CUTE TOURISTY SHOPS loved by both locals and visitors! Old Town Market gets a lot of foot traffic because of the historic Old Town location. However, the market captures the authentic shops of a Mexican town! I've been to Mexico a few times now and I can tell you there's several shops that have this charming quality over there! Old Town Market perfectly captures the charm. The vendors were super friendly even though we weren't buying anything and just came to chill out. You can get both traditional and more Americanized items like jackets, zarapes, and shirts. I've also spotted art, toys and other souvenirs. They cater to everyone here and that's a major factor in why it's so popular. I personally don't buy from Old Town Market proper as some of the items are too touristy and pricey. However, you can find some fun items and some good deals once in a while! read more

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Cool Market with 40 shops available Nicely decorated Located in Old Town San Diego neighborhood Lots to see and buy Perfect for souvenirs ect read more

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Old town market is so much fun to shop around! The Mexican potteries and silvers are so beautiful and very well made. I really liked the potteries in Cancun but it was hard to bring them back. It's so convenient to shop for those here in old town San Diego! The tequila set pottery I chose was so gorgeous! We can't wait to use them to drink tequilas at home! There are restaurants, bars, wine tasting, chocolate tasting and much more besides gift shops. It's easier to spend a couple hours here without even realizing it. We'v always had such fun time here every time we visited! Ps. Public parking across the street, we paid 3 hours for $10. read more

Old Town Market - Tequila set pottery - Souvenir Shops Near Me - San Diego, California

This old town is California's first little town. It is always nice to walk through the town and learn more history. They have many eateries, some are very over rated!! We still haven't found one that we can rate with 5 stars. Anyhow, it is still a place you want to walk through and see all the trinkets or burn some calories after a meal. You'll truly enjoy the nice beach weather, and the hospitality that many venders give. read more

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So much to see! Everyone was very nice and good prices! Something for everyone! Indoor and outdoor things to see!

This was a nice visit. Upon entering the 'market,' it was hustling and bustling with live music and a nice crowd. In the middle of the market was a few dining options and a few drink stands. As you walk along the interior walls, it was surrounded by small shops. This is definitely a tourist trap, but I think there's a lot to see without having to purchase anything. We kept walking around and stumbled upon an outdoor market with live music and singing. If you kept walking through shops you'll get to a huge open green area where you can have picnics or just walk around. There was also old-style museums, and shops that was staged like it was back in the days. I was there during the hour leading to sunset. It was really nice seeing the sun setting in the horizon. Back at the main market area, I ordered a margarita ($15) and sat down to watch the live music performers under large trees hung with lights. It was a great way to end the night. I wasn't sure what the parking situation was but outside of the market across the street there were a few parking lots. The instructions don't make any sense and no one knew if parking was free after 6pm or not. Parking was $15 for 4 hours. read more

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Nothing here, tourist trap, or rip-off, depending on your point of view. No reason to return, terrible parking.

The old town market has about 40 unique gift stores, where you could watch working artisans, enjoy a bite to eat, and experience live performance. The festival marketplace is small yet exquisite, and has plenty free parking lot around. read more

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Old town market in the Old Town district in San Diego is very quaint it is exactly how I imagined a Mexican town to be. I have only been to Mexico city and it way pretty modern LOL There are a ton of shops selling all different kinds of stuff, but what I saw the most were different knick knacks', souvenirs, handmade artisanal wares, t-shits and a whole lot of restaurants. The weather is amazing so just walking here is very pleasant. I wasn't going to buy anything other than a couple souvenirs but I wound up buying myself a really nice leather handcrafted cross body purse, which has become my every day purse. Pretty neat area read more

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It's colorful and fun to walk around, but pretty overpriced for being so close to the border. read more

