OVERVIEW
Scripps Ranch is a distinct, family-oriented suburban community of almost 18,000 inhabitants within the City of San Diego. The community is gently nestled amongst thousands of acres of grassy knolls and woodlands of eucalyptus and pine, featuring picturesque sights of the striking countryside next to Miramar Lake.
Situated immediately east of I-15, Scripps Ranch is among San Diego’s new prosperous, fashionable communities, however it successfully retains its close-knit, small town atmosphere. Ideally located just 16 miles from San Diego’s downtown area, residents of Scripps Ranch are able to enjoy a wide array of employment prospects along with a wealth of recreational opportunities. A lot of Scripps Ranch’s open areas have been reserved for neighborhood parklands, athletic fields, hiking trails and wildlife conservation. Local shopping areas abound, such as Scripps Plaza, Scripps Ranch Village Center and Mira Mesa Market Center.
Scripps Ranch is proud to be serviced by the highly respected San Diego Unified School District and features four elementary schools; among them is Dingeman Elementary School which is among the county’s highest scoring schools and has a high degree of parent involvement. Scripps Ranch High School was opened in September of 1993.
HISTORY
Scripps Ranch was at first a 400 acre ranch procured by Ellen Browning Scripps for $5,000. Ellen’s half-brother newspaper man E. W. Scripps obtained 2,100 acres on which to construct his wintry weather abode, as he alleged the dry Mediterranean environment would aid in his health. The Scripps Ranch Civic Association offers a more comprehensive history of the E. W. Scripps time period. Throughout the late seventies the Ranch was sold to builders who constructed a fashionable community of ranch style residences, over three hundred of which were destroyed in the 2003 Cedar Fire. Since then, more than 75% of these residences have been restored and the original residents have returned to their homes.
POINTS OF INTEREST
Scripps Ranch Recreation Center is the newest recreation facility in the city and features an indoor gym, a multi-use room equipped with kitchen, lighted athletic fields, sheltered picnic areas, and class rooms. Athletic clubs such as Scripps Ranch Swim & Racquet Club and Scripps Ranch Women’s Athletic Club are available for locals to participate in.
Scripps Ranch Theatre offers engaging and quality theatrical performances and is well-renowned as San Diego’s most excellent small theatres. Scripps Miramar Ranch Library Center is open to the public six days a week offering locals and visitors an opportunity to seek knowledge while enjoying the scenic views of Lake Miramar.
Scripps Ranch Farmer’s Market & Arts Festival is a weekly gathering of merchants with fresh produce, gourmet foods, and unique retail goods. There are also events featuring local entertainers and artists. Horton Plaza in nearby San Diego is a shopping mecca of 140 shops, department stores, eateries and boutiques.
La Bastide French Bistro, Pernicanos Ristorante Italiano, and Nugent’s Fish Grille are just a few of many fine dining establishments located in the area.
