Looking for the ultimate shopping and entertainment experience in Toronto? Fairview Mall in North York is the perfect destination! As one of the best malls and shopping centres in North York, Fairview Mall offers an exciting mix of over 180 stores, delicious dining options, and engaging entertainment for visitors of all ages. Conveniently located at the intersection of Don Mills Road and Sheppard Avenue East, this iconic shopping hub has been a go-to spot since 1970. With its modern design, top retail brands, and easy access to public transit, it’s no wonder Fairview Mall ranks among the best malls in Toronto. Whether you’re updating your wardrobe, enjoying a family meal, or catching the latest movie, Fairview Mall provides a vibrant, all-in-one experience. Discover why it stands out as one of Toronto’s best malls and continues to be a favorite among shoppers and visitors alike!
History of Fairview Mall
Fairview Mall in North York has been a cornerstone of the local shopping scene since it first opened its doors in 1970. Originally, the mall was anchored by two major department stores: The Bay and Simpsons. At the time, it was the fourth fully enclosed and the first multi-level shopping centre in Metropolitan Toronto, making it a trailblazer among the best malls and shopping centres in North York.
From 1987 to 1989, Fairview Mall underwent its first major renovation, a $90 million expansion that introduced a glass-tiered ceiling, allowing for more natural light and a modernized shopping atmosphere. This upgrade also involved the relocation of The Bay and Simpsons to larger spaces within the mall.
In 1991, Simpsons was rebranded as Sears Canada, which operated until its closure in 2017. The Sears space was later redeveloped, leading to the opening of T&T Supermarket in 2023—a significant addition to the mall’s diverse retail lineup.
Between 2006 and 2009, Fairview Mall underwent another $90 million renovation. This upgrade included a new food court under a 60-foot skylight, expanded retail spaces, and the addition of hands-free technology at entrances.
The most recent expansion, completed between 2019 and 2023, transformed the former Sears space into new retail and dining areas and improved pedestrian access to the adjacent Don Mills subway station.
Ownership and management of Fairview Mall are shared between Cadillac Fairview, which manages 50% of the property, and investment funds managed by TD Greystone Asset Management.
With its rich history of innovation and continuous improvement, Fairview Mall in North York remains one of the best shopping centres in Toronto, offering visitors a dynamic and evolving shopping experience.
Shopping and Retail Experience
Fairview Mall in North York offers an exceptional shopping experience with over 180 stores spread across two spacious levels. As one of the best malls and shopping centres in North York, it provides a diverse mix of retail options, catering to shoppers of all styles and preferences.
The mall’s major anchor tenants include the iconic Hudson’s Bay and the recently opened T&T Supermarket, which has brought a fresh variety of international grocery products to the shopping experience. These anchors complement a wide range of popular retail brands, including fashion favorites like Zara, Sephora, Forever 21, and Bath & Body Works.
In addition to well-known brands, Fairview Mall features numerous specialty shops, fashion outlets, and unique kiosks offering everything from trendy accessories to personalized gifts. This variety ensures that shoppers can find everything they need in one place, solidifying Fairview Mall’s reputation as one of the best shopping centres in Toronto.
Whether you’re looking for the latest fashion trends, beauty products, or specialty items, Fairview Mall in North York delivers a complete and enjoyable shopping experience that stands out among Toronto’s best malls.
Dining and Food Options
Fairview Mall in North York offers a diverse and enjoyable dining experience, making it a top choice among the best malls and shopping centres in North York for food lovers. One of the standout features of the mall is its modern food court, located under a stunning 60-foot skylight. This bright and open space, part of the mall’s 2006–2009 renovation, creates a comfortable and inviting atmosphere for visitors to relax and enjoy their meals.
The mall has expanded its dining area as part of the 2019–2023 redevelopment, introducing new restaurants and eateries to enhance the overall food experience. This expansion has made Fairview Mall even more appealing to those seeking a variety of casual and sit-down dining options.
Whether you’re grabbing a quick bite or enjoying a leisurely meal, the range of dining choices at Fairview Mall in North York complements its vibrant shopping environment. Its growing selection of food options solidifies its status as one of the best shopping centres in Toronto for both shopping and dining.
Entertainment and Leisure
Fairview Mall in North York offers more than just shopping—it provides a well-rounded entertainment and leisure experience, making it one of the best malls and shopping centres in North York for visitors seeking more than retail therapy.
Fairview Mall continues to offer engaging services like its Personal Style Program, which includes image consultations and personalized shopping sessions. This service allows customers to receive expert fashion advice tailored to their individual preferences, enhancing their overall shopping experience.
Unique Features and Amenities
Fairview Mall in North York stands out as one of the best malls and shopping centres in North York due to its modern design and thoughtfully integrated amenities. The mall features a stunning glass-tiered ceiling, allowing for natural light to brighten the interior and create a welcoming atmosphere for shoppers. This architectural feature enhances the overall shopping experience, blending style and comfort seamlessly.
In line with modern convenience, Fairview Mall is equipped with hands-free technology at entrances, providing a more hygienic and accessible entry for visitors. Accessibility is further prioritized through the inclusion of elevators and spacious common areas, ensuring that all guests, including those with mobility needs, can navigate the mall comfortably.
Beyond shopping, the mall offers essential on-site community services. These include a nearby community health centre, dental clinics, and the Toronto Public Library Fairview branch, making it a central hub for both retail and community engagement.
These thoughtful features contribute to making Fairview Mall in North York one of the most visitor-friendly and accommodating destinations among the best shopping centres in Toronto.
