Unraveling the Mystery: How an Illinois Mall Survives With No Stores

Holidays are in full swing and that means malls will be packed with shoppers.  Will this mall in Illinois have anyone shopping at all?

Just a decade ago, going to the mall for Black Friday was the cool thing to do.  Maybe it's because I live in a city with just one mall that means to be somewhat dying, but they aren't as popular as at they used to be.  Am I wrong?

Get our free mobile app

This video came across my Youtube feed and I was so intrigued.  Not sure if this mall is still open or not, but it's crazy to see stores still open and there are no shoppers in sight.

The Eastland Mall in Bloomington, Illinois is dying and you gotta see it for yourself!

EASTLAND MALL - BLOOMINGTON, IL

There used to be over 90 active stores and an entire food court.  As of the timestamp of this video, there are three vacant major retailers; Macy's, Bergner's, and Sears.

This doesn't even scratch the surface of Eastland Mall in Bloomington.  The Foot Locker is still open and a ton of vacant businesses to the left.  Like, what?

I'd be kinda nervous walking through this place.  I'd feel obligated to stop in every open store and buy something.  What about you?

The iconic kiosks where salesmen would try to sell you on a straightener... wrapped up and shut down.

Those were the best part about going to the mall, seeing all the weird products at the kiosks that my mom would refuse to let me buy haha.

When was the last time you stepped foot inside any mall?

I mean, most people shop online from the comfort of their own home now.  It's so convenient, easy, saves gas, and doesn't give you anxiety trying to navigate through the chaos of the holiday madness.  You wouldn't have to worry about chaos here... there are no stores left!

I haven't been to Cherryvale Mall in a hot minute... I should go and see what's up.  I'll wait until after the holidays are over!

Check out the rest of the photos of inside of the Eastland Mall and you decide for yourself how this mall is still open.