The Historical Evolution of Moorestown Mall
The Moorestown Mall, nestled in Moorestown, New Jersey, has been a staple of local commerce and community life since its inception in 1963.
Developed by the Winston-Muss Corporation, it marked the beginning of suburban shopping experiences in the area. The original anchors, Gimbels, Wanamaker’s, and Woolworths, were the main attractions, drawing shoppers across the region.
Over the years, the mall has seen significant changes, reflecting the evolving retail and community needs landscape. In 1971, a major development was the addition of a Sears store, relocating from Camden, NJ, which brought a new wave of visitors and expanded the mall’s offerings.
The 1980s and 1990s were periods of transition for Moorestown Mall, with Gimbels transforming into Stern’s in 1986, only to close four years later. This space eventually became home to Boscov’s, further altering the mall’s retail lineup.
The physical structure of the mall has also undergone several renovations, particularly after a serious fire in December 1992 caused extensive damage. The reconstruction efforts led to a complete overhaul in 1993-94, modernizing the mall and making it more appealing to a broader audience.
However, the mall’s evolution was not just about physical changes. Ownership transitions have played a crucial role, especially when Pennsylvania Real Estate Investment Trust (PREIT) took over in 2003, marking a new management and strategic planning era.
Throughout its history, Moorestown Mall has mirrored the changing tides of retail, adapting to consumer trends and economic shifts.
From its early days as a community shopping destination to its current status, facing challenges from online shopping and changing consumer preferences, the mall has continually strived to meet the needs of its visitors. This adaptability is evident in diversifying its store portfolio and introducing new services and amenities.
Visiting the Moorestown Mall remains a highlight for many who look at things to do near Philadelphia, PA. Despite the rise of digital marketplaces, the mall still offers a unique blend of shopping, dining, and entertainment options that cater to various tastes and preferences.
The journey of Moorestown Mall is a testament to the resilience and evolving nature of retail environments in suburban America.
Stories of Current Anchors at Moorestown Mall
Boscov’s has been a cornerstone of Moorestown Mall since the 1990s, taking over the space originally occupied by Gimbels and later by Stern’s.
As one of the last family-owned department store chains in the United States, Boscov’s offers various merchandise, including clothing, home goods, and cosmetics. Its long-standing presence in the mall reflects its commitment to the community and ability to adapt to changing consumer preferences.
Michaels, the renowned arts and crafts store, opened its doors in the mall in 2020, filling a niche for creative minds in Moorestown.
By offering a vast selection of crafting supplies, home décor, and seasonal items, Michaels caters to hobbyists and DIY enthusiasts. The store’s workshops and classes also add community to its retail offering, encouraging local engagement and creativity.
Five Below joined the Moorestown Mall in 2019, bringing a unique shopping experience where everything is priced at five dollars or less. This store appeals to a younger demographic looking for trendy items, toys, tech accessories, and party supplies at affordable prices.
Five Below’s presence in the mall has added a dynamic and budget-friendly option for shoppers seeking value without compromising on fun or style.
HomeSense, part of the TJX Companies, debuted in the mall in 2019. HomeSense, a home goods retailer, offers high-quality furniture, décor, and kitchen items at significant discounts.
The store’s ever-changing inventory ensures that shoppers always find something new and exciting, making it a popular destination for those looking to refresh their living spaces.
Sierra Trading Post, another addition from the TJX family, provides outdoor apparel, footwear, and gear for adventure enthusiasts.
By offering brand-name merchandise at discounted prices, Sierra has become a go-to spot for shoppers preparing for outdoor activities or seeking casual wear with an adventurous twist.
Turn 7 Liquidators is a unique presence in the mall, occupying the space formerly held by Lord & Taylor. Opening in 2022, Turn 7 offers a variety of merchandise, including overstock and closeout items from various retailers.
This store has introduced a new shopping concept to the mall, attracting bargain hunters and deal-seekers looking for high-quality products at reduced prices.
Regal Cinema has transformed the movie-going experience in Moorestown Mall with its state-of-the-art facilities.
The introduction of the Regal Premium Experience (RPX) theater, featuring digital projectors, surround sound, and reclining seats, offers viewers an immersive and comfortable viewing experience.
The cinema’s upgrade to include full-power reclining seats across all screens has made it a premier destination for film enthusiasts.
Cooper University Health Care opened an ambulatory care facility in the mall in November 2023, taking over the space once occupied by Sears.
This addition marks a significant shift in the mall’s offerings, integrating health and wellness services into the retail environment.
The facility provides convenient access to medical services for the community, further diversifying the mall’s role as a center for commerce and care.
Famous Stores at Moorestown Mall by Type
Fashion and Apparel: Moorestown Mall is home to several notable fashion retailers. H&M offers trendy and affordable fashion for all ages.
