The Mall at 163rd street Miami Beach Mall
163rd Street: A North Miami Beach Landmark Reimagined
Welcome to one of North Miami Beach’s most enduring landmarks! The 163rd street Mall has been a cornerstone of the community for decades, evolving with the times while holding onto a rich history. Whether you know it as the 163rd Mall or simply “163rd street mall,” its story is a fascinating look at the changing face of South Florida retail.
From its glamorous beginnings as an open-air shopping plaza to its future as a modern town center, let’s explore the journey of the Mall at 163rd.
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The Golden Age: A Mid-Century Shopping Oasis
On November 1, 1956, the curtains opened on what was then called The 163rd Street Shopping Center. It was a classic, post-war American plaza designed for convenience and style, quickly becoming a bustling hub for local families.
- Iconic Anchors: The center was anchored by a beautiful Burdines, designed by the famed industrial designer Raymond Loewy, and a popular department store, Richard’s.
- A Shopper’s Paradise: It boasted nearly 50 stores, featuring household names like JCPenney, Walgreens, and Woolworth. You could grab a bite at the M and M Cafeteria or pick up groceries at Food Fair.
- Fun for the Whole Family: More than just a place to shop, the center was a destination. Many locals have fond memories of the center court, which was filled with kiddie rides and a miniature train. The north parking lot even featured a go-kart track until it was destroyed by Hurricane Cleo in 1964.
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The “Miracle on 163rd Street”: The Enclosed Mall Era
The 1980s brought a major transformation. To compete with newer, climate-controlled shopping centers, a massive renovation project took place between 1980 and 1982. This overhaul was so dramatic it was nicknamed “The Miracle on 163rd Street.”
- The Iconic Dome: The most striking feature was the addition of a massive, translucent Teflon-coated fiberglass dome held up by colossal metal arches. This futuristic design enclosed the main plaza, turning the shopping center into the indoor Mall at 163rd Street we remember.
- A New Layout: The former Richard’s department store was converted into a stunning three-story atrium. The top floor became a lively food court, while the lower level became home to a massive Spec’s Music store.
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A Shifting Landscape: Competition and Change
The opening of the nearby Aventura Mall in 1983 created significant competition, beginning a period of transition for the 163rd Street Mall. Over the next decade and a half, the retail landscape of Miami changed, and the mall had to adapt.
- Anchor Departures: JCPenney was the first major anchor to leave in 1983, relocating to Aventura. This was followed by the closure of Jordan Marsh in 1991 and, most significantly, the departure of the original anchor, Burdines, in 1999.
- Increasing Vacancies: With the loss of its major draws, the mall saw an increase in vacancies through the late 1990s, though stores like Marshalls remained a popular destination.
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Reinvention: The Dawn of the Power Center
Recognizing the shift toward “big-box” retail, the mall’s owners began another reinvention. The focus moved from a traditional enclosed mall to an open-air power center, prioritizing convenience and value.
- First Major Changes: In 1996, the outparcel movie theater was demolished to make way for a brand-new The Home Depot, signaling the new direction.
- A Complete Overhaul: The most dramatic change occurred in the early 2000s. In 2003, the former Jordan Marsh building and about a third of the enclosed mall were demolished. In their place, a Wal-Mart Supercenter was built, opening in 2005.
- New Tenants Arrive: The remaining mall structure was reconfigured to welcome other large retailers like Ross Dress for Less and Office Depot.
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The Mall at 163rd Street Today and Its Exciting Future
Today, the Mall at 163rd Street continues to serve the North Miami Beach community as a convenient, open-air shopping destination. It’s anchored by major national retailers including:
- Walmart Supercenter
- The Home Depot
- Ross Dress for Less
- Closeouts World
While Marshalls relocated to a nearby plaza in 2021, the center remains a vital part of the local economy.
Looking ahead, the Mall at 163rd is poised for its most exciting transformation yet. Current redevelopment plans aim to convert the property into a vibrant, mixed-use town center. The vision includes new residential towers, modern retail spaces, walkable green areas, and a community-focused design that will secure its legacy for generations to come.
Whether you’re stopping by to shop at your favorite store or just want to see a piece of Miami history in motion, the 163rd Street Mall is a landmark that continues to evolve.