Malls offer more than just a chance to shop; they're also fantastic places for relaxation and entertainment. You can enjoy a fun time with friends, grab a bite to eat, people-watch, and even catch a movie. These venues provide a plethora of activities, even if you're not planning to spend much.

Ways to Entertain Yourself at the Mall

1. Trying on Clothes

Step 1

Trying on clothes is a classic! Even if you don't plan to buy anything, trying on something new is always fun. Look for unique outfits or items that don't fit your usual style, like business suits.

  • If you're with a friend, choose outfits for each other and try them on. The mismatched pieces can be hilarious, and you might be surprised at how some outfits suit you.

2. Spending Time with Pets at Pet Stores

Step 2

Spend time with animals at pet stores. If allowed, pet cute rabbits, puppies, or kittens. Watch small animals in their cages.

  • Pick your favorites and come up with funny names for them. Enjoy their amusing antics.

3. Browsing Magazines at Bookstores

Step 3

Spend some time in a bookstore where you can leisurely flip through magazines and books.

  • Find a comfy chair and start browsing interesting publications. Read without the pressure to buy anything.

4. Explore Different Stores

Step 4

Check out various stores. A mall is not just about clothes and shoes. Discover the variety available.

  • Smell scented candles and lotions in beauty shops.
  • Look for quirky gadgets or test out massage chairs.
  • Visit tech stores to check out new gadgets like iPads or MacBooks. Record a funny video on a tablet for future visitors.
  • Don't forget about gourmet shops where you can sample free treats.

5. Watch TV in Electronics Stores

Step 5

In appliance stores, you can watch TV. Often there are advertising screens on the floors of the mall.

  • Find interesting shows or movies. If an employee isn't busy, they might change the channel for you.

How to Have Fun with Friends at the Mall

1. Observation Games

Step 1

Play observation games. Malls are filled with diverse people. Turn your observations into a game with friends.

  • For instance, play "Bingo". Pre-define categories: a person with bright hair, a child in a walker, a person with bags from different stores. The first one to spot the most people in the categories wins.
  • Come up with a prize for the winner, like a candy bar from a vending machine.

2. Visit the Arcade

Step 2

Check out the arcade. It's a great place to have fun with friends.

  • Set a spending limit so you don’t exceed your budget.

3. Play Hide and Seek

Step 3

Play hide and seek in the stores. One friend counts to sixty while pretending to browse items.

  • The others should hide in designated stores and act like shoppers. This creates lots of fun moments!

4. Dance When No One's Watching

Step 4

You can dance behind someone to entertain yourself. It's a fun challenge.

  • Stand a few feet behind a stranger and dance without invading their personal space. Avoid vulgar moves.
  • If the person turns around, stop immediately. After a few minutes, leave discreetly.
  • Don’t forget to record your dance with your friend!

5. Pretend You Live in a Home Goods Store

Step 5

Pretend you live in a home goods store. This is a fun game for large furniture stores.

  • Try out beds and sofas as if you’re picking furniture for your home.

6. Find the Most Expensive Item

Step 6

Compete with friends to find the most expensive item in the mall.

  • Determine who finds the most overpriced item and have a third friend weigh in on the opinion.

7. Ride the Attractions

Step 7

Don’t miss out on riding the attractions, even if you’re not a kid. It will cheer you and your friends up.

  • Usually, attraction prices are quite reasonable.

8. Listen to Babies

Step 8

Listen for babies that you might encounter in toy or children's clothing stores.

  • Smile at the baby as you pass by.

How to Snack at the Mall

1. Participate in Free Tastings

Step 1

Check out free tastings at cafes and snack bars. It's a great way to satisfy your hunger.

  • Visit cafeterias right upon arrival and then again after some time to taste new offerings.

2. Create a "Combo Meal"

Step 2

Gather a "combo meal" from different eateries. Food courts offer a variety of dishes.

  • Lay everything out on the table and share with friends so everyone can try a bit of everything.

3. Grab a Small Snack

Step 3

If you don’t want a full meal, opt for smaller snacks.

  • Treat yourself to a cinnamon roll or a milkshake from your favorite cafe.

4. Show Some Kindness

Step 4

Buy something small, like ice cream, for a stranger as an act of kindness.