With rural beauty serving as the perfect backdrop, it is the warmth of human spirit and solid community values that have allowed the Greater Fallbrook and Bonsall areas to be viewed as model communities in endeavors such as art, land conservation, health care, business enhancement, Christian unity, and much more. As a result of clearly focused and specialized efforts by teams of dedicated volunteers and service organizations, the quality of life in these picturesque communities is deemed highly desirable for many reasons.
Revitalization efforts—combined with a twist of art and culture—have proven immensely successful in many aspects of village life. Building on a historic past that dates back over a century, residents have linked arms to guide Fallbrook wisely into the 21st Century. With an influx of highly acclaimed artists and a growing art foundry that offers an assortment of classes, the area reflects a distinct richness of talent in its residents. Many shows at the Art Center at Fallbrook now draw nationwide attention, and a variety of local galleries display the work of approximately 150 local artists. The Fallbrook Village Association has been instrumental in developing the Village into a community venue that not only welcomes artists of all types, but diligently works towards developing additional resources for them locally. The organization, funded by generous members of the community, contributes time and funds to the Art in Public Places program, which regularly places magnificent bronzes and colorful murals throughout the charming downtown area for the enjoyment of residents and visitors.
One of nature’s greatest gifts to Fallbrook is Live Oak Park. Accessible by either Gird or Reche Road, you can enjoy the journey to this jewel of a destination by traveling under the protective canopy of ancient oaks to the 16-square-mile park that features barbeques, playgrounds, baseball diamonds, a sand volleyball court, and more. Nestled amongst the oaks, with gentle streams nearby, the park is a local favorite for festive family picnics, restful breaks, and popular community events. In order to protect Live Oak Park, community volunteers established the Live Oak Park Coalition. This organization focuses on the many aspects of conservation that are vital to keeping this resource available to area residents and visitors. In an effort that has served as a model for other communities, the Coalition partnered with the County of San Diego and Supervisor Bill Horn to build a visitor’s center in the park. The Coalition rallied help from local building contractors who donated their time and expertise, cutting costs significantly. The organization continues its good work by protecting and preserving this historic, one-of-a-kind outdoor haven.
As visitors meander along the picturesque, winding roads that lead into the Friendly Village, there are many wonderful discoveries to explore along the way. Antique shops are nestled along the roads—some quaint, filled with remembrances of days gone by; and some elegant, featuring elaborate pieces from national and international sources. A visit to Fallbrook’s Historical Society Museum, at 260 Rockycrest Road, is well worth your time. A group of knowledgeable docents have spent numerous hours setting up interesting displays that are rich with Fallbrook history. Fascinating miniatures, periodicals, pictures, artifacts, and even classic automobiles are available for your perusal. A visit to the museum is vital for insight into the rich past of the Greater Fallbrook area.
When you arrive in the downtown village area, you will be delighted to stroll along an old-fashioned Main Street lined with unique and intriguing gift shops, exquisite and satisfying restaurants, and art galleries. Volunteers who have worked diligently with county and state officials on the Fallbrook Revitalization Plan have put considerable time and effort into protecting the intrinsic beauty of the downtown atmosphere. Whether you are interested in estate jewelry, home décor accents, art of all types, delightful gifts for all occasions, or whimsical garden enhancements, you can shop to your heart’s delight in these quaint stores with historic storefronts. Although the Santa Fe Railroad ceased running through Fallbrook three decades ago, there are still pictures around town that depict the old railway depot when the train was responsible for ferrying visitors to the area to enjoy the annual Avocado Festival.
The 2000 Census reports the median age in Fallbrook is 31 years, up 3 points from 1990’s 29 years. While the median income is $43,778 as compared to 1990’s $30,656, the earnings range is wide because of the diverse socio-economic makeup of the community. Current population figures are 45,707 for Fallbrook and 3,868 for Bonsall.
Learn more about this city.
City of Fallbrook, CA official site
City of Fallbrook, CA Chamber of Commerce
City of Fallbrook, CA newspaper
County of Fallbrook, CA official site
State of California official site