San Diego's Historic Suburb Is A California City With Bayfront Fun, Local Eats, And Vintage Charm

When it comes to a traveler's wish list, San Diego is usually at the top. After all, "America's Finest City" is home to world-renowned attractions and sandy beaches, and it boasts appealing year-round weather. There's also plenty to explore in the greater metropolitan area, which is home to over 3 million people according to Census Reporter. The suburb of National City, in its South Bay region, has waterfront fun, neighborhood eateries, and old-world charm. 

According to World Population Review, National City has almost 57,000 residents across nearly 8 square miles. In the 1760s, the Mission San Diego de Alcala used the land before it became part of the over 26,000-acre El Rancho de La Nacion land grant, according to the San Diego History Center. In 1868, a contractor, Frank Kimball, purchased the land with his brothers and founded National City, with incorporation in 1887. Today, San Diego County's second oldest city has several buildings on the National Register of Historic Places, including the Granger Music Hall, Brick Row on Heritage Square, and Santa Fe Rail Depot. 

National City feels relaxed, with a spacious waterfront and ample green space for wandering. It's less than 6 miles south of downtown San Diego and 9 miles south of San Diego International Airport, making it close enough to access the city and far enough to be away from crowds. The San Diego Trolley's Blue line runs south from 5th Avenue Station in San Diego to 8th Street Station in National City. National City is also just 12 miles north of the U.S. border with Mexico.

The 5.5-acre Pepper Park along San Diego Bay with the adjacent 4,700 square foot Aquatic Center and Pier 32 Marina are popular community spaces. You can launch boats and other watercraft such as jet skis, kayaks, and paddleboards and enjoy picnic areas. Other amenities include a splash pad and a pirate-themed playground. Anglers can cast a line from a pier without a fishing license, even at night, as it's illuminated after dark. Cyclists can access about a mile of the 24-mile-long Bayshore Bikeway which runs through National City, connecting with Pepper Park and the Sweetwater Bikeway. You can find maps and detailed route information on TrailLink's website or app. Art lovers, meanwhile, can follow the Bayfront Art Walk, which starts or finishes in Pepper Park. The self-guided stroll is nearly a mile and it features eight one-of-a-kind installations, including sculptures, murals, and a ceramic tile.

You can view National City's vintage downtown buildings on another mile-long walking route known as the Historic Brick Row Walk. Kimball constructed the row homes to house railroad executives, and today they include the Kimball Museum, which houses the National City Historical Society. The free museum is open on Saturdays and Sundays from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., and by special appointment. History buffs can see a full list of historically significant buildings on the city's website. Head to the National City Depot Museum on weekends to see antique rail cars and a model train. 

If you have more time, visit Chula Vista, an underrated beachside city and hidden gem for retirees, approximately 3.5 miles south. It's home to a water park, a dozen restaurants, and California's largest hotel with ocean views – the Gaylord Pacific Resort & Convention Center. Alternatively, combine National City with a visit to San Diego, the friendliest major city in the U.S.

With a longstanding multicultural community, National City offers plenty of diverse dining options. The Waterfront Grill at Pier 32 Marina has a casual vibe, bay views, and a menu that includes a MexiCali salad, Baja fish tacos, cocktails and craft beer. The vendors at the Market on 8th food hall reflect the mix of cultures prevalent in National City, offering Thai, Japanese, Mexican, and burgers. The approximate 11,000 square foot space is open seven days a week and it has indoor and outdoor seating, bars with craft beverages, and live entertainment. 

Since 1940, Café La Maze has been another local favorite, opening as a steakhouse frequented by Hollywood stars as a stopover on their way to Mexico. Locals recommend reserving and mention the roasted prime rib, French onion soup, and lunch buffets (Taco Tuesday, Ribs Thursday, and a Sunday Brunch) as specialties. Frequent visitors also praise the retro 1940s vibe and decor, and nightly live jazz and blues. 

For something sweet, Niederfrank's Ice Cream is another longstanding staple, operating since 1948. It makes ice cream in its onsite factory using a traditional freezing method that doesn't require modern machines. Highly rated on Tripadvisor, Google Maps, and Yelp, reviewers rave about the quality, extensive choice of sorbets, and unique flavors such as golden pistachio and Thai tea.