Southdale Center: A Storied Past, A Sparkling Future In Edina
Have you ever stopped to think about where the idea of an indoor shopping mall actually began? It's a rather interesting question, and the answer, as a matter of fact, brings us right to the heart of Minnesota. Southdale Center, you see, holds a special place in history. It stands as the nation's very first enclosed regional shopping mall, a true pioneer that opened its doors way back in 1956. This place, in a way, changed how people shopped and spent their leisure time, influencing countless similar structures that popped up across the country in the decades that followed.
This shopping destination, located off 66th and France Avenue in Edina, Minnesota, has always been a central gathering spot. It serves many nearby communities, including Edina, Richfield, Bloomington, Eden Prairie, Minneapolis, and St. Louis Park. For generations, people have come here for all sorts of things, from picking up everyday necessities to finding something special. It's a spot where, you know, families often make memories, and friends catch up. The original design was quite revolutionary, offering a comfortable, climate-controlled environment for shoppers, which was pretty novel at the time.
But Southdale Center isn't just about its history; it’s very much about what's happening now and what’s coming next. This place has been keeping up with the times, you see, undergoing significant changes to stay fresh and appealing. There have been big renovation projects, and the most recent one is a pretty big deal, bringing in new brands and even a luxury section. It’s a dynamic spot, always evolving, and offering something new for everyone who visits, whether you're looking for the latest styles or just a pleasant afternoon out. Honestly, it’s a pretty exciting time for this well-known spot.
Table of Contents
- A History and Enduring Legacy
- A Modern Transformation
- A Shopper's Paradise
- Beyond Shopping: Dining and Entertainment
- Convenience and Community
- Planning Your Visit
- What's New and Next
- Frequently Asked Questions
A History and Enduring Legacy
Southdale Center, as we mentioned, opened its doors in 1956, becoming the very first fully enclosed shopping center in the whole country. This was a truly pioneering idea, a completely new way to shop, sheltered from the weather. It was, in a way, a vision brought to life by the Dayton Hudson Corporation, changing how people thought about retail. Before this, shopping was often an outdoor affair, subject to the elements, but Southdale offered a controlled environment, making it a comfortable place to spend time, no matter the season. It’s pretty amazing to think about how groundbreaking that was for its time, and you know, it set a standard.
The original design, by the architect Victor Gruen, was quite revolutionary, too. He envisioned a community hub, not just a place to buy things. This design, with its central garden court, was copied by hundreds of other malls that sprang up across the nation in the decades that came after. So, in some respects, every enclosed mall you see today owes a little something to Southdale. It's like, a foundational piece of American consumer culture. It really did inspire a whole movement, basically, and that’s a pretty big deal when you think about it. Learn more about Southdale Center's impact on retail history on our site.
Over the years, Southdale has certainly grown and changed. It’s much larger now than it was in the beginning, and it has adapted to new trends and shopper preferences. This ability to change and stay relevant is, honestly, part of its enduring appeal. It’s not just a relic of the past; it’s a living, breathing part of the community, still drawing crowds and offering a modern shopping experience. The fact that it’s still going strong after so many years, you know, speaks volumes about its place in the area.
A Modern Transformation
Southdale Center has gone through some significant updates to keep its position as a top shopping spot. There was a major renovation in 2012, which helped to modernize the facilities and improve the overall experience for visitors. These kinds of updates are, you know, pretty essential for any long-standing establishment to stay appealing and comfortable for everyone who comes by. It helps keep the place feeling fresh and inviting, which is really important for drawing people in.
Currently, the center is undergoing an even bigger transformation, a massive $400 million renovation project. This ambitious plan, being spearheaded by its owner, Simon Property Group, is truly designed to bring Southdale into a new era. It’s all about creating a more luxurious and diverse shopping and entertainment experience. This kind of investment, in a way, shows a real commitment to the future of the center and its place in the community. It’s pretty exciting to see all the changes taking shape, honestly.
