History of Winrock

Albuquerque’s first mall, originally purchased by Rockefeller in 1937, has always held a special place in the hearts of New Mexicans. Now, with a visionary infusion of 11 billion dollars from 2023 to 2025, we’re poised to embark on an exciting new chapter. This significant investment isn’t just about buildings and businesses; it’s about revitalizing a cherished part of New Mexico’s heritage and bringing fresh vitality to the Land of Enchantment. We’re committed to preserving the spirit of Albuquerque’s past while forging a vibrant future, and we invite you to join us on this journey.

A New Landmark

Named after initial developer Winthrop Rockefeller, Winrock broke ground in 1959 and was completed in 1961 as Albuquerque’s first shopping mall. Designed by renowned mall-architect Victor Gruen, the center was initially an open-air mall anchored by Montgomery Wards, Safeway, and J.C. Penney. With a modern design and a mix of 50 regional and local retailers, the mall served as a destination for the rapidly expanding suburbs of Northeastern Albuquerque.

In 1963 a hotel was opened and branded the White Winrock Motor Hotel as one of the only mall-attached hotels in the country. The Winrock Medical Plaza and Fox Winrock Theater also opened within the next couple years.

Expansion, Evolution, and Decline

Throughout the 1970s, Winrock saw many developmental changes, including a 1972 expansion of the north wing to accommodate the introduction of Dillard’s, as well as a 1975 remodel that converted the entire shopping mall to an enclosed indoor center. This addition introduced the burnt-orange pyramid court on the eastern end of the mall.

The 1980s brought Winrock to its peak, with yet another expansion adding a second story to the northern wing, additional stores, and a completely remodeled interior. The center sat at about 1 million square feet and offered 150 stores.

Throughout the 90s Winrock, like many other malls, saw a steep decline. Between 1991 and 1994, a series of renovations attempted to refresh the mall’s entrance and interior. Dillard’s was split into two stores: women’s and men’s, children’s and electronics, to fill the closed J.C. Penney space. By the late 90s, the upper level of the mall was permanently closed off as well as half of the food court. From 2001 to 2006, the mall refused to renew leases of existing tenants in hopes to convert the indoor mall to an open-air center once again.

Winrock Reimagined

Finally, in 2007 Winrock was purchased by Goodman Realty Group with the hopes to convert the site into an open-air town center. The mall was rebranded ‘Winrock Town Center’ with the vision of creating a lifestyle-oriented town center including office, retail, restaurant, medical, residential, entertainment, hotels, and a 2-acre community park in the center of it all.

The centerpiece of the campus is the picturesque lake, surrounded by a scenic walking trail that’s perfect for peaceful strolls and outdoor enthusiasts. For laughter and entertainment, our exclusive comedy club hosts top-notch acts. Numerous businesses, boutiques, and shops are scattered throughout the campus, providing a one-stop destination for all your retail needs.

Satisfy your taste buds with a diverse selection of restaurants while our terraced bar offers breathtaking lake views, making it the ideal spot for socializing and business.

Throughout the year, we host captivating holiday events, ensuring there’s always something to look forward to at Winrock. Plus, your well-being is our top priority, with various medical, fitness, and beauty centers on-site. This is where lifestyle and convenience harmoniously coexist, creating a vibrant and thriving community for all to enjoy. Click here to inquire about becoming a part of our future today.