mobile x iconmobile menu icon

The Best Malls in Oshawa: Where to Shop, Eat & Explore

If you’re in Oshawa and ready for some retail therapy, you’re in luck! This city has some great shopping spots, whether you’re looking for the latest fashion trends, everyday essentials, or a fun day out. From big-name brands to unique local shops, these malls in Oshawa have something for everyone. Let’s dive into the top shopping destinations in town and what makes each one special.

Why Malls Still Matter

Malls in Oshawa are more than just places to shop—they’re community hubs where people gather, grab a bite, and even catch a movie. They bring everything together in one place, making shopping more convenient. Plus, they create jobs, support local businesses, and host events that bring the community together. And let’s be honest—sometimes, you just want to wander through stores, grab a coffee, and enjoy the atmosphere.

A woman holds a fancy latte next to her Gucci purse.
Relax after shopping and grab your favourite drink.
A closeup of a hairstylist cutting hair at the Oshawa mall
You can even get your hair cut at some malls in Oshawa!

Top Shopping Malls in Oshawa

1. Oshawa Centre – The Ultimate Shopping Destination

If you’re looking for the biggest and best shopping experience in Oshawa, start here. The Oshawa Centre is the largest mall in the region, with over 260 stores covering everything from high-end fashion to everyday essentials. Whether you’re hunting for deals at H&M, picking up home goods at Hudson’s Bay, or treating yourself at Sephora, this mall has it all. You can even find outfits for your whole fam for your family photo session!

Why You’ll Love It:

  • Tons of stores, from big brands to trendy boutiques.
  • Great dining options, whether you want a quick bite or a sit-down meal.
  • Plenty of seating areas and a modern, welcoming vibe.
  • Indoor mall, so no battling the elements (underground parking available too!)
  • Regular events for kids and families, and seasonal pop-ups to keep things exciting.

Pro Tip: Avoid the weekend rush by visiting on a weekday morning—you’ll have more space to browse and shorter lines at your favorite stores, as this can be one of the busiest malls in Oshawa, especially around the holidays!

2. Taunton Gardens – Convenience at Its Best

For those quick shopping trips when you need to grab essentials without the hassle, Taunton Gardens is perfect. This shopping center is all about convenience, featuring grocery stores, pharmacies, and well-known retail chains like Walmart, Dollarama, and HomeSense. It’s a great place to get errands done while still having a few fun shopping stops along the way.

Why You’ll Love It:

  • Easy parking and a straightforward layout.
  • Stores that cover all the basics—groceries, clothing, and home goods.
  • A no-fuss shopping experience without the overwhelming crowds.

Pro Tip: If you’re short on time, plan your visit during off-peak hours (mid-morning or early afternoon) to get in and out quickly.

3. Riocan Windfields – A Growing Shopping Hub

Riocan Windfields is one of Oshawa’s newer shopping centers, and it’s quickly becoming a go-to destination for residents in the north end. With a mix of major retailers, restaurants, and essential services, it’s a convenient stop for all your shopping needs. Some key stores include Costco, LCBO, and PetSmart, while restaurants like Osmow’s and Sunset Grill make it a great place for dining, too.

Why You’ll Love It:

  • A modern shopping experience with new and expanding stores.
  • Plenty of free parking and easy access.
  • Great dining options, from fast food to sit-down restaurants.

Pro Tip: Follow their social media pages to stay updated on new store openings and special promotions.

4. SmartCentres Oshawa North – A One-Stop Shopping Spot

SmartCentres Oshawa North is another convenient shopping destination that offers a variety of stores in one easily accessible location. With big-box retailers like Walmart, The Home Depot, and Marshalls, as well as smaller specialty shops, it’s a great place to check off everything on your shopping list. It also has several casual dining options, such as Starbucks and Subway, making it a convenient stop for a quick break.

