Once a bustling retail giant and one of the largest malls in the world, the abandoned Century III Mall now stands as a haunting monument to a different era of American shopping culture. Built in the late 1970s at a cost of over $100 million, this massive complex once held the title of the third-largest mall on the planet, drawing crowds with its anchor stores, multi-level layout, and vibrant community events.

But after years of decline, bankruptcy issues, and the growing dominance of online shopping—especially after COVID—Century III Mall was finally shuttered in 2017. Today, the vast empty halls, decaying food court, and darkened storefronts offer an eerie, almost post-apocalyptic atmosphere that draws explorers and urban photographers from all over the country.

As the structure continues to deteriorate, it has become a striking time capsule filled with remnants of its past: fading signage, scattered holiday decorations, and echoes of once-thriving businesses. Despite most stores being completely stripped, the mall still retains power in certain areas, creating an unsettling blend of silence and flickering lights.

Explorers document everything from rotting ceilings and flooded corridors to forgotten Comic-Con props and abandoned hotel connections deep within the complex. The future of Century III Mall remains uncertain, but for now, it stands as one of America’s most iconic abandoned retail giants—an unforgettable glimpse into the rise and fall of the mega-mall era. For more content like this one follow us also on Facebook!