The LEGO Discovery Center is a big attraction.
In the early 1970s, enclosed shopping malls were the big thing and on a list of malls around the Northern Virginia area, Springfield Mall always was right up there with Tysons and Fair Oaks. There were stores like Montgomery Ward, Korvette's, Orange Bowl pizza and Spencer's Gifts, and a new wing was added around 1976. There was even a "Miss Springfield" pageant for a few years.
Another mall evolution occurred 10 years ago and now it's called Springfield Town Center managed by PREIT, a real estate investment trust that highlights this town center as a central spot in the Springfield community. The town center is celebrating their 10-year anniversary this fall.
PREIT described the Springfield Town Center as "an appealing mix of traditional department stores, coveted brands, and destination dining.”
Since its transformation ten years ago, the town center has undergone a shift to becoming a regional entertainment destination and premier shopping center in the metro region, highlighted by the opening of the LEGO Discovery Center, Dave & Busters and Regal Cinemas. "With strong occupancy rates and increased sales, Springfield Town Center continues to thrive," said PREIT.
Dining is another popular feature at the center, from quick service spots like Chipotle and food court to sit down options like Yard House and Maggiano’s.
To stand up to the name of a true “town center,” another transformation is in the works, with plans to add residential units to underutilized parking areas. In December 2023, PREIT closed on the sale of a land parcel to Hanover, which will bring 439 apartments to Springfield Town Center with residential amenities including new circulation roads, pedestrian improvements, a public fitness park, and an expanded parking garage.
By integrating a diverse mix of retail, dining, entertainment, and residential spaces, the mall is positioned as a modern community hub that meets the needs of today’s shoppers, PREIT said
Other PREIT shopping destinations include Patrick Henry Mall in Newport News, Valley Mall and Mall at Prince George's in Maryland plus others in Pennsylvania and New Jersey.