Downtown Santa Cruz Houses for Sale

Downtown Santa Cruz is a lively neighborhood known for its pedestrian-friendly streetscape, thanks to the efforts of photographers Chuck and Esther Abbot in the 1960s. Pacific Avenue is the district's hub, featuring bookstores, boutiques, and diverse dining options like Zachary’s Restaurant for brunch and El Palomar for Mexican cuisine. The nightlife includes popular spots such as Asti, The Blue Lagoon, and Rush Inn. Cultural attractions include the Santa Cruz Museum of Art & History and several independent art galleries, while movie theaters like Santa Cruz Cinema and Landmark’s Del Mar Theatre offer entertainment. Housing options range from older single-family homes, bungalows, Craftsman, and Victorian styles to modern apartments and condos. Parks such as Depot Park and the Santa Cruz Riverwalk provide outdoor recreation, with the Santa Cruz Beach and West Cliff Drive just a mile away. The London Nelson Community Center offers indoor activities and events. Grocery stores like Trader Joe’s, Whole Foods, and Staff of Life are conveniently located. The neighborhood hosts various events, including a weekly farmer’s market, a holiday parade, and monthly vintage and antique fairs. Downtown Santa Cruz is less than a mile from State Route 1 and about 2 miles from State Route 17, with Santa Cruz Metro bus lines available for public transit. Schools in the area include Bay View Elementary, Mission Hill Middle School, and Santa Cruz High School, with the latter two earning high ratings. The University of California, Santa Cruz is nearby, adding to the neighborhood's dynamic atmosphere.