Arcade Independence Square
A beautifully restored colonial building housing trendy shops, diverse dining, and serene gardens in Colombo.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Peaceful exploration & photos
Arcade Independence Square
Best Time
Peaceful exploration & photos
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A beautifully restored colonial building housing trendy shops, diverse dining, and serene gardens in Colombo.
"A unique and beautiful place, perfect for shopping, dining, and relaxing with a peaceful atmosphere."
📸 Perfect for Photoshoots
The architecture and gardens are stunning, especially in the evening light. Great for portraits!
🚶♀️ Peaceful Stroll
Enjoy a calm walk through the gardens and courtyards, a welcome escape from the city bustle.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Restored Colonial Architecture
Entire complex
A beautifully restored colonial building offering a unique blend of history and modern elegance. Perfect for photos!
Tranquil Gardens and Fountains
Outdoor area
A peaceful oasis with well-maintained gardens and charming fountains, ideal for relaxing and unwinding.
Boutique Shopping Experience
Interior shops
Discover a curated selection of local and international brands in a classy, unhurried shopping environment.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Key for Photos
Access and Parking
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
📸 Perfect for Photoshoots
The architecture and gardens are stunning, especially in the evening light. Great for portraits!
🚶♀️ Peaceful Stroll
Enjoy a calm walk through the gardens and courtyards, a welcome escape from the city bustle.
🍽️ Diverse Dining Options
From quick snacks to full meals, find a variety of culinary delights to suit your taste.
🚗 Easy Access & Parking
Convenient entry points and ample parking make your visit hassle-free.
Tips
from all over the internet
📸 Perfect for Photoshoots
The architecture and gardens are stunning, especially in the evening light. Great for portraits!
🚶♀️ Peaceful Stroll
Enjoy a calm walk through the gardens and courtyards, a welcome escape from the city bustle.
🍽️ Diverse Dining Options
From quick snacks to full meals, find a variety of culinary delights to suit your taste.
🚗 Easy Access & Parking
Convenient entry points and ample parking make your visit hassle-free.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Arcade Independence Square for its beautifully restored colonial architecture and tranquil atmosphere, making it a unique shopping and dining destination. The gardens and fountains offer a peaceful escape, and the diverse food options are a plus. While some find the shop selection limited, the overall experience is highly recommended for its elegance and historical charm.
"This area desperately needed a shopping mall and somewhere calm to have a walk. Independence Arcade is a place no one has ever expected. This shopping mall is one of a kind and serves everyone. I remember we went to the place as broke university students and had a good time and after 8 years going to this place to have a good time with having some money in my pocket. Unique and beautiful."
T W H
"A beautifully restored colonial building with a peaceful atmosphere. Great place for shopping, dining, and relaxing. Clean, elegant, and perfect for taking photos. Highly recommend visiting if you're in Colombo!"
Shamal Asith
"So, I recently visited Arcade Independence Square in Colombo, and honestly, it’s a really nice place! The first thing you notice is the architecture — it’s this beautiful old colonial-style building that’s been renovated, and it looks amazing, especially in the evening with the lights on.
It’s not your typical busy mall either. The vibe is very calm and peaceful, more like a classy hangout spot. There are some nice shops inside — not a huge variety, but a good mix of local brands and a few international ones. And the food options are decent too; you’ll find places for a quick snack or even a proper meal.
What I really liked was the outdoor area — it’s super chill, with fountains, benches, and well-maintained gardens. Great for photos or just relaxing with friends or family. Overall, I’d say it’s a perfect place if you want a quiet, classy spot to shop, eat, or just unwind."
Roneth Waidyajeewa
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
You can enter Arcade Independence Square from Baudhdhaloak Mawatha or the Independence Square side. There is plenty of parking available.
Yes, ample parking is available for visitors.
While specific bus routes aren't detailed, taxis and ride-sharing services are readily available in Colombo and can easily take you to the location.
The restored building generally offers good accessibility, with ramps and elevators in modern sections. However, it's always best to confirm specific needs upon arrival.
If you are visiting Independence Square itself, it's a very short walk. Other major attractions might require a taxi or tuk-tuk.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, entry to Arcade Independence Square is generally free. You only pay for purchases within the shops or dining establishments.
