Ridgedale Center stands as a premier shopping destination in Minnetonka, Minnesota, serving the western Twin Cities metro area since 1974. Understanding the specific operating hours is essential for planning a productive visit, whether you are heading in for a quick retail errand at Nordstrom or a leisurely dinner at The Cheesecake Factory. While the shopping center maintains a consistent weekly schedule, several factors including seasonal holidays, early access programs for walkers, and individual tenant policies can influence when doors open and close.

Current Regular Operating Hours

For the majority of the year, Ridgedale Center operates on a standardized schedule that caters to both daytime shoppers and evening visitors. According to the most recent operational data, the general hours for the mall concourse and most retail merchants are as follows:

  • Monday: 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM
  • Tuesday: 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM
  • Wednesday: 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM
  • Thursday: 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM
  • Friday: 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM
  • Saturday: 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM
  • Sunday: 11:00 AM – 6:00 PM

It is important to note that while these are the "house hours" for the center itself, the exterior entrances to major department stores and specific high-traffic restaurants often operate on an independent clock. Visitors planning to arrive exactly at 10:00 AM or leave right at 8:00 PM should account for the time required to navigate the parking lots and transition through the main entrances.

Special Hours for Mall Walkers and Early Entry

Ridgedale Center has a long-standing tradition of supporting the local community’s health through its mall walking program. This is particularly valuable during Minnesota’s harsh winter months when outdoor exercise is impractical.

The mall doors typically open for mall walkers one hour prior to the official start of retail business. This means that from Monday through Saturday, walkers can gain access to the climate-controlled concourse starting at 9:00 AM. On Sundays, the doors open for walkers at 10:00 AM.

While the common areas are accessible during these early hours, the individual retail stores remain closed. Security personnel are on-site during this period, ensuring a safe environment for those utilizing the expansive two-level loop for their morning exercise. The mall provides a brightly lit, flat surface that is ideal for seniors and fitness enthusiasts alike, with natural light streaming through the central atrium's glass ceilings.

Detailed 2025 and 2026 Holiday Hours Schedule

Holiday schedules at Ridgedale Center are designed to accommodate peak shopping seasons, particularly during the transition from late November through the end of December. While the mall is closed on a few major national holidays, it often features extended evening hours for events like Black Friday and the final days of the Christmas rush.

Major Holiday Closures

Ridgedale Center traditionally remains closed on the following three days to allow employees time with their families:

  1. Easter Sunday
  2. Thanksgiving Day (Note: Some restaurants may remain open with limited service)
  3. Christmas Day

Predicted Holiday Adjustments for 2025 and 2026

Based on historical operational patterns and local retail trends, the following adjustments are expected for upcoming holidays:

  • New Year’s Day: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM (Reduced evening hours)
  • Martin Luther King Jr. Day: Regular hours (10:00 AM – 8:00 PM)
  • Presidents' Day: Regular hours
  • Memorial Day: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM (Often follows a Sunday-style schedule)
  • Independence Day (July 4th): 11:00 AM – 6:00 PM
  • Labor Day: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
  • Black Friday: 9:00 AM – 9:00 PM (Extended morning and evening hours)
  • Christmas Eve: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM (Early morning opening for last-minute shoppers)
  • New Year’s Eve: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM

The period between Thanksgiving and Christmas often sees a more fluid schedule. During the height of the December shopping season, the mall management may extend Saturday hours to 9:00 PM or adjust weekday openings to 9:00 AM. It is highly recommended to verify specific dates via the center's management office at 952-252-2801 as the dates approach.

Major Department Store and Restaurant Variations

A significant aspect of the Ridgedale experience is that the "anchors" and detached buildings do not always mirror the mall's 10:00 AM to 8:00 PM schedule.

Anchor Store Hours

Stores like Macy’s, Nordstrom, JCPenney, and Dick’s Sporting Goods have their own corporate mandates. In many cases:

  • Nordstrom may open slightly later or close earlier depending on private shopping events or seasonal staffing.
  • Macy’s frequently extends its hours during major sales events (such as the Friends & Family sale), often staying open until 9:00 PM or 10:00 PM when the interior mall gates are already closed.

Dining and Entertainment

The restaurant scene at Ridgedale is a major draw, and most of these establishments stay open well past the mall’s retail closing time.

  • The Cheesecake Factory: Often stays open until 10:00 PM or 11:00 PM on weekdays and even later on Fridays and Saturdays.
  • Redstone American Grill: Features late-night dining and bar hours that extend past the standard retail window.
  • Kona Grill and The Tavern Grill: These locations typically serve guests until 10:00 PM or later, utilizing their independent exterior entrances.

