The people of San Diego are absolutely gaga over Electra, the city’s tallest, most spectacular residential tower. Located in a most desirable location in the downtown — the bayside Columbia neighborhood near Little Italy — the condo tower lights up the San Diego skyline. The size of the building’s two- and three-bedroom apartments range from a cozy 1,000 to an incredible 8,370 square feet, replete with awesome views of the city and harbor. No wonder the Electra has sold out, despite the current difficulties in the national housing market.
With a nod to the neoclassical and Art Deco architecture of the historic Station B, one of the city’s signature heritage buildings is now a luxurious residential tower. The nearby dining in a Little Italy draws diners from around the world. The hilly neighborhood started as an Italian fishing neighborhood, but was gentrified into its current mix of restaurants, shops, art galleries and residential units. The frequent festivals and events complement the Mercato, or Farmer’s Market, one of the city’s landmarks.
The Columbia neighborhood boasts some of the finest residential buildings in the city. It is located south of Little Italy, and north of the Marina District. The Core and Horton District lies to the east. Rail transportation needs are served by the San Diego Trolley, the Coaster commuter rail service, and Amtrak’s regional passenger train, the Pacific Surfliner.
If you like food, you will love the restaurant scene. For instance, there is Anthony’s Fish Grotto on the Bay, established over 60 years ago by the Ghio family. The fresh fish dishes and secret family recipes are to die for.
After you chow down, it’s time to take in the artistic and cultural sights. The downtown expansion of the Museum of Contemporary Art San Diego opened in January, 2007. The building , formerly used by the Santa Fe Deport to handle baggage, is a Nationally Registered Historic Landmark in the Spanish Mission- Colonial Revival style. It was built in 1915 for the Panama-California Exposition, and provides over 10,500 square feet of exhibition space.
Other area museums include the USS Midway Museum, dedicated to America’s longest-serving aircraft carrier, and the Maritime Museum of San Diego, which features one of the best assemblages of historic ships on the planet. As you walk the area through the christmas flowers area, you’ll discover the delightful Urban Trees art project – 30 life-size tree sculptures that have been created by local artists.
Yes, life is good in the Columbia neighborhood, and it got a whole lot better with the addition of the Electra, the most desirable residential address in the district.
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