For many Houstonians, the name Sharpstown Mall brings back a flood of memories. It was a landmark. A true pioneer in Houston’s retail history. Today, that iconic location has been successfully reborn as PlazAmericas. It is a vibrant cultural and community hub in Southwest Houston. This guide is for everyone. It’s for those who remember the original Houston Sharpstown Mall. It’s also for new visitors discovering PlazAmericas for the first time. The mall spans over 850,000 square feet. It is home to more than 150 stores and businesses. It proudly serves as a “Mall of the Familia” for Houston’s diverse Hispanic community. We will explore its incredible history, its unique Mercado, and its exciting future.
From Sharpstown Center to PlazAmericas: A Rich History
PlazAmericas holds a special place in Houston’s history. It opened on September 14, 1961, as Sharpstown Center. It was a revolutionary concept. It was the city’s very first fully enclosed, air-conditioned shopping mall. This was a game-changer in the Texas heat. Developer Frank Sharp built it as the heart of his master-planned Sharpstown community. The mall was an instant success. It was anchored by beloved stores like Foley’s and Montgomery Ward. For decades, Sharpstown Mall was a premier shopping destination.
However, the mall faced challenges in the 1980s and ’90s. The 1980s oil bust hurt the local economy. The area also struggled with a reputation for crime. As new malls like First Colony Mall opened, Sharpstown began to decline. In 2009, a new vision emerged. The mall underwent a $10 million revitalization. It was renamed PlazAmericas to better serve the surrounding Hispanic community. This successful rebranding has given the historic location a new life.
Visitor Information
Address: 201 Sharpstown Center, Houston, TX 77036.
Phone: +1 713-777-1111
Official Website: www.plazamericas.com
Hours of Operations
Monday–Saturday: 11:00 AM – 8:00 PM
Sunday: 11:00 AM – 7:00 PM
Hours for anchor stores, the cinema, and restaurants may vary. Please check with them directly for the most current information.
Directions & Location
The mall is located at the busy intersection of Interstate 69/U.S. 59 and Bellaire Boulevard, making it very accessible. The area is a bustling part of Southwest Houston. Traffic can be heavy during evenings and weekends. Plan your trip accordingly to enjoy a relaxed visit.
Parking
All self-parking at PlazAmericas is free. The mall is surrounded by large surface parking lots. This provides ample space for all visitors. For the most convenient access, try to park near the main entrance you plan to use, such as the entrance facing Bellaire Boulevard or the one closest to Burlington.
The PlazAmericas Experience: A Vibrant Community Hub
What makes PlazAmericas truly special is its atmosphere. It has successfully transformed into a “Mall of the Familia.” It is a lively gathering place for Houston’s Hispanic community. The mall’s centerpiece is the Mercado. This is a bustling, 83,000-square-foot marketplace inside the mall. It feels like a traditional Latin American market. The Mercado is filled with hundreds of small businesses. You can find unique clothing, handcrafted jewelry, and specialty services. The mall frequently hosts family-friendly events. There are often live mariachi bands, dancers, and clowns, especially on weekends. This focus on culture and community creates a fun and welcoming environment for everyone.
A Unique Shopping Experience
Shopping at PlazAmericas is a journey of discovery. You won’t find the typical luxury brands here. Instead, you’ll discover a huge variety of independent shops and value-oriented retailers. The mall is anchored by a massive Burlington store. The rest of the mall is filled with specialty stores. You can find everything from beautiful quinceañera gowns to Western wear. The mall is also a major destination for jewelry. It features the famous Johnny Dang & Co., known for its custom grillz, along with dozens of other jewelers.
| Category | Popular Stores |
|---|---|
| Department & Value Stores | Burlington, Melrose |
| Jewelry & Accessories | Johnny Dang & Co., Jewelry Dog, Crown Jewelry, Hallmark Jewelers |
| Fashion & Apparel | Casanova, L'Uomo, Marissa's, Uniform Superstore |
| Shoes & Footwear | Shoe Palace, Journey's |
| Specialty & Services | Cuba Estilo Barbershop, Yadinails Beauty Salon, Americas Cinemas |
Dining & Entertainment
PlazAmericas offers a variety of casual dining options. The food court is a popular spot. It features authentic flavors from places like Taqueria Americas. The mall is also a hub for entertainment. It is home to Americas Cinemas, a movie theater that shows Spanish-language films. Throughout the year, the mall hosts large community festivals in its parking lot. Events like Liberty Fest feature fireworks, live music, and activities for the whole family.
Explore Nearby & Similar Malls
PlazAmericas offers a unique cultural and value-driven shopping experience. This sets it apart from other Houston malls. If you are looking for high-end luxury and international brands, The Galleria Mall is the region’s largest shopping center. For a more traditional suburban mall experience with popular national retailers, First Colony Mall in Sugar Land is a great option.