Fashion Valley

Fashion Valley is a large open-air shopping center at 7007 Friars Road in the Mission Valley district of San Diego, California, beside the San Diego River valley and close to the Interstate 8 and State Route 163 corridors. It is among the best-known malls in the region, with more than 200 stores, and it differs from a generic shopping center in its blend of department stores and luxury and contemporary brands. Anchors include Neiman Marcus, Nordstrom and Macy's, and the brand mix includes names such as Tiffany, along with fashion, accessories, beauty, electronics and home retailers. All goods are authentic branded merchandise sold by chain and brand stores, so there are no market-style tourist trinkets. Prices are fixed with no bargaining, and savings come from sales events, especially around holidays. Cards and mobile payments are accepted everywhere. California sales tax is added at the register, and the United States has no general tax-refund scheme for foreign visitors on regular purchases. The layout is a long outdoor pedestrian promenade with anchor stores at either end and landscaped courtyards between, so visitors walk outdoors between shops, which suits San Diego's mild climate. Dining options include sit-down restaurants and cafes along the promenade, a food court area and quick-service counters, and some have patios. A multiplex cinema is part of the complex. The atmosphere is bustling, especially on weekends and during back-to-school and holiday periods, with a mix of local residents, visitors from nearby hotels and international tourists. Fashion Valley is served by San Diego Trolley's Green Line at a nearby stop and by bus connections, and large parking lots and garages are available. Standard hours run Monday to Saturday from about 10:00 AM to 9:00 PM and Sunday from about 11:00 AM to 7:00 PM, but hours vary, so confirm on the Westfield website.