When the weather turns sour, staying active doesn’t have to mean braving the rain. An indoor mall walk offers a perfect solution for exercise enthusiasts looking to log steps without getting wet. Across the U.S., large shopping centers are doubling as fitness hubs, with mapped loops often spanning a mile or more, complete with benches for quick breaks. Whether you’re a seasoned walker or just dodging a downpour, these climate-controlled paths provide a unique way to stay moving. Here are 12 standout indoor walking paths in major malls to try on rainy days.
1. Mall of America – Bloomington, MN
Spanning 5.6 million square feet, Mall of America is a walker’s paradise. Its indoor loop offers a full mile per lap, with clear signage to track your progress. Walk past amusement park rides and over 500 stores while staying dry. The mall even hosts walking clubs for early birds before shopping hours.
2. King of Prussia Mall – King of Prussia, PA
One of the largest malls on the East Coast, King of Prussia boasts a sprawling layout ideal for an indoor mall walk. A single loop covers about 1.1 miles, weaving through luxury and budget shops alike. Benches are plentiful for a quick rest.
3. Sawgrass Mills – Sunrise, FL
This Florida giant offers a 1.4-mile loop through its distinctive alligator-shaped design. Sawgrass Mills combines outlet shopping with a weather-proof walking path, making it a top pick for rainy South Florida days. Maps are available at guest services.
4. The Galleria – Houston, TX
Houston’s Galleria features a polished indoor track of roughly one mile per lap. With an ice rink and high-end stores as scenery, walkers can enjoy a scenic yet sheltered workout. The mall’s multiple levels add a slight elevation challenge.
5. Destiny USA – Syracuse, NY
In snowy Syracuse, Destiny USA provides a warm escape with a 1.2-mile walking path. The mall’s mix of entertainment and retail keeps the route engaging. Check their website for guided walking group schedules during off-peak hours.
6. Westfield Garden State Plaza – Paramus, NJ
This New Jersey mall offers a clean, well-lit path for walkers, clocking in at just over a mile per loop. Westfield Garden State Plaza is a local favorite for staying active during dreary weather, with plenty of seating areas.
7. South Coast Plaza – Costa Mesa, CA
California’s South Coast Plaza delivers a luxurious backdrop for your indoor mall walk. Covering about one mile per lap, the path winds through upscale boutiques and art installations. It’s a stylish way to dodge the occasional rain.
8. Aventura Mall – Aventura, FL
Another Florida standout, Aventura Mall features a 1.3-mile loop with vibrant decor and modern amenities. Walkers can enjoy the indoor rainforest fountain as a landmark while racking up steps away from humid downpours.
9. Roosevelt Field – Garden City, NY
On Long Island, Roosevelt Field offers a bustling yet accessible walking route of roughly one mile. The mall’s layout ensures a varied path past major retailers and food courts, ideal for a dry workout.
10. Woodfield Mall – Schaumburg, IL
Near Chicago, Woodfield Mall provides a 1.1-mile loop through its two-story design. It’s a haven during harsh Midwest winters or rainy spells, with walking programs supported by local health groups like the American Heart Association.
11. Tysons Corner Center – Tysons, VA
Just outside Washington, D.C., Tysons Corner Center has a mile-long indoor path that’s popular among local fitness buffs. The mall’s bright atrium and diverse stores make every lap feel fresh, rain or shine.
12. Ala Moana Center – Honolulu, HI
Even in paradise, rain happens. Ala Moana Center offers a unique open-air yet covered walking loop of about one mile. Surrounded by tropical vibes and ocean views, it’s a standout spot for an indoor mall walk when showers hit.
These 12 malls prove you don’t need to sacrifice fitness when the weather turns. Many partner with health organizations to promote walking, often providing free resources or group events. For broader tips on staying active indoors, check out guidelines from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Lace up your sneakers and hit the nearest mall for a rain-free stride.