Part of this grand plan involves adding new brands, creating a special luxury wing, and even a rooftop restaurant. This move is definitely aimed at drawing in a wider range of shoppers, including those looking for high-end items. Simon Property Group is looking to bring in more than 20 luxury and aspirational retailers by early 2025. This means, like, a whole new feeling for the place, making it even more of a destination. It’s a pretty clear signal that they’re thinking big about what Southdale can offer. You can see how much momentum is building around this suburban Minneapolis location.
A Shopper's Paradise
Southdale Center is a really big place, with over 120 specialty stores, restaurants, and various services. You can find pretty much anything you need or want here, from everyday items to unique gifts. It’s honestly a spot where you could spend hours just looking around, discovering new things. The sheer number of choices means there’s something for every taste and budget, which is pretty handy, as a matter of fact.
The current renovation is bringing in some truly impressive names, especially in the luxury sector. For instance, luxury clothing retailers like Gucci, Moncler, and Max Mara are slated to open their doors later this year. And for those who appreciate fine timepieces, Breitling will also be joining the collection. These additions are, you know, a clear sign of the center's move towards a more upscale offering. It’s pretty exciting for anyone who loves high-end fashion and accessories, to be honest.
Beyond these, a whole host of other well-known brands are either now open or will be opening as part of the transformation. This list includes names like Aritzia, Athleta, Camp, Garage, Louis Vuitton, Mango, Pandora, Reformation, Tecovas, Tiffany & Co., Tommy Bahama, Vuori, and Watches of Switzerland/Rolex. Abercrombie & Fitch, Abercrombie Kids, Burberry, Coach, David Yurman, and Janie & Jack are also part of this growing list. With over 50 new stores coming, there’s a real sense of renewal and growth. It’s almost like a completely new place is emerging, offering a truly diverse shopping experience. You can find the full store list, hours, and contact information on the center's webpage, which is pretty helpful.
Beyond Shopping: Dining and Entertainment
Southdale Center isn't just a place to shop; it's also a great spot for dining and entertainment. To top it all off, you could easily make plans for dinner and a movie right here. The center features a 16-screen AMC Megaplex, offering all the latest films. It’s pretty convenient to have a movie theater right within the mall, so you can combine your shopping trip with a fun night out. This combination of activities, you know, makes it a true destination for a whole day’s worth of fun.
The ongoing renovation project also includes plans for a rooftop restaurant. This is a pretty exciting addition, offering a new kind of dining experience with potentially great views. It’s the kind of feature that makes a place feel more special and provides another reason to visit, even if you’re not there primarily to shop. A rooftop spot, honestly, sounds like a really nice place to enjoy a meal, especially during pleasant weather. It adds a bit of flair, you might say.
With all the various restaurants and food options available, you’re pretty much covered for any meal or snack. Whether you’re looking for a quick bite or a sit-down meal, there are plenty of choices to satisfy your appetite. This wide selection, in a way, ensures that everyone in your group can find something they like, making it a good spot for family outings or gatherings with friends. It’s pretty clear they’re trying to offer a complete experience, not just shopping. See what else Southdale Center has to offer on this page.
Convenience and Community
Southdale Center’s location is incredibly convenient, situated at 10 Southdale Center, Edina, MN 55435, right off 66th and France Avenue. This makes it easily accessible for people coming from all directions. Its central position means it’s a pretty straightforward drive for those in Edina, Richfield, Bloomington, Eden Prairie, Minneapolis, and St. Louis Park. The ease of getting there is, honestly, a big part of why it remains such a popular spot for so many people in the area.
The center also provides plenty of free parking, which is a really nice perk, as a matter of fact. Finding a spot is usually not an issue, making your visit that much smoother from the moment you arrive. This kind of amenity, you know, really helps to make the whole experience more pleasant, especially when you’re planning to spend a few hours shopping or enjoying the entertainment options. It’s a small detail that makes a big difference, honestly.
Beyond shopping and dining, Southdale Center often hosts exciting activities for locals and families to join in on. These events add to the community feel of the place, making it more than just a commercial space. It’s a spot where people can gather, have fun, and connect with their neighbors. This focus on community engagement is, in a way, part of its original vision and something that continues to be important today. It’s pretty clear they want it to be a hub for everyone.
