The DFW area is known for many things, including its shopping culture and wide variety of retail experiences. Whether you are a local or a visitor, Frisco, Texas offers a wide range of malls to explore, each with its own unique offerings. We have spent some time browsing around the area and compiled a review of the most notable malls: Willow Bend, The Galleria, Stonebriar Centre, and NorthPark Center. Here are our opinions of these shopping spots.

Willow Bend Mall

Rating: 2/5

Located just a short drive from Frisco, Willow Bend is one of the older shopping centers in the area. Unfortunately, our experience left much to be desired. The selection of stores felt limited, with many spaces occupied by smaller, less well-known retailers that did not quite hit the mark for a premium shopping experience. The mall itself also felt somewhat “dead,” with little foot traffic and a quiet atmosphere that seemed dull. It did not have the energy or variety that many shoppers might expect from a high-end mall in this area. The food court was decent, but again, nothing extraordinary. If you are looking for a very calm shopping experience, Willow Bend might not be your best bet. It is more of a spot for casual browsing or a quick stop, but it certainly does not match the vibrancy of other nearby malls.

The Galleria

Rating: 3.5/5

The Galleria Dallas is a well-known landmark, especially around the holiday season. The mall features a striking ice skating rink at its center and a stunning Christmas tree that draws crowds every year. During this time, the Galleria becomes a magical place, and it is clear why it gets so much attention. The festive atmosphere, with twinkling lights and winter wonderland vibes, is hard to beat. If you are in the area during the holidays, the Galleria is definitely worth a visit for the seasonal spirit.

However, outside of the holiday rush, the Galleria does not quite live up to the same excitement. While it has a solid selection of stores—ranging from luxury brands like Chanel and Louis Vuitton to more accessible retailers—there is an overall sense that the mall feels a bit dated compared to other shopping destinations. The energy can be a bit flat, especially on non-holiday days. While it is a good place to go for an upscale shopping spree or a day of skating, it is not the mall we would suggest making the drive for.

Stonebriar Centre

Rating: 4.5/5

When it comes to a well-rounded shopping experience in the Frisco area, Stonebriar Centre stands out. With a mix of high-end retailers, popular chains, and an excellent food court, Stonebriar delivers the most consistent and diverse mall experience. The atmosphere is lively and energetic, with plenty of people wandering the halls. Stores like Coach and Zara give it a sophisticated edge, while retailers like H&M and Macy’s cater to a broader audience. The food court is well-maintained and has a great variety of options. Additionally, the mall features an impressive movie theater, making it a great place to spend an entire day. Stonebriar’s central location within Frisco makes it an easy go-to. If you are looking for a mall with a wide selection and an enjoyable vibe, Stonebriar Centre will not disappoint.

NorthPark Center

Rating: 5/5

NorthPark Center in Dallas is hands down our favorite mall in the area. Even with the further drive, NorthPark offers a luxurious, world-class shopping experience. From luxury boutiques like Gucci and Prada to department stores like Nordstrom and Neiman Marcus, the selection of stores at NorthPark is unparalleled.

But it is not just the high-end shops that make NorthPark stand out—the architecture is stunning, with open spaces, beautiful art installations, and natural light. Whether you are shopping for the latest fashion trends or just strolling through the beautiful spaces, you are guaranteed to have a great experience.

The dining options are also top-tier, with fine-dining restaurants like The Capital Grille, Eataly, and seasonal pop-up options to keep things fresh. NorthPark feels less like a mall and more like a destination—one where you can truly enjoy the entire experience, from shopping to dining to simply taking in the atmosphere.

If you are in Frisco and looking for a fun day of shopping, Stonebriar Centre should be your first stop. However, if you are willing to make the drive into Dallas, NorthPark Center is a must-visit for a high-end, sophisticated experience. While other malls in the area have their moments, they fall short when compared to these two favorites.