The Americana at Brand

This Glendale sibling of the Grove isn’t your average outdoor shopping mall. Thanks to its dancing fountain and light shows, complimentary San Francisco–style trolley rides, dining options (Bacari GDL, Din Tai Fung), designer retailers and even luxury apartments (that made a cameo in Hacks), the retail concept is more lifestyle destination than shopping center. With alfresco dining areas and open grass fields, which often offer family-friendly programming, the Americana at Brand cultivates more of a leisurely, joie de vivre experience rather than a quick in-and-out-of-the-store errand run.

Designed and operated by the Grove’s Rick J. Caruso, the Americana at Brand offers the same kind of urban oasis that makes it a top tourist attraction and a favorite among L.A. locals. Heavy hitters include Nordstrom, Gucci, Louis Vuitton and Tiffany & Co. There’s been quite a bit of turnover over the years—there’s still an H&M, but it’s one of the only accessible retailers, as the Urban Outfitters, Anthropologie and Madewell have all shuttered. Mirroring the Grove, there’s an AMC Theatres, multi-story Barnes & Noble and Cheesecake Factory. I recommend stopping my the Michelina kiosk—they’re serving up some of my favorite croissants in the city. Another newer addition is Skyline Pitch, a rooftop soccer experience on the top of the parking structure.