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Lincoln Square Mall

3.8
·1k reviews·Urbana, United States

A historic Urbana mall transformed into a vibrant hub for local artisans, vintage finds, and community markets.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekend mornings

Farmers markets & lively atmosphere

CrowdMedium
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Lincoln Square Mall

Best Time

Weekend mornings

Farmers markets & lively atmosphere

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A historic Urbana mall transformed into a vibrant hub for local artisans, vintage finds, and community markets.

3.8
(1k reviews)

"It's a great place for the mistletoe markets at the holidays and a weekend community market center."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Explore Local Gems

Don't expect big brands; focus on unique local shops like Devotion Urbana for vintage finds!

📅 Check Event Schedules

Markets like the $15 & Under Market are popular! Plan your visit around these special events.

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Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Community Markets

Community Markets

Throughout the mall

Discover vibrant weekend markets featuring vintage finds, handmade crafts, and local produce. A true taste of Urbana's creative spirit!

Devotion Urbana

Devotion Urbana

Inside the mall

A treasure trove for vintage clothing enthusiasts, offering a curated selection of unique styles from different eras.

The Lazy Daisy Cafe

The Lazy Daisy Cafe

Inside the mall

Enjoy delicious food at affordable prices in a comfortable setting, perfect for a midday break.

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Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Local Vibe

Lincoln Square Mall is less about big brands and more about unique local businesses and community events. Expect a focus on vintage, handmade goods, and artisanal foods rather than traditional retail. Check event schedules for markets and pop-ups!

Parking & Access

While parking is generally available, some Reddit users note signs for 2-hour limits, though enforcement can be inconsistent. Consider it a good spot to park if you plan to use public transport to reach nearby areas like the university campus.

Best Times

When
Weekend mornings
Why
Farmers markets & lively atmosphere
Crowd
Medium
When
Special event days
Why
Unique pop-ups & markets
Crowd
High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

♻️ $15 & Under Market ♻️ 📍 Location: Lincoln Square Mall, Urbana, IL 📅 Sunday, November 16th ⏰ 12 PM – 6 PM 🛍️ Everything is $15 or less Shop curated vintage, thrifted, and handmade pieces. 80s, 90s, Y2K ♻️ There will also be a free clothing swap! #uofillinois #vintagemarket #illinois #universityofillinois #vintage
@adilenenesbitt
587 likes • 6.5K views

🎯 Explore Local Gems

Don't expect big brands; focus on unique local shops like Devotion Urbana for vintage finds! TikTok+1

📅 Check Event Schedules

Markets like the $15 & Under Market are popular! Plan your visit around these special events. TikTok+1

A sustainable Sunday well spent! Yesterday we shot the $15 & Under Market hosted by @217flea at Lincoln Square Mall (and wow, Champaign-Urbana knows how to show up for local small business owners!) We came to capture the energy, the vendors & the little moments that make events like this so special 🫶 #champaignurbana #champaignillinois #uiuc #universityofillinois #uiuctiktok
@lividsmedia
115 likes • 2.4K views
$15 & Under Market! A sustainable alternative to Black Friday shopping! ♻️ Everything is $15 or less! Shop a curated selection of vintage, thrifted, and handmade pieces all at unbeatable prices. It’s the perfect way to refresh your wardrobe without supporting fast fashion! Support small businesses, reduce waste, and discover one of a kind finds. Plus: don’t miss our free clothing swap happening ...
@217flea
1K likes • 16.6K views

🚶‍♀️ Comfortable Walking Shoes

You can walk a good perimeter inside; comfortable shoes are a must for exploring. Reddit

🚗 Parking Insights

Parking is available, but be aware of potential 2-hour limits. Reddit

Did you know Lincoln Square Mall was built in the 1960s as an extension of the hotel next door? The hotel itself was built in 1923 and is now known as Hotel Royer. Originally called the Urbana-Lincoln Hotel, it later became one of the first fully enclosed shopping malls in Illinois. I found this information on Wikipedia, Smile Politely, and TheClio.com. #champaignurbana #champaignillinois #uiuc #u...
@217flea
194 likes • 3K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Explore Local Gems

