Located at the heart of Metro Manila, SM Megamall stands as one of the most iconic shopping and lifestyle destinations in the Philippines.

From fashion and food to entertainment and family attractions, it continues to evolve with the times—offering something for every visitor, whether you're a parent with kids, a young professional, or a tourist exploring Ortigas.

In this comprehensive guide, we take a deep dive into SM Megamall's history, transformation, and what you can expect in 2025, including must-visit restaurants, shops, and family-friendly zones.

RELATED: 10 Facts About SM Supermalls (You Might Want To Know)

A Brief History of SM Megamall

SM Megamall opened its doors to the public on June 28, 1991, making it one of the earliest large-scale shopping malls in the country. Developed by SM Prime Holdings, it was the third SM Supermall ever built—following SM North EDSA and SM City Sta. Mesa.

SM Megamall in its early years

At the time of its opening, it was the largest mall in the Philippines, with two main buildings: Mega A and Mega B. Over the years, the mall has gone through massive expansions, transforming it from a shopping center into a lifestyle and entertainment hub.

RELATED: List of SM Supermalls in the Philippines (Including Addresses + Opening Dates)

🕰️ Timeline of Developments

1991: SM Megamall officially opens (Mega A and B)

2008: Mega Atrium is added (connecting A and B)

2011–2014: SM Megamall expands with Mega Fashion Hall (Building D) – introducing global fashion brands, new dining concepts, and the Olympic-size skating rink

2018: Renovation and digital upgrades begin—introducing app-based directories, smart parking, and modernized interiors

2023–2025: New food halls, sustainable initiatives, and more high-end retail introduced

The model of SM Megamall in 2014

Today, SM Megamall boasts a gross floor area of over 474,000 sqm, making it one of the top 10 biggest malls in the world.

To know more about SM's history, visit SM Malls History and Background

Where Is SM Megamall Located?

Situated in the Ortigas Central Business District, SM Megamall lies along EDSA, bordered by Shaw Boulevard and Julia Vargas Avenue. It's a central location that’s easily accessible by car, bus, or MRT.

MRT Stations Nearby: Ortigas Station & Shaw Boulevard Station

Address: EDSA corner Julia Vargas Ave., Mandaluyong City

SM Megamall and the Ortigas Center on the background

What’s Inside SM Megamall

SM Megamall has evolved into a multi-building complex: Mega A, B, C, D (Fashion Hall), and the Mega Atrium. Each section offers a unique mix of stores, experiences, and architectural designs.

Shopping Experience

From affordable basics to luxury finds, Megamall is a fashion lover’s dream. Here are some notable brands and categories:

Global Brands: Uniqlo (multi-level), Zara, H&M, Bershka, Pull & Bear, Mango, Cotton On
Luxury Boutiques (Mega Fashion Hall): COS, Charles & Keith, Calvin Klein, Lacoste
Local Favorites: Bench, Penshoppe, Bayo, Kamiseta
Tech and Gadgets: Power Mac Center, Samsung, Xiaomi, Digital Walker
Department Store: The SM Store (Mega A & B)
Groceries: SM Supermarket and specialty Asian markets

Restaurants & Food Spots in SM Megamall

Megamall is a foodie destination, offering everything from quick eats to specialty cuisines. You can dine on a budget or splurge on global flavors.

Notable Dining Options

Asian: Tim Ho Wan, Din Tai Fung, Lugang Café, Yabu, Ippudo, Dohtonbori

Western: 8Cuts, Shake Shack, Wildflour Café, TGI Fridays

Filipino: Manam, Mesa, Kuya J, Razon’s

Desserts & Cafés: Sunnies Café, Baguio Craft Café, Mary Grace, Auntie Anne’s

Food Halls

Food on Four – Quick bites and fast food chains

Mega Food Hall (Fashion Hall) – More upscale casual dining options

Things to Do in SM Megamall (Not Just for Kids!)

Whether you're a solo shopper or a family group, there’s no shortage of things to do in SM Megamall.

Fantasy World – Indoor Playground for Kids

📍 Mega A or D (check with mall concierge)

💸 ₱550 for 3 hours (1 child + 1 adult)

🧦 Non-slip socks required (₱50/pair)

✅ Features: Ball pits, bumper cars, mini rides, trampolines, roller blades, and imaginative play zones

SM Ice Skating Rink

📍 Mega Fashion Hall (Building D)

Open daily for public skating, lessons, and events

Skate rentals and training bars available

SM Bowling & Leisure Center

Ideal for group hangouts, family games, or casual tournaments

Timezone Megamall

Massive arcade with VR games, prize booths, claw machines, and e-sports stations

SM Cinemas & Director’s Club

Watch the latest blockbusters or unwind with reclining seats and popcorn service at the premium Director’s Club theaters

For Young Professionals & Tourists

Co-Working Spots

Nearby cafés like Wildflour, Starbucks Reserve, and Coffee Bean offer plug-and-play environments.

