Once a staple hangout spot, traditional shopping malls are beginning to struggle — falling victim to online shopping and changing consumer habits after the pandemic. But Bloomington’s College Mall tells a different story.
Like many malls, it’s seen its fair share of change with anchor stores like Sears and Macy’s shutting their doors, and national chains coming and going. Smaller stores like American Eagle and Bath & Body Works remain. Yet, for many locals the once bustling interior feels quieter.
Still, it would be a mistake to call College Mall a dead space. Despite facing the same pressure and undergoing significant changes over the years, this mall has held out — it’s adapted.
Today, it’s anchored by stores including Target, Ulta Beauty and Dick’s Sporting Goods, drawing in students and families. There are also signs of life in newer openings — such as Exotic Snack Guys, an exotic snack shop, featuring international chips, candies, and drinks attracting curious customers and international students looking for a taste of home.
Food is another area where College Mall continues to evolve and serve the diverse population of Bloomington. Dave & Busters opened its first Bloomington location in late January while Red Robin still remains a popular family-friendly sit down option. The food court still hosts fast-casual staples for those in-between shopping breaks. So, whether you’re craving a chicken sandwich from Chick-fil-A or authentic Chinese food from Judy’s Kitchen you’ve got it all.
College Mall isn’t just a retail destination anymore. Blending shopping with local services and social spaces, it has begun to build a community with organizations and services having found home in its large and adaptable spaces.
Organizations like the Endwright East Center and the Pillar Arts Alliance Center are part of the shift. The Endwright Center, which offers a space for health and wellness education for senior citizens chose College Mall for its location and amenities.
“This location was chosen because it was on a bus line, had ample parking, is handicap-accessible, and easy to navigate for seniors,” said Chris Myers, Area 10 executive director.
“There really wasn’t a place here in Bloomington and there was a need to have that,” said Kris Campbell, the health and wellness specialist, explaining how Bloomington was missing out on a place like the Endwright Center, with the location being an important factor in their decision.
On the other hand, the Pillar Arts Alliance Center has decided to set up their next location in the mall to connect art with the broader public — especially those who might have never set foot in a traditional art gallery before. The mall’s central location, free parking and diverse foot traffic made it the ideal fit.
“Barriers for entry have been taken down,” said Sarah Asher, treasurer and manager of the art galleries. She invites people of all demographics to come in and enjoy the facilities, including a grand piano, or just to appreciate the art. The Arts Alliance Center had a soft launch earlier this month and will open at the new location in the early fall.
Both groups’ officials emphasized how the mall has become more than a place to shop, instead it’s a flexible and welcoming space for people of all interests and backgrounds.
College Mall has gone on to show that not all traditional malls are fading away –— instead they have taken upon a creative and community-based focus as they adapt to serve the local community while trying to stay relevant. It’s time for everyone to rediscover the mall and discover its hidden gems.
Contact Ayzah Khan at [email protected].
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