Salem's Best Mall [Updated 2025]

Having grown up in Salem, I have had countless opportunities to explore the malls in the area. After visiting and reviewing a total of nine malls, I am confident in my ability to determine which one truly stands out from the rest.

In this comprehensive article, I will share with you all the details you need to know about the top-ranking mall in Salem. From its diverse range of stores and eateries to its exceptional customer service and inviting ambiance, this mall has it all.

Get ready to discover a shopping experience like no other in the vibrant city of Salem.

Essex Street Pedestrian Mall

Highlights
Outdoor pedestrian mall
Variety of shops and eateries
Clean and well-maintained
Halloween decorations and vibe
Walkable area with historical buildings

Let me start by saying that Essex Street Pedestrian Mall is a breath of fresh air in the world of shopping centers. As an outdoor pedestrian mall, it offers a unique and enchanting experience for visitors.

One of the highlights of this mall is its diversity. There is truly something for everyone here. From trendy boutiques to charming antique shops, you will find a wide range of stores to satisfy all your shopping desires. And let's not forget about the delicious eateries that line the street, offering a variety of cuisines to tantalize your taste buds.

What impressed me the most about Essex Street Pedestrian Mall was how clean and well-maintained it is. Each storefront shines and the sidewalks are pristine, making it a pleasure to stroll along and take in all the sights and sounds.

But what truly sets this mall apart is its Halloween decorations and vibe. Salem is famously known for its witch trials, and the mall fully embraces this mystical heritage. The spooky decorations and atmosphere add an extra layer of excitement and fun to the shopping experience.

And let's not forget the walkable area surrounding the mall. With its historical buildings and charming cobblestone streets, the whole area feels like a step back in time. Exploring the history and beauty of Salem adds an extra dimension to your visit to Essex Street Pedestrian Mall.

Overall, Essex Street Pedestrian Mall is a true gem in Salem. Its unique outdoor setting, variety of shops and eateries, cleanliness, Halloween vibe, and walkable surroundings make it a top contender for the title of the best mall in Salem.

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Witch City Mall

Highlights
Treasures worth a wander
Great coffee shop
Neat walk-through businesses
Plenty to spend money on
Opens up to a great strip of street

Witch City Mall is a hidden gem that offers an enchanting shopping experience in the heart of Salem. As soon as I stepped inside, I was immediately captivated by the treasures worth a wander. From unique boutiques to quirky gift shops, there was something for everyone.

One of the highlights of Witch City Mall is the great coffee shop nestled right in the center. As I sipped on a perfectly brewed latte, I couldn't help but admire the cozy atmosphere and friendly staff. It was the perfect spot to recharge before continuing my shopping adventure.

What sets Witch City Mall apart from others is its neat walk-through businesses. Instead of traditional storefronts, you'll find a fascinating assortment of shops that you can wander through, discovering hidden surprises at every turn. It adds an element of excitement and curiosity to the shopping experience.

If you're a shopaholic like me, you'll be delighted to know that Witch City Mall has plenty to spend money on. From trendy clothing stores to unique jewelry vendors, there's no shortage of options to satisfy any fashionista's desires.

What I particularly loved about Witch City Mall is how it opens up to a great strip of street. After indulging in some retail therapy, I was able to seamlessly transition to exploring the surrounding area filled with restaurants, cafes, and more boutiques. It truly made for a delightful afternoon of shopping and exploring.

Overall, Witch City Mall is a must-visit destination in Salem. With its charming atmosphere, diverse selection of shops, and convenient location, it's no wonder why it stands out as one of the best malls in the city. So, if you're looking for a shopping experience that is both delightful and out of the ordinary, be sure to pay a visit to Witch City Mall.

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Paradise Plaza

Highlights
Excellent service
Knowledgeable staff
Great experience
Convenient printing

The first thing that struck me about Paradise Plaza was the excellent service. From the moment I walked through the doors, the staff was incredibly welcoming and attentive. They were always ready to help and answer any questions I had about the mall.

Speaking of the staff, they were not only friendly but also incredibly knowledgeable about the different stores and services in the mall. They were able to recommend the best places to shop and even gave me some great insider tips about upcoming sales and events.

My overall experience at Paradise Plaza was nothing short of great. The mall had a wide variety of stores and brands to choose from, ensuring that there was something for everyone's taste and budget. Whether you're in need of fashionable clothing, electronics, or even a quick bite to eat, this mall has it all.