Don't expect big brands; focus on unique local shops like Devotion Urbana for vintage finds! TikTok+1

📅 Check Event Schedules

Markets like the $15 & Under Market are popular! Plan your visit around these special events. TikTok+1

🚶‍♀️ Comfortable Walking Shoes

You can walk a good perimeter inside; comfortable shoes are a must for exploring. Reddit

🚗 Parking Insights

Parking is available, but be aware of potential 2-hour limits. Reddit

What Travellers Say

3.8
(1k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Lincoln Square Mall is appreciated for its vibrant community markets and unique local businesses, offering a nostalgic and creative atmosphere. However, some visitors find it outdated and lacking in traditional retail, with a preference for independent shops over name brands.

"Such a shame all this space has no real retail shopping. I remember the days when it was quite a draw to walk around Lincoln Square. Used to be a department store and many clothing shops, along with the sculptures we kids used to crawl in and around. With the state of the economy and brick and mortar retail failing, I don't see it ever being a great bustling center again. It's a nice place for the mistletoe markets at the holidays."

Peggy Ball

"weekend community market center
groceries, foods, arts, flowers, handmade stuff, food-truck and so on.. 🌻"

juhyeon kim

"A mall with not so many customers, but were one can find a confortable walking space. My step counter gave me 0.4 miles walking the inside perimeter, every side gorridor visited.
It has 2 very interesting stores for creativity aficionados, a pizza place, and a restaurant café, the Lazy Daisy, which offres good food at affordable prices. About 10 to 20 usd per person."

Elias Leon-Ruiz

What People Like

Community markets
Local & vintage shops
Nostalgic feel

What People Dislike

Outdated appearance
Lack of name brands

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Lincoln Square Mall is located at 201 Lincoln Square, Urbana, IL 61801. It's accessible by car and is a potential parking spot for those using public transport to reach the University of Illinois campus. Reddit

Yes, there is parking available. Some Reddit users have noted signs indicating 2-hour parking, but mention that enforcement can be inconsistent. Reddit

While specific bus routes aren't detailed in the provided content, its location in Urbana suggests it's likely served by local bus lines. It's also mentioned as a potential parking spot for those catching a bus to campus. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, general entry to Lincoln Square Mall is free. Tickets are typically only required for specific ticketed events or markets held within the mall. TikTok+1

The mall itself generally has operating hours, but individual store hours can vary. For specific events like markets, check their advertised times. Devotion Urbana, for example, is open daily from 12 PM to 8 PM. TikTok

Yes, Lincoln Square Mall frequently hosts community markets, such as the '$15 & Under Market' and farmers markets, featuring local vendors and artisans. TikTok+4

🎫 🛍️ Shopping & Stores

Lincoln Square Mall features a variety of small, local businesses, including vintage clothing stores like Devotion Urbana, art cooperatives, and shops selling handmade goods. It's known for its unique, non-chain offerings. TikTokReddit+1

Absolutely! Devotion Urbana is a popular vintage store located within the mall, offering a wide selection of pre-loved fashion. TikTok+1

Yes, the mall is highlighted as a great spot for creatives, with mentions of an 'art coop' and an 'idea store,' alongside thrift shops and the farmers market. Reddit

Based on reviews, Lincoln Square Mall primarily features small, independent businesses and does not typically have well-known name-brand retail stores. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

The mall has dining options, including a pizza place and a cafe called The Lazy Daisy, which offers good food at affordable prices, typically between $10-$20 per person. Reddit

Yes, Lincoln Square Mall hosts a farmers market, often on Saturdays, offering fresh produce and other goods. TikTokReddit

📸 📸 Photography

The mall's unique architecture and the vibrant atmosphere during its community markets can make for interesting photo opportunities, especially for capturing local life and unique finds. TikTok

The areas around the community markets, the unique local shops, and potentially the mall's interior architecture from the 1960s could offer good photographic subjects. TikTok+1

