San Diego State University

When the sun is setting, San Diego State University campus is a pleasant place to walk around. The trumpet flowers are releasing their scent and you can almost imagine you're somewhere other than inland San Diego. The northern end of campus is the prettiest, with historic buildings such as Hepner Hall, rows of Spanish arches, and little garden areas with benches. The campanario is deilghtful and just what you'd imagine of old Spanish California. Grab a bowl of fruit from the campus food market near the library and find a table or bench to sit and relax. The southern end of campus is more modern and stark looking, but has some nice open spaces. Students rush about in the Aztec Center, where there's a great Starbucks with huge windows. The neighborhood bordering the south end of campus is sketchy. I'm not sure what it is, but even though there are some pretty buildings on campus, the overall look of SDSU campus is harsh and plain.
There is a great metro rail system that stops at the university.The university is a 15 minute drive from Mission Beach, a super fun area with a boardwalk.

Directions

San Diego State University is located at 5500 Campanile Dr, San Diego CA 92182, call (619) 594-5200.From Highway 8, follow the signs for San Diego State University. You will head south on College Ave. I parked in one of the structures along Lindo Paseo on the weekend, but you should call to find out where visitors should park. Parking is very confusing on campus.
Here is the parking info from the SDSU website:
Visitors may park in any pay lot or student lot with a pay permit. Visitor lots are represented by a yellow P on the lot or structure sign. There are a total of 23 pay permit machines on campus. The only pay machines that accept VISA and MasterCard payments are located at: the Parking Information Booth, O, S and W lots, Parking Structure 5 level 2 north side and Parking Structure 6 level 1 northwest corner. Visit the Parking Information Booth located at the Chemical Sciences Laboratory building if you have any questions. During non-business hours, direct inquiries to Public Safety Dispatch at 619-594-1991.

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