Visiting Top Shopping Malls Across the United States

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If you want to shop your way around the country, we have a few can’t-miss shopping centers that redefine what a mall can be.

From gondola rides past designer stores to rollercoasters next to Abercrombie, the best malls in America go beyond food courts and Sears. Forget about Rodeo Drive; experience the pinnacle of shopping at these spectacular shopping destinations.

A Case for Shopping Malls

Many say shopping malls are a dying breed, but we’re here to advocate for these retail hubs.

Hitting a mall may not seem like the ideal vacation activity, but these shopping centers can embody the culture and experience of a city or town. They’re vibrant and entertaining, and many offer one-of-a-kind local shops you can’t find anywhere else.

Whether you’re a devout shopaholic or trying to kill time before a flight, consider exploring one of these magnificent American malls.

The Mall of America in Bloomington, Minnesota

The Mall of America is the largest mall in the US and a must-visit for shopaholics. It includes more than 500 stores, 60 restaurants, a Nickelodeon theme park, an aquarium, mini golf, and more entertainment.

While the mall is by far Bloomington’s biggest attraction, the city also offers a fun zoo, a water park, bowling alleys, unique restaurants, and friendly people.

The Galleria in Houston, Texas

The Galleria is the largest mall in Texas, drawing residents and visitors alike. It features over 400 stores and 60 eateries, offering a luxury aura and local goods. It’s a sensational place to find one-of-a-kind Texas items.

However, Houston itself is a marvelous place to visit, with many museums, the Houston Zoo, the Minute Maid Ballpark, and lovely green spaces.

Ala Moana Shopping Center in Honolulu, Hawaii

There’s so much to do in Honolulu, from high-end restaurants to paddleboarding in the bright blue ocean. The Ala Moana Shopping Center isn’t too shabby either!

It’s the world’s largest open-air shopping center, with 350 shops, 160 dining options, and several large department stores. You can see fashion shows, watch hula dance shows, and shop ’til you drop in the beautiful Hawaiian Sun.

King of Prussia Mall in King of Prussia, Pennsylvania

King of Prussia is just outside Philadelphia, so this is a great spot to visit if you’re in Philly. There are over 450 stores, ranging from casual boutiques to luxury designer stores to eccentric shops. This kid-friendly location has three food courts and many sit-down restaurants to enjoy.

If you go, you should also explore the King of Prussia and Valley Forge area, which has museums, historical sites, indoor skydiving, and more.

The Grove in Los Angeles, California

The Grove is a stylish LA destination with all the city’s flair and shine. This high-end mall is ideal if you want to indulge in tasty food and fabulous fashion.

It’s an excellent place to experience the culture of LA, especially considering a few movies had scenes filmed there! But if you’re in LA, don’t forget to see the iconic sites, like Griffith Observatory, Universal Studios, and the Hollywood Sign.

Sawgrass Mills is a hotspot in Southern Florida where shopaholics can get their fix. The mall has an assortment of high-end outlet deals, where you can score styles from top brands for less. The enchanting palm trees and sunny outdoor spots capture Florida’s vibe beautifully.

Sunrise is near Miami, so you can hit the clubs and beaches there. However, Sunrise has plenty to offer too, including guided tours, museums, and escape rooms.

The Shops at Columbus Circle in New York, New York

Everyone knows NYC is full of fabulous shops and restaurants, but The Shops at Columbus Circle create one convenient location where you can enjoy an array of things.

Located in Manhattan, the mall contains luxury boutiques and Michelin-level restaurants, so who needs Fifth Avenue? Since it’s right next to Central Park, you can visit all the hot destinations around the area when you’re done shopping.

Grand Canal Shoppes in Paradise, Nevada

Instead of flying to Venice, just hit the Grand Canal Shoppes! Nevada truly outdid itself with this mall, which features actual canals and gondola rides. Besides that, there are endless shops, eateries, and art galleries.

Technically, the mall is in Paradise, but Paradise is like a sub-town of Vegas. After finding fashionable outfits at the mall, you can hit the Vegas Strip and do all the quintessential Vegas things.

Via Bellagio in Las Vegas, Nevada

Many of the malls on this list are luxurious, but the Via Bellagio shops might be the epitome of elite shopping. Located adjacent to the Bellagio Hotel & Casino, Via Bellagio is a collection of high-end shops inside a fancy Italian villa-inspire building. The setting is just as attractive as the designer clothes.

After shopping, you can dine at the many wonderful restaurants inside the Bellagio or on the Vegas Strip.

Tysons Corner Center in Tysons, Virginia

You probably haven’t heard of Tysons, but Tysons Corner Center is just minutes from Washington, DC. This expansive mall includes upscale shops, unique eateries, a movie theater, and a stunning outdoor plaza.

With abundant specialty stores, it’s easy to find unique items. It’s the perfect place to squeeze in some shopping between sightseeing in DC.

South Coast Plaza in Costa Mesa, California

South Coast Plaza is the largest shopping mall in California, so it’s the best place to buy things until your wallet cries. It’s an international shopping destination with hundreds of alluring stores.

The mall is near must-visit California locations too, like Disneyland! Do some shopping after a beach day in Orange County, or buy a few things before you head to the nearby John Wayne Airport.

The Mall at Short Hills in Short Hills, New Jersey

Short Hills is one of the wealthiest communities in Jersey, so you know their shopping center is exceptional. Featuring Macy’s, Neiman Marcus, Bloomingdale’s, Nordstrom, and Saks Fifth Avenue, it’s the only US mall with all these huge brand names under one roof. Find the most upscale designer names and enjoy a decadent day of shopping.

Short Hills is close to Newark Airport and less than 20 miles from Manhattan, so it’s a brilliant destination whether you’re spending time in Jersey or NYC.

Featured Image Credit: Monkey Business Images and Shutterstock.