Pure self defense situational awareness keeps me away from any big city mall, especially on weekends.
New Orleans and Baton Rouge.......Forget about it.
I’m on the exact same page as you. I can find plenty of other places to visit or shop other than malls. I generally avoid cities, large fireworks displays, street concerts, any activity that includes large numbers of people, especially feral youth are likely to gather.
I stress situational awareness to my daughter, her friends and to my friends. Little things, like backing into a parking space, small, concealable pocketbooks, choosing restaurant and other seating with a view of the exits, train platform safety, etc. It may save someone someday.