2 Arizona malls rank among 10 best shopping centers in U.S.

Article originally posted on AZ Big Media on June 24, 2026

Modern young woman enjoys shopping.

Scottsdale Quarter and Kierland Commons have been ranked among the Top 10 in the Best Shopping Center category of the USA Today 10BEST 2026 Readers’ Choice Awards. Kierland Commons, part of the Macerich portfolio of thriving retail centers in top markets, has been ranked No. 9 in the Best Shopping Center category; and Scottsdale Quarter has been ranked No. 8.

The recognition — a step up from the center’s No. 10 ranking in 2025 — further affirms Kierland Commons’ place among the nation’s most celebrated retail destinations.

“This recognition reflects the dedication and passion our entire team brings to Kierland Commons every single day,” said Victoria Buscher, General Manager of Kierland Commons. “To be recognized among the best shopping centers in the country for the second consecutive year — and to move up in the rankings — is a testament to our guests, our retail partners and the unique experience we’ve built together.”

Nominations were curated to a list of top 20 picks by a panel of subject matter experts and USA Today 10BEST editors before the public was invited to vote for their favorites. The top 20 shopping centers were selected based on factors such as the variety of stores, breadth of dining and entertainment options, ease of access and events that set them apart from other retail destinations.

Here’s what USA Today said about the two Arizona centers:

Scottsdale Quarter: Fountains, palm trees, and modern desert architecture set the scene at Scottsdale Quarter, an open-air shopping center with more than 100 stores, restaurants, salons, and entertainment venues. The center features a mix of market-exclusive retailers, stylish local boutiques, and a range of dining options. Regular live music and seasonal events add to its energetic atmosphere in the heart of North Scottsdale.

Kierland Commons: Blending desert-modern design with a lively urban feel, Kierland Commons is a sophisticated shopping center in Scottsdale. The open-air center features over 70 shops and restaurants, including national brands and stylish local boutiques. Pedestrian-friendly streets and shaded patios invite visitors to linger over meals at spots like Mastro’s Ocean Club, making it a favorite for leisurely, upscale outings.

The Best Shopping Center category celebrates how shopping centers bring together a diverse selection of places to shop, eat and play in a single convenient location, becoming vibrant hubs with something for everyone.

The first lifestyle center in Arizona to integrate retail, dining, office space and upscale residential living into a walkable, Main Street-inspired design, Kierland Commons continues to set the standard for open-air shopping and dining in the Southwest. The center is home to a dynamic mix of retailers, including favorites like Arhaus, Vuori, Mastro’s Ocean Club and Tommy Bahama Restaurant, Bar and Store.

The center is pleased to announce an exciting lineup of new and relocated retailers, further enhancing its premier shopping experience. Earlier this month, Warby Parker and Kiehl’s debuted, while Evereve unveiled its newly reimagined store following a

recent relocation within the center. The momentum continues this summer with the July 1 opening of Relevant Galleries, showcasing fine art photography, followed by the arrival of first-to-market retailer Hammitt in mid-July, bringing its collection of premium leather handbags to the center.

Looking ahead to fall, the center will welcome two highly anticipated Arizona debuts: 7th Avenue, the digitally native furniture brand celebrated for its customizable modular sofas, and Beyond Yoga, the popular activewear brand known for its comfort-driven, lifestyle-focused apparel. Together, these additions reflect the center’s ongoing commitment to introducing sought-after brands and creating a dynamic retail destination for shoppers.

“We’re thrilled by the momentum we’re seeing at Kierland Commons,” said Buscher. “Each new retailer and refreshed space brings added energy to the center and gives our guests even more reasons to visit. We look forward to continuing to evolve our lineup to meet the needs of our community.”

Complementing its retail offerings, Kierland Commons hosts the Kierland Fine Art & Wine Festival twice a year, well on its way to becoming Arizona’s premier fine art festival. The festival has steadily grown in popularity among art enthusiasts and collectors and is recognized as one of the top fine art festivals in the region.

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