Braintree's South Shore Plaza Gears Up For Summer

BRAINTREE, MA - As the school year winds down, South Shore Plaza is gearing up for summer fun with many family-friendly summer activities to beat the heat and get a treat.

Jackie Fitzgerald, the shopping center's marketing director for the past year, described the upcoming activities and new retailers that are transforming the mall where she grew up while living in Stoughton.

In the past six months, several new retailers opened "that kind of run the gamut on programming and offer something for everyone." she explained.

One that has become a fast favorite is Space Zero, a trampoline park that opened in April. In addition to trampolines, Space Zero features obstacle courses, arcade games, virtual reality, and a miniature rock wall for kids to beat the summer heat. Space Zero currently is offering promotions including monthly passes for $40 and summer passes for $100. Each pass, which expires on August 30, allows kids to jump in the trampoline park every day for 90 minutes.

"It's the perfect summer destination for a lot of families on the South Shore," she said. "You can also have kid's birthday parties there, and it is super weather resilient."

The highly anticipated OrangeTheory Fitness is opening Saturday to offer participants a 60-minute workout designed to burn calories during and after your work out to achieve a new summer look.

Another popular recent addition is Rue 21, a trendy clothing store that also showcases affordable accessories.

Just in time for the Celtics championship series, I Love Boston Sports has all the Boston sports swag you could want, including Celtics gear. It also allows shoppers to support a small business.

For those looking for presents and housewares, Fitzgerald said Miniso "a really fun giftable location," sells "super cute plushies," beauty items and accessories. The LEGO Store also is popular.

Another "mall classic" is Build-a-Bear Workshop that features a wide variety of stuffed animals, including Disney characters and Pokemon.

"It's a great place to spend a hot or rainy day and beat the summer heat," she added.

There are several dining options that attract both kids and adults. They include:

• Red Robin Gourmet Burgers and Brews is offering new menu items including BBQ for the whole family to enjoy
• The Cheesecake Factory hosts brunch every Saturday and Sunday from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. with delicious menu favorites like fried chicken eggs benedict, lemon ricotta pancakes, and bruleed French toast
• Dave and Buster’s, a plaza anchor, offers entertainment for the entire family with arcade games, a sports bar and a restaurant

The food court also has a play area so adults can relax while the kids have fun.

Fitzgerald noted that several retailers now have summer swag specials. One, Yankee Candle, features select merchandise at up to 75% off through July 4.

"We want our shoppers to come back each week and try something new," she said.

Check back to this link for updated activity information.