BIGMallrat's Editorial Review
South Shore Center (previously
known as Alameda Towne Centre) has served the Oakland
area since 1958. It's
one of the few outdoor malls in the Bay Area that manages to keep
most of its
stores actually facing the mall. However, it appears as if the shiny
new stores all faced the parking lot (similar to the Fremont
Hub).
New and Improved!
South Shore Center recently completed an extensive
renovation. Adding big-box stores without loosing the middle walkway.
Smaller shops occupy the interior while the big-box stores occupy
the exterior.
Atmosphere
The weather is usually quite agreeable and couldn't
be better for shopping, so there really is no need for a roof on
South Shore Center. The landscaping is outstanding. Well-placed
trees, perennials, trellises, and potted shrubs
all add to the elegance of the mall. A rarity today, you'll also
find plenty of unique and interesting artwork. Finally, there
are plenty of benches for lingering and resting tired feet.
Look for placards
hung in various locations throughout the interior for historical
pictures and stories of the area.
Stores
South Shore Center features many popular big-box
retailers like TJ Maxx Ross, and Bed Bath & Beyond, as well as
neighborhood favorites like Safeway and Trader Joe's. Kohl's joined
the mall
in spring of 2009, replacing the venerable Mervyn's that closed on
July 31, 2008. In-line stores include some national retailers and
a nice selection of one-of-a-kind stores.
Location
Finding South Shore Center may not be so easy
for the first time visitor. It's located at the far side of the island
and there aren't many large avenues like the newer suburbs. However,
Alameda has such a charm, you may find winding through its tidy neighborhoods
enjoyable (the bane of the locals).
Mall History
In 1958, South Shore Center opened with JC Penney,
Walgreens, Woolworth, and Lucky supermarket anchoring the mall. Safeway
was off to the side, where it stands today.
Of the original stores, only Walgreens remains.
Mervyn's joined in October 1972. Recently, JC Penney was replaced
by Trader Joe's. In 2005, the mall's name was changed
to Alameda Towne Centre. Link
to South Shore Center history site.
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