Uc San Diego Medical Center, Hillcrest

UC San Diego Medical Center Hillcrest Visiting Hours, Visitor Information, and Campus Guide

Date: 03/07/2025

Introduction

UC San Diego Medical Center Hillcrest, located in the lively Hillcrest neighborhood of San Diego, stands as the region’s only academic medical center and a leader in advanced healthcare, research, and medical education. Established in 1869 as San Diego County Hospital, the center has evolved over more than a century into a vital institution serving diverse and underserved communities, and it continues to grow through ambitious redevelopment projects (SNAC Cooperative; UCSD Hillcrest About).

This comprehensive guide is designed for prospective visitors, patients, and healthcare professionals. It provides essential information about visiting hours, parking, accessibility, campus layout, amenities, and redevelopment plans. Whether you are visiting a loved one, attending an appointment, or simply exploring the center’s history and future, this resource will help ensure a smooth and informed experience.

History and Institutional Overview
Role as San Diego’s Only Academic Medical Center
Commitment to Community Health and Equity
Expansion and Modernization
Philanthropy and Partnerships
National Recognition
Campus Layout and Facilities
Visiting Hours and Visitor Information
Parking and Transportation
Accessibility and Visitor Amenities
Nearby Attractions
Redevelopment and Future Developments
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Tips for a Smooth Visit
Plan Your Visit
References

History and Institutional Overview

The origins of UC San Diego Medical Center Hillcrest date back to 1869, when it was established as San Diego County Hospital. Initially located in Old Town, the hospital moved to Mission Valley in 1889 and, in 1904, relocated to a new facility in Hillcrest (SNAC Cooperative). The current modern facility was built in the early 1960s, and in 1966, it became University Hospital under the newly formed UC San Diego School of Medicine. UC San Diego purchased the hospital in 1981, solidifying its place as the UC San Diego Medical Center (SNAC Cooperative).

Role as San Diego’s Only Academic Medical Center

Hillcrest is the only academic medical center in San Diego, serving as a teaching hospital and research hub (UCSD Hillcrest About). The campus is part of the University of California’s system of five academic medical centers, and it plays a crucial role in educating nearly half of California’s medical students and residents (UCSD Planning). The center’s integration of patient care, research, and education fosters innovation and attracts top medical professionals and students (UCSD Advancement).

Commitment to Community Health and Equity

UC San Diego Medical Center Hillcrest is dedicated to serving the region’s diverse and underserved populations, providing a large portion of San Diego County’s uninsured inpatient care (UCSD Planning). The hospital houses a Level 1 Trauma Center, Regional Burn Center, and Comprehensive Stroke Center, all of which offer specialized care to patients from across Southern California (UCSD Hillcrest About).

Expansion and Modernization

The Hillcrest Redevelopment Project is a multi-phase, multi-billion-dollar initiative aimed at transforming the campus into a modern medical and research complex (Lifestyles Magazine). The first phase includes the McGrath Outpatient Pavilion, opening in 2025, which will house specialty clinical programs such as oncology, neurosurgery, urology, and orthopedics. The project also includes a new parking structure and plans for a future replacement hospital, all designed to minimize disruption and ensure continued patient care (UCSD Hillcrest About).

Philanthropy and Partnerships

Significant philanthropic contributions, such as the McGrath Family Foundation’s $25 million gift, have been instrumental in advancing campus redevelopment and expanding services (Lifestyles Magazine). These partnerships support the expansion of cancer care, particularly at the Moores Cancer Center, and enhance the center’s capacity to serve the community.

National Recognition

UC San Diego Medical Center Hillcrest is nationally ranked in 10 specialties, including oncology, neurosurgery, and orthopedics (Lifestyles Magazine). Its emergency department serves over 50,000 patients annually, and both the Hillcrest and Jacobs Medical Centers have been recognized for their sustainability efforts (UCSD Health News).

