

Built in 1977, Westfield UTC Mall in La Jolla has been going through some major changes for the past six years. With all of the excitement, like over 90 new shops and restaurants, you might have missed out on some of the lesser-known but nonetheless awesome newer features–from outdoor showers to a giant steel jellyfish.
The many high-end shops and restaurants already make UTC Mall luxurious, but the concierge makes this feel like a true resort experience. Found at the grand valet entrance off of La Jolla Village Drive, the staff at Westfield UTC Guest Services are there to help you with anything you need (seriously). Here are a couple of its coolest features:
Located on the path next to the old food court, this dog park, named Westfield Bark Park, is for anyone bringing along a four-legged friend or two. With free toys to play with while you’re there, a large grass lawn, and a Little Free Library to read from while Fido takes a few laps, it’s just another part of the mall that makes it so pet-friendly. Afterward, you can stroll through the shops together (and stop by Sloan’s Ice Cream shop for a decadent doggie treat).
We all know that sinking feeling that comes from realizing your phone is suddenly at 10%, and you’re nowhere near an outlet (or worse yet, you don’t even have a charger). Luckily, ChargeItSpot located at the Dining Terrace offers free charging stations so that you can shop without worrying about your phone’s battery meeting an untimely death.
You might have noticed something that seems a little out of place right next to Macy’s: shower heads! Just built recently, they were added for kids to clean up after spending time on the playground. However, if you’re coming straight from one of the beautiful beaches in La Jolla, it’s also a good way to rinse off any remnants of your sandy adventure.
Relax with a good book from one of the Little Free Libraries, located next to Godiva or in the Bark Park. One of the unique perks of UTC Mall is the huge sections of inviting outdoor lounging space—perfect for enjoying a read in the sunshine.
While there are lots of options for adult crowds, this Westfield is known for its family-friendly vibes and accommodations.
You’ve probably noticed the funky new artwork that’s been popping up in different locations all throughout the mall.
Partnering with the Museum of Contemporary Art San Diego, the Westfield UTC Mall has incorporated a total of 70 original pieces from solely San Diego artists. Some of the eye-catching pieces include:
Since its popularity has exploded in the past few years, the goal of renovating the parking at UTC mall is to make it more accessible, even with large crowds. Depending on how you’re planning to get there, here a few things to keep in mind:
Parking: With a significantly larger parking capacity and Park Assist technology (which shows you where to find open parking spots similar to Fashion Valley Mall), parking is becoming easier than ever before at UTC.
If you’ve visited the mall lately you might have seen that posted at every entrance are signs of upcoming changes to UTC mall parking. Starting in the spring, the shopping center will be employing a pay-to-park system with hourly fees for those who will be visiting for more than two hours.
Designated Uber Pick-Up: We all know the stress of ordering an Uber and then discovering it showed up a mile from where you were expecting. Luckily, all rides can be found at the designated pick-up spots in front of Red Robin and PIRCH—so you don’t have to run around frantically looking for your driver.
Valet: Save time and hand off the stress of parking over to the valet services, found on the south side of La Jolla Village Drive entrance to UTC mall. The service is $8, and you get to take advantage of the valet customer lounge.
If you spot any of these cool things next time you visit UTC Mall be sure to share it with us on Instagram by tagging us @lajollacom. University Town Center is located at 4545 La Jolla Village Drive E-25, San Diego, CA 92122, and is open from 10AM—9PM Mon-Fri, 11AM-7PM Sun.
[Dog park image courtesy of Westfield UTC]
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