A friendly neighborhood north of downtown San Diego, Mira Mesa is perfect for families. There are renowned schools scattered across the area, such as Ericson Elementary, Challenger Middle, and Mira Mesa High School, all who have received the California Distinguished School Award. Near the schools is the public library that has recently been remodeled. The library now features free wifi internet to patrons, as well as a large selection of books, videos, DVD’s, and other media. In consideration of other ethnicities in Mira Mesa, the public library has an impressive selection of international language books as well. There are also wonderful neighborhood parks that are designed not only for children, but for families as well. On an average day, you can see grandparents, parents and children walking to the park at sunset for a couple hours of good old-fashioned outdoor fun. The community uses these parks as a place for Boy Scout meetings, for the elderly to get together and practice tai-chi, among many other uses.
Although Mira Mesa is a quiet neighborhood, it is still bustling with lots of people. There are numerous businesses, restaurants, and stores that are nearby to any home. Grocery stores such as Ralphs, Albertsons, Trader Joe’s, Vons and Fresh N’ Easy are all within five miles of each other for easy grocery shopping. There are also family friendly restaurants such as Buca di Bepo, Chili’s, and Applebee’s for those family nights out. For dessert, there are ice cream shops, such as Coldstone’s and Baskin Robbins. For those who want a healthier alternative, Yogurtland and Yogurt World are only a couple miles away. All these businesses are conveniently located close to each other.
For those who do not have families, Mira Mesa still offers plenty to do. The Mira Mesa shopping center complex has an Edwards Cinema movie theater with eighteen screens and an IMAX screen that make nights out even easier. There are also nearby restaurants and pubs that have happy hours, with one in particular that is a popular favorite. On Wednesday nights, Callahan’s Pub & Brewery has a special Wing night where it is $.40 per wing. Also known for its beer, $2 pint nights on Mondays makes Callahan’s a popular place for Mira Mesa residents.
Mira Mesa not only has a variety of businesses, but also has small neighborhood events throughout the year that are unique to only Mira Mesa. Every Tuesday afternoon from 3-7pm, there is a farmer’s market with different fruits, vegetables and ethnic foods. Taking a walk through the nearby farmers market, you can easily find fresh and organic foods. Another unique aspect of Mira Mesa is the annual pumpkin patch and Christmas tree fundraiser sponsored by the Mira Mesa High football team, for the Halloween and Holiday season. Once a year, the busy streets of Mira Mesa Blvd. and Camino Ruiz are closed down to showcase a band tournament.
With times changing, it is nice to know that there are still some neighborhoods around who continue to hold such events to build a stronger community. Mira Mesa truly has this type of environment, that makes one feel safe and at home.
Paul Caparas, Broker Associate/REALTOR for Weichert Realtors Elite in San Diego, Ca. For information on Mira Mesa Real Estate, please visit www.PaulCaparas.com