If you are visiting for dinner, ensure you park near the specific restaurant entrance, as the interior mall access corridors are usually locked promptly at the mall’s official closing time.

Services and Amenities Accessibility

Navigating Ridgedale Center efficiently requires knowing where specific services are located and when they are available.

Curbside Pickup Logistics

Curbside pickup remains a popular option for those who prefer not to enter the building. This service is primarily centralized in the North Parking Lot. Each participating retailer has designated "Curbside" spots with specific numbering. You should contact the individual store (e.g., Apple, Nordstrom, or Sephora) once you arrive at your designated spot. The hours for curbside pickup generally align with the individual store's operating hours rather than the mall's general schedule.

Parking and Transportation

  • Free Parking: Ridgedale offers extensive free parking across four main lots. The East and West lots provide the quickest access to the center courts.
  • Public Transit: The bus stop is located near the East mall entrance. Transportation schedules are posted at this location, but they are managed by Metro Transit rather than the mall itself.
  • Bike Racks: For those cycling to the mall, racks are available outside the East entrance.

Accessibility and Security

  • Wheelchairs: Manual and electric wheelchairs are available for guests. These can be secured by contacting Mall Security at 612-597-5152. It is advisable to call ahead or use one of the security call buttons if you require assistance immediately upon arrival at a parking lot.
  • Strollers: Single strollers are available for rent at the Upper Level West entrance for a small fee (typically $10 with a partial refund upon return).
  • Lost and Found: The Security Office handles all lost and found items. If you realize you’ve lost an item after the mall has closed, you can still reach the security line 24/7.

Planning Your Visit to Ridgedale Center

To make the most of your trip to 12401 Wayzata Blvd, consider the geographic and structural layout of the facility. Ridgedale is the youngest of the four famous "Dale" malls in the Twin Cities (alongside Southdale, Rosedale, and the now-redeveloped Brookdale). Its renovation in 2007 and the addition of Nordstrom in 2011 have made it a high-end hub.

Best Times to Shop

  • For Quiet Shopping: Tuesday and Wednesday mornings (10:00 AM – 12:00 PM) are typically the least crowded.
  • For Social Atmosphere: Friday evenings and Saturday afternoons are the peak times, coinciding with the busiest hours for the food court and surrounding restaurants.

Safety and Policies

  • Pet Policy: Only certified service animals are allowed inside the center.
  • Smoking: Ridgedale is a non-smoking facility. This includes the use of electronic cigarettes and vaping devices. Smoking is permitted only in designated areas at least 30 feet away from mall entrances.
  • Parental Guidance: Unlike some other regional malls, Ridgedale does not currently enforce a strict parental guidance policy for minors during weekend hours, though this is subject to change based on management’s assessment of safety needs.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What are Ridgedale Center’s hours today?

Standard hours are 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM from Monday to Saturday, and 11:00 AM – 6:00 PM on Sunday. However, if today is a major holiday like Thanksgiving or Christmas, the mall will be closed.

Does Ridgedale Center have a movie theater?

No, Ridgedale Center does not currently house a movie theater. The nearest cinemas are located in nearby Plymouth or St. Louis Park.

Is there a children's play area at Ridgedale?

The mall does not have a traditional indoor soft-play area for children. However, the Playseum Minnesota and various family-friendly stores offer interactive experiences for younger visitors.

Where are the family restrooms located?

Family restrooms and baby care lounges are located on the first level near JCPenney and on the second level in the Nordstrom wing, near the mall management office.

How do I contact mall security for a jump-start?

If your vehicle’s battery dies in the Ridgedale parking lot, you can contact security at 612-597-5152 for a complimentary jump-start.

Summary

Ridgedale Center provides a consistent and high-quality shopping environment with standard hours of 10:00 AM to 8:00 PM Monday through Saturday, and 11:00 AM to 6:00 PM on Sunday. While these hours serve as a reliable baseline, the presence of anchor stores like Macy’s and Nordstrom, along with popular dining destinations like The Cheesecake Factory, introduces variability that shoppers should account for. By utilizing the early access for mall walkers, understanding the seasonal holiday shifts, and taking advantage of security-led amenities, visitors can ensure a seamless experience at this Minnetonka landmark. Always remember to check the official website or call specific retailers directly for the most current information regarding sales events or holiday-specific openings.