by Lori Kaye

Created on: August 11, 2009   Last Updated: December 19, 2009

Dream of Walden. Eighteen million people arrive annually to fulfill their dream. But they aren't here to spend lazy afternoons on a pond, finding themselves. Instead, they come to Walden Galleria to explore the shops, restaurants, and entertainment available in the mall.

Built in 1989, Walden Galleria celebrates its 20th anniversary in 2009. The largest shopping center in the area, the mall even draws shoppers from Canada. Immediately next door is the Millennium Hotel, so travelers can stay overnight after their shopping excursion. Or they can choose any of the other nearby hotels.

With walking shoes firmly tied, shoppers can enjoy more than two hundred stores, and over thirty eating establishments. That's over 1,600,000 square feet of shopping pleasure. Two stories are accessible on both levels from the parking lots. Inside, an enclosed glass elevator adds a touch of luxury.

The mall has something for everyone. The anchor stores include Dick's Sporting Goods, for the athletic type, and Best Buy, for electronics buffs. Well known department store anchors include Macy's, Sears, JC Penney, and Lord & Taylor.

The Fashionista can check out the latest fashion trends at Abercrombie and Fitch Co, Zumiez, Banana Republic, Old Navy, American Eagle Outfitters, Victoria's Secret, and Frederick's of Hollywood. And for their kids - Abercrombie Kids, Gap Kids, and Limited Too.

Whose closet is complete without shoes? Nearly any style can be found at Clark's, Easy Spirit, ECCO, Stride Rite, Nine West, and Payless Shoes.

Jewelry & Accessories are to be had at Claire's, Gordon's Jewelers, Zales, Dakota Watch Co., and Pandora.

If your needs are particular, you might find things at these specialty retailers more to your taste: FYE: For Your Entertainment, Apple Computer, Williams-Sonoma, Bath & Body Works, Build-A-Bear, Sephora, Yankee Candle Company, and Pottery Barn.

For a little pampering, you can decide between Emy's Nails, DeBerardini's Salon, Lee Nails, Lenscrafters, Regis Hairstylists, Sear's optical center, or JC Penney's full-service salon, and optical center. Then, once you're gussied up, head over to JC Penney's or Sears' portrait studio.

You may get hungry during your shopping excursion. Walden Galleria offers over thirty places to eat. The International Food Court, situated on the upper level, includes Arby's, Cajun Caf, Charley's Steakery, Dairy Queen, Easy Wok, Hershey's Ice Cream, Landie's Candies, Orange Julius, Oyishi Japan, Sbarro Italian Eatery, Subway, and Taco Bell.

If you're too famished, and just can't make it that far, stop as you pass by one of the food locations scattered throughout the mall. These include Auntie Anne's Pretzels, Bento Zushi, Comfort Zone, Dippin' Dots, Dunkin' Donuts, Godiva Chocolates, Jack Astor's Bar and Grill, Johnny Rocket's, Mr. Smoothie, Mrs. Field's, Pretzel Time, Starbucks, Teavana, and Tim Horton's.

You can take advantage of a "date night" dinner and movie promo. Over in the theater wing are Bar Louie, Bravo, Cheesecake Factory, Hyde Park Steakhouse, and The Melting Pot.

Regal Cinemas has newly remodeled with 16 large screens and stadium style, reclining seats.

Mall Hours are Monday-Saturday 10:00 AM to 9:30 PM & Sunday 10:00 AM to 7:00 PM. It's at

Walden Galleria is located at One Galleria Drive in Cheektowaga, just off I-90 at exit 52. You might not find yourself, but you'll find more than you could possibly need.

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