History of Aventura Mall in Timeline

By Popular Timelines Editorial Team · Updated: May 25, 2024

Aventura Mall, located in Aventura, Florida, is the third-largest mall in the United States and the largest in Florida based on retail space. It houses major department stores like JCPenney, Macy's, Nordstrom, and Bloomingdale's, along with a substantial 24-screen AMC Theatres.

April 1983: Aventura Mall is Dedicated

The Oxford Development Company dedicated the 1.2 million square foot Aventura Mall in April 1983.

April 28, 1983: JCPenney Opens at Aventura Mall

On April 28, 1983, JCPenney opened its doors at the newly dedicated Aventura Mall.

July 6, 1983: Sears Opens at Aventura Mall

On July 6, 1983, Sears opened at Aventura Mall, just three weeks after opening a location at Miami International Mall.

October 1, 1983: Macy's Opens at Aventura Mall

Macy's became one of the original anchors of Aventura Mall when it opened on October 1, 1983.

1996: Aventura Mall Expansion Begins

A major expansion project commenced at Aventura Mall in 1996, focusing on a new southeast wing with an atrium, cinema, restaurants, and parking garages.

1996: Turnberry Associates Takes Control, DeBartolo Realty Acquired

Following Donald Soffer's departure from Oxford, his firm, Turnberry Associates, assumed control of Aventura Mall. That same year, Simon Property Group acquired DeBartolo Realty Corporation.

November 1997: Aventura Mall Expansion Continues

Aventura Mall continued its expansion efforts with significant additions completed in November 1997.

August 1999: Aventura Mall Further Expands

In August 1999, Aventura Mall underwent further expansion, building upon previous additions.

2006: Aventura Mall Undergoes Renovation

Aventura Mall received a $20 million renovation in late 2006, refreshing its appearance and amenities.

2017: New Wing Opens at Aventura Mall

Aventura Mall expanded once again in 2017 with the opening of a new three-level, 241,000-square-foot wing.

March 2019: LEVEL THREE Launches at Aventura Mall

May 29, 2020: Shooting at Aventura Mall Nordstrom

On May 29, 2020, a shooting occurred in the Nordstrom section of Aventura Mall, resulting in two people being hospitalized.

May 8, 2021: Shooting Near Nordstrom at Aventura Mall

Another shooting incident took place near the Nordstrom at Aventura Mall on May 8, 2021, leading to the shooter's arrest.

December 2022: Brightline Aventura Station Opens

The Brightline Aventura Station opened across from Aventura Mall in December 2022. While a pedestrian bridge is planned, a free shuttle service is currently provided.

2023: New Stores Open at Aventura Mall

Following the government lockdown, Aventura Mall welcomed a wave of new stores in 2023, including Mango, Dr. Martens, Vuori, Garage, Aesop, Hermès, Balenciaga, Armani Exchange, BVLGARI, and Valentino.