Ala Moana Center, Honolulu

Ala Moana Center, often referred to simply as Ala Moana, is a vast, open-air shopping complex located in Honolulu's Ala Moana neighborhood, Hawaii. This mall, under the ownership of Brookfield Properties, ranks as the eighth largest in the U.S. and holds the title of the world's largest open-air shopping center.

Renowned globally for its success, Ala Moana's value stood at approximately $5.74 billion by early 2018, making it the most expensive retail center in the U.S. Key stores anchoring the mall include Bloomingdale's, Macy's, Marshalls, Neiman Marcus, Nordstrom, Ross Dress for Less, Saks Off 5th, and Target.

Don Graham was the mastermind behind the mall's design and development. His unconventional approach, which turned the mall's orientation away from the Pacific Ocean and incorporated a dual-level layout for both shopping and parking, initially drew skepticism. Despite doubts, Ala Moana Center quickly proved its worth post-launch and shifted Oahu's retail focus from Downtown Honolulu. Graham also served as the center's first general manager following its opening.

At its inception, Ala Moana Center housed 87 stores and had a parking capacity of 4,000 vehicles. It has undergone significant remodeling, integrating modern Hawaiian architectural elements that symbolize various natural features of Hawaiʻi. Influences from the Asian Pacific Rim, reflective of Hawaii's substantial Asian demographic, are also evident, such as the once-central koi ponds, symbolizing happiness and tranquility in Japanese culture.