Seaport Village

Seaport Village is a waterfront shopping village at 849 West Harbor Drive on the Downtown Waterfront of San Diego, California, facing San Diego Bay beside the Embarcadero and a short walk from the USS Midway Museum and the Convention Center. The village is a cluster of small shops, eateries and landscaped walkways set along the bay, and it differs from a standard mall in being a low-rise, pedestrian-only complex oriented around views and strolling. Shops sell souvenirs, gifts, kites, toys, clothing, candy and art, and a historic carousel is a long-standing feature. Because the village caters strongly to visitors, tourist souvenirs form a large share of the goods, and authentic locally made products are fewer, although some art and specialty shops stand out. Prices are moderate, with small souvenirs commonly costing a few dollars to around $30. Bargaining is not customary, and prices are fixed. Cards are accepted in nearly all shops, and cash is rarely required. Sales tax applies, and the United States has no general tax-refund scheme for foreign visitors. The layout is a loop of walkways and boardwalks winding between shops and small plazas, with benches and bay views, so visitors can walk the whole site within about an hour. Dining options include casual waterfront restaurants, ice cream and snack stands, and cafes, several with bay views. The atmosphere is relaxed and family oriented, with street performers at times, and it is busiest on weekends and summer afternoons. The site is slated for long-term redevelopment, so visitors should confirm current shop availability and hours before visiting. Hours are generally daily from about 10:00 AM to 9:00 PM, but vary by shop and season. Paid parking is available on site, and the Embarcadero is also reachable on foot from the trolley and downtown hotels, with waterfront paths leading toward the Midway and the Maritime Museum.