At the same time, Express Factory Outlet provides stylish clothing options for the fashion-forward shopper. Victoria’s Secret caters to those seeking high-quality lingerie and beauty products.
Jewelry and Accessories: Kay Jewelers is known for its fine jewelry and exceptional service, making it a go-to for those special moments.
Claire’s offers fun and trendy accessories for younger shoppers. At the same time, Banter by Piercing Pagoda provides various piercing and jewelry options.
Health and Fitness: LensCrafters offers eye care services and a wide selection of eyewear, ensuring customers find the perfect fit for their style and vision needs.
Orangetheory Fitness brings a unique and high-intensity workout experience to the mall, catering to fitness enthusiasts seeking a challenging and rewarding exercise regimen.
Specialty Retailers: The Guild Hall Hobby provides a community space for hobbyists and gamers, offering various games, miniatures, and collectibles.
Go! Games / Go! Toys is a paradise for kids and families, featuring an array of toys, games, and puzzles for all ages.
These stores, along with others in Moorestown Mall, NJ, contribute to a diverse and vibrant shopping experience, ensuring there is something for everyone, regardless of their interests or shopping needs.
Dining Destinations within Moorestown Mall
Moorestown Mall offers a variety of dining options to suit all tastes and preferences. News Stand provides a quick stop for snacks and drinks, perfect for shoppers on the go.
Amigos Mexican Grill serves authentic dishes and flavors for those craving Mexican cuisine. Auntie Anne’s® Hand-Rolled Soft Pretzels is a favorite for those seeking a warm, freshly baked treat.
Pizza lovers can head to Brooklyn Pizza for a slice of New York-style pizza. Bubble House offers an array of bubble tea and Asian-inspired snacks, providing a unique taste experience. Charleys Philly Steaks delivers classic Philadelphia cheesesteaks, a must-try for meat enthusiasts.
Early Birds offers a cozy atmosphere with various morning favorites for breakfast and brunch options.
Firebirds Wood Fired Grill presents a more upscale dining experience, specializing in steaks and seafood grilled over an open flame. Glassy Brown Cookies caters to those with a sweet tooth, offering freshly baked cookies and desserts.
Harvest: Seasonal Grill & Wine Bar focuses on farm-to-table meals, serving seasonal dishes made with local ingredients.
Joe Italiano’s Maplewood is the place for Italian cuisine lovers, known for its pasta and seafood dishes. Naan introduces flavors from India, offering a range of traditional curries and bread.
For a taste of summer, Rita’s Italian Ice provides a refreshing escape with its famous Italian ice and frozen custard. Suki Hana brings Asian flavors to the table with its sushi and wok dishes.
Lastly, Yard House is known for its extensive menu of American favorites and a large selection of draft beers, making it a popular spot for dining and socializing.
Recent Developments and Future Plans
In recent years, Moorestown Mall has faced challenges common to many suburban shopping centers, including increased vacancies and competition from online retailers.
However, the mall has been proactive in addressing these challenges. In 2019 and 2020, new anchors such as HomeSense, Sierra Trading Post, and Five Below opened, diversifying the mall’s retail offerings and attracting different customer demographics.
The most significant development has been the introduction of residential and healthcare facilities within the mall’s property. In 2022, plans were announced for The Pearl, a seven-building, 375-unit apartment complex to revitalize the mall area and increase foot traffic.
This residential project is part of a larger trend of integrating living spaces with retail environments to create vibrant, multi-use communities.
Looking ahead, the mall’s owner, PREIT, has expressed commitment to further diversifying the mall’s attractions, including adding more dining and entertainment options. The plans include a 125-room hotel, enhancing the mall’s status as a mixed-use destination.
These developments reflect a strategic shift towards creating a more integrated and dynamic environment to secure the Moorestown Mall’s place as a central hub in the community.
2023 was a period of significant change and development for Moorestown Mall, with several key projects coming to fruition. One of the most notable developments was opening the first phase of Cooper University Health Care’s newest and largest outpatient campus in November.
This state-of-the-art facility has transformed Sears’s formerly occupied space into a comprehensive medical hub, offering more than 26 medical specialties, a range of diagnostic services, and nearly 100 exam rooms.
The center is designed to provide a seamless patient experience, featuring concierge services, a café, and other amenities, accessible from Route 38 and an interior entrance inside the mall.
Additionally, a pivotal moment for the mall came with the passing of a referendum regarding a 1959 law on family amusements. This change paves the way for new entertainment facilities, aligning with the vision of transforming Moorestown Mall into a mixed-use center.
The township of Moorestown also saw progress in infrastructure projects, which, while not directly related to the mall, contribute to the overall development and accessibility of the area.
These include the completion of the Main Street water main project and the near completion of the Lenola Streetscape Project.
These improvements are expected to enhance the surrounding areas, potentially increasing traffic and interest in the mall.
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