PlanJam!From your screen to the scene

At 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.