Opened in 1963 as Glen Burnie Mall The Centre at Glen Burnie has witnessed a fascinating transformation. Initially anchored by Montgomery Ward and an A&P grocery store it quickly became a community hub. A G C Murphy variety store and a single-screen movie theatre added to the charm. Imagine the excitement of its grand opening day. Shoppers flocked to this new retail destination.
The mall expanded over the years. Topps Discount City became a second anchor in 1969. This was replaced by Toys “R” Us in 1974. A Dick’s Sporting Goods also occupied a space. It closed and reopened later across the street. The space became a furniture clearance center. It ultimately closed as well. Epstein’s a Baltimore-based department store also called the mall home.
In 2000 Montgomery Ward closed its doors. This marked a turning point. In 2002 the mall was sold to Petrie Ventures. They planned to demolish the vacant Ward’s store and build a Target. Extensive renovations followed. The mall was renamed Centre at Glen Burnie in 2005.
A fire in 1981 damaged the north end. The mall closed except for Montgomery Ward for repairs. It reopened in 1982. This demonstrates the mall’s resilience and its importance to the community.
The Centre at Glen Burnie continued to evolve. Best Buy moved to a new location in 2010. H H Gregg replaced it but closed in 2017. Office Depot closed in 2019. The Centre at Glen Burnie underwent another significant transformation. In 2018 it was redesigned as an outdoor strip mall. Today Burlington Ollie’s Bargain Outlet and Target are anchor tenants. The Centre at Glen Burnie still thrives. It serves as a vital part of Glen Burnie’s landscape. It represents the enduring spirit of adaptation and change. The Centre at Glen Burnie is more than just a shopping center. It is a living testament to the history of Glen Burnie itself.