Lloyd Center: Portland's Once and Future Shopping Shangri-La (Hopefully)
Ah, Lloyd Center. A name that conjures up images of...well, what exactly does Lloyd Center conjure up these days? Fear not, intrepid shopper (or curious internet denizen), for I'm here to shed some light on this enigmatic Portland landmark.
From Humble Beginnings to Mall Mania
Lloyd Center burst onto the scene in 1960, a shining beacon of consumerism in the Rose City. Back then, it was the place to be. Think poodle skirts, Brylcreem, and wallets fatter than a Kardashian's Instagram feed. It had everything: department stores galore, trendy boutiques, and a food court that could rival Willy Wonka's chocolate room (though hopefully without the whole turning-into-a-giant-blueberry thing).
The Great Mall-pocalypse (and a Glimmer of Hope)
Fast forward to the present day, and things are...well, let's just say Lloyd Center has seen better days. Some might call it a touch "down on its luck." Think less Tiffany's, more thrift store chic. Several anchor stores have flown the coop, leaving behind vacant spaces that echo with the ghosts of Christmas sales past.
But fear not, bargain hunters! Lloyd Center is still kicking, and there are some gems to be found. There's a decent selection of independent stores, a killer ice rink (perfect for channeling your inner Dorothy Hamill), and even a college if you feel like spontaneously acquiring a new degree between browsing for hats.
The Future? It's Bright (Hopefully)
The new owners seem to have a plan for Lloyd Center, with a focus on bringing back the community vibe and revitalizing the space. Think local businesses, pop-up shops, and maybe even a kombucha bar or two (it's Portland, after all).
So, is Lloyd Center the mall of your childhood dreams? Maybe not. But it's an interesting place to explore, with a unique history and a chance to snag some unexpected finds.
Lloyd Center: Not Your Average Mall
- Pros: Ice skating rink, independent shops, potential for a kombucha bar.
- Cons: A few vacant storefronts, might not be your grandma's Macy's.
- Overall: A quirky Portland experience, with a chance to snag a bargain (and maybe witness the rise of the next big retail trend).
How to Lloyd Center:
FAQ
- How to get to Lloyd Center? It's located in the Lloyd District, just northeast of downtown Portland. Public transport is a breeze, or there's ample parking if you're rolling in your own chariot.
- How to prepare for a trip to Lloyd Center? Pack your walking shoes, your sense of adventure, and maybe a few bucks for that perfect vintage find.
- How to navigate Lloyd Center? It's not a sprawling behemoth, so getting around is easy. There's a directory near the entrance, but half the fun is getting pleasantly lost and stumbling upon hidden treasures.
- How to survive Lloyd Center? There's not much danger involved, but bring some snacks if those hunger pangs hit.
- How to have an awesome time at Lloyd Center? Embrace the unique vibe, be open to surprises, and who knows, you might just discover your new favorite Portland hangout.
