Foothills Mall: The End of the Road For a Dead Mall | Retail Archaeology

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  • Опубліковано 20 сер 2020
  • In this episode we take a look at Foothills Mall in Tucson, AZ. It looks like it's the end of the road for this dead mall.
    Intro created Pascal Schnyder
    =Social Media=
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    #deadmall #retailarchaeology
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КОМЕНТАРІ • 825

  • @rxsao
    @rxsao 4 роки тому +172

    Back in 2011 the mall had a trick or treat in the mall event and I remember everyone in class talking about how they were going to go so we could see each other and it was packed the entire night. It’s a real shame to think that not even a decade later that it’s in such horrible shape.

    • @Mewtwo_150
      @Mewtwo_150 3 роки тому +2

      I went to one of those lol

  • @cattleprodding
    @cattleprodding 4 роки тому +290

    No one is going to realize the benefits of having physical stores until they are all gone.

    • @kendallevans4079
      @kendallevans4079 3 роки тому +12

      I can't think of one unless you count trying on something before buying it. The commute, gas, parking, crowds, lines.....what's to miss?

    • @cattleprodding
      @cattleprodding 3 роки тому +19

      kendall Evans, well “mall walking” is, or probably at least was, a thing. Hell, even I enjoyed taking an hour or so and just dipping into a few stores to just look at shit, and I’m not even an elderly person. Maybe its because the negatives you gave don’t pertain that much to me, but I can see your point.

    • @quinnjohnson9750
      @quinnjohnson9750 3 роки тому +4

      Yea, we are going to get to a point in which we may have a few stores that are sorta walk in i.e. Walmart and Target for example but other than that everything will be online Amazon style buying. Even the Walmart and Target style shops will prob be limited to just walking in to pick up your stuff and then leave.

    • @TMM-N
      @TMM-N 3 роки тому +3

      @@cattleprodding amazon is building more physical stores

    • @leesfamilybreaks6089
      @leesfamilybreaks6089 3 роки тому +11

      @@kendallevans4079 I, personally, enjoy just interacting with people. For people of my age bracket, the mall was more than just a place to shop. It was where all your friends hung out, it was where you first saw cool new things, it was where you got your first job, and so on and so on. It was a part of it's own sort of subculture. I miss it a bunch.

  • @fhwolthuis
    @fhwolthuis 4 роки тому +114

    For a dead mall, it still looks very clean and vibrant! Shame it will close.

    • @freshstart4423
      @freshstart4423 3 роки тому

      Stop buying counterfeit. They aren't the same quality. They don't pay good salaries to their employees.
      Mafias and cartels from Korea, Vietnam, Philippines, Mexico purchased outlet malls pretending to be authentic but Guess, Nike, Levi would never sell slightly damaged items in an outlet. They have quality control standards to maintain their brand.
      Governors refused to uphold the law. Mayors are cowards.

  • @LeahLeah222
    @LeahLeah222 4 роки тому +71

    Some people watch ASMR, I watch dead mall videos! Love this.

    • @MrJstorm4
      @MrJstorm4 4 роки тому +5

      Why not both
      (Steps on broken glass in asmr)

    • @B.H.56
      @B.H.56 3 роки тому +1

      They are good to watch and fall asleep to when I wake up at 3AM and can't get back to sleep.

    • @freshstart4423
      @freshstart4423 3 роки тому

      Teach people to stop buying counterfeit. The outlet malls are run by mafias and cartels from Korea, China, Mexico, Puerto Rico, Philippines.
      The government officials refused to enforce the laws. Taxpayers invested in shopping malls and tourists destinations and the journalists warned people not to buy counterfeit, numerous documentaries on sweat shops in other countries.

    • @freshstart4423
      @freshstart4423 3 роки тому

      Nike, Reebok, Guess would never sell lower quality to compete with their original brand.
      Burlington, TJ Maxx, Ross still sell counterfeit and no one will stop them, not yet.
      Designers sell their original merchandise, made by hand, not machines, thats why their quality is so much better.
      The mafias and cartels in China, Korea, Vietnam, Philippines dont pay minimum wages, safety regulations for workers, labor laws protecting children, workers compensation.
      The Ten Commandments forbids stealing for those who want salvation Exodus 20.

  • @theJellyjoker
    @theJellyjoker 4 роки тому +152

    It looks like a location from a 90's point and click adventure game.

    • @freshstart4423
      @freshstart4423 3 роки тому

      Tell your wives, sisters and girlfriends, don't buy counterfeit junk. The outlet malls are not authentic brands, and the governors and mayors should have shut them down.
      Tax payers paid heavily to build our infrastructure and tourism. Our government didn't stop the counterfeit stores from competing.
      Mexico, China, Korea, Vietnam, Taiwan mafias and cartels hijacked our economy.
      Ross, Burlington, TX Maxx sell counterfeit and no one stops them.

    • @theJellyjoker
      @theJellyjoker 3 роки тому +1

      Has anyone ever been far even as decided to use even go want to do look more like?

    • @freshstart4423
      @freshstart4423 3 роки тому

      @@theJellyjoker specific prayers for protection three times a day Psalms 54, 55, 91, 140

    • @theJellyjoker
      @theJellyjoker 3 роки тому

      @@freshstart4423 It's a rare occurrence that anyone been far even, let alone decided to been far even go want.

