After its recent renovations, Westgate Mall has become a social hub, complete with a fair selection of shops and eateries that appeal to consumers of all ages and tastes.

The larger retail stores like Target, Ross and Nike are places for entertaining endeavors and remain the anchor stores of the mall. From brand-name products to the generics, you and your friends can find all you need.

Among the array of 85 stores at Westgate Mall, Gong Cha, a tea and coffee cafe, is especially popular. Its quick service and spacious seating arrangement contribute to the perfect atmosphere for sharing nice conversations and valuable time with friends.

The mall is also not as hectic as malls like Valley Fair Mall, and parking is rarely a pain. As a result, shoppers are less stressed and are better able to enjoy their outing. For sophomore Michelle Vu, the simplistic layout and assortment of shops are what she treasures most about spending time there.

“Since there are so many small stores to go to, it’s more fun to go with friends,” Vu said. “It's less about shopping but more about exploring with [friends] and making weird but fun memories.”