Despite reputation, Cupertino Square offers more entertainment than people give credit for, 5.1 miles

Cupertino Square, formerly known as Vallco Fashion Park, has a reputation for being a lifeless and boring mall. After undergoing multiple ownership changes in the last few years as well as major renovations, the mall still does not draw a substantial number of customers. Lacking popular shopping venues, the fact that the square does little to increase the small number of people it attracts is understandable.

Despite the mall’s poor reputation, Cupertino Square offers more entertainment than many people give it credit for. The mall houses a bowling alley, an ice skating rink and an AMC movie theater.

“Even though there are barely any stores to shop at,” said sophomore Vivian Hsu, “I like going to [Cupertino Square] for the bowling.”

Although the bowling alley, Strike, is more expensive than other sites, the one at Cupertino Square is packed with entertainment. The place features glow-in-the-dark bowling and a top-of-the-line arcade.

The theater, AMC Cupertino Square 16, was added only a couple of years ago. Being new, the bathrooms are much nicer and cleaner than those of other movie theaters. The layout of the theater has a more modern and organized arrangement and the ticket lines are usually very fast. The AMC theater has made Cupertino Square a much more fun place to go.

“I think it was a really outdated place before the movie theater came in,” said junior Ricky Chiu. “Ice skating is always fun too. It’s funny to see people who don’t know how to skate fall.”

The ice skating rink, Ice Centers Enterprises, is the closest ice skating locale to school. Indoor and year-round, the rink is a great place to hang out with friends.

“The ice skating rink at [Cupertino Square] is good for going out with friends,” said sophomore Kelsey Owyang. “It’s better for outings than the one in San Jose [because] it’s close and there aren’t as many people that [almost crash into you].”

There are plenty of other activities to pursue at Cupertino Square, such as the photo booth corner. The mall also has restaurants such as TGIF, Todai and Fresh Choice.

Only 5.1 miles away by Saratoga Sunnyvale Rd and Blaney Ave, Cupertino Square is convenient since it contains a variety of recreational activities. The lack of people may be a blessing in disguise as it constitutes shorter lines and easier accessibility.

“With all the new renovations, improved shopping areas and dining hall, [Cupertino Square] is beginning to become a better place to hang out,” said Chiu.