North County Mall

One of the best things about the North County Mall is that guests don’t have to leave the mall to refuel during an all-day shopping excursion. While there are plenty of great restaurants all around Escondido, there are also multiple options right inside the mall.

Most of the mall’s restaurants and snack stands are located on the third floor, though there are a few smaller food and drink spots located throughout the mall. Grab a coffee or pretzel in between browsing the latest looks, or head upstairs for a full meal.

Choose from a variety of eateries including mall staples like Panda Express, Sbarro, and sweet treats at Cinnabon. For those looking to eat healthy, there’s also an organic cuisine restaurant and a juice bar. Sit down options include On the Border and Black Angus Steakhouse.

You can even partake in San Diego’s long-standing tradition of excellent craft breweries with a beer at BJ’s Restaurant & Brewhouse. Choose from seasonal IPAs, porters, lagers, and stouts while also enjoying a delicious meal. Top it all off with one of their famous Pizookies, a combination of a pizza and a cookie that come in a variety of flavors.

Whatever you’re in the mood for, it’s easy to find something to satisfy your cravings right inside the mall.

The North County Mall seeks to provide guests with a family-friendly shopping experience, from kid-friendly dining options to children’s clothing stores. Popular brands with locations at the mall include Old Navy, Express, and American Eagle, plus shoe stores with sizes for all ages. Shop for toys, games, gifts, and kids’ tech as well.

Note that the mall was previously home to North County Tavern + Bowl, a 10-pin bowling alley on its second floor, but that this attraction is no longer open. In its place, however, you can still find many kid-friendly stores and attractions. Kids and kids at heart are sure to have fun at the comic book and memorabilia store, and there’s also a video game store and even a VR experience.

Special Events

North County Mall also hosts events throughout the year. These include kid-centric performances, themed photography events, seasonal holiday pop-ups, live performers, product showcases, and more.

The North County Mall is attached to an Audeo Charter School, a unique and free public schooling option for kids K-12. Since classes are held right here, the mall is an excellent spot for both local kids and vacationing families to learn and play, with its own indoor play area. Coin-operated toys and games are located throughout the mall.

There’s always a new upcoming event for families, especially around the holidays. Check the online calendar for information on meet and greets with Santa, the Easter Bunny, and more.

For even more activities to do with kids both inside the mall and around San Diego, be sure to purchase a Go City San Diego pass, and read our picks for the best activities to do in San Diego with kids.

North County Mall is located at 272 East via Rancho Parkway, Escondido, CA 92025.

If you’re planning on heading to the mall from the Downtown area, consider taking advantage of San Diego’s many public transportation services, including buses and trams. Some local hotels even offer transportation to many popular locations in San Diego.

Most rideshare services operating in San Diego offer rides to and from the mall. If you’re looking for a cheaper option, consider taking a bus at the Santa Fe Depot, which drops passengers off at Del Lago Transit Station. From there, it’s only a half-mile walk to the mall.

Otherwise, the North County Mall is still only a quick drive away.

Starting Downtown, follow CA-163 north onto I-15. Once you’ve merged onto I-15, follow the road for another 14.6 miles. Finally, hang a right to take exit 27 which will bring you onto Rancho Parkway and right to the mall.

If you’re staying closer to the coast, the simplest route is to head north or south along I-5, the San Diego Freeway. Then drive east on I-78 or I-56 until the highway connects to I-15 further inland.

Planning to shop in San Diego? Know these tips before you visit Westfield North County!

Does the Mall Have a Theater?

Westfield North County doesn’t have its own movie theater. However, if you’re hoping to catch a show, Escondido has a Regal Cinema just 5 miles away. From the mall, you can reach the theater via I-15 S or Centre City Parkway.

What Happened to the North County Fair Mall?

North County Fair Mall is one of the mall’s previous names. Now known officially as North County Mall, it’s had many name changes in the past, including Westfield North County and Westfield Shoppingtown North County.

Are Dogs Allowed Inside?

While some stores at the mall sell pet supplies and toys, only service animals are allowed inside the building outside of special events.