A big milestone in the redevelopment of Tysons Corner Center took place yesterday when officials from Macerich, Fairfax County, and local leaders of the development community held the ribbon cutting (and confetti flying) ceremony for the new One Tysons Plaza. The 1.5 acre plaza, hovering 32′ above what used to be a parking lot and is now the turn in for the Hyatt Hotel, has been of particular interest to us due to the lack of outdoor gathering spaces in Tysons.
The plaza was designed by landscape architects Sasaki Associates Inc. and Rios Clementi Hale Studios and is really a space that feels more comfortable than one would imagine. It is divided in 3 distinct regions of play, relax, and serenity defined by childrens play areas, fire pits and seating, and isolated garden walkways and lawn. In addition to the plaza, the mall has opened a new entrance which is located on the 2nd floor between the AMC and Lord & Taylor.
A few things that won’t be open with this soft opening:
- * Shake Shack – It was anticipated it could open this weekend but construction is on going and they are looking at 2 weeks out at this time.
- * Zara – Sorry ladies, not until September.
- * Earls, Eddie V’s, and American Bistro are all dependent on the completion of construction at the towers surrounding the plaza.
- * The final facade of the plaza, as seen from the ground floor, is still a work in progress as is some of the lighting elements.
A few reasons the soft opening is still something to come see this weekend:
- * Live music tonight starting at 7PM with Alex & Sierra and opening act Black Alley
- * Free movies on the green on Saturday nights starting at 8PM with this weekends movie being Dirty Dancing
- * It’s a great location to sit and enjoy a fire pit or some games with the kids like giant chess
- * Outside food is allowed (although no outside alcohol)