A Guide to LA's Iconic Malls

From The Grove to Malibu Country Mart, these shopping destinations capture the essence of the City of Angels.

Mar. 31, 2026 at 3:00pm

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

A bold, colorful silkscreen illustration featuring the repeated outline of a mall entrance, rendered in vibrant neon hues and heavy black lines to capture the essence of LA's shopping culture.LA's malls have become as iconic as the city's other landmarks, reflecting the region's love of commerce, entertainment, and community.Los Angeles Today

Los Angeles is known for its sprawling suburban landscape and love of commerce, with the mall becoming a quintessential part of the city's identity. This guide explores some of the most iconic shopping destinations in LA, from the celebrity-studded The Grove to the laid-back Malibu Country Mart, offering a glimpse into the city's spiritual heart.

Why it matters

Malls have long been a central part of LA's culture, featuring prominently in films, music videos, and the daily lives of Angelenos. These shopping hubs not only reflect the city's values of consumerism and entertainment, but also serve as de facto public spaces where locals and tourists alike can gather, shop, and soak up the Southern California sunshine.

The details

The article explores several of LA's most renowned malls, including The Grove, which features high-end stores, a historic trolley, and frequent celebrity sightings, and the more relaxed Malibu Country Mart, known for its beachy vibe and boutique shops. It also touches on other notable malls like the Westfield Century City and the Americana at Brand.

  • The article was published on March 31, 2026.

The players

The Grove

A popular shopping and entertainment complex in Los Angeles, known for its high-end stores, historic trolley, and frequent celebrity sightings.

Malibu Country Mart

A laid-back shopping destination in Malibu, California, featuring boutique shops and a beachy, relaxed atmosphere.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“To spend an afternoon basking in the sunshine, meandering at a leisurely pace, and swiping your credit card at will is to embark in one of Los Angeles's great pastimes.”

— Max Berlinger, Author

The takeaway

Malls have become an integral part of LA's cultural identity, serving as hubs of commerce, entertainment, and community gathering. Whether it's the high-end glamour of The Grove or the laid-back charm of Malibu Country Mart, these shopping destinations offer a unique window into the heart and soul of the City of Angels.