12 Things You Could Do at the Mall That Don’t Exist Anymore
This article shares 12 things people used to enjoy doing at the mall that no longer exist today.
- Daisy Montero
- 4 min read
Malls were once filled with fun activities besides shopping. Many people spent hours playing arcade games, browsing record stores, or hanging out at the food court. Over time, technology and changing habits have made many of these experiences disappear. This list shows some of the things that used to make mall visits special.
1. The Vanishing Arcade Games
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Arcade games used to be the go-to activity at malls, where friends would gather and compete for high scores. The flashing lights and electronic sounds created a fun, competitive atmosphere. Now, arcades are a rare sight, replaced by more digital forms of entertainment.
2. The Iconic Mall Food Court
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A bustling mall food court was once a favorite hangout spot for groups to eat, chat, and enjoy fast food. From pizza to pretzels, there was something for everyone. However, as dining options shifted, many food courts now sit empty or have become more upscale.
3. Music Stores with CDs and Tapes
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Once, record stores in malls offered a massive selection of CDs and cassette tapes. It was a thrill to browse through the shelves and find the latest albums. However, the rise of digital music and streaming services made physical music stores obsolete.
4. Mall Hair Salons
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The hair salons in malls were a go-to for quick haircuts or last-minute touch-ups before a big night out. Whether it was a new hairstyle or just a trim, the experience was part of the mall’s charm. Today, most people opt for specialized salons outside the mall for more personalized care.
5. Mall Cinemas
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The mall cinemas were a classic spot for catching the latest blockbuster with friends. The big screen, buttery popcorn, and shared excitement made for a memorable experience. However, as streaming became more popular, many mall theaters shut their doors or were replaced by other attractions.
6. Kiosk Workers Offering Everything
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Mall kiosks used to sell everything from perfume to phone accessories, and even rent video games. These spontaneous stops were a regular part of the shopping experience. Today, many of these kiosks have vanished, and their products are now available online.
7. Video Game Rental Stations
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Before the digital age, renting video games at the mall was a popular activity. These rental stations were stocked with the newest titles, and gamers could try out different games for a fraction of the cost. Today, the convenience of digital downloads has rendered game rentals obsolete.
8. In-Mall Fashion Shows
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Malls were once known for their glamorous fashion shows, showcasing the latest trends in clothing. These events were a way to highlight store collections and attract shoppers. Now, most fashion shows are streamed online, leaving the mall runway shows behind.
9. Board Game and Comic Stores
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Malls used to be filled with comic book stores and board game shops, perfect for nerdy treasure hunts. Collectors would browse for rare finds, and comic enthusiasts would spend hours flipping through new issues. Now, the digital world and online retailers have taken over these niche stores.
10. Toy Stores with Interactive Displays
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Toy stores in the mall were always an exciting stop, with large displays and interactive areas. Children could play with the toys on display, while parents could select their next gift. Today, most toy shopping is done online, where interactive displays are replaced by convenience.
11. Bicycle Shops Inside Malls
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Some malls once featured bicycle shops where customers could try out new bikes or accessories. These shops were a go-to for fitness enthusiasts and families looking for new outdoor gear. However, specialty bike stores now exist outside of malls, offering a wider variety and better customer service.
12. The Disappearing Electronics Sections
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Electronics stores inside malls used to be packed with the latest gadgets, from portable music players to cameras. People would flock to these sections to get hands-on with the newest tech. Now, most electronics are bought online or at specialized retail locations outside the mall.