  • @MyDreamIsAStory
    @MyDreamIsAStory 4 роки тому +229

    When I was younger I use to wish that there was a High School inside of a mall. Like stores would be The classroom. 😂

    • @jakp8777
      @jakp8777 4 роки тому +10

      Christina 🖊📖 I went to high school at mall of America in Minnesota

    • @lexmori9356
      @lexmori9356 4 роки тому +8

      What a cool idea!

    • @jasburger
      @jasburger 4 роки тому +3

      Last year, someone I was talking to said they had to have school in a mall while their school was getting remodeled

    • @LindaFromSeaAtTull
      @LindaFromSeaAtTull 4 роки тому +1

      @Di Escombreria well technically you have a mall turned school the old Maryvale Mall became a grade school and a middle school.
      cartwrightatkinson.ss12.sharpschool.com/our_school/our_history

    • @samanthacampbell5048
      @samanthacampbell5048 4 роки тому

      That would be so cool

  • @blakereaves315
    @blakereaves315 2 роки тому +18

    I remember growing up going to this place in the early 2000’s. It was awesome! Always packed and there was a game works next to the AMC. The food court originally had a giant playground that had tunnels snaking everywhere. Makes me sad to see it like this.

  • @nintendoatarikiller
    @nintendoatarikiller 4 роки тому +47

    That Stephen J Cannell productions reference in the beginning hit me in the nostalgia

    • @Fandango541
      @Fandango541 4 роки тому +5

      Totally! Chrikey! When was the last time I saw that? It almost made me cry! Seriously!😢👍🏼

    • @utharkruna1116
      @utharkruna1116 3 роки тому

      The 80s

    • @SelecaoOfMidas
      @SelecaoOfMidas 3 роки тому

      Been too long. Remember seeing shows from that production company from shows airing in the '90s.

  • @mystery_editor4236
    @mystery_editor4236 4 роки тому +37

    According to wife who's formative years were in Tuscon:
    "Tiles are definitely original, but the patterned floor is part of one of the remodels they did in the early 2000's/2010's."

    • @marjoriemorris5849
      @marjoriemorris5849 4 роки тому +1

      Ok, that’s what I thought!

    • @medicbabe2ID
      @medicbabe2ID 3 роки тому +5

      Caveat: the *original* original tiles were authentic Saltillo tiles, handmade and while beautiful and fit the Southwestern aesthetic, were very uneven and not conducive to walking on for any length of time. They were replaced shortly after the mall opened in favor of a better walking surface.

  • @HTAZ2010
    @HTAZ2010 4 роки тому +14

    I grew up in Tucson and can tell you those vibrant floors you were referring to were part of the remodel. The whole mall used to be tiled in the pink and brown square tiles you saw, which were a massive slip hazard back in the day.

  • @bjorndabearkhers
    @bjorndabearkhers 4 роки тому +7

    I remember this place used to be PACKED on weekends with emo and scene kids from 2006-2010. It was truly a different time.

  • @watershed44
    @watershed44 4 роки тому +54

    *The flooring is beautiful*
    Only a few malls get that history and heritage matter....I think more are learning but not quick enough.

  • @Larry
    @Larry 4 роки тому +143

    Foothills Mall, soon to be Boot Hill Mall!

    • @Potter5416
      @Potter5416 4 роки тому +2

      Boot Hill, Boot Hill, so cold , so still...

    • @aeiouna
      @aeiouna 4 роки тому +4

      OMG Guru Larry! And on a video of a place local to me no less!

    • @MartyMacFry
      @MartyMacFry 3 роки тому +1

      Stop following me to every video I watch!

    • @megumei044
      @megumei044 3 роки тому +3

      I always get a smile seeing content creators commenting in other content creators videos.

    • @Mewtwo_150
      @Mewtwo_150 3 роки тому +1

      Wait
      Does Larry live in Tucson?

  • @Westlander857
    @Westlander857 Рік тому +3

    Update from Tucson: The Bath and Body Works you see around 2:00 just closed, I think Levi’s and Barnes and Noble are the last major retailers there now. I saw people coming in looking for the Bath and Body Works, only to find that it’s closed. AMC and about four other stores remain, and the side of the mall you first walked in from is now walled off. Fortunately, a redevelopment plan called Uptown is now in the works.

    • @Nokmokhead
      @Nokmokhead 7 місяців тому +3

      2023 update the whole building is demolished except for the anchor stores like Barnes and noble and AMC

  • @RiderLeangle2
    @RiderLeangle2 4 роки тому +26

    You: "They're probably keeping the mall open long enough to let all of the interior stores leases run out"
    Bath and Body Works: "Jokes on them, we still got 70 years left on our lease!"

    • @azblueauthor8081
      @azblueauthor8081 3 роки тому +1

      Ironically the former Sears at Metcalf South in Overland Park, KS bought out their part of the mall. When the mall closed and was torn down for redevelopment, the Sears was still open. The plan for the site had been more dense, with retail on the first floor and apartments above. Sears refused to sell, even with offers going upwards of a couple of million dollars. The development changed and a Lowes was built on the north end of the site. Sears closed about a month after construction started, and was still refusing to sell when I last heard anything. The City even threatened Immanent Domain, but Sears fought it.

  • @Coulter.Machining
    @Coulter.Machining 3 роки тому +7

    I grew up a few blocks away from this mall. I remember every store that used to be there when it was a happening place. I love that mall. Makes me sad to see it like this

  • @JazzyBabe56
    @JazzyBabe56 4 роки тому +22

    what a beautiful space -- its too bad that can't repurpose it for office buildings or something - all that floorwork is a beauty to behold...

