cinderella city denver

Cinderella City: The Rise and Fall of a Retail Giant in Denver

Cinderella City, often fondly remembered as “Cindy City” by locals, was a groundbreaking shopping mall located in Englewood, a suburb of Denver, Colorado. Opening in 1968, it quickly became a regional retail powerhouse, boasting a distinctive design and a wide array of stores that drew shoppers from across the Rocky Mountain region. While the original Cinderella City is no longer standing, its impact on Denver’s retail landscape and the memories it holds for many residents remain significant.

The Heyday of Cinderella City

Cinderella City was more than just a mall; it was an experience. Its most iconic feature was the “Cinderella City Theatre,” a massive structure shaped like a castle, which housed several smaller movie theaters. This, coupled with numerous department stores, specialty shops, restaurants, and even an ice-skating rink, made it a complete entertainment and shopping destination. The sheer size of the mall, reportedly one of the largest enclosed malls in the U.S. at its peak, contributed to its allure.

Decline and Redevelopment

Despite its initial success, Cinderella City faced increasing competition from newer, more modern malls closer to Denver. Changes in consumer preferences, economic downturns, and a shift in retail trends all contributed to its gradual decline. By the late 1990s, many of the anchor stores had closed, and the mall was struggling to stay afloat. Eventually, it was demolished in 1999.

Today, the site of Cinderella City is occupied by a mixed-use development known as the Englewood CityCenter. This area includes residential buildings, retail stores, and the Englewood Civic Center, reflecting a modern approach to urban planning. While the original “Cindy City” is gone, the name lives on in a small way with “Cinderella City Park” a small play park nearby.

Remembering Cinderella City

For many Denver residents, Cinderella City holds a special place in their memories. It was a place for family outings, first dates, and countless shopping trips. The unique architecture, particularly the castle-shaped theater, made it a memorable landmark. The nostalgia surrounding Cinderella City is a testament to its impact on the community and its role in shaping Denver’s cultural landscape. You can learn more about the history of the site on Wikipedia’s article on Englewood CityCenter.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why was Cinderella City called Cinderella City?

The name “Cinderella City” was chosen to evoke a sense of magic and transformation, similar to the fairy tale. The castle-shaped theater further reinforced this theme.

When did Cinderella City close?

Cinderella City was demolished in 1999.

What is on the site of Cinderella City now?

The site is now occupied by Englewood CityCenter, a mixed-use development featuring residential buildings, retail stores, and the Englewood Civic Center.

Where was Cinderella City located?

Cinderella City was located in Englewood, Colorado, a suburb of Denver.

Was Cinderella City the biggest mall in America?

While it was reportedly one of the largest enclosed malls in the U.S. at its peak, other malls claimed the title of largest at different times. Determining the absolute largest depends on the measurement criteria used.

Summary

Cinderella City, once a retail giant in Denver’s suburb of Englewood, was a landmark shopping mall known for its unique architecture and diverse offerings. Though it eventually declined and was demolished, its memory lives on in the hearts of many Denver residents, and its former site has been redeveloped into the modern Englewood CityCenter.