First Mall in NJ: Discover The First Mall in New Jersey

Since its groundbreaking, the first mall in New Jersey has stood as a pioneering hub of commerce and community, redefining shopping experiences across the state.

Established as the first modern shopping mall in the state, this landmark opened its doors to deliver an unprecedented blend of retail, dining, and entertainment. Its innovative layout and diverse tenant mix set the standard for future developments nationwide, making it a foundational chapter in NJ’s retail evolution.

More than just a shopping center, the first mall in NJ became a vital social and economic cornerstone. It attracted visitors from across the region, supported local businesses, and hosted events that strengthened community bonds—proving that malls can thrive as more than just stores.

Decades after its inception, the first mall in New Jersey continues to evolve while honoring its roots. With modern renovations and a curated tenant lineup, it remains a beloved destination, symbolizing resilience and relevance in an ever-changing retail landscape.

The first mall in New Jersey is not just a shopping destination—it’s a historic landmark that shaped the state’s retail identity. Whether you’re a history enthusiast or a regular shopper, visiting this pioneering site offers insight into how innovation built a legacy. Plan your visit today and experience the heart of NJ’s commercial heritage.

Freehold Raceway Mall in Freehold With the shift in shopping from publicly owned Main Streets to privately held shopping malls, the question of access to malls, and their shoppers, as a public forum has been an issue raised nationwide. This issue has become particularly relevant in New Jersey, where malls in both suburban and exurban areas have largely supplanted local downtown districts as. The Phoenix Village Mall was the first mall to open in the state and had 489,000 square feet.

It was a popular destination for shoppers until Central Mall was opened in the '80s. The Phoenix. Woodbridge center opened in march of 1971 with just A&S with its very first NJ Store followed by Stern's later Macy's and Orbachs later Steinbach and Lord & Taylor a few months later.

In 1978, the mall got a expansion in which JC Penny and Hahne's later Fortunoff and now Boscov's got added as the mall had five anchors and over 200 shops, restaurants. Gaylan's later renamed to Dick's. The first enclosed mall on the East Coast, the Cherry Hill Mall - the centerpiece of an enormous retail plaza - has an impressive selection of high-end retailers, along with your typical stores.

New Jersey boasts two of the first enclosed shopping malls in the United States - Bergen Mall (opened 1957) and Garden State Plaza (opened 1957). New Jersey malls are also an economic force: ⚫. One of the most elaborate and controversial retail and entertainment complexes in New Jersey opened late in October - far behind schedule.

It was presented as "a revolutionary, first of its kind community for fashion and luxury retail, fine to casual dining and an array of unexpected entertainment," with the word "mall" barely in sight. American Dream in East Rutherford is the. Garden State Plaza in Paramus is New Jersey's oldest mall according to Business Insider.

The famous shopping mall opened its doors back in 1957 and has only expanded since. The first major shopping mall in New Jersey was built on a 150-acre plot, lying 18 miles northwest of New York City's Times Square. GARDEN STATE PLAZA, a 2-level, open-air structure, was designed by New York City's Abbott, Merkt & Company.

Shopping malls in New Jersey have played a major role in shaping the suburban landscape of the state following World War II. The Cherry Hill Shopping Center was the first indoor mall on the East coast.