Ridgeway Shopping Center

The Ridgeway Shopping Center, situated at 2135-2715 Summer Street, Stamford, Connecticut, 06905, is a historic and bustling retail hub that has been a cornerstone of the city's shopping landscape since its inception in 1947. Designed by the visionary architect Alfons Bach, this shopping center was the first department store-anchored suburban shopping center in the Eastern United States, marking a significant milestone in retail development.

Initially opening with 110,000 square feet of retail space on a 20,000-square-foot parcel, the center quickly expanded to become a major retail destination. By 1958, it had grown to encompass approximately 350,000 leasable square feet, housing 46 stores and services. The addition of a three-story office tower and a Sears department store in 1951 further solidified its status as a premier shopping destination.

Over the years, Ridgeway Shopping Center has undergone several transformations. In 1958, Gimbel Bros. opened a branch of Saks-34th Street, making it the largest retail center in Connecticut. The center was sold multiple times, with notable ownership changes including Ridgeway Center Associates in 1960 and Silverstein and Mendik in 1976.

Despite facing competition from newer malls like Stamford Town Center, which opened in 1982, Ridgeway Shopping Center has continued to evolve. In the 1990s, it underwent significant renovations, including the demolition of the old Saks-Sage-Allen structure and the addition of big-box retailers like Bed, Bath & Beyond and Michaels. Today, the center boasts a diverse array of tenants, including Burlington, Michaels, Marshalls, Old Navy, and a Stop & Shop supermarket.

Located on highly-trafficked streets, close to Downtown Stamford, Ridgeway Shopping Center remains a vibrant and essential part of the city's retail ecosystem. Its rich history and continuous evolution make it a beloved destination for both locals and visitors alike. The center's strategic location ensures it remains a hub of activity, offering a wide range of shopping, dining, and entertainment options to the community.