As the largest conventional shopping mall in Florida, boasting an expansive gross leasable area of 2,800,000 square feet (260,000 m2), Aventura Mall commands attention and admiration. Standing proudly as the third-largest shopping center in the United States, this retail haven in Aventura is a universe of its own.
Anchors and Origins
The foundation of Aventura Mall’s colossal presence was laid with the involvement of mall developer Edward J. DeBartolo Sr., who embarked on this visionary project. The mall originally featured four anchors, including prominent names like Lord & Taylor, JCPenney, Sears, and the trailblazing Macy’s. The latter made history by being the first Macy’s store in Florida, featuring a distinctive three-story structure adorned with captivating Spanish architecture. This template set the stage for future Macy’s locations across South Florida.
The architectural canvas of Aventura Mall initially had provisions for accommodating a fifth anchor store. Evident in its design, a section of drywall indicated the intended location for this additional anchor’s entrance. However this vision remained unfulfilled.
Exploring the Space
Imagine three sprawling floors of shops and establishments, with a collection of over 300 retailers representing an eclectic mix of brands, boutiques and specialty stores. As you explore, you’ll find an inviting food court featuring a selection of eighteen fast food eateries, along with a lineup of chain and standalone restaurants at the mall’s entrance, offering flavors from around the world to satisfy any palate. The mall features interactive art installations that add an element of surprise and delight to shoppers of all ages. The towering 93-foot Aventura Slide Tower by Carsten Holler and the enigmatic Gorillas in the Mist by The Haas Brothers add an element of intrigue and wonder to the overall ambience of the mall.
Aventura Mall also serves as a hub connecting Miami-Dade Transit and Broward County Transit routes. With several routes converging at this busy destination, the mall becomes a central point for travelers, integrating high-end shopping with the accessibility and convenience of public transportation.
Expansions and Innovations
The Aventura Mall’s commitment to evolution and innovation remains steadfast. In a monumental stride forward, the mall introduced a three-level, 241,000-square-foot expansion wing in November 2017. This addition welcomed iconic brands like Zara and Topshop Topman with their two-story establishments. Moreover, a selection of delectable new restaurants, including Serafina, Pubbelly Sushi, and Le Pain Quotidien, found their home within this vibrant expansion.
In March 2019, Aventura Mall unveiled a 3rd Floor, its latest addition. A remarkable venue spanning 25,000 square feet, it was meticulously designed by the visionary Carlos Zapata.
Aventura vs. Sawgrass
To grasp the sheer scale of Aventura Mall, a comparison is in order. The Sawgrass Mall, a notable retail establishment in its own right, pales in comparison, being approximately 400,000 square feet smaller than its Aventura counterpart. This size discrepancy solidifies Aventura Mall’s status as the go-to retail destination in South Florida.
A Final Look
With a total area of around 2,800,000 square feet, Aventura Mall isn’t just big, it’s huge! With its rich history and ongoing commitment to delivering excellence, Aventura Mall redefines what a shopping destination can be.
If you are curious to explore what Aventura Mall has to offer, head to 19501 Biscayne Blvd, Aventura, FL 33180. The mall is usually open from 10:30 AM to 9:30 PM. For inquiries, you can reach out via phone at (305) 935-1110.
FAQs
Q : What makes Aventura Mall stand out in terms of size?
A : Aventura Mall boasts 2.8 million sq ft of space, making it Florida’s largest conventional shopping mall and the third largest in the US.
Q : How many stores are there at Aventura Mall?
A : With over 300 retailers, Aventura Mall offers a diverse selection of shopping options.
Q : What are some unique features of Aventura Mall’s expansion?
A : The expansion introduced Zara and Topshop Topman stores, diverse restaurants, art installations, and a 3rd level designed by Carlos Zapata.
Chris Zasada
Chris is a Midwest Transplant that has lived in South Florida since 1999. While he likes to remain active and is an avid sports enthusiast, he's become our go-to provider of reviews of any establishment serving food and booze!