  • @jtlovescodelyoko
    @jtlovescodelyoko 4 роки тому +26

    6:21 that is the only bath & body Works I've seen that has not been renovated and still retains the old exterior look

  • @matthewmasters9146
    @matthewmasters9146 4 роки тому +59

    Dude Eric, your videos are literally the coolest on UA-cam. So chill, so much leet vaporwave. Thanks for being a king badass for us.

    • @lancelotkillz
      @lancelotkillz 3 роки тому +1

      Mathew and Eric listen to NightCall by Kavinsky it's bad ass and hella A e s t h e t I c

  • @karapwns
    @karapwns 3 роки тому +5

    The saltillo tile is original; colorful cement is from a remodel (logo also got changed with remodel). I have tons of fond childhood memories from this place, they had some things you wouldn't expect to find in a mall...like a museum sunk down into what is now the food court that was set up like an archaeological dig (old pueblo museum) and model train museum. And the fountains shaped like lions mounted along the walls, definitely did not get into any water wars with my brother as a kid.

  • @spencer1280
    @spencer1280 4 роки тому +19

    i feel blessed to have experienced going to malls like this growing up, but also saddened now seeing them slowly fade away.

  • @Juan-dl1wu
    @Juan-dl1wu 4 роки тому +32

    It is kind of sad watching all these old nice looking Malls just dying everywhere.
    But if they build too many Malls too close together then all they are doing is killing each other off.
    Specially now with the Internet and Online Shopping.
    Malls didnt have to worry about that back in the 80s and 90s.
    Now with Corona Virus it makes it even worse for a lot of these Malls.
    I still like some of the older Malls too.
    With that flooring, the tiles, the colors and design.
    And of course my favorite part of the Mall-----the Food Court........😉

    • @JaneDoe-ps6ve
      @JaneDoe-ps6ve 4 роки тому +4

      I prefer to shop in person it’s fun sometimes to just people watch it’s really sad that malls and brick and mortar stores are dying. If I was in charge of that mall I think I would try to turn it into some kind of large arcade or entertainment center or better yet maybe an indoor water park.

    • @buckroger6456
      @buckroger6456 3 роки тому +1

      Cities just put way too many retail spots on every corner now a days for most businesses to survive let alone a mall that often charges way too much per square foot for most businesses.

  • @MarksKicksOnRoute66
    @MarksKicksOnRoute66 4 роки тому +20

    Stellar job showing this retail museum!

  • @mastermindmartialarts
    @mastermindmartialarts 4 роки тому +7

    That Stephen J. Cannell intro is awesome! Love it

  • @missadixon3771
    @missadixon3771 4 роки тому +4

    LOVED that producer in your intro. He/his company did great shows in my childhood.

  • @charmcat2290
    @charmcat2290 2 роки тому +3

    I remember this mall use to be so packed with people every weekend. When the Fondue restaurant opened that was a big deal. The movie theater at one time you had to enter from the outside only. I saw the Sixth Sense here and soo many good movies. I remember when they held events here. Such as for pogs or baseball cards. Later on there was a certain book show. Barnes and Noble use to be so different before the books stores declined, people actually hung out and were so packed. I remember walking from Pima College through the apartments and cutting through the gate and desert wash to get there after school. I went to so many movies here and knew relatives who worked there for years. It's so sad.

  • @sisterluke
    @sisterluke 4 роки тому +20

    How depressing! I remember when I was a kid in the 90s, our local malls were always popping with tons of people. As long as I got my cherry icee and got to ride a carousel, I was happy to go to the mall. I love the architecture of this particular mall, reminds me of mission style structures in California.

    • @freshstart4423
      @freshstart4423 3 роки тому

      Okay. I'll try to explain this but I'm getting tired.
      Counterfeit products are stealing. Mafias and cartels from Korea, China, Philippines, Japan attacked our economy and the government didn't shut them down.
      Ross, TJ MAXX, and Burlington still sell counterfeit.
      Online Amazon and other retailers sell counterfeit. They don't pay good wages, safety regulations for workers, labor laws protecting children, workers compensation, life insurance, home insurance, auto insurance, social security.
      The outlet malls should never have been authorized construction to compete with taxpayers funded shopping malls. Governors and mayors take bribes to destroy their own country, but citizens keep buying the counterfeit anyway.

  • @MuvoTX
    @MuvoTX 4 роки тому +6

    Lol that Steven J Cannel productions intro brings back memories!!

  • @elkitsu
    @elkitsu 2 роки тому +5

    Hey buddy, you really need to come back to this mall again. There’s a-lot of things that have changed, and honestly this place is really starting to show the damage that’s been dealt. Really, really, bad shape…

  • @bashisobsolete.pythonismyn6321
    @bashisobsolete.pythonismyn6321 4 роки тому +52

    please interview the architects. they did a great job.

    • @overtaxed79
      @overtaxed79 4 роки тому +2

      They could be dead...

    • @MysticDonBlair
      @MysticDonBlair 4 роки тому

      Awesome idea 💡

    • @Mewtwo_150
      @Mewtwo_150 3 роки тому +1

      @@overtaxed79 Highly doubt that since the mall's like 40 years old

    • @UserName-ts3sp
      @UserName-ts3sp 3 роки тому

      Mewtwo wouldn’t the architects be at least 70+... it’s possible

    • @Mewtwo_150
      @Mewtwo_150 3 роки тому

      @@UserName-ts3sp They honestly should be in in their mid 50s-60s depending on when they worked on the mall. They should all be alive if nothing horrible happened to them in that time.