Old Town Market - Souvenir Shops Near Me - San Diego, California

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Parking around this area could be a little tough, but we got lucky and was able to find street parking. Lots of cool and super cute little souvenirs and gifts, lots of pottery, bracelets, jewelry, Mexican candy, etc. Things could be expensive, but there are little gifts that are pretty reasonably priced. Our group all got matching friendship bracelets as little souvenirs that were inexpensive. Overall lots to see even if you're not looking to buy anything. There are also lots of free historical museums with lots of history behind them around the area that I highly recommend checking out if you're interested. read more

Visited 3/31/2018 Located inside Historic Old Town Steak Park is a wonderful shopping destination full of Street stands just like you find in Tijuana. Everything from clothing to sombreros and everything in between. Also lots of free museums and Mexican restaurants. A great way to spend a day. Come early as it get quite busy. You can also pick up all the trolley tours right out front of The Old Town Market. Enjoy. read more

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this is the largest market in the entire area. Filled with things for everyone. Clothes, souvenirs, snacks, you name it. The people here are also very nice read more

Old Town Market - Souvenir Shops Near Me - San Diego, California

Little historic town with a quaint touch. You can easily spend a few hours walking around and soaking in the atmosphere and history. There are a series of little shops selling mainly Mexican wares. Great place to pick up souvenirs although they can be pricey. Nice photo ops here. read more

Old Town Market - Souvenir Shops Near Me - San Diego, California

Old Town San Diego Cool place to go in San Diego. This place is large and spans many streets. There a many small shops and small vendors set up to sell goods. Plenty of places to eat, mostly TeX -Mex , or grab a drink. Old Town also has historic sites to visit - put this place on your list of must do! You could easily spend half a day or more here browsing . Fun !! This is also where the city trolleys launch out of! read more

The nicest of those Mexico tourist trap markets and we found stuff we liked and bought. We needed coffee and they had a local coffee company here which we enjoyed. Cool tee shirts that looked nice enough to actually wear. Interesting Mexican candies that I would love to try but staying away fro sugar. read more

This is a tourist area. Lots of souvenir shops and restaurants. I wanted a unique souvenir so we have our picture drawn at a very reasonable price. $5/person for black & white portrait. $10/ person for color caricature. The other souvenir I bought is the embroidery mexican face mask. read more

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Nice little market located on Old Town San Diego. The place is a little deceptive because you would not think looking at the place from the outside, that there would be so much unique items inside the market, including the small courtyard at one of the entrances. They offer a variety of goods and a selected amount from "La Sirena Silver" which mostly provides jewelry made from sterling silver and turquoise, and "La Paloma" which offers clothing and a variety of other items including key chains and sandals. The Market has many more smaller vendors selling hand made leather items, instruments, hand blown glass items, pottery, festive kitchenware, and these very cool amazingly finished and colorful salsa bowls that I had to pick up. In addition to all of the above, the Old Town Market is a great place to souvenir shopping and gift shopping for that hard to find unique gift. The market is definitely worth the stop when visiting Old Town San Diego. read more

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Wherher you are a local or tourist you will want to make sure to visit the old town market to get a feel of what it used to be like here in San Diego. With several eateries and boutique shops this unique market is sure to have something that you want to try. Though parking is limited - remember to park on the street just keep an eye out on the signs to be sure that you do not get towed or ticketed. During holidays such as Dia Del Muertos aka as Halloween this please does tend to get very busy but is actually a prime place to visit during this time. Within walking distance you will be able to see and listen to live music smell all the good food it's being offered in all at reasonable prices. If you have time be sure to check out the complementary museum that is dedicated to the history and keeping the people informed about what the significance is of old town If you happen to dine in the area make sure to tip well. read more

Old town ambiance never did saplings. So much to see and eat!! Really hot so definitely bring a hat and some sunscreen read more

