I grew up going to this mall during it's peak in the 70's and early 80's, and I think it's done a fascinating job of adapting: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BegXB3d6cqk

The indoor swap meet is what used to be a JC Penny's. The dead Sears is now a trade school - the mix of stores in there is fascinating and I think the key - focus on unique and local stores. Leave the chains to the strip malls.