From Hotspots to Ghost Towns: The Rise and Fall of 7 Detroit-Area Malls

Once bustling hubs of commerce and social activity, several Detroit-area malls have experienced significant transformations, reflecting broader shifts in retail trends and urban development.

 

Lakeside Mall in Sterling Heights, which opened in 1976, was among Michigan's largest shopping centers. After nearly five decades, it closed on July 1, 2024, to make way for a $1 billion redevelopment into a mixed-use town center featuring residential units, retail spaces, and public parks.

 

Northland Center in Southfield, once the world's largest shopping mall when it opened in 1954, closed in 2015. Plans are underway to transform the site into Northland City Center, a development combining residential units with retail, dining, and entertainment spaces.

 

Fairlane Town Center in Dearborn, established in 1976, has faced challenges in recent years. In 2020, the mall changed ownership after the previous owner defaulted on its loan. The new owner, Kohan Retail Investment Group, acquired the property in March 2023, aiming to revitalize the space.

 

Oakland Mall in Troy, opened in 1968, is actively reinventing itself. Under new ownership since 2022, the mall has introduced several Asian-themed stores and dining options, reflecting the area's diverse community and aiming to attract a broader customer base.

 

Tel-Twelve Mall in Southfield, originally an enclosed mall from 1968, was redeveloped in 2001 into a power center featuring big-box retailers. This transformation reflects a shift towards open-air shopping experiences.

 

Southland Center in Taylor, opened in 1970, continues to operate but has seen changes in its tenant mix. In January 2025, the mall was sold to Greenwood Global, with plans to revitalize the property and attract new retailers.

 

The Mall at Partridge Creek in Clinton Township, an open-air shopping center since 2007, faced a significant setback when Apple announced the closure of its store in July 2025, opting to open a new location in downtown Detroit instead.

 

These transformations highlight the evolving nature of retail and the ongoing efforts to adapt to changing consumer preferences and economic landscapes in the Detroit metropolitan area.