For $225k, you could live in America’s oldest shopping mall

The Arcade in Providence is considered America's oldest enclosed shopping mall, and now it houses 48 residences.

The Arcade is America's oldest enclosed shopping mall. Chris Whirlow

April 8, 2026 | 9:00 AM

2 minutes to read

Call it the dream of every Gen X teen: the chance to live at the mall.

In Providence, The Arcade is a piece of architectural history. Built in 1828 out of granite blocks and stuccoed ashlar, the Greek Revival structure, known as the first enclosed shopping mall in the United States, is the oldest remaining building of its type in the country, according to the Providence Preservation Society. But with around 48 residential units tucked upstairs, it also has the capacity to be someone’s new home.

The exterior of The Arcade. – Chris Whirlow

The entrance to unit 314. – Chris Whirlow

Currently listed for $225,000, 65 Weybosset St., unit 314 is a 265-square-foot microloft located on the third floor of the Arcade. Residents can enter through the main entrance of the building on the first floor and walk through the historic halls, or take one of the exterior stairwells from the outside to reach the one-bedroom, one-bathroom unit. (There is also an elevator.) Stroll the exterior walkway to unit 314 and enter through the condo’s front door to the living space, which features a built-in couch with storage underneath and luxury vinyl plank floors. A large front window looks out onto the rest of the Arcade.

The living space of unit 314. – Chris Whirlow

The unit looks out onto the Arcade. – Chris Whirlow

A kitchenette area features a dishwasher, built-in microwave, and refrigerator surrounded by white cabinetry. There is no stovetop, but there is space for a hot plate or air fryer. Turn to the left to find the bathroom, which has a standing shower.

The back bedroom has a little nook with shelving that can be used for a study/office space. There’s also a small standing closet for clothing, and there’s room for storage under the platform bed. There are two windows in the bedroom with a view of murals across the way.

“It’s a nice spot for people if they want to come to Providence … from Boston or New York,” says Lisa Jones of Residential Properties, Ltd, who has the listing with David Hasslinger. “I’ve seen students use them for housing, or people coming in for internships or short contract work. You can also Airbnb it when you’re not using it.”

There is a mini-split unit in the kitchen for electric heat and air conditioning.

The HOA fee is $198.29 per month. The third-floor unit, which was previously listed in July with another brokerage, had a price increase in March when it went on the market with Jones.

“It’s a great historical spot. It’s very unique. It’s very comfortable. The space really lives well. It’s well utilized, and although you are in a mall, it is typically pretty quiet,” she continued.