Planning Your Visit
When you’re thinking about visiting Southdale Center, it’s helpful to know a few practical details. You can find all the information you need, like the store directory with its 98 tenants, the normal and special operating hours, and contact phone numbers, on the center’s webpage. This online resource is, honestly, pretty comprehensive and can save you a lot of time when planning your trip. It’s good to check it before you head out, just to be sure.
For those coming from out of town, or if you just want to make a weekend of it, you can stay at Homewood Suites nearby. This offers a convenient option for visitors who want to take their time exploring everything Southdale Center and the surrounding Edina area have to offer. Having a comfortable place to stay close by, you know, can really make a difference to your overall experience, allowing for a more relaxed visit. It’s pretty thoughtful to have that option right there.
The center also provides information on amenities and services offered, as well as driving directions and transportation options. This means you can easily figure out the best way to get there, whether you’re driving or using public transport. Knowing these details upfront, as a matter of fact, helps ensure a smooth and enjoyable visit, so you can focus on the fun parts of your day. It’s all about making it easy for you to come and experience the place.
What's New and Next
The momentum at Southdale Center continues to build, making it a premier shopping, dining, and entertainment destination in suburban Minneapolis. The ongoing redevelopment is truly transforming the property, bringing in a fresh wave of prestigious retailers. It’s a clear sign that this place is not resting on its laurels; it's actively shaping its future. This continuous improvement, you know, keeps things exciting for regular visitors and new ones alike.
For instance, a list of six new stores was announced in February 2025, including Aritzia, Mango, Pandora, and Camp. These additions, among many others, show a commitment to bringing diverse and popular brands to the center. It’s pretty clear that they are thinking about what people want and are working to deliver it. This constant influx of new options, in a way, keeps the shopping experience fresh and encourages people to keep coming back to see what’s new. It’s really a pretty dynamic situation.
With luxury retailers like Gucci, Moncler, and Max Mara, plus watch company Breitling, set to open later this year or by early 2025, Southdale Center is truly entering a new era. This focus on high-end brands, you know, elevates the entire atmosphere and offers a different kind of shopping opportunity for those seeking premium goods. It’s a pretty bold move, honestly, and it positions Southdale as a significant player in the luxury retail scene. This reinvention is designed to draw in even more people, making it a truly must-visit location for many.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions people often ask about Southdale Center:
What is the oldest mall in the US?
Southdale Center, located in Edina, Minnesota, holds the distinction of being the country's oldest enclosed regional shopping mall. It first opened its doors in 1956, pioneering the concept of an indoor shopping environment. It's pretty cool, as a matter of fact, to think about how long it's been around and the impact it's had.
What new stores are coming to Southdale Center?
Southdale Center is undergoing a major transformation, bringing in many new brands. As part of the redevelopment, luxury retailers like Gucci, Moncler, Max Mara, and Breitling are slated to open. Other notable additions include Aritzia, Mango, Pandora, Camp, Louis Vuitton, Reformation, Tecovas, Tiffany & Co., Tommy Bahama, Vuori, and Watches of Switzerland/Rolex. There are over 50 new stores coming in total, with some announced in February 2025. It’s quite a lot of new choices, honestly.
Where is Southdale Center located?
Southdale Center is located at 10 Southdale Center, Edina, MN 55435. It’s conveniently situated off of 66th and France Avenue, making it easily accessible from nearby communities like Edina, Richfield, Bloomington, Eden Prairie, Minneapolis, and St. Louis Park. You can find driving directions and transportation options on their webpage, which is pretty helpful, you know, for planning your visit.
Southdale Center continues to be a vibrant and important part of the community, offering a blend of history, modern shopping, and entertainment. It’s a place that, honestly, keeps getting better, with exciting new additions and experiences for everyone to enjoy. Why not plan a visit to explore all the new things it has to offer?
Southdale Office Center – Wildamere
Southdale Center | Gruen Associates
Southdale Center | Gruen Associates