  • @BDBD16
    @BDBD16 4 роки тому +2

    You are becoming the intro king. Neo Geo, 80s/90s tv ending.....man...

  • @dragongamer2670
    @dragongamer2670 4 роки тому +5

    Awesome that is where I worked! Thanks for coming on down! In 1991 this mall had a big waterfall in it and was really cool! Also what was really cool Sega experimented with a Restaurant and it was really awesome! Also yeah the outdoor outlet mall which opened isn't that great! They only have a Panther Statue in the middle out the outdoor which is cool. That is it really

    • @StewartLucrative
      @StewartLucrative 4 роки тому

      Wait, wait, wait, Sega had a restaurant? As in the video game company?

    • @dragongamer2670
      @dragongamer2670 4 роки тому

      @@StewartLucrative yep! this was it if you are interested - it was a blast and the arcade games were fun. Probably one of the bars ever! segaretro.org/World_Sports_Grille

    • @elkitsu
      @elkitsu 3 роки тому

      @@dragongamer2670 yeah, me and my family actually used to go there alot back in 2010-2013!
      Sad to see what it’s like now...

  • @relishcat
    @relishcat 4 роки тому +57

    mall walkers just gotta fry on the arizona pavement now

    • @54patriots95
      @54patriots95 4 роки тому +5

      Don't think they'll have that issue in Tucson. The Tucson Mall which isn't too far away is a decent size with two levels so there is plenty of place to lap around there

    • @buckroger6456
      @buckroger6456 3 роки тому

      It doesn't even get that hot in Tucson unless your not from around here. Also the foothills mall has been dead for a long time.

    • @b1gbuck
      @b1gbuck 3 роки тому

      Have you two not heard of the outlet mall?

  • @pixelsandwich4104
    @pixelsandwich4104 4 роки тому +6

    Glad you took the time to film it. I didn't know it was this bad. I used to love going to this mall. I would have loved more time with you just walking around with just the music.

  • @josevidz
    @josevidz 4 роки тому +31

    This is actually sad comparing it to your first vid here.

    • @aeiouna
      @aeiouna 4 роки тому +6

      Both videos are sad compared to its heyday. I used to spend every other weekend here in high school cause my dad lived right next door to it.

  • @elizap3614
    @elizap3614 4 роки тому +7

    This makes me so sad. I used to shop here all the time. I was just at the Bath and Body Works last weekend; totally depressing walking into the mall.

  • @stephenmellentine
    @stephenmellentine 4 роки тому +5

    In the early ‘90s, this was truly a high-end “small mall” in Tucson. Tucson Mall, the higher-end shopping venues on River Road and the retail outlets killed it. Thanks for the memories.

  • @medicbabe2ID
    @medicbabe2ID 3 роки тому +3

    *Homesickness Intensifies*
    I was just there two months ago with my Dad. The Ross was still open (the only place he can find a belt) and then we went to lunch at Pappoule's, one of his fave spots. Good times. 🥰

  • @davinp
    @davinp 4 роки тому +16

    The AMC Theater at my outlet mall in Virginia just reopened today. In September, Potomac Mills Mall turns 35 and is doing well. It was one of the first malls developed by the Mills Corporation and now owned by the Simon Group

    • @alexdhall
      @alexdhall 4 роки тому

      They may be reopening their theaters here in NoVA, but you won't see me in one anytime soon...

    • @azblueauthor8081
      @azblueauthor8081 3 роки тому

      Even the one in Pocatello, ID has reopened, despite doubts that it would.

  • @JimmyFoxhound
    @JimmyFoxhound 4 роки тому +8

    I'm SO GLAD I grew up in a time when malls were full of life and arcades, food courts & movie theaters.. me and my friends had so much fun hanging out at the malls! Man do I miss those times.. But on the other hand I hate that I have to see the decline of malls and see so much of what used to be just disappear without a trace. These dead malls almost feel like I'm seeing an old friend pass away. 😢

  • @edwardj64
    @edwardj64 4 роки тому +4

    I went to this mall a couple of times on my first trips to Arizona in the late 1980s. Malls were so popular almost everywhere in those days. Before the internet age, shopping malls were the main gathering places of many communities, and I remember feeling they were special in Arizona because the decor, architectural, and design elements reflected the local geography and history. This mall was a lively place, and full of color and light. Its sad to see what has become of this and other malls in Arizona.

  • @davedeiler2072
    @davedeiler2072 4 роки тому +1

    I have this serious love hate feeling about your channel. I love the work you do. I love seeing all the old beautiful malls you visit. I just hate saying good bye to these beautiful pieces in history. Ite like saying good bye to an old friend, or a distant relative. Thanks for all you do in helping to preserve the memories or what is now a by gone age. Dave

  • @rafaelm.2056
    @rafaelm.2056 4 роки тому +16

    I used to live in Tucson in the early 80's and I remember when that mall opened. The assumption was that due to the new subdivisions going up in the area at the time that a high end mall would thrive. Things didn't workout as planned because the city already had enough malls with then recent opening of Tucson Mall a few years prior. I was a teenager at the time but I do recall that Sears was a mega powerhouse in the country. They had grand plans of basically grabbing America by the stones and desperately wanted to squeeze them really tight. Sears was focused on lobbying efforts at the federal level to let banks do business outside of their home states which at the time was not allowed. Sears wanted to be first to be on the scene with an interstate banking system by opening branches in every Sears store in the country since all they needed to do was allocate floor space for their Sears Savings Bank and therefore beat the other banks to the punch. Every store already had offices for Allstate for insurance, Dean Witter for investments, Coldwell Banker for real estate, their auto center for tires and batteries, Kenmore appliances, and their new Discover card that was launched in 1985; a bank would have solidified their hold on the American economy by becoming a one stop shop for everything. I remember that all you had to do to get approved for a Discover card was to stop at the makeshift table at the entrance on the way in so they could take an imprint of your Sears credit card and poof, you received a Discover card in the mail. Employees that worked there used to be happy because they had a solid job with a pension and were motivated and proud to work for a prestigious company. Those days are long gone.

