Nestled in the bustling neighborhood of Abasto, the Abasto de Buenos Aires (Abasto Shopping) is the barrio’s crown jewel. It’s hardly surprising, considering the massive building complex with its impressive leaded glass archways and an atrium that is bright and welcoming in the mornings when it’s flooded with natural light. Before moving on to the delights that the mall offers, here’s its interesting history. The building was initially home to the Buenos Aires’ central vegetable market that was started up in 1893. The original structure was torn down in the early 20th century for the current one, with its design by the team that constructed Argentina’s prized stadium, La Bombonera. The new market at the building then offered the best facilities of its time, from escalators to a connection with the underground subway.

The building was eventually shut down and the area became blighted with unsavory characters and activities, until it was restored in 1998 to offer to the public over 250 stores and a children’s museum. If that isn’t enough, you can have a whale of fun with your family at the small theme park within the building, or treat yourself to a movie at one of the twelve screens in the cinema! Shop at one of the many outlets of well-known brands and admire the building as you wander the area. Foodies, keep an eye out for the only Kosher McDonald’s outside Israel. There’s just so much to do at the Abasto de Buenos Aires, so don’t hold back.