Why Christiana Mall is Delaware's Premier Shopping Destination: A Closer Look

Christiana Mall, located in Christiana, Delaware, between Wilmington and Newark, is the largest shopping center in the state. With over 1.2 million square feet of retail space, it attracts millions of shoppers annually, particularly from neighboring states, due to Delaware’s tax-free shopping. The mall features a variety of stores and dining options, making it a premier retail destination in the Delaware Valley.

Location and Accessibility

Christiana Mall is situated in northern New Castle County, Delaware, with easy access from major highways like Interstate 95 and Delaware Route 1. The mall is located near key cities like Philadelphia and Baltimore, making it easily accessible to a large population. The surrounding area has a population of over 680,000, further boosting the mall’s appeal. Public transportation is provided by DART First State buses, with a park-and-ride facility near Nordstrom for added convenience.

Mall Overview

Covering 1.2 million square feet, Christiana Mall is anchored by Nordstrom, Macy’s, JCPenney, and Target, with Barnes & Noble as a junior anchor. The mall features a wide range of stores, including the Apple Store, Lululemon, Urban Outfitters, and Kiehl’s, along with dining options like The Cheesecake Factory and Brio Tuscan Grille. Additional attractions include Cabela’s and Cinemark Theatres, located as outparcels. Christiana Mall is one of the top-performing malls in the U.S., benefiting from its tax-free shopping and drawing shoppers from nearby states.

Early History and Development

Christiana Mall was developed in the late 1970s by The Rubin Company and New Castle Associates to compete with local malls. The land, which was once family farms, became the site of the mall’s main building. Strawbridge & Clothier was the first store to open in 1978, followed by the official opening of the mall later that year. The initial design featured a clock tower, fountains, and a second-floor restaurant. Over the next few years, Bamberger’s (later Macy’s) and JCPenney were added as anchor stores.

Department Store Changes

The 1990s saw significant changes to Christiana Mall’s department stores. In 1991, Wanamaker’s opened, only to be rebranded as Hecht’s after being acquired in 1995. In 1997, the former Wanamaker’s store became Lord & Taylor, which operated until it was demolished in 2010 for the construction of a Target. Meanwhile, the Strawbridge & Clothier location was replaced by a new Nordstrom, which opened in 2011.

Renovations and Expansions

Christiana Mall has undergone several major renovations and expansions. In 1991, a significant expansion added a new concourse and center court. Later, the former Lord & Taylor space was demolished, and a Target store opened in 2010. In 2011, a new wing with Nordstrom and additional high-end retailers was completed. In 2014, Cabela’s and Cinemark Theatres opened, completing the mall’s exterior development.

Recent Events

In 2023, the mall was the site of a shooting incident that left eight people injured. Despite the traumatic event, the mall remains a popular shopping destination.

Conclusion

Christiana Mall has grown from a regional shopping center to a key retail destination in the Delaware Valley. Through expansions, renovations, and ownership changes, it has maintained its status as the largest and most popular mall in Delaware. Its strategic location and tax-free shopping continue to attract millions of visitors each year.