In the 1990s and early 2000s (showing my age) the Riverchase Galleria was the best place to shop in…read morethe Birmingham area. Over time, competition from places like The Summit, the rise of online shopping, store closures (Sears, Rich's, Macy's and Belk Home and Kids), then the shootings in 2018 and 2020 led to a huge decline.For a while, it felt like the Galleria would not be able to recover.
Well, now it's 2026, and the popularity of the Galleria is rising again. The mall feels brighter, cleaner and safer, due to improved management and security. It's a great spot to spend time indoors during AL's extreme heat, cold or rain (it offers covered parking too). Best of all, the iconic features remain, like the large American flag and classic carousel in the central atrium, and (best of all) Santa's workshop during the holiday season, and make it a fun alternative for young families and grandparents.
So if you haven't been to the Galleria in a while, give it a try. It is worth a visit again.