The old Eastland Mall location

The former Eastland Mall site is currently undergoing a significant redevelopment into a mixed-use community known as Eastland Yards. While the original mall structures were demolished in 2013, the site is being transformed with new residential, retail, and extensive recreational facilities. The first residential phase, Evoke Living (55+ multifamily community), opened in November 2024.

Eastland Yards will feature several new recreational facilities. Eastland Park, a 4.5-acre urban park, is anticipated to open in Spring 2027, offering walking trails, picnic areas, a playground, a sprayground, multi-purpose courts, skateable elements, and a dog park. Additionally, "The Complex", expected in 2026, will include six soccer fields, an ice rink, a gym, and a STEM education and eSports Center.

Yes, Eastland Park, which is under construction and set to open in Spring 2027, will include dedicated walking trails. These trails are designed to connect various amenities within the park, providing accessible options for leisurely strolls and exploring the green space.

Absolutely! The redevelopment plans for Eastland Yards prioritize creating a family-friendly environment. Eastland Park will feature a playground, a sprayground, and multi-purpose courts, making it an ideal destination for families with children once it opens in Spring 2027. The overall design aims to be inclusive and welcoming for all ages.

Yes, Eastland Park, part of the Eastland Yards redevelopment, is planned to include a dedicated dog park. This will provide a specific area for dogs to play, and the park's walking trails will likely be suitable for leashed dogs, making it a great spot for dog owners once it opens in Spring 2027.

As the site is actively under construction, specific parking for future recreational areas is still developing. However, the Eastland Community Transit Center is operational on-site, providing public transport access. As Eastland Park and "The Complex" near completion, more defined parking solutions for visitors engaging in outdoor activities will become available.

While specific details on accessibility are still emerging, modern urban park designs, like that of Eastland Park, typically incorporate accessible pathways to ensure inclusivity. It is expected that the walking trails and main areas within the park will be designed to accommodate wheelchairs, making the site accessible for everyone once completed.

Retail is returning to the Eastland Yards site. The Charlotte City Council approved lease agreements in January 2026 for new businesses, including a coffee shop (Higher Grounds), an ice cream shop (Artisen Gelato), a dance studio (Rumbao Latin Dance Company), and a salon (Suites by Alvaranga). These will complement the mixed-use development, offering convenient options for visitors.

The best time to visit will be once the major components of Eastland Yards, such as Eastland Park (Spring 2027) and "The Complex" (2026), are open to the public. These new facilities are designed to offer a wide array of activities year-round, providing recreational opportunities across all seasons. Checking local updates for specific opening dates is recommended.

The redevelopment includes plans for an indoor ice rink within "The Complex," which is expected to open in 2026. This facility will provide a dedicated space for ice skating and other ice-related activities, making Eastland Yards a destination for winter recreation even when outdoor temperatures drop.

The Eastland Mall, opened in 1975, was once the largest mall in North Carolina and a significant retail and social hub for East Charlotte. It was notable for its indoor ice-skating rink and the East Coast's first in-mall food court. The current redevelopment, Eastland Yards, honors this history by incorporating elements like the mall's original "rising sun" logo into the new Eastland Park.