Best Shopping Malls in National City Area

"Splish-splash outside the food court at this upscale mall in Chula Vista. Grab a bite from the food court (there are plenty of options!). You can sit on the grass to eat (bring a blanket or towel), then it's time to cool off at the splash pad."

"Otay Ranch Town Center in San Diego offers something for every member of the family including fashion stores, sport shops, toy stores and even a dog park for the family poo"

"Horton Plaza Shopping Center, a multi-story, open-air mall, is known for its eclectic architecture, people-watching opportunities and more than 100 stores and shops. Make a purchase here and you'll get three free hours of parking—ample time for shopping and exploring the surrounding Gaslamp Quarter."

"Just a step inside the Old Town Market and you’ll get a sense of what life was like several centuries ago when the city of San Diego was brand new. The market offers visitors a chance to see and hear tales of Old Town, the original inhabitants and how they lived, worked and survived in the early 1800’s. Visit the free museum, watch working artisans, pick up a souvenir or two at one of the shops or enjoy a meal—Old Town Market of San Diego is a charming, nostalgic landmark and attraction that is brimming with history and entertainment."

"The Harney Street Market offers a variety of artisan goods, including jewelry, paintings, photography, hand-blown glass, woodwork, clothing, and accessories. It takes place in Old Town San Diego on Harney Street every Saturday and Sunday from 10:30 a.m."

"Join us for free, historic storytelling, shows and entertainment every day of the week. Shop in our 40 unique gift stores, watch working artisans, or enjoy a bite to eat. Learn about the rich history of Old Town San Diego in our free museum."

"Situated on top of a cliff, the Old Point Loma Lighthouse used to be the most elevated lighthouse in the United States. It was so tall, in fact, that the clouds often hid it from view, so lighthouse keepers would fire shotguns at approaching ships to keep them away. Things are much less dramatic now, but the Old Point Loma Lighthouse is still great in terms of San Diego attractions."

"It commemorates the landing of Juan Rodríguez Cabrillo at San Diego Bay on September 28, 1542; first time that a European expedition had set foot on what later became the west coast of the United States. The lighthouse, which is often used to depict San Diego, dates from 1855 and was decommissioned in 1891. Both are part of the National Park Service."

"This historic lighthouse stands watch over the San Diego Bay at Cabrillo National Monument. It has magnificent birds-eye views of the bay and is a fantastic photo spot. The cost to enter Cabrillo National Monument is $20/car or $10/individual on foot or a bike."