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Mervyn’s, Macy’s, and Nordstrom department stores serve as anchors to this festive shopping experience, a destination in its own right. Designed as an amusement park for shoppers, ramps lead past staggered shopping levels that hold 130 specialty shops, a few restaurants, and movie theaters. The Plaza’s landmark is the 1907 Jessop’s Clock, a 21-ft (6.4-m) high timepiece with 20 dials that display the time in all parts of the world (see Horton Plaza).

A store that also operates a catering business, features select gourmet and entertainment items, as well as yummy chocolates.

Ellen Browning Scripps once owned this 1904 cottage. Now, it’s a registered historic site. Shelves inside are packed with titles, including an extensive children’s section.

Specializing in “things that glitter,” you’ll find clothes with lots of sparkles for the rodeo, salsa dancing, or that upcoming pageant. For everyday wear, go for the embellished denim and leather.

Part-gallery with exhibitions and part-retail clothing store, textiles are beautifully crafted into works of art and couture. Tasteful jewelry and accessories coordinate well.

Fabrics, tablecloths, pillows, purses, and a charming collection of hand-painted eggcups are imported from the South of France.

Since 1976, travelers Bill and Joan Keller have directed their passion for the road into a one-stop travel shop that offers anything a traveler might desire: Eagle Creek and Swiss Army luggage and backpacks, an array of packing organizers and travel accessories, and a good assortment of maps and guidebooks.

Indulge your dog with a lamb’s wool coat, jeweled collar, rawhide shoe chews, and other “essentials and gifts for discriminating canines.”

Gratify your nautical gift needs through a variety of model ships, T-shirts, posters, and prints inscribed with an image of the Star of India (see San Diego Maritime Museum).

If you’re walking over the border, wander through these shops first to get an idea about prices. Treasures exist amidst the vast amounts of pottery, glass-ware, blankets, and baskets.