The Riverside Plaza - A History
by Chris Gascoigne on Jul 14, 2025
The Riverside Plaza - A History
Riverside Plaza has been the beating heart of Magnolia Center for nearly seven decades—a place where families shopped, trends took hold, and communities gathered under one sunny sky. From its post-war beginnings as Riverside’s first large-scale shopping destination, through the air-conditioned mall craze of the ’70s and ’80s, to today’s open-air lifestyle-center vibe, each era of the Plaza tells a story about our city’s growth, resilience, and spirit.
Early Years (1956–1957)
In June 1956, Riverside welcomed Mayfair Market’s grocery doors before anything else—a humble start on 50 acres of freshly paved parking lots and gleaming storefronts. By the fall, on October 18–19, 1957, “Plazarama” drew crowds with live TV personalities, carnival games, and giveaways celebrating the grand opening of Harris Company’s 205,000 sq ft department store and Montgomery Ward. With wide, car-friendly aisles and a mix of national chains and local boutiques, the open-air Plaza embodied post-war optimism and set the template for Southern California retail.
Enclosed Mall Era (1970s–1990s)
As indoor malls became the must-visit spots of the ’70s, Riverside Plaza covered its walkways and added climate control in 1973. The roofed-over corridors buzzed with Bob’s Big Boy breakfasts, J.C. Penney fashion runs, and Woolworth’s soda-fountain socials. Seasonal events—holiday tree lightings, back-to-school promotions—kept shoppers coming back, while gift shops and specialty kiosks added local flavor alongside national brands. For two decades, the enclosed Plaza anchored Riverside’s retail scene and spurred new development along Magnolia Avenue.
Modern Renaissance (2010s–Today)
By the early 2000s, newer shopping centers threatened the Plaza’s shine. In response, a $12 million revitalization in the 2010s peeled back sections of roof, repaved walkways, and added fountains, string lights, and courtyard seating—blending the best of indoor comfort with open-air charm. Today you’ll find an 18-screen Regal Cinemas pulling evening crowds, everyday essentials from Trader Joe’s and Marshalls, and rotating pop-ups like farmers’ markets and food-truck nights. Regular outdoor movie screenings, seasonal festivals, and community-driven events make the Plaza a true social hub, not just a shopping spot.
As Riverside Plaza evolves, it remains more than asphalt and storefronts—it’s a living snapshot of our city’s story. And if you’re as passionate about local history as we are, bring a piece of Riverside Plaza into your home. Check out our custom-made Riverside Plaza sign—crafted in durable 16 ga American steel with rust-preventative powder coat—available now at RiversideBells.com.
Vintage Plaza - A Riverside history table top display