    • @margaretsilva196
      @margaretsilva196 4 роки тому +6

      My first job was in 1978 at Sears. Yes I was proud to say I worked for Sears. Back then, almost every department had their own team of at least 5 people and a cash register. Plus Personnel Department had at least six people. I'm sad to see Sears will be a store of the past.

    • @buckroger6456
      @buckroger6456 3 роки тому

      Yup foothills mall is way too close to the Tucson mall and nowhere as big either.

    • @anneangstadt1882
      @anneangstadt1882 3 роки тому +1

      My mother worked parttime for a Sears Auto Center for years in 80's & 90's... the Auto Ctr was thriving as was the store, and the chain. Thank you for your very interesting analysis. Everyone then seems to have thought the world would go on as it was.

  • @jtlovescodelyoko
    @jtlovescodelyoko 4 роки тому +27

    I needed this particular you today we're here in Corpus Christi Texas so we had four shootings and a propane pipeline explosion at our port, plus we also have two hurricanes coming to the gulf of Mexico with one coming to hit us again next week, yeah I needed this.

    • @danielb3863
      @danielb3863 4 роки тому +2

      Here in Atlanta everyday its the jungle especially downtown. The homeless outnumber all others on weekends. Saw a homeless woman going number 1 and 2 in the traffic median last Saturday.

    • @briangriffith4574
      @briangriffith4574 4 роки тому +4

      @@danielb3863 come check out Seattle. I cant even pass thru to drive up north past downtown because it's a crapshoot whether the protesters will block off the freeway and leave me stuck for hours. Back in June they trashed my car. Homeless are aggressive and the drug dealers dont even care anymore since cops had all their power taken away by the city council. I wish I could move.

    • @Jewell579
      @Jewell579 4 роки тому +1

      @Di Escombreria Bingo!

    • @BalooDumptruck
      @BalooDumptruck 4 роки тому +1

      @Onion Head if you voted republican then you;re offically dead to me

    • @BalooDumptruck
      @BalooDumptruck 4 роки тому

      @Di Escombreria incorrect

  • @alexrain8851
    @alexrain8851 4 роки тому +8

    When there in the late 90s thru early 2000s, what a shame it was a beautiful mall and this is just sad to see.

  • @cosmoflanker
    @cosmoflanker 4 роки тому +6

    That's my favorite Barnes and Noble; sadly I moved out of Arizona 2 years ago and have to make do with lesser ones... The B&N is in one of the former department stores from the mall's first life (Dillard's IIRC) so it's quite large with two floors. When I left there was still a Panda Express and an Arby's in the Food Court, and it could actually get pretty busy in there at lunch time. I guess the Sushi Garden just outside the Food Court is still open (for takeout anyway). That was also a favorite, they had a great buffet. I will say that they have kept the place very nice looking, clean and plants watered.

  • @icouldntbemoreserious
    @icouldntbemoreserious 2 роки тому +2

    Just an update, as of the first half of 2022… there is a giant white wall sealing off the food court past the old Mrs. Field’s place. Everything South of that is permanently closed (including the South entrance and South walkway where A/C does not run anymore) with the exception of Barnes and Noble and a clothing store. Posted in one of the West entrances is a “business open during construction” sign. There are no official dates of closure anywhere but the end of the mall is already here and looks to be happening in stages around the AMC Theaters. If you want film, by rumor there won’t be much left after August on the South side of the mall and the North side will be closed when the demolition and AMC exterior remodel is done by next Spring.

  • @nWoreviewer
    @nWoreviewer 4 роки тому +8

    My brother and i visited here back in January we were surprised with how dead it had become. The Party City was liquidating the store and we heard a rumor the Ross was planning on moving. BTW, that Thunder Canyon Brewery restaurant has been closed for a long time, but yet the neon sign is still up. We both got a kick out of that. Also, in that commercial, I remember the video game store they showed and it was awesome. Wish it was still open; that would've been some good footage.

  • @Wandery
    @Wandery 4 роки тому +4

    That floor design is so beautiful!

  • @Lennyg845
    @Lennyg845 4 роки тому +18

    The interior and the floors reminds me of cheesecake factory

  • @b1gbuck
    @b1gbuck 3 роки тому +3

    One time me and some friends got onto the roof and explored the whole area up there. Just a random remembrance among thousands that this mall helped create during my childhood. I remember the storefront to the left of the AMC theaters used to be a GameWorks at some point. Such an awesome arcade. Getting new shoes at the Nike factory that used to be in there. There also used to be a local kettle corn makin dude who had his own little plot of cement to have this wooden kettle corn station with a whole ass kettle in it. Was a great mall, but even then you could sense the days were numbered.

