Ever wonder where the heart of Chicago’s Southland shopping beats? It is at Orland Square Mall. Prepare to step into a world of retail history and community connection.
Orland Square Mall opened its doors on March 15, 1976. It quickly became a major shopping destination. Homart Development Company developed it. Skidmore Owings and Merrill were the architects.
Initially, Orland Square featured JCPenney Marshall Field’s Sears and Carson Pirie Scott. Imagine the excitement as shoppers explored these anchor stores. The Inland-Robbins Construction Company built the mall.
In 1994, tragedy struck when a fire destroyed the Buy The Weigh candy store. But Orland Square Mall bounced back. It underwent a major remodel in 1995.
Let’s jump ahead to 2002. Hot Topic opened near JCPenney six days before Woodfield Mall. Then in 2006 Macy’s took over the Marshall Field’s location.
H&M joined the Sears wing in 2004. Half Price Books opened outside the mall in 2010. Change continued as Ruby Tuesday closed in 2011.
Orland Square underwent another renovation in 2012. The image of the mall was completely changed. Upgraded entrances signs and floors were added. The food court expanded. Dave and Buster’s opened in the parking lot. The Cheesecake Factory opened by Macy’s.
In 2018 Sears announced it would close. Cubework bought the Sears outpost. Carson Pirie Scott also shuttered. Von Maur opened in its place in 2019. That same year Texas de Brazil opened.
In 2019 a shooting occurred leaving one dead and one wounded.
Today Orland Square Mall stands as a testament to resilience. It is a retail hub for Frankfort Homer Glen and other communities. With over 148 stores it offers a diverse shopping experience. Pace bus routes provide public transit access.
Orland Square Mall is more than just a mall. It is a community landmark. It has evolved with the times. From its opening to its renovations and challenges Orland Square continues to be a vital part of Orland Park.