Inception and Early Development
Rockaway Townsquare, located in Rockaway Township, New Jersey, opened its doors during Labor Day weekend in 1977. Developed by Copaken, White & Blitt, the mall was a bold project for its time.
It was built on top of a former landfill and a wetland area long before the New Jersey Freshwater Wetlands Protection Act of 1988 made such developments more regulated.
When it debuted, the mall introduced a modern design that drew attention. It featured five large sculptures by artist Rita Blitt, which added a creative flair to its atmosphere.
One of the most eye-catching pieces, the “Stablitt 55,” became the mall’s original logo and still stands today on the east side of the property. The rest of the sculptures, though removed over the years, left their mark on the mall’s identity.
The mall’s original anchor stores included Bamberger’s, a major department store that was later rebranded as Macy’s in 1986, and JCPenney, which continues to operate today.
These stores, along with more than 100 other retailers, established Rockaway Townsquare as a prime destination for shopping and entertainment.
The mall quickly gained popularity, attracting shoppers from nearby Morris, Sussex, and Warren counties. Its location along Interstate 80 also made it an accessible stop for commuters and tourists traveling between New York City and Pennsylvania.
From its early days, Rockaway Townsquare showcased a forward-thinking approach to retail, combining art, architecture, and commerce.
Its opening weekend set the stage for its role as a cornerstone of the community. Offering a fresh shopping experience, it drew crowds eager to explore its many offerings.
Evolution Through the Decades
Rockaway Townsquare experienced major transformations as retail trends shifted in the years following its grand opening. One of the original anchor stores, Bamberger’s, transitioned to Macy’s in 1986, aligning with a larger rebranding effort across the chain.
Another original anchor, Hahne’s, underwent a similar change in 1988, reopening under the Lord & Taylor nameplate. Lord & Taylor operated successfully for decades before closing in 2020.
Entertainment options also played a key role in the mall’s evolution. In February 1981, AMC Theatres expanded its footprint inside the mall, introducing what was reported to be the first 12-screen multiplex in the country.
While the 1–6 screen section inside the mall closed in 1998, the 7–12 screen theater remained operational until 2002. Later, a new 16-screen AMC theater opened in 2006, just west of the mall at Rockaway Town Plaza, marking a shift toward standalone entertainment spaces.
Retailers outside the main mall complex followed a similar trajectory of growth and change. Child World, a beloved toy store at Rockaway Commons, closed in 1992 and was eventually replaced by Kids ‘R’ Us, then Office Depot, and now DSW.
Other locations, such as Toys ‘R’ Us and Acme, faced closures and new tenants over the years, reflecting the fast-changing nature of retail.
In 2000, the mall celebrated a piece of its history by unveiling a time capsule. Sealed at the time of the mall’s construction, the capsule’s contents gave visitors a glimpse into the culture and aspirations of the late 1970s. This event brought a nostalgic touch to the mall’s bustling environment.
Renovations and Modernization Efforts
As consumer preferences changed, Rockaway Townsquare began updating its facilities to meet modern expectations. Between January and fall of 2019, the food court underwent a major renovation.
This update aimed to create a more welcoming dining area with sleek designs and expanded seating to accommodate growing crowds.
The mall also added new tenants that catered to contemporary tastes. In December 2017, The Cheesecake Factory opened its doors, offering a mix of casual dining and an upscale menu. In February 2022, P.F. Chang’s joined the lineup, giving shoppers more dining options during their visits.
These restaurants complemented the mall’s retail offerings, making it a destination for shopping and dining alike.
Art and history were not forgotten during these updates. In November 2023, historical photos from the nearby Picatinny Arsenal were displayed inside the mall. This installation highlighted the area’s contributions to national defense, creating a unique connection between the mall and the surrounding community.
Current Status and Future Prospects at Rockaway Townsquare
Over the years, Rockaway Townsquare has faced its share of challenges. The COVID-19 pandemic, which began in early 2020, brought unforeseen difficulties for many retailers nationwide, and the mall was no exception.
Lord & Taylor, a long-standing anchor store, announced its closure in August 2020, marking the end of its physical locations.
Sears, another anchor that had been part of the mall since its early days, also shuttered its doors in the same year, reflecting the larger decline of traditional department stores.
Today, Rockaway Townsquare remains an active hub for shopping, dining, and entertainment. The mall’s anchor stores include Macy’s, JCPenney, and Raymour & Flanigan, each catering to a mix of everyday and special-occasion shoppers.
Smaller retailers and specialty stores complement the anchors, offering a range of products from fashion to electronics.
Redevelopment opportunities and tenant mix remain key focuses for the mall’s management. Simon Property Group, which owns and manages the property, has worked to attract a variety of tenants to keep the mall fresh and engaging.
In February 2023, the mall welcomed three new businesses, enhancing its diverse offerings. Lola’s, in collaboration with Cafelombia, began serving a variety of Mexican dishes and Colombian bakery items.
Tango Latin Asian Fusion (closed now), originally from Puerto Rico, introduced a unique blend of Latin and Asian cuisine to the food court.
Additionally, Kawaii Gifts opened on the lower level, featuring over 20 arcade-style crane machines and an Asian-inspired market with a selection of gifts.
On May 13, 2023, Rockaway Townsquare hosted a free Touch-a-Truck event in the parking lot adjacent to P.F. Chang’s.
Families and children explored various vehicles from local government agencies and companies, including those from the Rockaway Township Fire Department and the New Jersey State Police.
This event provided an interactive experience, allowing attendees to learn about the vehicles and their roles in the community.
The holiday season of 2024 brought festive activities to the mall. In December, Photos with Santa were available, offering families the opportunity to capture holiday memories.
Concurrently, the Holiday Craft and Maker Fair took place, featuring a variety of handmade, unique, and one-of-a-kind items, including jewelry, handbags, fashion accessories, home decor, and more. These events aimed to enhance the holiday shopping experience and support local artisans.
These developments reflect Rockaway Townsquare’s commitment to providing diverse and engaging experiences for its visitors, adapting to changing consumer preferences and maintaining its role as a central hub in the Rockaway community.