Is the Mall of America Truly the Biggest Shopping Mall in the USA?

Introduction

For years, people have been debating whether the Mall of America in Minnesota holds the title of the largest shopping mall in the USA. However, a significant change occurred in 2016 when the King of Prussia Mall in Pennsylvania underwent an expansion to become the new largest mall in the country.

The Mall of America

The Mall of America, often touted as the largest shopping mall in the U.S., has been a destination for shoppers since its opening in 1992. This sprawling complex consists of 3.9 million square feet of retail space, featuring over 450 stores, a large selection of dining options, and attractions like the Midwest's largest indoor water park and ice rink.

The King of Prussia Mall

The King of Prussia Mall, located in King of Prussia, Pennsylvania, took the crown of the largest mall in the USA in 2016. This impressive shopping destination boasts over 4.2 million square feet of retail space. The expansion came after the construction of a new building, which was joined to the existing two buildings to create a single, monolithic complex.

Comparison of Size

While the Mall of America was long considered the largest in the USA, the King of Prussia Mall now has an extra 14,000 square feet, or about 0.35%, making it just larger in total square footage. This slight difference might not be immediately noticeable to the average shopper, but it marks a significant shift in the retail landscape.

The Significance of the Expansion

The King of Prussia Mall's expansion is a result of strategic planning and investment. The mall owners recognized the need to compete with online retail giants, offering a larger and more diverse shopping experience. The additional space has allowed for increased tenant options, including department stores, high-end boutiques, and popular chain retailers.

Other Notable Shopping Centers

While the Mall of America and the King of Prussia Mall are the largest, there are still several other impressive shopping centers throughout the country. These include:

Northeastern Pennsylvania Fashion Outlets - Over 2.7 million square feet Mills at Strings Creek - Over 2.5 million square feet Four Seasons Premium Outlets - Over 2.1 million square feet

These malls, though impressive, still fall somewhat short of the top two largest in the USA.

The Future of Shopping Malls

The retail industry is constantly evolving, and the future of shopping malls remains uncertain. With the rise of e-commerce, many malls are adapting by offering enhanced dining experiences, entertainment options, and specialty retail. While the physical size of these malls may determine their ranking, their success today often hinges on the quality of their offerings rather than just their square footage.

Conclusion

Is the Mall of America truly the largest shopping mall in the USA? Until 2016, it was. However, the King of Prussia Mall has now taken the top spot due to its significant expansion. Despite this, both malls continue to be major shopping destinations, each with its unique characteristics and experiences.