  • @mikelp72
    @mikelp72 4 роки тому +22

    The new shiny thing everyone is flocking to is Amazon. Not other malls.

    • @scdevon
      @scdevon 4 роки тому +2

      "Outlet Stores". (Insanely marked-up stuff that you can buy for 30% less online). "Teens" loitering in some malls and causing hassles for shoppers, etc. I'm a Baby Boomer and even I could see the writing on the wall years ago with malls.

    • @scdevon
      @scdevon 3 роки тому +1

      @Rocko OK, but I'm a guy and I really don't buy clothes at all. I live in jeans and t-shirts. Other things I have no problem waiting 3 or 4 days for.

    • @freshstart4423
      @freshstart4423 3 роки тому

      The mafias and cartels in China, Korea, Vietnam, Philippines, Japan sell counterfeit Nike, Guess, Levi's, Reebok at outlets, those are counterfeit products. The Governor, Mayors are in political parties, black mailed and taking bribes and dont enforce the laws.
      Real designers dont sell a cheaper product because it conflict with their original brand quality. TJ MAXX, ROSS, BURLINGTON sell counterfeit and no one cares.
      The ten Commandments forbids stealing Exodus 20.

  • @amendez2825
    @amendez2825 Рік тому +2

    They had a train store in the early 90s. They entire store was a very detailed trian set through mountains and streams. I remember the little men floating on inter- tubes down the river. The owner was a very nice man. They gated the entire mall a month ago except for the book store, movie theater and the bar.

    • @jojoabc100
      @jojoabc100 5 місяців тому

      I remember that train store and the under ground museum with the mammoth skull

  • @micheller5834
    @micheller5834 4 роки тому

    I just wanted to say how much I appreciate how respectful you are when filming. You appreciate the beauty and uniqueness in these buildings, and it makes for a very nice memory for people to look on for years to come.

  • @RIVALContentJammerz
    @RIVALContentJammerz 3 роки тому +2

    I would walk through the mall on my way home from school every day to cool off. Beautiful place.

  • @cvdixon29
    @cvdixon29 4 роки тому +9

    The mall ad that you played, If you look closely, you can see some of the floor. It looks like that design was in the mall a long time. You can see a little of it.

    • @entropyfan5714
      @entropyfan5714 4 роки тому

      That floor was there in the late 90's; I can remember remarking on it to whoever I went there with.

  • @yavrielsechelle7431
    @yavrielsechelle7431 4 роки тому +4

    It'd be cool if your videos shined enough of a spotlight on this facet of retail, and malls began to be saved, and repurposed for other things.

  • @sew_gal7340
    @sew_gal7340 11 місяців тому

    I have noticed a lot of mall lovers are quite the romantic at heart and a bit of a philosopher too. It's so weird how nostalgia can be so lovely and sweet

  • @imjusthereexistingithink
    @imjusthereexistingithink 2 місяці тому +2

    I dunno if an update was ever done on this, but: As of 2024, that mall's been completely demolished flat (Minus the big stores off from it like Barnes N Noble and AMC), and they're currently building a huge new urban village there that actually looks insanely cool that'll have over 1000 residential units and tons of other stuff to offer, as sad as it is to see a mall as cool and unique like Foothills go that I've known all my life here, there's been a lot of excitement too around the new building plans for it! :D

  • @TS-ik9qd
    @TS-ik9qd 4 роки тому +1

    I just wanted to say thank you for doing your videos. I recently discovered your channel, and it has been a great pleasure watching your content.

  • @FluidArtwithErika
    @FluidArtwithErika 4 роки тому +4

    Great film! My sister and I used to frequent this mall as kids in the 80’s. In the late 90’s into the 2000’s worked several years there at Ross (which only has one entrance).
    The artistic floor tile was part of an update in the 90’s as well as the food court sign.
    The new mall all the stores moved to is an outdoor mall which makes no sense to me because our summers are so hot! I rarely go to the new mall.
    I read somewhere that they wanted to repurpose some of the Foothills Mall into a center that includes some shops, the theater, a business center and apartment homes.
    I have lots of memories at this mall. Thank you making the video to help preserve them ❤️🌵✌🏻

    • @gracedenson6270
      @gracedenson6270 3 роки тому +1

      I went to the outdoor one in February and it was still too hot! They built another of the exact same one in Tempe (I think? It's off i-10 on the southeast side of Phoenix) and I'm so confused. They keep building outdoor malls like they want us to sunburn and die of heat exhaustion?

    • @FluidArtwithErika
      @FluidArtwithErika 3 роки тому

      Grace Denson lol, right!!

  • @AmbientWalking
    @AmbientWalking 4 роки тому

    I appreciate the way you lead us into experiencing your world. Thanks so much for these wonderful trips!

  • @scdevon
    @scdevon 4 роки тому +14

    When you start to see "Lucky Bamboo" stores and massage chairs in a dying mall, it's game over.

  • @fungusaz4887
    @fungusaz4887 4 роки тому +2

    My family and I used to shop there and at the Tucson Mall all the time. I have so many memories with that mall, easily over 10 years of going there with my family and seeing the ever-changing stores as years passed. I remember we'd park in front of Barnes and Nobles when we were shopping there and we would park outside the entrance where Party City was when we were going to just see a movie. Those claw games are especially a big part of my memories there simply because I never really saw those anywhere else, truly original to me. It's sad to see such an empty mall that I remember was booming years back. The last time I went it looked just as desolate, my dad and I went to bath & body works around 6pm because they had a sale for something and the whole mall looked so dark except for bath & body works which was basically the only really bright lights in the whole mall. Sad to see such a place just left there to die especially when it's losing business to another outdoor outlet mall which makes no sense especially in Arizona climate. Thank you for allowing me to take what I'd assume to be the last look inside Foothills Mall.

