Ready to explore the heart of Columbia? The Mall in Columbia is more than just a shopping destination. It is a central hub for the entire community.
The Mall in Columbia opened its doors in 1971. It quickly became the premier shopping destination along the Baltimore/Washington corridor. The Rouse Company developed it. Today, Brookfield Properties manages and owns this impressive complex.
Originally, the mall had 102 stores. Only one of those original stores remains open today. That store is GNC.
Architect Frank Gehry was initially chosen to design the mall’s centerpiece. However, the firm of Cope, Linder, & Walmsley was eventually contracted for the project.
The Mall in Columbia has undergone several expansions. A new wing with Sears opened in 1981. In 1997, Hecht’s added a third level. The Lord & Taylor wing opened in 1998. Nordstrom’s wing followed in 1999. These expansions have made the mall what it is today.
The Mall in Columbia boasts over 200 specialty stores. Anchor stores include AMC Theatres, Lidl, Main Event Entertainment, Barnes & Noble, JCPenney, Macy’s, and Nordstrom. You can also find restaurants like PF Chang’s, Maggiano’s Little Italy, and The Cheesecake Factory.
The mall provides ample parking with 7,200 spaces. These include three parking garages. Public transit is easily accessible via RTA Central Maryland bus routes.
In December 2007, a decision to abandon the traditional “Poinsettia Tree” Christmas display sparked a public outcry. Columbia residents rallied to bring back the beloved tradition. Mall managers reversed their decision. They returned the display in 2008.
In 2013, construction began on an outdoor expansion. This became “The Plaza at The Mall in Columbia”. It replaced the L.L. Bean store with new stores and restaurants.
Main Event Entertainment opened in 2018. It features bowling lanes and virtual reality games. Also in 2018, Sears announced it would close. Lidl, a German supermarket chain, would take its place.
Lord & Taylor closed in 2020. This was a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. In 2023, Warby Parker, Under Armour, and Showcase joined The Mall in Columbia.
The Mall in Columbia has seen its share of incidents. In 2014, a shooting occurred in the Zumiez store. In 2024, another shooting took place in the food court.
The Mall in Columbia continues to evolve. It adapts to meet the needs of the community. From its humble beginnings to its current status, it remains a vital part of Columbia, Maryland. It offers something for everyone. The Mall in Columbia has become a true destination.