Old Town Market - Souvenir Shops Near Me - San Diego, California

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A nice shopping center in Old Town with lots of interesting souvenirs. With a few stores, some kiosks selling leather accessories and other goods, and a small stage for a band, this is a fun spot to pick up some unique gifts while shopping in Old Town San Diego. Although some of the stores are a tad boring (except for La Sienna Silver which is a really nice store here), the music playing and souvenirs sold here provide a good look into the culture of the period. There is nice Native American art and Mexican-inspired serape ponchos. Unique handmade gourd art and leather handbags are sold by local artists here as well. Even though I wish there was a bit more to see here, this is still a pretty fun place to browse when shopping in Old Town. We look forward to seeing the Mexican and American art and the beautiful jewelry at La Sienna Silver in the future! read more

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Had such a fun time here browsing and shopping thru all the eccentric local vendors. Lots of colorful fun options.a great place for souvenirs or personal gifts. Options and goodies for everyone! read more

Old Town Market - Souvenir Shops Near Me - San Diego, California

Historic marketplace with a cluster of shops and carts offering locally made gift items. There's lot's of merchants in this small area. Prices are reasonable and they're open everyday. read more

This is probably the spot in SD to get your souvenirs to convince people you went to Mexico without actually going there. I can see you rocking in that poncho with a turquoise necklace around your neck, a sugar skull in one hand and a carved gourd in another. If you want something not too ethnic, there are always T-shirts and souvenirs that blatantly tell by-passers that you went to San Diego. I also saw key chains with a June beetle captured in it, and a luggage tag with an Asian alien posing with a victory sign. These are just some of the things you'll see at the Market. Prices can range from reasonable to "who would buy this sh1t?" I did end up buying some cool things here as a local, so it isn't too bad. During rainy season, a lot of shops would close since it's mostly outdoor, but some tucked away would still remain open during the weekends. You also have the option to drive an extra 30 minutes or so to actually go to Mexico. read more

Old Town Market - Lol!!!! - Souvenir Shops Near Me - San Diego, California

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This is an awesome place to spend a few hours with family!! They have really good shops and interesting stuff to buy. Also there are some really fantastic restaurants inside the town ( Barra) and out in the streets. Would highly recommend this place. Only downside is the public parking which was packed and we ended up using a paid parking of $5 At Hacienda Hotel! read more

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I finally was able to check this place out. If you want to get some steps in and check out cool shops, then this is the place to go. There is pleeenty of parking spots available and it's free if you park in the lots. There are so many cute shops in this area -- I would recommend stopping by the chocolate store and grabbing a sample or two (I love samples! Who doesn't?!). There are a lot of benches and seating areas if you need some rest or just want to sit down and absorb in all the beauty. I will definitely be taking out-of-town friends here when they come to visit. read more

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Great for souvenirs and some local history... had a good breakfast too. Lots to do... the pottery shops were great.

Love shopping this area whenever in old town. Must go and see. Always leave with new things to add in my yard

Old Town Market is so much fun. You can get all kinds of goodies here at great prices. I LOVE the really tiny handmade day of the dead dolls and they have tons and tons of them here in all the shops. The storekeepers are all friendly and helpful. I've never had a single one not greet me as if I were an old friend and ask if I needed any assistance. A lot of times there is live music outside which is exceptional. There are some seats where you can sit and enjoy it. You can get some authentic Mexican wares here - really cute stuff - at great prices. I always make it a point to stop in and visit when I'm in town. I used to always worry about parking but don't let that deter you. There is a large parking lot beside the main entrance and if by some chance that is full there is a lot of street parking all within easy waking distance. read more

Old Town Market is garbage. This place is always crowded, the prices are outrageous, they don't speak english and there are various people there to sell you stuff that you don't need. The people watching here is excellent but the experience is what I would call "too much of a good thing." I recommend staying away from this tourist trap. read more

Gotta just give a quick shout out to a fantastic place to shop in San Diego! There are 4 shops in the building of the Marketplace and several vendors sprinkled around the outside and everywhere you look there is something wonderful for your eyes to enjoy. Mostly a Mexican theme to the shops but there's definitely something for everyone. I can spend an hour or two just tinkering around. Perfect place to find gifts for people and especially around the holidays (my fave being Halloweenie). The Old Town Marketplace captures the spirit of Old San Diego and the beautiful festiveness of our neighbors south of the border. A definite tourist and shoppers delight. CHEERS!!! read more

