A Rich History of Transformation
Located just three and a half miles southeast of downtown Denver, Colorado, the Cherry Creek Shopping Center has become a beloved landmark for locals and visitors.
Situated along East First Avenue on the banks of Cherry Creek, the mall’s history is a testament to the power of transformation and the evolution of retail spaces.
Initially completed in 1953, Cherry Creek Center was built upon a weed-filled parcel of land purchased by Temple Buell in the 1920s.
Over time, the area went through several stages, including sand mining, landfill usage in the 1940s, and eventually becoming the site of the first Cherry Creek shopping center designed by Temple Hoyne Buell in 1949.
In 1990, the shopping center underwent a significant renovation, expanding its retail space and modernizing its facilities.
Today, Cherry Creek Shopping Center boasts over 160 specialty boutiques, 40 exclusive stores, an eight-screen movie theater, weekly seasonal farmers markets, a children’s play area, and diverse dining options.
A Legacy of Anchor Tenants
The Cherry Creek Shopping Center has been home to various department stores and anchor tenants over the years, some of which have been replaced or renovated to accommodate new businesses. Here’s a closer look at the mall’s anchor tenant history:
| Tenant | Opening Year | Closing Year | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lord & Taylor | 1990 | 2005 | Replaced by Nordstrom in 2007 |
| Nordstrom | 2007 | – | Occupied former Lord & Taylor location |
| Macy’s | 1990 | – | Became Macy’s in 2006 after several mergers |
| Saks Fifth Avenue | 1990 | 2011 | Demolished, the site became Restoration Hardware in 2015 |
| Restoration Hardware | 2015 | – | Occupied the former Saks Fifth Avenue location |
| Neiman Marcus | 1991 | – | – |
Luxury Brands and Exclusive Retailers
Cherry Creek Shopping Center is a premier destination for luxury shopping in Denver. Visitors can browse an impressive collection of high-end brands such as Louis Vuitton, Burberry, Tory Burch, Hermès, Neiman Marcus, Tiffany & Co., and many more.
In December 2022, Gucci, one of the world’s most renowned luxury brands, opened its first directly owned and operated boutique in Denver at the Cherry Creek Shopping Center. The new store further solidified the mall’s regional luxury shopping hub status.
The Evolution of Dining Options
The Cherry Creek Shopping Center has been home to various dining establishments. Rainforest Cafe, a family favorite, was once a beloved fixture at the mall before closing its doors in 2001.
Today, visitors can enjoy various dining experiences, from upscale restaurants like Elway’s Steakhouse, 801 Chophouse, and Kona Grill to casual options like California Pizza Kitchen and Panda Express.
Cherry Creek Fresh Market: A Seasonal Delight
The Cherry Creek Fresh Market, a popular seasonal farmers market, takes place at the Cherry Creek Shopping Center, offering a delightful selection of fresh produce, fragrant flowers, local dairy products, and specialty food items from Colorado farmers and vendors.
The market runs every Saturday from May to November and every Wednesday from June to August, providing visitors with a unique and enjoyable shopping experience.
A Stroll Through History
Cherry Creek Shopping Center has seen many changes, from its humble beginnings to its current status as a premier shopping destination. As you stroll through the mall, you cannot help but appreciate its rich history and numerous transformations.
Iconic Stores of the Past
Over the years, Cherry Creek Shopping Center has been home to several iconic stores that no longer exist but are remembered fondly by many. For example, the original Cherry Creek location of The Denver Dry Goods Company/May-Daniels & Fisher was a popular shopping spot until 1990. Bed, Bath, and Beyond now occupies its space.
Art and Entertainment
In addition to shopping, Cherry Creek Center has always been committed to providing visitors with various entertainment options. The mall is home to an eight-screen movie theater operated by AMC, providing a perfect destination for movie lovers to enjoy the latest blockbusters.
Furthermore, Cherry Creek Shopping Center has hosted various art installations and cultural events throughout the years, attracting both local and international artists. These events have provided a platform for artistic expression and enriched the mall’s atmosphere, making it a vibrant and engaging space for all visitors.
Embracing Sustainability
Cherry Creek Shopping Center’s history as a reclaimed landfill site is a testament to the power of transformation and the importance of sustainability. The mall’s commitment to environmental stewardship can be seen in its support of local farmers and vendors through the Cherry Creek Fresh Market and its efforts to reduce waste and promote energy efficiency throughout the property.
A Symbol of Community
Cherry Creek Shopping Center has long been a symbol of community for the residents of Denver and its surrounding areas.
The mall has consistently provided a space for people to come together, whether for shopping, dining, entertainment, or simply enjoying the company of friends and family.
By continuously evolving and adapting to the needs of its patrons, Cherry Creek Shopping Center has remained a cherished destination for generations.
As you explore Cherry Creek Shopping Center, please take a moment to appreciate its rich history and many transformations over the years.
Whether you’re reminiscing about the good old days or experiencing its luxury and charm for the first time, Cherry Creek Shopping Center remains a cherished destination for locals and visitors alike.