Picture this You are standing before Lakeside Shopping Center in Metairie Louisiana. A sprawling retail landscape unfolds before you. This isn’t just any shopping mall. Lakeside boasts a rich history a vibrant present and a promising future.
Lakeside Shopping Center opened its doors on March 24 1960. It was the first regional shopping mall in New Orleans. It immediately became a hub of activity a place where families gathered friends met and shoppers found everything they needed. Imagine the excitement of that grand opening day. The air buzzing with anticipation the crowds eager to explore the new stores.
The original Lakeside was an open-air center. D H Holmes JCPenney and Godchaux’s were the anchor stores. These stores were local institutions attracting shoppers from across the region. The mall expanded becoming a fully enclosed mall in 1969. This expansion marked a significant milestone in Lakeside’s growth. It allowed the mall to remain competitive as shopping habits changed.
Over the decades Lakeside has undergone several transformations. JCPenney expanded to a two-level location. This is still operating today. D H Holmes became Dillard’s in 1989. A new food court was added soon after. Further expansions brought a new Macy’s and a parking garage. Macy’s opened in 2008. The most recent expansion included a renovated food court and the opening of Zara in 2014.
Lakeside even had its own movie theater. It operated a five-screen cinema in a satellite complex. The rise of stadium-style theaters led to its closure and demolition in 2000. The space was repurposed for additional retail space. This showcases how the mall adapted to changing consumer preferences.
Hurricane Katrina in 2005 caused only minor damage to Lakeside. The mall showed its resilience. Its quick recovery is a testament to the community’s spirit. The mall’s continued success despite challenges including the pandemic and the rise of online shopping is remarkable.
Today Lakeside Shopping Center is one of the largest and busiest malls in Greater New Orleans. It remains a vital part of the local economy. It’s an important employer. The Feil Organization which has owned the mall since the 1980s continues to invest in its future. The mall is a testament to its ability to adapt thrive and remain a cherished part of the community’s life. So take a moment to soak in the energy the history and the sheer magnitude of Lakeside Shopping Center.