Best parking (IMHO) is the 'private lot' in Horton Plaza (a block north). Part of the mall's multi-floor parking, but has its own private entrance on 1st Avenue at F Street. ($10)
Absolutely must just visit and check out the architecture wonders (give yourself a few hours!)
A place to discover 1905 SD architecture AND New-New Zealand cuisine http://sandiegodowntownnews.com/this-old-house/
The museum store has really unique stuff. I nabbed crochet cacti by Toshwerks https://www.facebook.com/pages/Toshwerks/209317352451240