One thing I particularly appreciated about Paradise Plaza was the convenient printing services they offered. As a writer, I often find myself needing to print documents or make copies of important papers. The printing center in the mall was fast and efficient, saving me time and hassle.

In conclusion, Paradise Plaza truly lives up to its name. With excellent service, knowledgeable staff, a great variety of stores, and convenient printing services, it is undoubtedly one of the best malls in Salem. Don't miss out on the opportunity to experience the paradise for yourself!

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400 Highland Place

Highlights
Excellent meals
Homemade
Friendly staff
Convenient

400 Highland Place is truly a hidden gem among the malls in Salem. From the moment I walked in, I was instantly captivated by the unique atmosphere and friendly staff.

One of the undeniable highlights of this mall is the exceptional dining options it offers. The meals available here are nothing short of excellent. Whether you're in the mood for a quick bite or a sit-down meal, you'll find a variety of options to satisfy your cravings. From international cuisine to local delicacies, there's something for everyone's palate.

What sets 400 Highland Place apart from other malls in Salem is the emphasis on homemade dishes. The chefs take great pride in crafting each dish with care and using the freshest ingredients. The attention to detail and commitment to quality are evident in every bite.

But it's not just the food that impressed me; it's the friendly staff that truly made my visit memorable. Every employee I encountered was warm, welcoming, and genuinely invested in providing the best possible experience. Their dedication to customer service is commendable and adds to the overall charm of the mall.

In terms of convenience, 400 Highland Place is hard to beat. Its location makes it easily accessible, and the spacious parking lot ensures a hassle-free experience. Whether you're looking for a place to shop, dine, or simply relax, this mall has it all.

In conclusion, I can confidently say that 400 Highland Place deserves its spot among the best malls in Salem. With its outstanding meals, homemade dishes, friendly staff, and convenient location, it offers an experience that is truly unparalleled. So, next time you're in Salem, don't miss the opportunity to visit this delightful mall.

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Highlander Plaza

Highlights
Convenient location
Variety of restaurants
Positive customer feedback

Let me start by saying that Highlander Plaza is a hidden gem in the heart of Salem. Its convenient location makes it easily accessible for both locals and tourists alike. But what sets this mall apart from the rest is not just its accessibility, it's the perfect blend of convenience and entertainment.

One of the highlights of Highlander Plaza is the wide variety of restaurants it offers. From local favorites to international cuisines, there's something to satisfy every craving. Whether you're in the mood for a juicy burger, a comforting plate of pasta, or some mouthwatering sushi, you'll find it all here. The Plaza truly caters to all taste buds.

Moreover, the positive feedback from customers speaks volumes about the quality of this mall. Visitors rave about the friendly staff, clean facilities, and excellent customer service. It's reassuring to know that your shopping experience will be a pleasant one.

In conclusion, Highlander Plaza is more than just a mall, it's an experience. With its convenient location, wide variety of restaurants, and positive customer feedback, it's clear to see why it stands out as one of the best malls in Salem. So, the next time you're in town, be sure to pay a visit to Highlander Plaza and indulge in all it has to offer.

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Hawthorne Square

Highlights
Crowded
Clean
Fully stocked
Good security
Market Basket

Let me start by saying that Hawthorne Square is definitely not for the faint of heart. As I stepped foot into this bustling mall, I was immediately struck by the crowds. It seemed like everyone in Salem had decided to converge on this shopping paradise. But hey, that just adds to the excitement, right?

One thing that particularly stood out to me about Hawthorne Square was how clean it was. With such a large number of shoppers moving through the mall, you would expect it to be a mess. However, the dedicated staff at Hawthorne Square were on top of their game, ensuring that every corner was spick and span.

In terms of shopping options, Hawthorne Square does not disappoint. It is fully stocked with a wide variety of stores, catering to every taste and budget. Whether you're in the mood for some high-end fashion or just looking for a good bargain, Hawthorne Square has got you covered.

When it comes to security, Hawthorne Square deserves top marks. I felt safe and secure throughout my visit, thanks to the diligent security personnel stationed strategically around the mall.

One of the major highlights of Hawthorne Square is the presence of Market Basket, a supermarket that offers a fantastic selection of groceries and household items. This convenience truly sets Hawthorne Square apart from its competitors.

All in all, Hawthorne Square offers a lively and vibrant shopping experience. With its crowds, cleanliness, diverse range of stores, top-notch security, and the presence of Market Basket, it certainly deserves a spot on the list of the best malls in Salem.

