The Plaza de Las Armas is the center of Old Town San Diego Historic State Park and was once the heart of commercial life in San Diego. Bound by Calhoun Street on the northeast, Mason Street on the southeast, San Diego Avenue on the southwest, and Wallace Street on the northwest, today the Plaza is home to several historic-themed retail shops. We’ve put together a quick guide of the unique shops where you’re sure to find something special for everyone on your list!
The Johnson House
The Johnson House specializes in antique, vintage and Victorian inspired items. They carry domestic and imported finery from 1840 to 1940….and then some.
Some of their lovely things are made on the premises…but hurry, most of their finery is one of a kind!
Hours
- Sun-Thu: 10am-5pm
- Fri-Sat: 10am-6pm
Phone – (619) 291-5170
Address – 2706 Calhoun St
Website – thejohnsonhouse.business.site
Rust General Store
Rust General Store is a charming interpretation of the classic general store. Shelves are stocked with glass jars filled with all sorts of provisions including, teas, spices, pickles, jams, and so much more! Friendly proprietors also serve hot and cold drinks, baked goods, and bistro sandwiches. Be sure to check out their book corner with a range of books from herbal remedies and recipes to children’s books to mindful books.
Hours
- Sun-Thu: 10am-7pm
- Fri-Sat: 10am-8pm
Phone – (619) 295-7878
Address – 2720 Calhoun St
Website – www.instagram.com/rustgeneral
Tinsmith
The Tinsmith shop is one of San Diego’s hidden treasures. Here you’ll find the most beautiful handmade tin pieces. Every piece is unique and carefully made by fifth-generation tinsmiths with knowledge and expertise dating back hundreds of years. The ambience and décor are surely an unforgettable experience.
Hours
- Mon-Sun: 10am-6:30pm
Phone – (619) 943-6488
Address – 2765 San Diego Ave
Website – www.facebook.com/Tinsmitholdtown
Racine & Laramie
In 1869 frontier San Diego Alexi Racine and Charles Laramie founded a tradition of service when they opened Racine and Laramie Tobacconist. Today the proprietors continue that knowledgeable service and stock the best quality cigars, pipes, tobacco, and accessories. They have exclusive products you will not find anywhere else and are committed to providing excellent service at a fair price.
Hours
- Mon-Thu: 10am-6pm
- Fri: 10am-7pm
- Sun: 10:30am-6pm
Phone – (619) 291-7833
Address – 2737 San Diego Ave
Website – www.racineandlaramie.com
Kosay Kumeyaay Market
Kosay, meaning the drying place, is the name of the Kumeyaay village that stood in the location of Kosay Kumeyaay Market in San Diego’s Old Town, one part of the Kumeyaay presence, since time immemorial, from Oceanside to Ensenada and the from Pacific Ocean to the Colorado River. The Kosay Kumeyaay Market sells traditional and artisan crafts by contemporary Kumeyaay and Yuman artists. There are traditional baskets, jewelry, pottery, clothing, dolls, paintings and more! Keep coming back because the selection is aways changing.
Hours
- Fri-Sun: 10am-5pm
Phone – (760) 445-7726
Address – 2720 Calhoun St
Website – www.kumeyaaymarket.org
Robinson-Rose Visitors Center
The Robinson-Rose House is more than just a Visitors Center! Here you’ll find a great selection of gifts for the history buff in your life including books, handicrafts, and children’s toys. Funds raised at the Visitors Center are reinvested in making Old Town State Historic Park even better!
Hours
- Mon-Sun: 10am-5pm
Phone – (619) 220-5422
Address –4002 Wallace St
Website – www.racineandlaramie.com
