West Edmonton Mall
Alberta
West Edmonton Mall (WEM), located in Edmonton, Alberta, Canada, is one of the largest shopping malls in North America and the world. Owned and operated by the Triple Five Group, it spans approximately 5.3 million square feet and hosts over 800 stores, making it the largest mall by store count in the Western Hemisphere. The mall includes nine major attractions, two hotels, and more than 100 dining venues, attracting about 32 million visitors annually. Opened in 1981 and developed in four phases, WEM was once the world's largest indoor shopping center. Its unique features include an indoor amusement park with a roller coaster, the Mindbender, and the expansive World Waterpark. The mall has undergone multiple renovations to enhance visitor experience, including modern upgrades to the Ice Palace and installation of choreographed musical fountains. It also houses the world's largest full-service in-mall car dealership. WEM combines extensive retail opportunities with entertainment and hospitality, making it a premier destination for shopping and leisure in Canada.
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Tip: For the best experience, visit on weekdays or outside peak holiday seasons to avoid large crowds. Consider purchasing tickets for attractions online in advance to save time. The mall offers various discounts and promotions throughout the year, so check the official website before your visit. Parking is ample but arriving early ensures easier access. The mall's vast size means comfortable footwear is recommended for exploring all areas.
Interesting facts
- •West Edmonton Mall is the second largest mall in North America by area and the 29th largest in the world.
- •It has the highest store count in the Western Hemisphere with over 800 stores.
- •The mall was once the world's largest indoor shopping center until 2004.
- •The Mindbender roller coaster inside the mall was the site of a fatal accident in 1986.
- •West Edmonton Mall receives approximately 32 million visitors annually.
- •It contains the world's largest full-service in-mall car dealership, West Edmonton Mall Toyota.
- •The mall features choreographed musical dancing fountains and a large indoor waterpark called World Waterpark.
History
West Edmonton Mall opened on September 15, 1981, developed in four phases completed by 1999.
It held the title of the world's largest indoor shopping mall until 2004.
The mall was founded by the Ghermezian brothers, immigrants from Iran.
Over the years, it has experienced significant events including a tragic roller coaster accident in 1986 and severe storm damage in 2004.
Renovations began in 2011 to modernize the mall's common areas and attractions, with updates continuing through the 2010s.
In recent years, the mall expanded its luxury retail offerings and upgraded major attractions like the Ice Palace and World Waterpark.
Place Guide
Phase I - Retail and Attractions1981
This initial phase includes a wide variety of retail stores, the Ice Palace skating rink, and the original mall entry points. Visitors can explore many shops and dining options here.
Phase II and III - Expansion and Entertainment1983-1985
These phases expanded retail space and introduced major attractions, including the Mindbender indoor roller coaster and various entertainment venues.
Phase IV - Luxury Retail and Renovations1999
The latest phase focuses on high-end retailers such as Gucci and Louis Vuitton, along with recent renovations including upgraded common areas and new LED advertising screens.
World Waterpark
One of the mall's signature attractions, the World Waterpark is an indoor waterpark featuring numerous slides, a wave pool, and family-friendly aquatic activities.
West Edmonton Mall Toyota2021
This is the world's largest full-service in-mall car dealership, located in the former Sears retail space, featuring extensive service bays and a drive-through.
Contact
Phone: (780) 444-5321
