A massive expansion of AVENTURA MALL was done between 1996 and the year 2000. A Southeast Wing was built; this anchored by Bloomingdale's, Burdines and a 24-screen megaplex. Three existing anchors were enlarged and three parking garages constructed. When dust settled, the shopping hub encompassed approximately 2.3 million leasable square feet, with a tenant list of over 250 stores and services.

In November 1997, Bloomingdale's became the first operational Southeast Wing store.

Photo from www.aventuramall.com