Hillsdale Shopping Center
Hillsdale Shopping Center cica 1957 credit:Malls of America
A peninsula tradition for over 50 years, Hillsdale Shopping Center still reigns in San Mateo County. It even knocked the socks off San Mateo Fashion Island mall, which was knocked down a few years ago.
A unique feature is that you have to cross 31st Avenue to get to Sears and the adjoining food court. The easiest way is on the upper level. Otherwise, you have to walk outside, cross the street, then walk back inside again.
Don't miss the fascinating granite sculptures of Beniamino "Benny" Benvenuto Bufano (1898-1970), originally installed in 1956. You'll find seven animal sculptures and a St. Francis on horseback; all but one inside and on the lower level. The eighth is located on an outside plaza near the food court. Tall totem pole-like structures mark each piece and its name; best viewed from the upper level. Look for the stripped green and yellow poles with a giant "H" on top (see top photo on the left for an example). Parking
Parking can be a bear sometimes, but you'll sooner or later find a pretty good space. Most of the backside of the center is a multi-level parking garage, so you may have better luck there.
In general, this shopping mall has many nice shops and a wonderful selection. There really isn't anything that stands out, but its fashion-oriented shops make it worth a visit over and over again.
Shopping Can Be Fun!
In this retro video, people are actually taught about the values of a shopping mall, so radical was the concept.