← PlanJam.comArchived blog, 2007–2008

San Diego Metro - PlanJam.com

From your screen to the scene

Category: Shopping

Horton Plaza

by Douglass Pinkard

Horton PlazaAt first sight, Downtown San Diego's famed Horton Plaza appears to be just another Southern California mall: shops, restaurants, vending carts, teenagers – the works. However, once inside the structure named for the same San Diego family whose name Dr. Seuss used for his famous character and you'll soon see why the famously "fun" architectural plan has been baffling visitors and regulars alike for over two decades. If you enjoy searching for your ride after a day of shopping, you'll soon see why Horton Plaza is the go-to location for those with the patience of Job or the sense of humor of the good Dr. Seuss himself. After all, when the parking structure and the shopping mall itself enjoy different numbering schemes, hilarity is sure to ensue.

But go for the adventure and you'll stay for the shops, stores, and eating establishments. Macy's and Abercrombie & Fitch enjoy residence here, right alongside less well known names such as Chico's and Wet Seal. Sam Goody's has your music needs covered, while Coach has bags for those on a budget, albeit a large one.

Drop the kids at the Foot Locker, the GameStop, or the Gap, and you're free to enjoy lunch at La Salsa or Panda Express. Royal India Express and the Boston & Maine Fish Company have what you need to rejuvenate, unless a tasty Wetzel's Pretzel or Cinnabon are all you need. Of course, there is fine dining to be had at Samba Grill, where the Brazilian all-you-can eat barbecue is literally an on-going feast, while Napa Valley Grille is one San Diego's best dining experiences anywhere. Of course, the Ben & Jerry's Ice Cream shop has a sweet treat for you, as well. And once you think you're ready to go in search of your car you're going to want an invigorating mug of coffee first – fortunately there's now a Starbucks on nearly every level of the mall.

So if you're anxious to blur the distinction between shopping adventure and bewildering ordeal, and relish the opportunity to cry: "dude, where's my car?" then Horton Plaza is where you'll want to shop till you drop.

Hotel Del Coronado

by Denise Shively

The Hotel Del CoronadoA visit to the Hotel Del Coronado should be a must on any vacationer's list.

With beautiful accommodations, delicious food, a full-service spa and shopping galore, you can experience the height of luxury.

Additionally, the new Beach Village resort accommodations affords breathtaking views of the ocean, with private access to the beach and other amenities.

Dine at one of several amazing restaurants or have a drink at the Babcock and Story bar - which looks like no bar you've ever been to before!

You can also shop at one of 15 stores located within the Hotel Del, from clothing to eyewear, spa products to toys, you can find whatever you need - or want!

With so many things to see and do, and beautiful accommodations, a trip to the Hotel Del Coronado will be a visit you'll remember forever.

San Diego County Fair

by Denise Shively

San Diego County FairOriginally called the Del Mar Fair, the San Diego County Fair offers fun for the entire family.

The fair opened on June 8th this year and will continue until July 4th. The event usually lasts about a month, and each year brings new surprises.

Adult admissions are only $12, while senior and child admissions are $6. Children under 5 years old are admitted to the fair for free.

The San Diego County Fair literally offers something for everyone! Take a casual stroll through the exhibit hall or take a gander at the Flower & Garden Show.

Children will enjoy the live animals that are present at the fair each year and the interactive petting zoo. There's also a special section of the fair specifically for children called Kiddieland, which houses age-appropriate rides and games for the little ones.

For older kids (and adults who like thrills!), the Fun Zone offers a vast selection of attractions, from mild to thrill-inducing. Duke it out against your date in the Dodge'em Bumper Cars or find out what the new ride The Experience can do for YOUR fair experience!

Of course, you may want to consider sampling the fair's delicious food before you attempt to ride any of the attractions in the Fun Zone. The San Diego County Fair offers one of the largest selection of traditional "fair food" around, as well as a few dining establishments.

You can find food to satisfy literally every taste from popcorn to pretzels, snow cones and ice cream and even the unusual treats like pineapple on a stick or dessert fruit egg rolls. Yum!

And of course, a trip to the fair would not be complete without shopping. There are a wide variety of places to pick up some unique and wonderful things, so be sure to stop by the merchant hall before you leave.

Whatever your pleasure, the San Diego County Fair offers affordable fun for the entire family this summer.

Belmont Park

by Denise Shively

Giant Dipper Roller CoasterIf you are looking for an exciting day of sand, surf and amusement then Belmont Park will suit your needs perfectly!

Made famous by their historic "Giant Dipper" wooden roller coaster, this sea-side amusement park offers several thrilling rides, various concession stands, shops and an indoor arcade that rivals Chuck E. Cheese ANY day.

Pal around on Bumper Cars, spin around in random circles on The Chaos or hone your surfing prowess on The Flowrider, a wave simulator unlike anything you've ever experienced before.

Now that Summer is fast approaching, you can afford to take your family out on the town - every Tuesday night is half-price night at Belmont Park! Your kids can ride all night long and you only pay half price. What a deal!

Whether you sit back and relax while eating an ice cream cone or play air hockey for hours in their large arcade, there's something for everyone at Belmont Park.

Seaport Village

by Denise Shively

Seaport VillageA favorite destination for locals and tourists alike, Seaport Village allows you to enjoy the best of San Diego in one place.

With over 50 fabulous shops and galleries, four award winning restaurants and numerous sidewalk food stands, you can shop, dine and snack to your hearts content.

Whether you're looking for the perfect backdrop for a romantic date or simply want to explore the sights and sounds with family or friends, Seaport Village offers entertainment that cannot be beat.

Conveniently located within Downtown San Diego, Seaport Village can easily be reached via local freeways or public transportation. Free 2-hour parking with any purchase, and thereafter parking is only $3 an hour.

Come enjoy one of San Diego's finest attractions and go home with memories that will last a lifetime.