This place is a must to visit if have plan to go to San Diego for vacation or if you are passing by this city. Amazing shops, nice environment all in a huge area. I went inside of most shops. The place is very cozy, the shop owners are very friendly and the shops are very classic. At the night I was there, they had live Mexican music. Very nice restaurant was next to the like music. I believe you would have a nice time there. Oh, the old town us very good place for kids as well. Scooters, skateboards and bicycles are not allowed in the area although some people were using those. read more

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This area is nice to see while visiting San Diego but not really a must. This is not really what Mexico looks like, the prices are outrageous and the stores all kind of smell musty. Like the stuff has been in there for a REALLY long time, we wanted to buy items for the family here but wound up buying them all at Waves, the Beach Store instead for way cheaper. This really is a tourist trap which is kind of a shame. Its a short, shady stroll but I wouldn't plan on spending more than an hour here. read more

Whenever I am in San Diego, I always visit Old Town. And when in Old Town, I always walk through the market area. Here you will find Native American inspired and souvenirs from Mexico. You will find panchos, sweaters and backpacks with a a particular distinct pattern. Purses, toys and other trinkets can all be found here. This area of Old Town is rather small but still worth looking through. Also it is worth mentioning that the historical area of the Old Town Market just adds to the atmosphere and beauty of Old Town. read more

I manage this "Market" and I love reading our reviews--they make us want to get better! We pride ourselves on offering unique items from around the world. Admittedly, we have items from various countries of the world that are not always considered "artisan," but overall, the mix is good--and getting better with more people creating and selling unique, artistic items: clothing, textiles, ponchos, blankets, ceramics and tile, metal work, candy, games, dolls, and coffee roasted here in San Diego. Keep visiting and keep the reviews coming. We want to be a "5 Star" destination in Old Town and on Yelp! read more

How much fun!! This is a treasure of shops, restaurants, performers. Many shops with old crafts. The Indian weavings were my favorites but beautiful tile shops and pottery of all types were plentiful throughout. A few will receive their own complete reviews. Walked out of church and through the gates of the Old Town Market to first find tourist shops with small trinkets and colorful ware to bring back as gifts. Walked through some of the artisan stores looking at both reasonably priced and mouth wateringly expensive items. I was thrilled with the colorful tiles in tile stores and especially the beautiful, colorful weavings. I bought a few to be used as dresser and book shelve runners. Several nice restaurants and actin's are evident and tourists wearing emblems of all of the NFL playoff teams were found through out. I am signing out to go watch my beloved Steelers. If you get a chance to come to San Diego, do not miss the Old Town. Different treasures, but in my opinion much more interesting and historic than the downtown, though both have their separate charm. read more

Old Town Market - Market area - Souvenir Shops Near Me - San Diego, California

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So attractive when you drive up - lots of pretty colours and it looks like there is something going on. What is going on is super high prices and store after store of the same stuff. We totally would have bought some stuff if anything was priced even remotely near the value. Our kids had been saving their vacation money to buy a little souvenir and were really disappointed. We left uninspired. read more

Old Town Market - Beautiful Mexican cultural item. $600 made in Columbia. - Souvenir Shops Near Me - San Diego, California

This is a really cool little outdoor market in San Diego's Old Town. I had a great time browsing the shops and artist creations. They have crafts, clothing, jewelry and more. I didn't buy anything during my last visit, but had a great time browsing. read more

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Such a beautiful and color market in San Diego has to offer. This was our first time here and we are definitely coming back!!! If you go you need to try the cafe de olla cold. People are friendly super cleans and anything with culture there is beautiful (artesanía). It's a must when coming to San Diego. read more

I never knew this archaeological historic site was here. I walked in past the doll store into the courtyard, and was pleasantly surprised to see this window in the ground. Even though you can't actually see the original structure, I think it is interesting that its here. They also had a cool altar set up for Dia de los Muertos. read more