Arts & Culture

Cygnet Theatre in Old Town ranks as one of the best in a town known for producing great theater. One of the city's larger theater companies, Cygnet offers season after season of impressive and bold contemporary theater productions, along with an annual holiday production that's good fun.

The Annual Linda Vista Multi-Cultural Fair is a great way to experience food and folk art from many different cultures. The fair's World Arts Village features handmade textiles, pottery, jewelry, glasswork and other visual arts. There's also a parade and a kids' zone for the little ones.

Maker Place on Morena Blvd. is a Mecca for artists and DIY crafters. It offers support and equipment to make your own textiles, artwork and sculpture. You can take classes or become a member for the long term. The facility features a 3-D Printer, sewing machines, a welding shop, laser cutting and engraving equipment, a wood shop and more. Classes run the gamut, from how to build ingenious Halloween costumes to intermediate woodworking to a copper enameling workshop.

Craft Beer Valley

Mission Valley is home to some of San Diego's newest craft breweries, too. Groundswell Brewing Company is a hidden gem with a cool tasting room and lots of IPAs to choose from. Head over to Ballast Point Home Brew Mart for the famous brewery's extensive tap list, as well as supplies for aspiring brewers. 

Where to Eat in Mission Valley

The Purple Mint Vegan Bistro is a healthy plant-based restaurant offering Pan-Asian meals with a vegan twist. 

Diners can expand their culinary horizons with cuisine from Guam at Chamorro Grill. Osaka Sushi has good affordable sushi, and True Food Kitchen in the Fashion Valley mall features inspired dishes that are healthy and fresh.

If visiting this centrally located neighborhood for shopping or a movie, make sure to add some arts to your itinerary. There's plenty to be found in Mission Valley.