Located in historic Gaslamp Quarters, Horton Plaza is a signature of San Diego's warm climate. This open-air mall has plenty of palms and colorful plantings to enhance the amuseument park maze of shops. The imbalance of five staggered levels -- three on one side and two on the other -- and the infusion of 40-plus paints help to create a wandering wonderland of colorful pathways and alcoves. If you get lost in the maze, head for the customer service booth on plaza level one. And if you're a member of AAA, they also can tell you how to save it. Show your card, and they'll slap some discounts on you. Like New York's Times Square, Horton Plaza is one of San Diego's best-known attractions; it's right up there with the Zoo, Balboa Park and SeaWorld. Ask any local about going downtown and they're likely to mention Horton Plaza, either as a place to go or a place to park. Just shy of 2200 spaces, the complex's parking garage is free for three hours with a purchase (four hours for validation at movie theater or restaurant).

Outside shopping mall in the heart of downtown. Take the trolley to the Civic Center stop on C Street between 2nd and 3rd Street. Walk 2 or 3 blocks south (across Broadway). The Gaslamp District is right next door.

Outdoor Shopping Mall in the center of downtown San Diego

Fun Shopping Downtown, or try Nordstrom's Cafe (Tomato Basil Soup, or any salad) or Panda Inn (Crab Wontons, Orange Chicken, Lo Mien) for a delicious lunch. Careful - this place is easy to get lost in and make sure you validate at a machine for parking - 2 or 3 hours free.