Globe and Smart concept stores have charging areas and open lounges.

Tourists and Short-Stay Visitors

Plenty of hotels nearby: Discovery Suites, Marco Polo Ortigas, Red Planet Ortigas.

Currency exchange, travel gear stores, and airport lounges available inside the mall.

Instagrammable Spots

Mega Atrium seasonal installations (especially during Christmas).

Art walls and neon signs at Fashion Hall.

Stylish cafés like Sunnies, Little Flour, or La Mère Poulard.

Parking, Facilities & Accessibility

Multiple-level parking in Mega A, B, C, D

Dedicated PWD and family-friendly spots

Free Wi-Fi, clean restrooms, breastfeeding stations, charging hubs

How to Get to and From SM Megamall

Here are the transportation options going to and from SM Megamall:

Location

SM Megamall is located at EDSA, corner Doña Julia Vargas Ave, Ortigas Center, Mandaluyong City, Metro Manila, Philippines.

Directions

If you are driving or bring your own car, here's how to get to SM Megamall from different parts of Metro Manila and Mega Manila:

From Fairview (Quezon City): You'll generally take Commonwealth Avenue leading to Elliptical Road. From there, you can take Quezon Avenue or East Avenue to access EDSA southbound. Once on EDSA southbound, continue until you reach Ortigas Center, where SM Megamall is located.
From Bulacan: You would typically take the North Luzon Expressway (NLEX) southbound. Exit onto EDSA and continue southbound until you reach Ortigas Center.
From North EDSA (Quezon City): Simply take EDSA southbound. SM Megamall is a prominent landmark in Ortigas Center along EDSA.
Caloocan: You would generally make your way to EDSA. Once on EDSA, head southbound towards Mandaluyong and Ortigas Center.
From Manila: From most parts of Manila, you can take major thoroughfares like Magsaysay Boulevard, Quezon Avenue, or Espana Boulevard leading towards EDSA or other connecting roads to Ortigas Center. For example, from central Manila, you could take Shaw Boulevard directly to Ortigas.
From Pasig: Depending on your exact location in Pasig, you can easily access SM Megamall via Julia Vargas Avenue, Shaw Boulevard, or C5 Road (with an exit to Ortigas Avenue or Julia Vargas Avenue).
Rizal Areas (e.g., Antipolo, Cainta, Taytay): You would generally take Ortigas Avenue Extension which leads directly to Ortigas Avenue, bringing you to the vicinity of SM Megamall. Alternatively, you could use Marcos Highway leading to Katipunan Avenue, then C5 Road, and finally exit towards Ortigas Center.
From Muntinlupa, Parañaque, Las Piñas: You would primarily use EDSA northbound. From the south, take the South Luzon Expressway (SLEX) northbound, connect to Skyway (recommended for faster travel), and then exit towards EDSA or directly into Ortigas Center via various exits. If staying on EDSA, continue northbound until you reach Ortigas Center.
Laguna and Cavite: From these provinces, the primary route would be SLEX northbound. Similar to Muntinlupa/Parañaque/Las Piñas, you would then navigate to EDSA northbound or use Skyway directly to Ortigas.

For public transportation, visit my Commuting Guide to SM Megamall (Going To/Going Home)

Transportation Options

MRT-3: SM Megamall is close to both the Ortigas MRT-3 station and the Shaw Boulevard MRT-3 station. The Ortigas station is closer to Building A, while the Shaw Boulevard station is closer to Building B.

Buses: Many buses serve SM Megamall, with a major bus terminal located there. You can find various bus routes along EDSA. The EDSA Busway also has a station at Ortigas, providing another option.

UV Express: UV Express vans also have terminals near SM Megamall.

Transportation Terminal

SM Megamall has a bus terminal. Visit my SM Megamall Terminal Guide to learn more.

Major Access Roads

SM Megamall is located at EDSA corner Doña Julia Vargas Avenue, Ortigas Center.

Tips for Visiting SM Megamall

Visit weekday mornings for fewer crowds

Use the SM Megamall App to find shops, restaurants, and parking zones

Bring socks if you’re planning to visit Fantasy World or SM Skating

Check out seasonal pop-ups and sales at MegaTrade Hall

Final Thoughts: Why SM Megamall Remains a Must-Visit

More than 30 years since its opening, SM Megamall has remained a symbol of modern Filipino lifestyle—constantly reinventing itself to meet the evolving needs of shoppers and families. Whether you’re here for a quick errand, weekend entertainment, or a full day of shopping and dining, SM Megamall offers everything in one place.

With its world-class amenities, exciting attractions, and unbeatable variety, it’s no wonder that SM Megamall continues to be one of the most visited malls in the Philippines.