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Lincoln Square Mall can be a fun outing for families, especially during its vibrant weekend markets. The farmers market offers a chance for kids to see fresh produce, and the community markets often have unique crafts that can spark creativity. TikTokReddit While there aren't specific play areas mentioned, the mall's comfortable walking space allows for easy stroller navigation. Keep an eye out for special events that might cater to younger visitors. The Lazy Daisy Cafe offers a casual dining option for family meals. Reddit

💰 Budget Travelers

Lincoln Square Mall is a fantastic spot for budget-conscious travelers. The '$15 & Under Market' is a prime example, offering a wide array of goods at incredibly affordable prices, promoting sustainable shopping. TikTok+1 Many of the independent shops focus on unique, often vintage or handmade items, which can be more budget-friendly than mainstream retail. Dining at The Lazy Daisy Cafe is also noted for its affordability, with meals typically costing between $10-$20 per person. Reddit

🛍️ Vintage & Thrift Shoppers

This mall is a must-visit for anyone who loves vintage and thrift shopping. Devotion Urbana is a standout store within the mall, consistently stocking new items and offering a wide selection of styles from different decades. TikTok+1 The recurring '$15 & Under Market' is also a goldmine for finding affordable vintage treasures. TikTok+1 Beyond dedicated vintage stores, the general community markets often feature vendors with unique pre-loved clothing and accessories, making it a prime destination for unique finds.

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

A Hub for Local Artisans and Vintage Finds

Lincoln Square Mall has carved out a niche as a vibrant center for local entrepreneurs and vintage enthusiasts. Unlike traditional malls dominated by chain stores, this Urbana landmark thrives on its unique offerings. TikTok videos frequently highlight events like the '$15 & Under Market,' showcasing curated vintage, thrifted, and handmade items, promoting sustainable shopping alternatives to fast fashion. TikTok+3 This focus on local talent is a significant draw for visitors seeking one-of-a-kind pieces and supporting small businesses.

Shops like Devotion Urbana are frequently featured, offering a diverse range of vintage clothing. TikTok+1 Beyond fashion, the mall is a haven for creatives, with mentions of art cooperatives and 'idea stores.' Reddit This community-centric approach fosters a unique atmosphere, making it a destination for those who appreciate artisanal crafts and the stories behind them. The mall's history as one of the first fully enclosed shopping malls in Illinois, built in the 1960s, adds a layer of nostalgia for many visitors. TikTok

The weekend community markets are a cornerstone of the Lincoln Square Mall experience. These markets, often including farmers markets, bring together a lively mix of vendors selling groceries, artisanal foods, arts, flowers, and handmade items. TikTokReddit This creates a dynamic and engaging environment, especially on Saturday mornings, offering a glimpse into the local culture and economy. It's a place where visitors can find everything from fresh produce to unique handcrafted souvenirs.

Navigating Lincoln Square Mall: Parking and Accessibility

When planning a visit to Lincoln Square Mall, understanding the parking situation is key. While the mall offers parking facilities, some patrons on Reddit have noted the presence of signs indicating '2-hour parking.' However, there's also a sentiment that this rule might not be strictly enforced. Reddit This can be a point of consideration, especially if you plan to spend an extended period exploring the mall or using it as a transit point.

For those looking to avoid the expense and hassle of parking directly on the University of Illinois campus, Lincoln Square Mall is mentioned as a viable option for parking before catching a bus. Reddit This suggests that while parking might have limitations, its strategic location makes it a convenient staging area for exploring the wider Urbana-Champaign area. It's advisable to be mindful of the posted parking regulations, even if enforcement varies.

Beyond parking, the mall itself is described as offering a comfortable walking space. One reviewer noted walking nearly half a mile along the inner perimeter, visiting every side corridor. Reddit This indicates that while it may not be a sprawling complex, it provides ample room for leisurely exploration of its unique shops and common areas. The mall's historical architecture, dating back to the 1960s, also adds an interesting visual element to the walking experience. TikTok

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