Westfield Valley Fair, spanning over 2.2 million square feet, is the largest shopping mall in Northern California and boasts higher sales revenue than any other mall in the state. This iconic shopping center straddles the border of San Jose and Santa Clara, just a short drive from San Francisco, making it a prime destination for Bay Area residents and visitors alike.
In This Article
Key Points
- Westfield Valley Fair is a top shopping center in Northern California, known for its expansive retail offerings and experiential attractions
- The mall has undergone significant expansion and renovation, solidifying its position as a premier shopping destination
- Westfield Valley Fair offers a unique blend of luxury brands, diverse dining options, and entertainment experiences
The Evolution of Westfield Valley Fair
Westfield Valley Fair’s history dates back to 1986 when The Hahn Company acquired and merged two separate 1950s-era shopping centers, creating a unified enclosed mall. Since then, the shopping center has undergone significant transformations, including a $1.1 billion expansion completed in March 2020. This expansion added over 500,000 square feet of new interior shop space, accommodating more than 100 new stores and restaurants.
While Westfield Valley Fair has thrived, its San Francisco counterpart, Westfield San Francisco Centre, has faced challenges in recent years. Declining sales, occupancy, and foot traffic at the San Francisco location have led Westfield to hand over the mall’s keys to its lender, highlighting the contrasting fortunes of these two Bay Area shopping destinations.
A Hub for Luxury Shopping and Global Brands
Westfield Valley Fair is home to an impressive array of anchor tenants, including Nordstrom, Bloomingdale’s, and a flagship Apple Store. The mall also features the only Balenciaga store in Northern California and a recently expanded Tiffany & Co., cementing its status as a hub for luxury shopping.
In addition to these high-end retailers, the shopping center has welcomed new additions like Eataly, a 45,000-square-foot Italian food hall and market, further diversifying its offerings and attracting food enthusiasts from across the region.
Culinary Delights: From Fast Food to Fine Dining
Westfield Valley Fair’s food court offers a diverse range of options, catering to every taste and budget. Visitors can indulge in signature dining experiences such as:
- Eataly: An Italian food hall offering a wide selection of Italian cuisine, groceries, and cooking classes
- Salt & Straw: A popular artisanal ice cream shop known for its unique and creative flavors
- iChina: An upscale Chinese restaurant featuring innovative dishes and a stylish ambiance
- Ramen Nagi: A renowned Japanese ramen chain serving up authentic and flavorful bowls of ramen
- Marugame Udon: A casual Japanese eatery specializing in handmade udon noodles and tempura
These dining options not only satisfy hunger but also enhance the overall shopping experience, providing visitors with a well-rounded and enjoyable visit.
Experiential Retail and Entertainment Options
Westfield Valley Fair has embraced the trend of experiential retail, offering a variety of interactive and immersive experiences for visitors. Some notable entertainment options include:
- Virtual Reality Gaming: A state-of-the-art VR gaming center where players can explore and interact with virtual worlds
- Bowling Alley: A modern bowling facility perfect for family fun or friendly competition
- Escape Game: An interactive puzzle-solving experience where teams work together to escape themed rooms
These attractions go beyond traditional shopping, providing visitors with memorable experiences and reasons to extend their stay at the mall.
The Silicon Valley and Bay Area Context
Westfield Valley Fair’s success is closely tied to its location in the heart of Silicon Valley and the broader Bay Area. The mall’s proximity to major tech companies and affluent neighborhoods has contributed to its thriving retail landscape.
Nearby shopping destinations, such as Santana Row in San Jose, offer a complementary experience with their unique mix of outdoor shopping, dining, and entertainment. Together, these retail hubs create a vibrant and diverse shopping scene that caters to the needs and preferences of the region’s residents and visitors.
Accessibility and Visitor Information
Westfield Valley Fair is conveniently located and easily accessible from San Francisco, San Jose, and Santa Clara. Visitors can reach the mall via major highways, including I-880 and I-280.
The shopping center offers ample parking, with over 8,500 spaces available. Public transportation options, such as VTA light rail and buses, also provide convenient access to the mall.
To maximize their shopping experience, visitors should check Westfield Valley Fair’s website for store directories, special events, and promotions. The mall’s extended hours, typically from 10 am to 9 pm, allow for plenty of time to explore and enjoy all that the shopping center has to offer.
FAQ
What are the anchor tenants at Westfield Valley Fair?
The anchor tenants at Westfield Valley Fair include Nordstrom, Bloomingdale’s, and a flagship Apple Store.
Can you list some of the luxury brands available at Westfield Valley Fair?
Westfield Valley Fair features luxury brands such as Balenciaga, Tiffany & Co., Gucci, Louis Vuitton, and Prada.
What dining options are available at Westfield Valley Fair?
Westfield Valley Fair offers a diverse range of dining options, from fast food to fine dining. Notable restaurants include Eataly, Salt & Straw, iChina, Ramen Nagi, and Marugame Udon.
What are some of the entertainment options at Westfield Valley Fair?
Entertainment options at Westfield Valley Fair include Virtual Reality Gaming, a Bowling Alley, and an Escape Game, providing visitors with immersive and interactive experiences.
How can I get to Westfield Valley Fair from San Francisco?
Visitors can reach Westfield Valley Fair from San Francisco by taking I-280 South or US-101 South, then merging onto I-880 South. The mall is located at the intersection of Stevens Creek Boulevard and Winchester Boulevard in Santa Clara.
