Before it was redeveloped as a shopping center in downtown San Diego in 1985, Horton Plaza was just a grassy area surrounded by banks of flowers and plants. The entire area seemed to be run-down by the 1960's and was home to a large population of homeless. Oddly enough, on November 2, 1960, then Senator John F. Kennedy spoke at Horton Plaza to make a last minute appeal for votes just six days prior to the 1960 Presidential Election.
Horton Plaza was definitely a departure from the standard mall design when it opened in August 1985. With its mismatched levels, long one-way ramps, drop-offs that seem to appear suddenly from nowhere, small and large cul-de-sacs and of course the brightly painted facades of the buildings, this outdoor shopping extravaganza was a risky and very radical design compared to other "standard-looking" shopping malls.
Anchored by Nordstrom and Macy's, it has five levels of shopping which include over 130 retail stores. In addition, there's a food court, fine dining, an ice-skating rink, the UA Horton Plaza 14 Movie Theatre, the Lyceum Theatres (Home of the San Diego Repertory Theatre), and so much more, all combined in a unique and colorful architectural design.
The Horton Plaza Parking Garage is an experience in itself. Pay close attention to where you park, because if you forget, you could spend hours looking for your car. Each area is designated with colorful painted walls with either a fruit or vegetable designed to help you remember when you parked.
Located on the west side of the Gaslamp Quarter between 1st and 4th Avenues, and near PETCO Park and additional downtown shopping, this unusual mall is in the middle of many tourist attractions throughout downtown San Diego. The Shopping Concierge Center on the 1st Floor provides a great deal of assistance to visitors - and sometimes even San Diego residents - needing help.
Be adventurous; take the Trolley to Downtown San Diego and Horton Plaza. Both the Blue and Orange Trolley Lines get you within four blocks of most attractions. Both lines stop at the Civic Center station, which is the closest to Horton Plaza. (The mall is two blocks south of the station.) Walking around Downtown San Diego is easy since it is mostly flat.
Horton Plaza, is more than just a mall, it's a place to spend your day or just a few hours having fun. So don't wast another minute and come see what your are missing.
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