Why You’ll Love It:

  • A mix of large retailers and smaller specialty shops.
  • Ample parking and easy-to-navigate layout.
  • Stores catering to both everyday needs and fun shopping finds.

Pro Tip: As with the other malls in Oshawa, visit during weekdays to avoid weekend crowds and long checkout lines.

Young boy opens a door at a special event at the Oshawa Centre.
A special event at the Oshawa Centre.
Young boy looking at books in an Oshawa mall bookstore
Young boy browses books at Indigo.

Where to Eat While You Shop

Shopping is bound to work up an appetite, and luckily, malls in Oshawa offer plenty of great dining options.

  • Oshawa Centre has a spacious food court with everything from sushi and burgers to healthy bowls and coffee shops. Popular spots include New York Fries, Thai Express, and Chipotle. You’ll also find Kelsey’s and Baxter’s Landing for sit-down meals with family or friends.
  • Riocan Windfields and SmartCentres Oshawa North feature casual sit-down restaurants and fast-food chains like Sunset Grill, Osmow’s, and Starbucks—perfect for a mid-shopping break.
  • Taunton Gardens has convenient grab-and-go spots like Tim Hortons and Subway if you’re short on time but still want a tasty meal.

No matter your cravings, you’ll find something delicious to keep you going while exploring the shops.

Entertainment & Events

Beyond shopping and dining, Oshawa’s malls also host fun events and entertainment options throughout the year.

  • Oshawa Centre frequently features seasonal pop-ups, fashion shows, and community events.
  • Riocan Windfields is growing and adding more entertainment options as new businesses open.
  • SmartCentres Oshawa North is home to a mix of specialty stores and seasonal promotions.

Keep an eye on mall websites and social media for upcoming events, exclusive deals, and family-friendly activities!

Young boy hugs the dog at the front of the Old Navy store in one of the malls in Oshawa.

Final Thoughts

Whether you’re in the mood for a full-day shopping spree or just need to run a few errands, the malls in Oshawa offer a little something for everyone. From the expansive Oshawa Centre to the convenience of Taunton Gardens, the growing appeal of Riocan Windfields, and the practicality of SmartCentres Oshawa North, each spot has its own vibe and perks.

Next time you’re out and about, check out one of these great shopping destinations—and maybe even discover a new favorite spot along the way!

0 comments
Add a comment...

Your email is never published or shared. Required fields are marked *

    Category

    A picture of Tara Graham, a family and newborn photographer in Oshawa, ON.

    Hi, I'm Tara!

     

    I'm a maternity, newborn, and family photographer located in the Whitby/Oshawa area, serving clients in Durham Region and the GTA.

     

    Hopefully you find what you're looking for on my blog, and you can always reach out to me if you have any questions.

     

    If you're looking for a photographer, be sure to check out my portfolio galleries in the top menu! There's lots of info about each session type on its specific page.

     

    Looking for headshots or personal branding photos? Click the button below:

    CONTACT PAGE
    JOIN MY VIP EMAIL LIST
    shutter up magazine cover
    The Storyteller Magazine feature badge
    Sash and Satin featured badge
    Storyteller magazine Published Photographer badge
    Badge for being featured in Photograp[her] Magazine.
    Oshawa's top newborn, baby, and family photographer badge from Three Best Rated.
    top 3 photographers in Oshawa from three best rated
    Oshawa Whitby This Week Readers' Choice Diamond Winner badge
    Oshawa Whitby This Week Readers' Choice Gold Winner badge

     

    STUDIO LOCATED IN OSHAWA, ONTARIO, CANADA

    facebook icon
    instagram icon
    Pinterest icon
    https://www.linkedin.com/in/tara-graham-01760121/

     

    Join the Email List

    Intuit Mailchimp

    Award-winning Durham Region maternity, newborn, and family photographer servicing Oshawa, Whitby, Ajax, Pickering, Courtice, Bowmanville, Toronto and the GTA. Inquire for travel sessions.