Chris Leder here. My kids, my dad, and I went to see Stratford Square Mall in Bloomingdale on March 24, 2024. It opened in 1981 and was absolutely beautiful inside, full of water features, skylights, and foliage. However, the mall is due to be permanently closed on April 15, 2024.

I grew up in Carol Stream, about 3 miles from Stratford Square. This was my mall, my gathering place, my hangout, and a place of many, many fond memories with old friends and loved ones. It's difficult to see the place so dead and abandoned...

To anyone watching this who grew up in the area, please post your favorite Stratford Square memories and recollections below!