A report from Oregon Live suggests that malls can make excellent use of their vacant space by putting in entertainment destinations, the kind of attractions that can get people back to the mall and extend the length of their visit once there.
At Clackamas Town Center, managers report increased traffic at kids' play zones, movie theaters and video arcades.
Nationwide, ritzy food courts, flashy bowling alleys and virtual play spaces are moving in after large anchor tenants have liquidated. One California open-air mall Katz visited recently offered visitors a ride that simulated skydiving.
"There's just too much retail space that needs to be eaten up," Katz said. "Even when the economy stabilizes, you won't see the same level of demand or the expansion of stores."
Paul DeMarco, manager of Clackamas Town Center, says that even if people can't spend money like they used to, they're game to spend time at the mall.
