Brandon Exchange — Attraction in Brandon

So I am not a person that tends to leave reviews but what happened today was absolutely disgusting and this mall and security needs to be held accountable for their actions. I have been going to this mall for the past 15 years with my autistic son with no sort of issue. I always use the family restroom because he cannot be left unattended in the men’s bathroom and I can’t take him in the women’s restroom and have women feeling uncomfortable so I always use the family restroom. Today while I was turning into the restroom, where it specifically says family restroom, the security guard screamed at me and my son repeatedly argued and said we couldn’t go in waving his hands at us aggressively in an attempt to intimidate us. My daughter was also with us standing outside the restroom and explained to him my son is autistic and can’t be left unattended. He told her no he cannot use the restroom. I then also calmly explained to him he’s autistic and said to him what I have listed above that he can’t go in the regular restrooms. I took him into the bathroom against what the yelling security guard said. My son was very distressed by the situation and cried in the bathroom. It took time for him to feel comfortable enough to go to the bathroom in what is normally a safe space for him. As I came out of the family restroom another woman and her child walked in to the family lounge. While her child sat down on the couch the mother used the family restroom and nothing was said to them. So it was a clear sign of discrimination against my autistic child. The security guard was still present and he continued to be extremely rude and unapologetic at that point I demanded to speak to a supervisor which he answered with a glare in an attempt to intimidate me again and turned and stormed off to his supervisor and which time he came over and we talked about what happened. As a mother of 3 children, 1 of which with special needs any time something happens to them I get defensive but especially with my son with special needs. At this point I was very frustrated at the situation and raised my voice but considering the circumstances I feel that is justified. Again we use this mall and bathroom all the time and have no issues. My son doesn’t present to other people with signs of a child with special needs if when he initially tried to stop us from using the bathroom and we explained he had special needs and he had dropped it there this would be a nonissue but it was the opposite. Once told he had special needs and was explained the situation by myself and my daughter his response was that my child could not use the bathroom. This is unacceptable and can not stand for anyone that may be different from others. Hopefully others with special needs will not be discriminated against at this location again. Everyone has the basic human right to use a restroom and not be treated in this manner. I am in the process of speaking security and management to escalate the situation. I spoke with the security supervisor sergeant Rodriguez on the phone and am currently awaiting a call from his boss and a call from someone from and Brandon exchange. He took down my name and number and I am eagerly awaiting a response. UPDATE: I just received a call from the security manager Marty who I appreciate reaching out. He asked me to retell the events that happened today I repeated the events that I have listed above and also told him he can review the footage and that it will reflect what I have said above. He stated he could see our perspective but also tried to justify the actions of his team saying he could see where there would be confusion, which I corrected as it was very clear to the security guard early in the conversation this was about my autistic son using the bathroom and he still attempted to deny him the right to use the bathroom at this establishment. He said he passed on this situation to mall manager and that I requested someone to reach out and call me to discuss the situation and I am currently awaiting a call...

Brandon Mall, officially known as Westfield Brandon, stands as a premier shopping destination in Brandon, Florida, offering a comprehensive and delightful shopping experience that caters to a diverse range of preferences and needs. Nestled conveniently just off Interstate 75, this expansive mall is not only easily accessible but also serves as a vibrant hub for both locals and visitors seeking a fulfilling day out.

The architectural design of Westfield Brandon combines both comfort and style, creating an inviting atmosphere that enhances the shopping experience. The mall boasts over 150 stores, featuring a blend of well-known national brands and unique, local boutiques that offer everything from high-end fashion to everyday necessities. The layout is thoughtfully designed, making navigation straightforward and enjoyable, with ample natural lighting and clean, well-maintained common areas that contribute to a pleasant visit.

In addition to its impressive retail offerings, Westfield Brandon excels in its variety of dining options. The food court and various sit-down restaurants provide a range of culinary choices, catering to all tastes and preferences, from quick snacks to relaxed, gourmet meals. This makes it a perfect spot not just for shopping but for a complete day of dining and entertainment.

The mall also includes a modern movie theater that features the latest blockbusters, adding an element of entertainment that is ideal for families, couples, and groups of friends. Regular events and seasonal activities hosted by the mall add to the community feel and attract a steady flow of visitors, keeping the atmosphere lively and dynamic.

Customer service at Westfield Brandon is noteworthy, with a helpful and friendly staff that enhances the shopping experience. The mall’s management team is dedicated to providing a safe, enjoyable environment through meticulous attention to detail, cleanliness, and security, ensuring a stress-free visit for everyone.

Overall, Westfield Brandon is not just a shopping center but a community gathering place that offers a rich, fulfilling experience. Its blend of diverse stores, dining options, entertainment, and top-notch customer service makes it a standout destination in Brandon, Florida. Whether you are a local resident or a visitor, Westfield Brandon offers a welcoming and vibrant atmosphere that promises a memorable day out with something for...

It's a good mall, but it's still missing a department store. I hope they replace it soon. It's making the mall look dark and dead at the end where Sears used to be. The current department stores are Dillard's, JC Penney, and Macy's. At least they're doing good business here in Brandon. I was concerned that the pandemic may have affected it, and it did for a little while. Fortunately, they are slowly replacing the stores that closed up during that time.

There are many play areas for children. They even have a carousel (or merry-go-round). There are quite a few dining options that would satisfy even the pickiest eaters. There's a local coffee shop called Blind Tiger as well as a Starbucks. They even have a new boba tea/ramen restaurant in the food court called HeyTea. The new Popeyes will also be opening soon.

I think the only con would be the horrific traffic during the holidays. It doesn't matter what entrance you use. You'll be stuck in traffic trying to get in and out of that parking lot. I don't go near the mall during the holiday rush anymore. Also, I feel like they need more disabled and veteran parking near the Cheesecake Factory. They have a lot of them, but they seem to fill up quickly on the weekends and evenings. Other than that, it's a great place to shop and...