  • @AFancyHippo
    @AFancyHippo 4 роки тому

    As the years pass, your videos’ importance and significance will grow. You are doing a service. Good work.

  • @RapidCycling07
    @RapidCycling07 3 роки тому +1

    These videos are awesome and crushing at the same time man! Love the vaporwave/mallsoft music in the background! Keep up the good work bro!

  • @nathanatwood1047
    @nathanatwood1047 3 роки тому

    The vintage commercials really take these videos over the top! Thanks again for doing what you do. I really enjoy these tours, especially the history and facts.

  • @chinglee100
    @chinglee100 4 роки тому

    Loved the video!! this mall is my favorite one you have recorded and it’s sad to see how it’s struggling

  • @dorothw265
    @dorothw265 4 роки тому +4

    I used to love going to this mall. The management has kept it up so well. It's a shame that the new shopping centers nearby killed this mall.

  • @debbymccormack6525
    @debbymccormack6525 4 роки тому +3

    I live in Tucson and your first pronunciation of Marana is the correct one :)

  • @ianpavelko3827
    @ianpavelko3827 4 роки тому +4

    Here in Madison, WI, Westgate Mall is pretty much on its deathbed, especially since TJ Maxx is pretty much the only store that's open. There also used to be a South Towne Mall, which is now more of a shopping center. Meanwhile, East Towne Mall and West Towne Mall are still thriving.

  • @FLtrailblazer
    @FLtrailblazer 4 роки тому +1

    Excellent historical narratives along the video loving it!

  • @slebdad
    @slebdad 4 роки тому

    I have never heard better fitting music than that music you played during the photo montage. I heard the music and it reminded me of music I’ve heard in many, many malls.

  • @w15h0na5tar
    @w15h0na5tar 4 роки тому +1

    This was the mall of my teenage years. So many memories and midnight movie premiers! As you walked through I could remember the stores I had purchased a dress for a middle school dance, eating sushi with friends at the restaurant right outside the food court, the party store... It's tough seeing it so empty.

  • @SearsCool
    @SearsCool 4 роки тому +7

    this is a really interesting design! also i can't wait for siesta mall to be brought back

  • @davidcook3116
    @davidcook3116 3 роки тому

    I absolutely love these videos. Well crafted, and relaxing.

  • @CivilEngineerWroxton
    @CivilEngineerWroxton 4 роки тому +1

    You take excellent photographs. I really like the music you selected to go with the photo montage. It somehow brings back nostalgic feelings for malls in the 80's. I'm 53 so I remember the heyday of malls and how incredibly busy they were back then and how hanging out at the mall on weekend evenings was the thing to do. There would be hundreds and hundreds of teens and adults there and it was an awesome, festive feeling. Now it just breaks my heart to see how many malls are being closed and demolished. It is something I never even remotely thought I'd see. We just had no idea back then. Anyway, keep up the good work. I like seeing your videos even though seeing dead malls makes me sad. It is interesting to see malls in other places before they completely die and get razed.

  • @cg167
    @cg167 3 роки тому +1

    There was a popular brewpub there, Thunder Canyon, for many years. When they left, that was pretty much it, because that's what was driving most of the traffic. The rest had vanished when La Encantada opened.

  • @shrx
    @shrx 4 роки тому +1

    I first visited the Tucson Foothills Mall in 1985 when it was still fairly young. It was the most "upscale" mall I had ever seen. I don't remember all the stores but I remember I really liked the food court enough to try to make it out there every so often to shop even though I couldn't afford to buy much in the nicer stores, being a grad student at the time. I remember the floors were interesting. The floors there could be original but have been kept up with fresh finish every so often. Thanks for bringing back old memories.

  • @roryjayo6359
    @roryjayo6359 Рік тому +1

    I still go here even in October 2022.
    Mainly for the AMC and Barnes and Noble.
    The Levi’s, Bath&Body and like 3 other stores are still open; doesn’t include the Ross. They’ve now begun construction on certain parts of the mall and have walled off other parts including the Food Court area. It’s definitely a bummer to see everything slowly disappear :/

  • @icouldntbemoreserious
    @icouldntbemoreserious Рік тому +2

    RIP Foothills Mall 1982-2023
    Demolition is well underway being about 2 months in. Strickingly, 10 months ago I mentioned about a “giant white wall” and predicted the mall would be demolished in the Spring in which to my surprise I was entirely prefect on that prediction. The minute this was constructed it spelt the end. I went into Barnes and Noble to peer into the abandoned building. Putting my hands into the glass, I quickly realized the door was warm meaning air conditioning was no longer active. In the end everything felt dark. Walking the north end of the mall you can still see lights for Ross and Thunder Canyon Brewery (which if anyone can let me know if they still exist that would be great because I loved that place). Now that the mall is closed and is being torn down, you can now only enter AMC through the outside entrance (which from my understanding used to be the main entrance once upon a time). AMC, Barnes and Noble, Whiskey Roads of the main building still remain. The other new renovated stores on the north strip portion including the famous local Pappoule's restaurant, GameStop, etc continue to thrive… ok actually maybe not GameStop but that’s not the point.
    This point going forward, the mall is no more. This video will forever serve as one of the last high-quality archives of a place that was. Naturally, the place is gated off and surveyed by Pima Sheriff Department and additional security so I wouldn’t try doing anything that would attract their attention.
    The new holding group is unveiling plans for a new shopping center called “Uptown” on May 15, 2023. I’ll be closely paying attention to this to see where this goes. For now, I guess we will just have to wait and see.

