Growing up in the 80s, it was a place to meet people. We didn't have the internet. Not everyone had home PCs or gaming systems. Meeting friends at the mall to play some games at the arcade, maybe get a snack at the food court, and just hang out was a decent way to spend time with friends.

Yes, we also went on walks, bike rides, went fishing, played in parks, hiked in the woods, climbed mountains, went to the beach, saw each other at school, played board games, D&D, and many other things.

The mall was one thing to do, among many. I see little reason to disparage those memories just because they aren't as applicable in today's society.