The Streets at Southpoint, located in Durham, North Carolina, represents the evolution of the modern American shopping experience. Since its grand opening on March 8, 2002, this super-regional mall has served as a central hub for the Research Triangle area, bridging the gap between Raleigh, Durham, and Chapel Hill. Known for its unique "hybrid" architectural design that blends a climate-controlled indoor mall with an open-air pedestrian "Main Street," it consistently attracts millions of visitors annually.

For those planning a visit, the center is conveniently positioned at 6910 Fayetteville Road, Durham, NC 27713, directly accessible via Interstate 40 at Exit 276. As of late 2024 and heading into 2025, the center is undergoing a significant transformation, moving away from traditional department store models toward high-energy experiential retail, evidenced by the recent arrival of Dick's House of Sport and a growing collection of luxury athleisure brands.

Essential Visitor Information

Navigating a massive complex like The Streets at Southpoint requires up-to-date logistical knowledge. The center maintains consistent hours, though individual department stores and restaurants may vary their schedules.

Standard Operating Hours

  • Monday – Thursday: 11:00 AM – 7:00 PM
  • Friday – Saturday: 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM
  • Sunday: 12:00 PM – 6:00 PM

Mall walking is a popular local activity, particularly during North Carolina's humid summers or chilly winters. The doors generally open at 8:00 AM from Monday through Saturday and at 10:00 AM on Sundays to accommodate those looking for a safe, indoor exercise environment.

Location and Accessibility

The mall's strategic location at the intersection of I-40 and Fayetteville Road makes it one of the most accessible retail points in the state. It serves not only Durham residents but also faculty and students from nearby Duke University, North Carolina Central University, and the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. For travelers or business professionals in the Research Triangle Park (RTP), Southpoint is often the primary choice for mid-day meetings or after-work social gatherings.

The Hybrid Architectural Vision

One cannot discuss Southpoint without acknowledging its award-winning design. Created by RTKL Associates and the A.R.T. Design Group, the mall was envisioned as a "tribute to Durham’s history." Unlike the sterile, windowless boxes typical of 1980s malls, Southpoint feels like a living part of the city.

The Main Street Concept

The outdoor portion of the mall, known as Main Street, is designed to mimic a historic downtown district. It features over 2 million red bricks, which provide a warm, textured aesthetic that honors Durham's tobacco and textile heritage. As you walk along the brick-paved sidewalks, you will notice vintage-inspired murals and hand-painted advertisements on the building facades, creating a sense of nostalgia that is rare in modern commercial developments.

The Bronze Statues and Artistry

Art is woven into the fabric of the shopping center. There are 23 bronze statues of children playing throughout the property. One of the most famous installations depicts children interacting with a water fountain near the Southpoint Boulevard entrance. These statues serve as popular meeting points and photo opportunities, reinforcing the mall’s reputation as a family-friendly environment.

The transition between the indoor and outdoor sections is marked by a massive glass wall, allowing natural light to flood the interior corridors. This design ensures that even during inclement weather, the interior feels connected to the outside world.

The Retail Ecosystem: From Anchors to Athleisure

The Streets at Southpoint has managed to thrive during a period when many American malls have struggled. This success is largely attributed to a proactive leasing strategy that balances traditional reliability with modern consumer trends.

The Anchor Tenants

Currently, the mall is anchored by four major retail pillars:

  1. Nordstrom: A cornerstone of the mall since day one, being the first Nordstrom in North Carolina. It continues to draw high-end shoppers from across the region.
  2. Macy’s: Taking over the former Hecht’s location in 2006, Macy’s provides a broad range of fashion and home goods.
  3. Belk: A regional favorite that connects the mall to its Southern roots.
  4. JCPenney: Offers affordable family essentials and houses popular services like the JCPenney Kids Zone.

The Rise of Experiential Retail: Dick’s House of Sport

Perhaps the most significant change in the mall's recent history is the replacement of the former Sears wing. In October 2025, Dick’s House of Sport opened as a massive, multi-story experiential destination. Unlike a traditional sporting goods store, this concept includes a rock-climbing wall, a batting cage, a putting green, and outdoor turf fields. It represents a shift in Southpoint’s strategy—giving visitors a reason to visit that goes beyond simply buying products.

The Athleisure and Luxury Boom

In 2024 and 2025, the "Main Street" section has seen a surge in premium lifestyle brands. New additions like Alo Yoga, Vuori, and Aritzia have joined established favorites like Lululemon and Warby Parker. The mall also hosts a flagship-style Apple Store, which recently moved into a larger, state-of-the-art format to accommodate the high volume of tech-savvy Triangle residents.

Dining and Gastronomy at Southpoint

Southpoint offers two distinct dining experiences: the fast-paced efficiency of the indoor food court and the relaxed, sit-down atmosphere of the outdoor lifestyle area.

Fork in the Road Food Court

Located on the second floor of the enclosed mall, the food court—themed "Fork in the Road"—is modeled after old tobacco warehouses. The industrial aesthetic, featuring exposed rafters and brickwork, provides a unique backdrop for quick meals. Local and national favorites include:

  • Chick-fil-A: Consistently one of the busiest spots in the mall.
  • Charleys Philly Steaks: A go-to for hearty, hot sandwiches.
  • Mandarin Express: Serving classic American-Chinese fare.
  • Subway and Taco Bell: Familiar staples for families on the go.

Sit-Down Restaurants and the Social District

For those seeking a more formal meal or a vibrant happy hour, the outdoor Main Street area offers a variety of cuisines:

  • The Cheesecake Factory: Famous for its extensive menu and outdoor patio seating.
  • Maggiano's Little Italy: A popular choice for large family gatherings and authentic Italian dishes.
  • California Pizza Kitchen: Known for its innovative hearth-baked pizzas.
  • Firebirds Wood Fired Grill: Offers a high-end dining experience with aged steaks and fresh seafood.

