What is CrossIron Mall in Alberta, Canada?
Located in Rocky View County, Alberta, Canada, CrossIron Mills (previously known as CrossIron) is a popular shopping destination that offers an exciting retail experience to its visitors. As one of the largest shopping centers in North America, it has become a hub for entertainment, dining, and leisure activities. In this article, we will delve into the world of CrossIron Mills, exploring what makes it so unique and fascinating.
A Brief Overview
CrossIron Mills is situated approximately 15 kilometers north of Calgary’s city limits, near the intersection of Highway CrossIron 2 (Deerfoot Trail) and Barlow Trail. The mall spans over 1 million square feet in size, making it one of the largest shopping centers in Canada. It boasts a vast array of stores, restaurants, entertainment venues, and services, catering to diverse tastes and interests.
Design and Layout
The architectural design of CrossIron Mills is quite impressive, featuring an open-air concept with a large indoor courtyard surrounded by several buildings. This layout allows for abundant natural light throughout the mall, creating a pleasant ambiance that encourages shoppers to explore its many amenities. The interior design incorporates modern elements, blending seamlessly with natural materials and colors, resulting in a visually appealing atmosphere.
Types of Stores and Services
CrossIron Mills boasts an eclectic mix of stores, encompassing several categories:
- Department stores: Hudson’s Bay, Sears
- Specialty clothing retailers: Gap Factory Store, Levi Strauss \& Co., H\&M
- Jewelry stores: Pandora, Swarovski Crystal
- Electronics and entertainment:
- Best Buy
- Future Shop
- Indigo Books & Music (now part of Indigo)
- Cineplex Cinemas – CrossIron Mills
- Restaurants and cafes
- Services: dental clinics, optical centers, salons
Leisure Activities
In addition to shopping and dining options, CrossIron Mills offers various leisure activities for visitors:
- Movie theater (Cineplex Cinemas)
- Play areas for children:
- The Marketplace – indoor play center with arcade games
- PlayZone in the Children’s Play Area near Cineplex Cinema
- Entertainment and attractions: arcade, video games
History of CrossIron Mills
The story of CrossIron Mills began over a decade ago when construction started on this massive shopping destination. Upon completion in 2010, it quickly rose to fame as one of the most popular shopping centers in Canada.
In recent years, this retail hub has undergone significant renovations and expansions, including major upgrades at Cineplex Cinemas, new restaurants opening their doors (including Boston Pizza), a revitalized children’s play area (The Marketplace – indoor playground for younger kids) near cinema 9, etc.