New Jersey’s malls are continuing to reinvent themselves in 2026.
They’re adding new stores, restaurants and entertainment venues as operators increasingly focus on creating destinations that offer more than traditional shopping.
The latest openings and redevelopment efforts suggest that while the mall industry continues to face challenges, New Jersey’s largest shopping destinations are adapting.
The new retailers follow a series of additions over the past two years, including ALO, Coach, Columbia, Dr. Martens, Kendra Scott, Lacoste, OFFLINE by Aerie, POP MART, Rowan, Signature Workspace and Suki Hana.Erik Gruber & Dan Callahan at Gregory
Malls are again becoming places where consumers can shop, dine, socialize and be entertained in a single visit.
Across the state, mall operators are increasingly emphasizing entertainment, dining, wellness and mixed-use development as shopper habits evolve.
Attractions such as bowling centers, indoor playgrounds, interactive sports concepts and expanded restaurant offerings are becoming as important as traditional retail stores in drawing visitors.
Von Maur Department Stores plans to open its first New Jersey location at Freehold Raceway Mall in fall 2027.Von Maur Department Stores
From Cherry Hill Mall to Freehold Raceway Mall and American Dream, several of the state’s largest retail centers have announced expansions and new tenants in recent months.
One of the latest developments is at Cherry Hill Mall, where six new retailers are slated to open as the South Jersey shopping center prepares to celebrate its 65th anniversary.
Bridgewater Commons continues to expand. Planned for the third quarter is the opening of lifestyle and intimates brand Aerie in a new, expanded 9,839-square-foot store on the Upper Level. Coming in the fourth quarter will be OFFLINE by Aerie. Here, Anthropologie, which made its debut in a 9,577-square-foot space on Jan. 28.Bridgewater Commons
Spencer’s is one of only two original stores still operating at the nearly 65-year-old shopping center.
Spencer’s recently moved into a larger and more modern space, creating more room for its eclectic mix of merchandise.
The additions include national brands and tenant expansions, reflecting continued confidence in one of New Jersey’s most established malls.
In Central Jersey, Bridgewater Commons is undergoing a broader transformation that includes new stores and renovations.
Among the newest additions are Rowan, a piercing and jewelry studio, OFFLINE by Aerie, and an expanded Pandora location. Mall ownership has also launched modernization efforts aimed at attracting shoppers seeking lifestyle-focused experiences.
Freehold Raceway Mall has seen one of the busiest years among New Jersey shopping centers.
New arrivals include JD Sports, Pop Mart, JACK & JONES and Levi’s, while Gap is also joining the tenant lineup.
Several existing retailers, including Pandora and Sephora, are expanding or renovating their spaces.
The mall is also preparing for the arrival of Von Maur, which plans to open its first New Jersey department store at the property in fall 2027.
The mall is also expanding its family entertainment offerings.
Kids Empire, an indoor playground concept, is expected to open near Primark, further illustrating the industry’s move toward experiential attractions designed to increase foot traffic and lengthen customer visits.
Meanwhile, Menlo Park Mall in Edison recently added Round1 Bowling & Arcade, a large-scale entertainment venue featuring bowling, arcade games, karaoke and dining options.
The opening highlights a growing trend among mall owners who are replacing vacant retail space with entertainment destinations that draw customers for activities rather than shopping alone.
American Dream in East Rutherford continues to expand its retail and dining footprint as well.
New additions include restaurants such as Miznon, Nan Xiang Xiao Long Bao, Firehouse Subs and Yogost.
The complex has also added retailers including Pakistani fashion brand Khaadi and Asian beauty chain Kiokii, which selected American Dream as the site of its flagship location.
Elsewhere, the redevelopment of Monmouth Mall into Monmouth Square remains one of the state’s largest retail transformation projects.
Plans include a Whole Foods Market anchor and a mixed-use design that combines retail, dining, residential units and services in a town-center-style setting.
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