Safety and Security
Fairview Mall in North York is dedicated to providing a safe and secure environment for all visitors, solidifying its reputation as one of the best malls and shopping centres in North York. Over the years, the mall has experienced isolated incidents, including thefts and altercations. Notably, in 2017, a Sears store closure was followed by redevelopment, and in recent years, there have been isolated safety concerns involving thefts and altercations. However, such incidents remain uncommon and are handled promptly by security and local authorities.
These ongoing efforts reflect the mall’s commitment to maintaining a safe and welcoming environment, making Fairview Mall in North York a trusted destination among the best shopping centres in Toronto for shoppers and families alike.
Recent Developments and Renovations
Fairview Mall in North York has continually evolved to meet the needs of its visitors, securing its place among the best malls and shopping centres in North York. The mall has undergone several significant renovations and expansions over the years to modernize its facilities and enhance the shopping experience.
From 2006 to 2009, the mall underwent a major $90 million renovation. This redevelopment included relocating the food court to the lower level beneath a stunning 60-foot skylight, creating a brighter and more open dining space. Additionally, the mall received extensive design upgrades, featuring more open spaces, modern finishes, and the installation of hands-free technology at entrances for improved convenience and accessibility.
Between 2019 and 2023, Fairview Mall completed another major expansion, transforming the former Sears space into a vibrant area filled with new retail stores and dining options. This redevelopment also introduced improved pedestrian access to the adjacent Don Mills subway station, making the mall even more accessible for visitors using public transit.
A significant highlight of this expansion was the opening of the T&T Supermarket in May 2023, offering shoppers a wide selection of Asian groceries and fresh produce. This addition has greatly diversified the mall’s retail mix and strengthened its status as one of the best shopping centres in Toronto.
These continuous upgrades reflect Fairview Mall in North York’s commitment to providing a modern, convenient, and enjoyable shopping environment for all visitors.
Fairview Mall’s Impact on the Community
Fairview Mall in North York has played a significant role in supporting the local economy and fostering community engagement, solidifying its position as one of the best malls and shopping centres in North York.
The mall contributes to the local economy by providing jobs to hundreds of residents through its 180+ retail stores, restaurants, and service providers. From part-time positions for students to full-time management roles, Fairview Mall supports a diverse workforce. Additionally, the presence of major retailers like Hudson’s Bay and T&T Supermarket attracts significant customer traffic, which benefits smaller businesses and boosts overall economic activity in the area.
Beyond its economic impact, Fairview Mall serves as a vital community hub in North York. Its convenient location and easy access via public transit make it a popular meeting place for families, friends, and community groups. On-site services, including a community health centre, dental clinics, and the nearby Toronto Public Library Fairview branch, further integrate the mall into the daily lives of local residents.
By offering both economic opportunities and community-focused services, Fairview Mall in North York continues to strengthen its reputation as one of the most impactful and best shopping centres in Toronto.
Location and Accessibility
Fairview Mall in North York is conveniently located at the northeast corner of Don Mills Road and Sheppard Avenue East, making it easily accessible for both local residents and visitors. Its prime location near two major highways—Highway 401 and Highway 404/Don Valley Parkway—ensures smooth travel for those driving from different parts of the city or beyond. This strategic positioning makes it one of the most convenient destinations among the best malls and shopping centres in North York.
For those using public transit, Fairview Mall is directly connected to the Don Mills subway station, providing seamless access to Toronto’s transit system. Additionally, it serves as the southern terminus for York Region Transit’s Viva Green bus rapid transit line, making it easily reachable for commuters from surrounding areas.
Parking is never a concern at Fairview Mall, as it offers ample free parking through its surrounding parking lots and multi-level parking garages. This accessibility by both car and public transit makes it a top choice among the best shopping centres in Toronto for a hassle-free shopping experience.
Visitor Tips
Planning a visit to Fairview Mall in North York? Here are some helpful tips to make your experience at one of the best malls and shopping centres in North York enjoyable and convenient.
Best Times to Visit
To avoid crowds, consider visiting on weekday mornings or early afternoons. Weekends and holidays tend to be busier, especially around the holiday season. Visiting during off-peak hours ensures a more relaxed shopping experience.
Parking Tips and Transit Recommendations
Fairview Mall offers free parking with both surface lots and multi-level parking garages, providing ample space for visitors. For the most convenient access, park near your preferred stores or entrances. If you’re using public transit, the mall is directly connected to the Don Mills subway station, making it easily accessible from across Toronto. Additionally, York Region Transit’s Viva Green line stops at the mall, offering another convenient transit option.
Must-Visit Stores and Eateries
Don’t miss popular retailers like Hudson’s Bay, Zara, Sephora, and Bath & Body Works for fashion and beauty shopping. For groceries and specialty items, the newly opened T&T Supermarket is a must-visit. While dining options are expanding, the bright and spacious food court under the 60-foot skylight offers various quick bites and comfortable seating. Visit the mall’s official website for more information.
Socials
By following these tips, visitors can make the most of their time at Fairview Mall in North York, a top destination among the best shopping centres in Toronto for shopping, dining, and entertainment.
FAQs
- Is there free parking at Fairview Mall?
Yes, Fairview Mall offers free parking in both surface lots and multi-level parking garages. - How do I get to Fairview Mall by public transit?
The mall is directly connected to Don Mills subway station and is also served by York Region Transit’s Viva Green bus line. - Does Fairview Mall have a food court?
Yes, the mall has a modern food court located under a 60-foot skylight, offering various dining options. - What dining options are available at Fairview Mall?
Fairview Mall offers a variety of quick bites and casual dining options in the food court, with more restaurants added in recent expansions. - Are there services for families at Fairview Mall?
Yes, the mall offers family-friendly amenities and is close to the Toronto Public Library’s Fairview branch.