About Valley Center

Valley Center is a beautiful, rural town located in North San Diego County, California. A census-designated place and unincorporated municipality, Valley Center encompasses approximately 100 square miles and is characterized by unique topographic features, agricultural activities and large residential estates. Part of Valley Center’s charm is the result of its deep agricultural roots, specializing in a variety of crops, including oranges, lemons, avocados, and, most recently, lavender. You can also find animal farms, including hens and llamas. This is a great time to be in Valley Center! With commercial development projects underway and a commitment to preserving the rural integrity of the community, Valley Center is poised to be the gem of Backcountry San Diego. Valley Center is a quiet rural area due to its low population density and wide open spaces surrounded by agriculture.

Valley Center Big Business

Valley Center is home to not one, but two major resort/casinos – Harrah’s Resort SoCal and Valley View Casino & Hotel. These massive resorts bring jobs and business to the community, contributing to economic prosperity and investment in infrastructure.

Valley Center History Museum

The Valley Center History Museum is located in Valley Center, California on Cole Grade Road in the Valley Center Library complex. The museum displays historical photographs and artifacts from Valley Center and the surrounding area. It is a registered charity and staffed entirely by volunteers

The museum was founded in 2003 by the Valley Center Historical Society. In 2015, it expanded by 50 percent, adding an extra wing to accommodate a historic stagecoach which was built in 1848 and served as a Civil war ambulance, provided local transportation, and was featured in a number of Western motion pictures. Its other centerpiece exhibit is a taxidermy mount of a now-extinct California Grizzly Bear. Other exhibits include memorabilia and photographs from famous people who have lived or spent time in the area such as John Wayne, Fred Astaire, Steve Reeves, Randolph Scott, June Allyson, and Dick Powell.