Garden City Center in Cranston has been a shopping destination for Rhode Islanders ever since it opened in 1948.

Set up like a New England village, with a center green featuring a gazebo, chairs for relaxing and games, Garden City Center includes a mix of dining and retail shopping options. In its early years, the shopping center included a cinema (where Whole Foods is now) and a bowling alley, but the gazebo wasn't added until the 1980s.

Perhaps you remember stores like Almacs and Gladings? Two original stores still serve customers today: Newport Creamery and Sweenor’s Chocolates.

The Cranston shopping center does advertise a "Holiday Happenings" event running from Nov. 21 through Nov. 28 this year. Guests can take photos with Santa Claus, attend a holiday tree lighting, and write

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