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Swampscott Mall

Highlights
Open air shopping
Clean and well laid out
Convenient location
Easy-to-navigate

Nestled in the heart of Salem, Swampscott Mall offers an open air shopping experience that is both refreshing and delightful. From the moment you step foot into the mall, you can't help but be captivated by its clean and well laid out design. The wide walkways and spacious stores create a sense of ease and comfort, making your shopping endeavor a breeze.

One of the things that struck me most about Swampscott Mall is its convenient location. Situated in a prime area of Salem, it is easily accessible and attracts a steady stream of shoppers. Whether you're coming from the bustling city center or nearby neighborhoods, you won't have to drive for miles to reach this retail paradise.

Navigating through this mall is a breeze, thanks to its easy-to-navigate layout. The directory signs are strategically placed throughout the mall, ensuring that you never find yourself lost in the sea of shops. You can easily find your way to your favorite stores or discover new ones without any hassle.

In conclusion, Swampscott Mall in Salem is a gem among the city's shopping scene. Its open air concept, clean layout, convenient location, and easy navigation make it an ideal destination for shoppers of all kinds. Whether you're looking for the latest fashion trends, home decor, or simply enjoying a day of leisurely browsing, this mall is sure to meet your expectations. So, the next time you find yourself in Salem, make sure to pay a visit to the Swampscott Mall- it will be an experience you won't soon forget!

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Northshore Mall

Highlights
Good variety of stores
Busy and full mall
Everything in one place
Upgraded mall with lots of options
Plenty of parking
Numerous cuisine and ambiance types
Quick service options
Golf lounge 18 for fun activity
Food and drinks available

Let me start by saying that this mall is truly a shopper's paradise. With its good variety of stores, you can find everything you need in one place. The mall is always busy and bustling, creating a lively atmosphere that adds to the overall shopping experience.

One thing that impressed me about Northshore Mall is the upgraded and modern feel it has. The mall is well-maintained and offers a wide range of options to cater to all tastes. Whether you're in search of fashion, electronics, or home decor, you'll find it here.

Upon arrival, I was delighted to find plenty of parking available, making it convenient for shoppers. Once inside, I was greeted by a vibrant and diverse culinary scene. The mall boasts a myriad of cuisine and ambiance types, providing something for everyone's palate.

If you're looking for a quick bite, they have ample quick service options, ensuring you won't waste valuable shopping time. If you're in the mood for a fun activity, be sure to check out the Golf Lounge 18 where you can enjoy a round of mini-golf with family and friends.

Lastly, it's worth mentioning that Northshore Mall offers a great selection of places to grab a bite and enjoy a refreshing beverage. Whether you're craving a gourmet burger or a pleasant coffee break, this mall has got you covered.

In conclusion, Northshore Mall in Salem is an excellent choice for all your shopping needs. Its wide array of stores, upgraded ambiance, ample parking, and diverse dining options make it a top contender as the best mall in Salem.

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African Bargains

Highlights
Fast shipping
Responsive
Free CD
In-person option

African Bargains in Salem is a hidden gem that truly lives up to its name. From the moment I stepped foot into the store, I could feel the vibrant energy and welcoming atmosphere. My visit to this unique mall left me thoroughly impressed.

One of the standout features of African Bargains is their lightning-fast shipping service. Whether you're purchasing a beautifully patterned dress or a hand-carved wooden sculpture, you can rest assured that your order will be in your hands in no time. Their dedication to promptness is truly commendable.

I was also pleasantly surprised by the level of responsiveness from the staff at African Bargains. They were more than willing to answer all of my questions and provide helpful suggestions. Their knowledge and enthusiasm for their products truly shine through in their interactions with customers.

One of the delightful perks of shopping at African Bargains is the complimentary CD that comes with every purchase. This thoughtful gesture adds an extra touch of authenticity and allows customers to immerse themselves in the vibrant sounds of Africa.

For those who prefer a more personal shopping experience, African Bargains also offers an in-person option. This allows customers to thoroughly examine the products and have a firsthand feel of the quality craftsmanship.

In conclusion, African Bargains in Salem stands out as a top contender in the list of best malls. With its fast shipping, responsive staff, free CD, and in-person option, it offers a delightful shopping experience that is truly second to none. If you're looking for a taste of Africa right in the heart of Salem, look no further than African Bargains.

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