BIGMallrat's Editorial Review
Years ago, Vallco Shopping Mall (previously,
Vallco Fashion Park) easily passed as the finest enclosed mall in
the South Bay. However, now
it seems as if the Silicon Valley
downturn and the expansion of nearby Westfield
Valley Fair has taken its toll on this shopping center.
Redevelopment
The center is currently being redeveloped. AMC
Theatres opened a 16 screen cinema on April 27, 2007. A new dramatic
food court opened in 2009 and hosts a number of eateries.
Occupancy
The mysterious lower level, which only appears
on one side of the "L" shaped mall, is completely vacant.
Most of it is closed off (see the picture titled "escalator
to nowhere"). The only openings were for access to the below-level
parking.
Atmosphere
Vallco Mall definitely
is showing its age, hence a reason for redevelopment. The once laughable
parquet floor has been replaced by a warm and tasteful tile. We expect
the remaining Eighties-style features to updated soon.
Stores
The main level (aka, the "one with stores")
has an unusual mix of national retailers and one-of-a-kind tchotcke
shops. Vallco Mall has definitely massed the finest collection
of bridal dress stores I've ever seen. Of course, its demise
is evident in the many vacancies.
Parking
Since the mall is dying, you'll find plenty
of parking. By the looks of the ocean of asphalt and new parking
garage, they were expecting crowds.
A recent trip with a South Bay native disclosed the mall has always
been perceived as a huge parking lot.
Location
Vallco Shopping Mall is conveniently
located in Cupertino, California, at I-280 and N. Wolfe Road. This
shopping center spans both sides of Wolfe, so park anywhere.
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