While some shops and restaurants have specific hours, the complex itself is often accessible for strolls, especially in the evenings. Some establishments are open 24/7.
The landscaped gardens and outdoor areas are free to access as part of the public space.
Yes, it is typically open on public holidays, though individual shop hours may vary. It's advisable to check specific store timings if you have a particular place in mind.
Most shops and restaurants tend to open around 10 AM and close by 8 PM or 9 PM on weekdays, with potentially later hours on weekends.
📸 📸 Photography
The restored colonial architecture, the central courtyard, and the beautifully landscaped gardens with fountains are prime photography locations. The evening light is particularly magical.
Yes, professional cameras are generally allowed for personal photography. For commercial or large-scale photoshoots, it's advisable to inquire with management beforehand.
Photography is usually permitted for personal use, but it's always polite to ask shop staff before taking extensive photos, especially of merchandise.
The 'golden hour' just before sunset offers beautiful warm light for the exterior architecture. Mornings are great for capturing the tranquility of the gardens without crowds.
Drone usage is typically restricted in public spaces in Colombo for safety and privacy reasons. It's best to assume drones are not permitted.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
You'll find a diverse range of dining options, from local Sri Lankan cuisine to international flavors, catering to various tastes and budgets.
Yes, alongside more upscale dining, there are cafes and eateries offering snacks and lighter meals that are more budget-friendly.
Most restaurants in Colombo, including those at Arcade Independence Square, are accustomed to catering to dietary needs and usually offer vegetarian and vegan choices.
Absolutely! Several cafes and smaller eateries are available for a quick coffee, pastry, or light snack.
One establishment is noted to be open 24/7, providing continuous dining options.
🎫 🛍️ Shopping
The Arcade features a mix of local Sri Lankan brands and some international labels, offering clothing, accessories, and gifts.
Yes, you can find unique local crafts and souvenirs that reflect Sri Lankan culture.
As it's a trendy shopping destination, prices might be slightly higher than in local markets, but you're paying for the curated selection and ambiance.
While specific store names can change, look for popular Sri Lankan fashion boutiques and lifestyle stores.
The focus is more on fashion, lifestyle, and gifts rather than electronics or daily necessities.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While not a dedicated children's entertainment zone, the calm atmosphere and beautiful surroundings make it a relaxing environment for parents. Consider visiting in the late afternoon to enjoy the gardens before dinner, making it a well-rounded family experience.
📸 Photographers and Content Creators
Visit during weekday mornings to avoid crowds and have more freedom to set up shots. The variety of textures and historical elements ensures diverse visual content, from architectural details to serene landscape shots. Remember to be respectful of other visitors and any ongoing events.
🛍️ Shoppers Seeking Unique Finds
While the variety might not be as extensive as larger malls, the quality and uniqueness of the items, coupled with the elegant shopping environment, make it a worthwhile destination for discerning shoppers.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Blend of History and Modernity
This unique setting makes it more than just a mall; it's a place to soak in history while enjoying modern conveniences. The landscaped gardens and fountains surrounding the building add to its charm, providing a tranquil escape from the city's hustle and bustle. It’s a popular spot for leisurely strolls, especially in the cooler evenings, and a favored location for photographers seeking picturesque backdrops.
The transformation of this historic building into a trendy hub is a significant urban development project that has revitalized the area. It serves as a prime example of adaptive reuse, demonstrating how historical structures can be given new life to meet contemporary needs, thus preserving cultural heritage for future generations.
Experiencing the Ambiance and Vibe
The outdoor area, with its fountains and manicured gardens, is particularly praised for its tranquility. It's a perfect place to unwind, enjoy a quiet moment, or have a pleasant conversation with friends and family. Many visitors find it an excellent spot for taking photos, especially during the golden hour when the light casts a warm glow on the architecture.
While it offers a sophisticated vibe, it remains accessible and welcoming to all. Whether you're a student on a budget or looking for a high-end experience, the Arcade provides a pleasant environment for everyone to enjoy. The blend of historical charm and modern comfort creates a memorable visit.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit