Bonnie Doon Shopping Centre: A Community Hub in Edmonton
Nestled in the heart of Edmonton, Alberta, the Bonnie Doon Shopping Centre stands as a testament to the city's vibrant community spirit and its ability to adapt and thrive through changing times. With a history dating back to 1958, this shopping centre has evolved from a traditional retail hub into a community-focused destination that offers a unique blend of shopping, art, and cultural experiences.
The transformation of Bonnie Doon Shopping Centre is a story of resilience and innovation. Once overshadowed by larger malls, Bonnie Doon has reinvented itself by focusing on specialty stores and building a community-centric environment. This shift has helped the centre avoid the fate of many urban malls that have faced closures and empty storefronts.
One of the standout features of Bonnie Doon Shopping Centre is its commitment to fostering a sense of community. The Night of Artists Gallery and its yearly art walk and gala are prime examples of how the centre has become a cultural gathering place. These events not only showcase local talent but also bring people together to celebrate creativity and community.
The shopping centre's strategic location, with easy access to major bus routes and the Valley Line LRT stop, makes it a convenient spot for both locals and visitors. The addition of the LRT stop in 2023 has further increased the centre's accessibility, contributing to an annual footfall of around three million people, a number that is expected to grow.
For those who cherish a more personalized shopping experience, Bonnie Doon offers a variety of stores and services. Shoppers Drug Mart stands out as a favorite among locals, providing a wide range of products and services that cater to the community's needs. The centre's diverse offerings, from Safeway to the Kumon Math and Reading Centre, ensure that there is something for everyone.
The future looks bright for Bonnie Doon Shopping Centre as it continues to focus on community engagement and unique experiences. Its ability to adapt and reinvent itself serves as a blueprint for other shopping centres facing similar challenges. As Bonnie Doon Shopping Centre continues to evolve, it remains a beloved landmark in Edmonton, cherished by those who, like our user, have fallen in love with this...
Read moreI really like Bonnie Doon Centre (Mall) It is not overwhelming large like some malls. Some malls treat you like funding. Bonnie Doon Mall treats you like family and it offers a fun and friendly atmosphere. If you spend a few hours there, you should have time to get to all your favourite stores. Buy a book in the book store. Get groceries or specialty foods. Get your hair done in one of several places. Have a coffee or a meal in one of several restaurants or in the food court area. I like how open the mall is due to the ceilings. I love that there are “tired feet or disability friendly sections” to just sit for a few minutes and relax!!! (OTHER places/stores should be so caring!) I especially love their friendly “everyone welcome” free events with crafts, etc. I DO have disabilities and I rarely get out of the house anymore (due to uncaring or often rude people), but this is one place where I have always felt that people care. Not just the staff of the stores but patrons too. I know that Smiles are contagious and people seem happier and more relaxed than some of the hustling bustling high pressure sales in the bigger malls. Did I mention there’s a bowling alley downstairs? Our children had good times there and did not spend all their time in front of a screen. It’s an especially great way to burn energy and stay active when the weather is too cold to play outside. Whether we are dining out, OR attending events that the mall is hosting, I can have fun, and do my shopping errands all in the same day, in the...
Read moreMight sound crazy, but I like Bonnie Doon mall! The stores are okay. I mean you'll find what you're looking for altho it may not be from the hip hoppin' young people stores that ya want. Like say you need shoes, you're not gonna get a fancy Aldo, but danged if you won't find a decent set of shoes. There's a Payless and a couple independently owned shoe stores, for example.
What I enjoy most about BDM is the events they hold and the thoughtfulness they put into the aesthetic. Last year, they had these awesome murals on the floor that were in a forced perspective birds eye view of cityscapes, etc. It was so neat!
One time I was at BDM, and some adorable older people were playing music and singing. I almost teared up (totally did tear up) because it was an expression of such joy!
On Holiday's they usually have nice things for the kiddos, so that's nice too. Bonnie Doon Mall is like travelling to a small town within Edmonton -...
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