Between San Diego And Laguna Beach Is An Artsy City With A Walkable Downtown And Vibrant Food Scene

Beer lovers know that tucked between San Diego and Laguna Beach is the laidback city of Vista, California, an epicenter of craft beverages with over 20 breweries — the most per capita in the country, according to San Diego Beer. But there's more than beer brewing here. Arts permeate the city, from installations to events, with strong support from local officials. The compact vicinity also makes it a stroller's delight with a robust food scene and craft breweries brimming with lively entertainment. 

Known as the "Avocado Capital of the World," Vista's balmy temperatures make it an ideal place to walk thanks to its beach-adjacent location, a brief 7 miles from the Pacific Ocean. Along with its historic downtown, Vista has remodeled a corridor of Paseo Santa Fe with new landscaping, sidewalks, and lighting, spanning less than a mile from Vista Village to Civic Center Drive. On the north end is Vista Village, a 195,000-square-foot center with a plaza for city events and a movie theater, wave park, and casual eateries. Near the heart of downtown, you'll find art sculptures, restaurants, and breweries, all within a few square blocks. 

The Paseo upgrade is another step in Vista's changing evolution. Incorporated in 1963, today, Vista is an accessible suburban community and a hidden gem in a stretch of California coast that's studded with charming destinations. Vista is about a one-hour-drive south of Laguna Beach. You can also dodge traffic and ride Metrolink's rail service, hopping on at the Orange County or Empire-Orange County stations. With a stop in Oceanside, you can then transfer to the SPRINTER hybrid rail, which brings you right into the heart of Vista.

It's hard not to come across displays of public art on Vista's various corners as you saunter through the community. Its "Kites Over Vista" program hoists large, sculptural kites onto poles throughout town. About half a dozen winning artists earn a $3,500 stipend, per The Vista Press. Gaze in wonder at "Frigate of the Cosmos" by Sergey Gornushkin, celebrating a bird that can stay airborne for weeks, or do a double-take at "Dimensions" by Nico Meyer, a laser-cut, mathematical-looking steel cube that tricks the eye with its dimensionality.  The Vista Press also reports that the city commissioned muralist and native son Chor Boogie, whose work has appeared at the Beijing 2008 Olympic Games and New York's Times Square, to create four murals in the community, including a large-scale lion mural. 

In addition, Vista integrates art into nature, like the horse sculptures seen at Creekside Park. Likewise, visitors will find an oasis of plants, walking trails, ponds with lily pads, and interactive displays with sculptures and garden art — like dinosaurs and culinary-themed designs at the Alta Vista Botanical Gardens. The diversity of flora found in its 16 gardens includes plants native to California, Australia, Asia, and the Mediterranean, such as chicory, birds of paradise, and olive trees. One Yelper enthuses, "I love its vision of bringing together people, nature, and art while at the same time being educational and inspirational."

Another way to see the works of local artists is at Vista's Indoor Makers Market. The monthly event, usually held on Sundays, highlights the works of independent artisans, designers, musicians, and even packaged foods. Among the finds are jewelry, soaps, essential oils, laser-art-covered notebooks, and handbags.  

Whether you want a light snack or a full meal, Vista can satisfy palates young and old. Freshly made plates of hummus, shawarma, and falafel are on tap at Shaks Mediterranean Bistro, garnering praise for its quality ingredients. "The food is next level and feels like someone's grandma made it," writes one Yelp reviewer. Seven Seas Bar and Grill offers a laid-back vibe with seafood staples, such as crab cakes, fish and chips, and sourdough bowls of clam chowder. Those with dietary restrictions should try the organic and vegan menu items at Milk Organics, like matcha and passion fruit smoothies, cashew milk teas, acai bowls, and bagel sandwiches. Yelp fans say pastries like vegan doughnuts sell out early. 

Even the breweries and bars offer elevated eats, a rare feat. On the menu at upscale Prey Brewing Company are hamachi crudo, pork belly shrimp and grits, and steak frites. Carne asada tacos and hefty sandwiches like pulled pork are a few favorites paired with lagers, IPAs, and hard seltzers brewed at Belching Beaver Brewery Tavern & Grill. Started by a Vista High School alumnus, 508 Tavern churns out comfort dishes like chicken sliders, Korean tacos, and wings. One Yelp patron called it "a must try." The breweries also serve as a local gathering place. Inzane Brewing Co. has struck a chord with customers with its line dancing and comedy shows. "It's like a community center, where people of all walks can come together ... I wish we had more places like this in the world," gushes one Google reviewer. Before you depart Vista, check out the breweries and bites at nearby San Marcos, which is also an affordable retiree haven with stunning views. Likewise, there are several other nearby coastal cities that make for fun day trips from Vista, including Encinitas, a vibrant California beach city, and Oceanside, known for its New England vibes.