  • @JebeckyGranjola
    @JebeckyGranjola 4 роки тому +1

    A few ppl mentioned the arcade, but no one really described it. It was called Gameworx and it was like a Dave and Busters. They had live bands that played there and during the Myspace era it was THE place for every Northside teen to hang out, with convenient Hot Topic adjacent.

  • @justysilverman
    @justysilverman Рік тому +1

    This WAS my mall in the 90s. (Just saw your Tucson Mall video.) I remember the Foothills Mall had a great theater, an arcade sales store, and an actual museum that was under ground I think. I remember seeing a wooly mammoth display there.

    • @RetailArchaeology
      @RetailArchaeology  Рік тому

      It really is/was a beautiful mall, I wish I could have experienced it in the 90s.

  • @DavidLLambertmobile
    @DavidLLambertmobile 4 роки тому +5

    I agree the floors, art is ✅. The brown path type stones cover scuffs, marks.

  • @skyt4133
    @skyt4133 4 роки тому

    You have a GREAT voice! I enjoy listening to your voice as you do commentary on the various malls.

  • @antroz321703
    @antroz321703 3 роки тому +7

    I remember having my first date ever in this mall. Seeing it this dead makes me really sad, but the pandemic has been killing a lot of places in town.

    • @freshstart4423
      @freshstart4423 3 роки тому

      Stop buying counterfeit, outlet malls and online retailers sell counterfeit products from mafias and cartels in China, Korea, Vietnam, Philippines.
      It is still a sin to steal Exodus 20.

    • @antroz321703
      @antroz321703 2 роки тому +2

      wat

    • @M50A1
      @M50A1 6 місяців тому

      ​@@freshstart4423It's a sin to do many things, you're probably sinning yourself

  • @cdcVintage
    @cdcVintage 4 роки тому +1

    I love your new intro. That brings back memories.

  • @stellaluuk2713
    @stellaluuk2713 4 роки тому +9

    I love that mall, would like to have seen it in person. The floor looks expensive!

  • @gsxrfrank8787
    @gsxrfrank8787 4 роки тому +2

    The intro was priceless 👍🏼👍🏼👍🏼

  • @seand2711
    @seand2711 4 роки тому +1

    We lived in NW Tucson and used to go to the AMC theater at Foothills. But that mall was never really a "destination mall", Tucson Mall was the place to shop.

  • @jamiegruenke3765
    @jamiegruenke3765 4 роки тому +1

    This was my neighborhood mall. Watched it being built in the early 80’s. I have so many memories. Bought my first cassette tape (Billy Joel) at Record Bar. Loved Keaton’s restaurant. They had the best Lavosh and zucchini bread! Loved Sbarro’s Pizza! Had Levy’s, Diamonds, Goldwaters during the early days! Still a beautifully maintained dead mall. I moved to Phoenix 22 years ago and haven’t been back. Thank you for the memories!

  • @kathurtado13
    @kathurtado13 3 роки тому +1

    I love these throw-back intros!!

  • @GRORGvideot
    @GRORGvideot 3 роки тому

    In addition to your content, you really nail it with the background music selection. Like listening to a worn out VHS recording.

  • @JoeMotionVideos82
    @JoeMotionVideos82 3 роки тому

    I was at this mall a year ago, prior to that, was 85-86. I shared with my daughter, what it used to look like.

  • @azcupcake2005
    @azcupcake2005 4 роки тому +1

    We moved to Tucson in 1999, and I have many fond memories of spending Saturdays at this mall with my husband and two young sons until we moved back to Phoenix in 2006. It really was a charming, whimsical, colorful atmosphere with quality stores and lots to see and do. The food court was always busy. I really appreciate you featuring this mall before it is closed for good. It makes me sad to think it is no longer in use as it once was.😔

  • @tolentarpay5464
    @tolentarpay5464 3 роки тому

    With an intro graphic like that I kept expecting Tom Selleck to come roaring up in a cherry-red ferrari, wearing short-shorts & a hawaiian shirt! "Magnum Archaeology" - hell yeah! The 80s aren't over, they've just been held up at the podiatrist's!

  • @danielservin7859
    @danielservin7859 2 роки тому +1

    Bittersweet. Grew up living at foothills mall. So sad seeing it gone

  • @TorturedPee
    @TorturedPee 4 роки тому

    Very well put together video, I really liked the photo montage and pacing.

  • @RPHayes
    @RPHayes 3 роки тому +1

    My family spent many great times there it is just such a lovely mall it breaks my heart it really is one of the prettiest mall in AZ thank you for a last look I don't live very far from there but just can't bring myself to go back

  • @cunegonde4
    @cunegonde4 3 роки тому

    I love your channel, thank you for doing this. You're cataloging spaces that time is slowly consuming. It's a peaceful act of defiance and I really appreciate how appreciative you are in your voice-overs. Other channels make fun of these places as they explore and it's a bummer. I have haunted many a dead mall and could never understand why I'm drawn to these places, it's awesome to know others feel the same. I hope you get a chance to travel and visit other dying malls. I'd contribute to a GoFundMe that would help finance something like that. Thanks again.