Where the sweeping parkway descends into the valley from Escondido, Park Circle is the new heart of Valley Center—and we couldn’t love our town more. Valley Center is the perfect blend of country charm and city convenience. You’re close to farm fresh food and regional attractions like the San Diego Zoo Safari Park, lakes, and hiking. And if you really need your big city fix, you’re 15 mins from Escondido, 30 minutes from Temecula, and 45 minutes from downtown San Diego. Earlier this year, we took a trip to the Valley Center History Museum to learn even more about the vibrant history of the land and its more famous residents. Think you know Valley Center? Test your knowledge with these awesome facts about this San Diego County community. They may sound unbelievable, but trust us, they are all true!
“Unbearably†original name.
Valley Center was originally called Bear Valley. The town received great notoriety for the capture of the largest California Grizzly Bear in history and later changed the name to reflect the beautiful terrain. Weighing in at a whopping 2,200 pounds, a smaller version of this infamous bear is on display at the Valley Center History Museum.
Betty Crocker’s home turf
Agnes White Tizard, the first Betty Crocker, fulfilled her iconic role from Valley Center. She even built a stainless-steel demonstration kitchen in her house. Other notable icons who called Valley Center home include Fred Astaire, John Wayne, and writer Washington E. Irving.
Our historic post office was no small feat
In the 1800s, Valley Center had the distinction of having the Smallest Post Office in the United States (1898) and the Smallest Post Office in the World (1881) as named by the Guinness Book of World Records. Measuring just 40 square feet, the entire building has been moved to the Valley Center History Museum where it’s on display for everyone to see.
Soaring to new heights
While the Wright Brothers were hosting public demonstrations of their powered engine, aviation pioneer and inventor Donald H. Gordon preferred to stay out of the limelight. He flew one the first powered flights west of the Mississippi from Valley Center and was often seen testing his crafts in the Valley Center flying field.
Six degrees of pedigree
From Park Circle to the winner’s circle, some of the most famous race horses in history had foals that lived in Valley Center. This includes the kids of world champions Seabiscuit, Seattle Slew, and Secretariat.
Move to Park Circle and you too can be part of the rich history of this land. Our first model homes are expected to debut in early 2021. Sign up for updates to be the first to know about community offerings.