Del Monte Shopping Center

This post is primarily for those who recently moved to the area or are longtime residents who, like myself, just discovered this tip.  While living in the beautiful Monterey Bay area, you will likely be traveling to Del Monte Shopping Center a time or two.  So, be it meeting friends for Chipotle, having dinner at LALLAgrill, crowding the Hallmark store before a holiday, keeping the Apple store packed almost always, or seeing a movie...hopefully you benefit from this tip.

FYI: If you're on vacation here and decide to walk around the mall, bring a jacket since the fog can rush in at any given time and this mall is outdoors.  If you have children, there is a fountain and they'll likely want to run around there...bring some pennies and make a wish (they'll love that).

Finally, here's the tip: Del Monte Shopping Center has a rewards card.  If you shop or dine at this mall, you should get one of these.  You can request one at the mall guest services office located in front of the Macy's handbag entrance or online at the Del Monte Rewards website by clicking here.  This card promotes two rewards promotions: their "Everyday Values" which can be viewed by clicking here and their "Favorite Values" which can be viewed by clicking here.  They do change the rewards from time to time so keep the website bookmarked to your favorites.  Currently the "Favorite Values" reward is 1 free bottle of water (upon availability) when you present your card at guest services.  Last time I went shopping here, I got really thirsty...I was shopping with an energetic (yet adorable) toddler, need I say more?

Another tip for shopping here or at most shopping centers is to peruse their website before you go.  They list out their Events and include current sales or promotions.  To see your current listing of Del Monte Shopping Center "Events" click here. 
Here's a few details I discovered when I looked at their "Events" webpage:

Century Theatres has a "Military Night" on Thursdays.  Bring your military ID and get matinee prices all day.
Williams-Sonoma is offering complimentary "technique" classes led by culinary experts.  Hmmm...maybe they can help me improve how I flambé? 
Pizza My Heart has "Kids Night" on Tuesdays from 4-8 pm.  Kids make their own mini pizzas and get a small drink for $5.

When in Monterey, enjoy yourself, and if you like...do as the locals do.