Campus Layout and Facilities

The Hillcrest campus spans approximately 60 acres, with 37 buildings—seven dedicated to patient care. The campus includes:

Inpatient Hospital Tower: An eleven-story facility with 390 beds, home to the Level 1 Trauma Center, Regional Burn Center, Comprehensive Stroke Center, and emergency department (UCSD Hillcrest About).
Outpatient Clinics: Five specialized clinics providing care in cardiology, oncology, orthopedics, women’s health, and more.
Psychiatric Unit: A dedicated inpatient psychiatric unit offers comprehensive mental health services.
Research and Teaching Facilities: State-of-the-art labs and classrooms support the center’s educational mission.

The campus is organized with clear signage, pedestrian pathways, and accessible entrances.

Visiting Hours and Visitor Information

General Visiting Hours: 11:00 AM to 8:00 PM daily, but hours may vary by unit or during special circumstances. Always check the latest policy online or call ahead (UCSD Health Parking).
Tickets and Admission: No tickets or admission fee are required.
Visitor Registration: Visitors should comply with security and health protocols; registration may be required in some areas.
Health and Safety: Masking is optional as of July 2025 but may change according to public health guidelines.

Parking and Transportation

Parking Structures: Multiple parking options, including the Arbor Parking Structure and First Avenue Lot 964. The new multi-level parking structure connects directly to the outpatient pavilion (UCSD Health Parking; dpr.com).
Rates (as of July 2025):
- Under 30 minutes: Free
- 30 minutes to 3 hours: $7
- Each additional hour: $2.25
- Daily max: $18
- Valet (weekdays, 8 a.m.–4:30 p.m.): Up to 3 hours $8, each additional hour $2, daily max $18, disabled placard $4 flat
Payment: Via license plate at pay stations or the Parkmobile app.
Public Transit: Access via several bus routes; campus shuttle service available.
Disabled Parking: Free with placard; ADA-compliant throughout campus.

Accessibility and Visitor Amenities

The campus is fully ADA-accessible, featuring ramps, elevators, accessible restrooms, and dedicated parking. Amenities include ATMs, wayfinding signage, digital and printable maps, and a range of dining options on and near campus.

Nearby Attractions

The Hillcrest neighborhood offers dining, shopping, and cultural attractions, making it convenient for visitors to combine their hospital visit with local experiences. Nearby sites include Balboa Park, San Diego Zoo, and Liberty Station.

Redevelopment and Future Developments

The Hillcrest campus is undergoing a major redevelopment, highlighted by the McGrath Outpatient Pavilion opening in 2025. Future plans include expanded cancer care, new wellness centers, workforce housing, and compliance with 2030 seismic safety standards (Lifestyles Magazine; UCSD Health Parking).

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What are the current visiting hours?
A: Generally, 11:00 AM to 8:00 PM daily, but check online or call for the latest information.

Q: Is there an admission fee or need for tickets?
A: No, visiting is free and no tickets are required.

Q: How do I park and what are the rates?
A: Multiple parking options are available with rates ranging from free (under 30 minutes) to $18 daily max.

Q: Is the campus accessible for those with disabilities?
A: Yes, the campus is fully ADA-compliant.

Q: Are public tours available?
A: Public tours are limited but special educational events and virtual tours are available. Check the official website for updates.

Q: What security policies are in place?
A: The campus is weapons-free with security screening and 24/7 presence.

Tips for a Smooth Visit

Review the UCSD Health Hillcrest website for current parking, construction, and visitor policy updates.
Use the Parkmobile app for fast and easy parking payments.
Arrive early, especially during peak times or ongoing construction.
Contact visitor services if you need special assistance or accessible parking.
Explore the Hillcrest neighborhood for dining and entertainment options.

Plan Your Visit

For the most up-to-date information, visit the UC San Diego Medical Center Hillcrest official site. Consider downloading the Audiala app for campus maps, audio guides, and news. Stay connected with UC San Diego Health on social media for ongoing updates, health resources, and community stories.