Guide to Hilltop Mall

BIGMallrat's Editorial Review

Hilltop Mall in Richmond seems to have a reputation ("Hip-Hop Mall," some locals say). I hadn't heard many positive things about it so we were anxious to judge for ourselves.

Atmosphere

The outside of the mall appears a bit dated. Thankfully, Macy's painted the bright red of the old Emporium-Capwell building when they moved from their old location. Nonetheless, the interior has a pleasant atmosphere and appears quite modern. The theme of this shopping center is circles; every courtyard is a circle. In the center court, there is a large circular ramp that takes you from one floor to another, all without stairs. In addition, a large play area with rock climbing wall for children in the center court is very popular.

Regrettably, the floor could use some updating. It's white and brown, and the latter looks dirty and worn.

Stores

You will find a diverse selection of stores; something for just about everyone. We agreed this shopping center was much better than the reputation we heard about.

Wal-Mart opened in the old Macy's building on April 11 2007.

FYI: We counted five Cingular stores.

Food

You won't find a food court here. Restaurants and eateries are generally grouped around the entrances. Most offer their own seating.

Location

Hilltop Mall is located in Richmond, California. Even though you can see it from I-80, access isn't direct. You'll need to make a turn that may require two pairs of eyes to figure out (that goes for both the Hilltop and Richmond Parkway exits off I-80).

Stats

Stores: 140

Type: Superregional center

Enclosed: Yes

GLA: 99,313.349 m2 (1,069,000 sq. ft.)

Levels: 2

Developer: Bayshore Properties (The Taubman Company)

Owner: Simon Property Group (25%) and Farallon Capital Management /General Motors Pension Trust

Management Company: Simon Property Group

Grand Openings: 1976 (mall and Capwell's); 1999 (Macy's)

Anchor Closures: 1996 (Capwell's)

Renovated: 1998

Ratings

Size: Large

Architectural Appearance: Dated (-1)

Cleanliness: Average (-0.5)

Occupancy: Average (-0.5)

Stores: Mainstream/tchotcke (-0.5)

Store Quality: Sub-standard (-1)

Parking: Average (-0.5)

Location: Not too bad (-0.5)

Services: Information booth, paper directory, Website, Strollers & Wheelchairs (-0.5)

Uniqueness: Nice, but nothing to write home about (-0.5)

See our rating scheme

Last Visit: April 2007

Last Update: April 2007

Photographs

Center court with circular ramp and rock wall:

View from center court:

View towards JC Penney:

Center court towards Sears:

Map and Directions

View Larger Map

Click marker for driving directions.