This is certainly not the best mall that I've ever been too but considering the state of the other shopping malls around Rochester, this is clearly the best one to visit. While it's not the biggest mall by all means, it can definitely seem that way if you take the time to walk around the entire mall. The outside appearance can be very deceiving to newcomers as it seems to be quite grand on the outside but when you get on the inside, the size and quality of the mall drops a little as the dark green marble tile floors and large fountains clearly show Eastview's age. However, it is not all that terrible.
Unlike the other malls that are surrounded by blocks upon blocks of other commercial developments, Eastview is situated mostly by lots of trees and hills which can seem like the mall is really in the middle of nowhere. It can be a bit of a task to even find it if you are new to the area but when you do draw near, it does become noticeable. The exterior entrances have all been updated in the past few years and continue to be constantly maintained to keep up a prestigious appearance. If you don't decide to enter through the main entrance, the other entryways near such clothing outlets like JCPenney are easier to get into as many people don't normally take those pathways.
As a shopping mall goes, Eastview does have some of the best stores that can't really be found anywhere else in Rochester. However, the downside to this is that they are usually packed 24/7 and trying to shop in these outlets will result in frustration, immediate claustrophobic feelings, and a lot of unintentional pushing. Some of these unique stores include the following...
- Brookstone
- Apple Store
- Von Maur
- L.L Bean
- Michael Kors
- LEGO Store
- Lord and Taylor
- Sleep Number
- Pottery Barn
- Eddie Bauer
...and much more than that.
I can only assume that the main reason Eastview continues to be choice mall in Rochester is that it contains all of these popular stores that can be only found here as well as some higher end restaurants. This is really the only reason I take the half hour drive to get here when It comes to time to do some "expensive" shopping.
Besides the stores which can be talked about in separate reviews, half of the mall has been fully updated which has the newer diamond rough tile floors that aren't marble next to lower ceilings. This new wing is found near the Von Maur area and in front of the actual store itself, there is a large sitting area complete with a fireplace bigger than my bedroom that ca be viewed from all sides. It's a nice area that you can relax in when you need a break from walking. Other areas of sitting can be found around the mall such as near the food court, near the coffee area, the fountain area by the Eddie Bauer outlet, and really, just anywhere you can find a bench or ledge to sit in. No matter where you choose to sit, it's guaranteed to be at least clean.
In terms of cleanliness, it's pretty immaculate and even the dated marble floors still shine as if they were brand new and in my opinion, match the look and feel of the mall so well, they really don't need to be replaced. Now that is just my personal preference, but of course, other's may choose to differ.
While I love this mall, its clear that a lot of Victor residents shop here and if you choose to wear "lower end" clothes, whatever those may be, expect some local teenagers to give you weird looks. Don't let that bother you, you're here to shop and enjoy yourself, not impress anybody. So while some people may seem a bit snobbish, the mall has a nice atmosphere to it that feels alive and bustling. The vibe is definitely there and makes the shopping experience more than enough for a return visit.
As before, not the best mall I have visited but it is really unique and the praise that it does receive is well deserved even though it can be a bit excessive at times.
For new residents, Eastview will be a great shopping mall for doing some spending or just meeting friends but for locals who already know of Eastview's splendor, continue to visit, it's well worth the extra gas tank. read more