The 2024 Social District Implementation

One of the most modern updates to the Southpoint experience is the introduction of the Social District in 2024. This policy allows shoppers (aged 21 and over) to purchase alcoholic beverages from participating restaurants and carry them throughout designated outdoor areas of the shopping center.

  • How it works: Look for specific signage at restaurant exits indicating you can take your drink "to-go" in a specially marked cup.
  • Boundaries: The social district is primarily focused on the outdoor pedestrian areas; check the mall's digital directory or physical signage to ensure you stay within the permitted zones.

Entertainment and Leisure

Beyond shopping and eating, The Streets at Southpoint serves as a major entertainment destination for Durham.

AMC Theatres and IMAX

The 17-screen AMC Theatres is a cornerstone of the mall’s evening and weekend traffic. It features an IMAX screen, providing the most immersive cinematic experience in the region. The theater underwent significant renovations to include plush recliner seating and an expanded MacGuffins Bar, making it a favorite for both blockbuster premieres and date nights.

The American Tobacco Trail

For outdoor enthusiasts, the mall is a key waypoint on the American Tobacco Trail (ATT). This 22-mile paved rail-trail follows the route of the former American Tobacco Company railroad. Many locals choose to bike or walk the trail from downtown Durham to Southpoint, using the mall as a midpoint for a lunch break or shopping stop. The bridge over I-40, located just south of the mall, offers a unique vantage point of the highway and the shopping center.

Future Developments: The 2025 and Beyond Plan

Brookfield Properties, the mall's owner, is not content with Southpoint remaining "just a mall." Following a major zoning approval in 2023, the property is set to evolve into a true mixed-use community.

Expansion Details

The upcoming development plan includes:

  • Residential Units: Over 1,300 luxury apartments are planned for the peripheral areas of the property, creating a "live-work-play" environment.
  • Hotel Space: Up to 200 hotel rooms will cater to business travelers visiting RTP and families visiting local universities.
  • Office Space: 300,000 square feet of modern office space is slated to attract tech and biotech firms who want to be close to both the mall's amenities and the RTP corridor.
  • Retail Growth: An additional 100,000 square feet of retail space will be added to accommodate even more international brands and local boutiques.

This evolution mirrors the success of other regional developments like North Hills in Raleigh or Fenton in Cary, ensuring Southpoint remains competitive in an increasingly sophisticated market.

Practical Tips for Your Visit

To maximize your experience at The Streets at Southpoint, consider the following expert tips:

Parking Strategy

While the mall has over 6,400 parking spaces, it can become crowded on holiday weekends and Saturday afternoons.

  • Pro Tip: If the Main Street parking lots are full, try the deck near Nordstrom or the lots behind JCPenney. These areas often have more turnover.
  • Curbside Pickup: Most major retailers and the Apple Store offer dedicated curbside pickup spots for those who prefer to shop online and grab their items quickly.

Family Services

The mall is exceptionally well-equipped for families.

  • Strollers: Available for rent at multiple mall entrances.
  • Nursing Rooms: Located near the food court and within the major department stores like Nordstrom.
  • Play Area: There is a dedicated children’s play area on the ground floor, which is a lifesaver for parents with toddlers.

Pet Policy

While the outdoor Main Street area is public-facing, only service animals are permitted inside the mall buildings and most stores. However, the nearby American Tobacco Trail is pet-friendly, making it a great option if you are traveling with a dog.

Summary of Recent Additions (2024-2025)

Store/Feature Category Status
Dick's House of Sport Experiential Retail Opened Oct 2025
Alo Yoga Athleisure Opened 2024
Vuori Premium Activewear Opened 2025
Aritzia Women's Fashion Opened 2025
Social District Hospitality Active since 2024
Apple Store Technology Expanded Format 2024

Conclusion

The Streets at Southpoint is more than just a place to buy clothes; it is a meticulously designed environment that reflects the culture and growth of Durham. By successfully blending a nostalgic architectural aesthetic with cutting-edge retail concepts like the Dick’s House of Sport and the new Social District, it has secured its place as the premier shopping destination in the Research Triangle. Whether you are a local resident walking the American Tobacco Trail or a visitor looking for the latest in fashion and technology, Southpoint offers a comprehensive, high-quality experience that continues to set the standard for retail in the Southeast.

FAQ

What are the main anchor stores at Southpoint Durham?

The primary anchors are Nordstrom, Belk, Macy’s, and JCPenney. The former Sears location has been transformed into a Dick’s House of Sport, which serves as a fifth major attraction.

Is the Streets at Southpoint pet-friendly?

Inside the enclosed mall and most stores, only service animals are allowed. However, the outdoor Main Street area and the adjacent American Tobacco Trail are accessible for leashed pets.

Can you walk from the American Tobacco Trail to the mall?

Yes, the American Tobacco Trail passes directly by the shopping center. There are access points that allow bikers and pedestrians to transition from the trail to the mall’s outdoor section easily.

What is the Social District at Southpoint?

The Social District is a designated area where adults 21+ can purchase alcoholic beverages from participating restaurants and carry them in specific cups while walking and shopping in the outdoor portions of the mall.

When does the mall open for walkers?

The mall doors typically open for walkers at 8:00 AM Monday through Saturday and at 10:00 AM on Sunday, several hours before the retail stores officially open for business.

Are there EV charging stations at Southpoint?

Yes, there are several electric vehicle (EV) charging stations located in the parking lots, particularly near the Nordstrom and Macy’s entrances. It is recommended to use an app like PlugShare to check real-time availability.