The Hidden Gems of Old Town San Diego’s Shopping Scene
Old Town San Diego is a haven for shoppers seeking unique finds and vibrant cultural experiences. San Diegans and tourists alike will be surprised at the unique things to do in Old Town. The specialty shops in Old Town San Diego offer a delightful mix of traditional Mexican crafts, modern gifts, and interactive activities catering to all interests. Let’s explore some of the key spots that make this historic place a shopping paradise.
Old Town Market
The Old Town Market is a central attraction for those interested in Old Town San Diego shops. With over 40 unique shops housed within three historic buildings, this market is a lively place to explore. It’s a great spot for those seeking Old Town San Diego gift shops, offering a wide variety of Mexican leather goods, artisan-crafted jewelry, and clothing. Visitors can find an array of souvenirs, including t-shirts and handcrafted trinkets.
Temecula Olive Oil Company
Food enthusiasts will enjoy shopping in Old Town San Diego at the Temecula Olive Oil Company. This shop specializes in locally-produced olive oils and provides tastings, giving visitors a chance to sample different flavors. It’s a unique gift shop in Old Town San Diego, ideal for picking up culinary delights and learning about the production process.
Geppetto’s Toy Store
Photo via San Diego Union-Tribune
Geppetto’s Toy Store, a staple among Old Town San Diego shops, is a must-visit for families. It offers a wide range of toys for children of all ages. The whimsical atmosphere and classic toys, including wooden blocks, puzzles, and plush animals, make this store a favorite among locals and tourists. It’s also a great place to find unique gifts for birthdays or special occasions.
Toby’s Candle Shop
Photos via Toby’s Candle and Soap Shop
Toby’s Candle & Soap Shop is one of the interactive Old Town San Diego shops where visitors can make their own candles or choose from a variety of pre-made candles. This hands-on experience allows you to create personalized candles, adding a unique touch to your shopping trip. This unique shop also carries a wide selection of one-of-a-kind candle designs, ensuring there’s something for everyone.
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Settled on San Diego Avenue, Ye Olde Soap Shoppe is a fantastic place to discover amazing soaps from all over the world, along with other specialty bath products and home goods. This mom-and-pop location is one of the top Old Town San Diego gift shops, offering a wide variety of soaps with different fragrances and designs. You can find candles, bath products, and other items that make perfect gifts or additions to your home.
Tienda de Reyes
Photos via Tienda de Reyes | Facebook
Tienda de Reyes, another standout among Old Town San Diego shops, specializes in traditional Mexican clothing and unique gifts. The vibrant dresses and other clothing items reflect Mexican culture, with intricate embroidery and colorful designs. The shop’s welcoming atmosphere and friendly staff make it a great spot to find awesome Mexican folk art, memorable souvenirs, festive apparel, accessories, and more! According to their site, new merchandise arrives daily so there’s always something new!
Bazaar del Mundo
Bazaar del Mundo, or “marketplace of the world,” is a renowned shopping and dining destination in Old Town San Diego State Historic Park. It features a dazzling array of ethnic clothing, jewelry, pottery, and other treasures. This vibrant market offers a diverse selection of products, making it one of the most popular Old Town San Diego shopping destinations.
Shopping in Old Town San Diego is a delightful experience that combines history, culture, and a wide range of unique products. The various shops and markets offer something for everyone, whether you’re seeking handcrafted jewelry, traditional Mexican clothing, or gourmet food. The Old Town San Diego shopping scene is rich with opportunities to discover unique gifts and explore the area’s vibrant history. With its lively atmosphere and diverse selection of shops, Old Town San Diego is a must-visit destination for anyone seeking an authentic and enjoyable shopping experience. Shopping is just one of the many things you can do in Old Town. Whether it’s exploring the Whaley House Museum, relaxing at Presidio Park, bar hopping, or going on an Old Town Food Tour, there is something for everyone. So Diego is happy to be your travel guide while you’re visiting San Diego. We offer Daily San Diego Food tours in Old Town, La Jolla, Little Italy, and Downtown San Diego. We also offer private tours for large groups who want to enjoy a personalized experience.
Written by: Melissa
Melissa hails from San Jose, CA, and has been a San Diego local for five years now after a 10-year long pit stop in Los Angeles. In L.A., she began her writing career crafting digital content for a wide range of clients, including The Real Talk Show, Sharon Osbourne, Hank Azaria, Time Life, and Cardinal Financial. She’s excited to be able to use her passion for writing to introduce people to some of the best spots in San Diego, many of which she has already frequented or has on her ever-expanding list of things to do … In her spare time, she enjoys taking her puppy Milo to all of the best dog beaches in SD, grabbing a glass of wine or a cup of joe at new places, and hosting watch parties for The Bachelor/ette TV show.
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