Pheasant Lane Mall: A Retail Landmark in Nashua, NH
Nestled in Nashua, New Hampshire, at 310 Daniel Webster Highway, Pheasant Lane Mall is a prominent shopping destination.
Opened on July 23, 1986, it has become a cornerstone of the local commercial landscape. Owned and managed by the renowned Simon Property Group, this mall represents a significant part of Nashua’s retail scene.
Its sprawling 979,000 square feet of space makes it one of the largest shopping centers in New Hampshire.
The Mall’s Rich Tapestry of Stores and Services
With approximately 130 stores and services, Pheasant Lane Mall offers a wide array of shopping options.
The mall is home to four major anchor tenants: JCPenney, Macy’s, Dick’s Sporting Goods, and Target. These anchors bring a unique flavor to the mall’s diverse retail mix.
The presence of these well-known brands underscores the mall’s role as a key player in the regional retail sector, offering everything from fashion to electronics and home goods.
A Hub of Activity and Engagement
Pheasant Lane Mall is more than a shopping center; it’s a vibrant community hub. It serves as a gathering place for people seeking entertainment, dining, and retail therapy.
The mall’s inviting atmosphere and varied selection of stores cater to a wide demographic, making it a go-to destination for families, friends, and tourists.
Among the things to do in Nashua, New Hampshire, a visit to Pheasant Lane Mall is a highlight, offering a blend of shopping, dining, and leisure activities under one roof.
“The mall’s continual evolution and adaptability have made it a staple in the local community and a preferred destination for shoppers from near and far.”
Strategic Location and Cross-Border Appeal of Pheasant Lane Mall
Pheasant Lane Mall: At the Crossroads of Convenience
Pheasant Lane Mall’s strategic position near major transportation routes, including the F.E. Everett Turnpike and U.S. Route 3, is pivotal in its accessibility and popularity.
This advantageous location in Nashua, just south of Exit 1 on these highways, makes the mall easily reachable for residents and visitors.
The seamless connectivity afforded by these major roadways enhances the mall’s appeal as a retail and leisure destination.
A Magnet for Cross-Border Shoppers
The mall’s proximity to the Massachusetts border is a unique feature. Positioned directly at the northbound exit-only Exit 91 off U.S. Route 3 in Tyngsborough, Massachusetts, it straddles the state line.
This location has long attracted shoppers from Massachusetts, drawn by New Hampshire’s absence of sales tax.
The allure of tax-free shopping has made Pheasant Lane Mall a popular choice for those looking to maximize their purchasing power, thereby boosting its foot traffic and retail success.
A Catalyst for Regional Economic Activity
Beyond being a shopping destination, Pheasant Lane Mall plays a crucial role in the economic landscape of the Greater Boston area.
It is a commercial cornerstone influencing the surrounding bedroom communities and contributing to the broader regional economy.
The mall’s impact extends beyond the immediate vicinity, marking it as an essential player in Nashua’s commercial and social fabric and the neighboring Massachusetts area.
A Historical Perspective of Pheasant Lane Mall
The Genesis and Growth of Pheasant Lane Mall
The story of Pheasant Lane Mall begins in December 1978 when the Nashua Board of Aldermen rezoned the area, paving the way for a major regional retail center.
Initially occupying the site of a drive-in movie theater, the mall opened its doors on July 23, 1986. Its original anchors were JCPenney, Jordan Marsh, Lechmere, and Sears, with Filene’s joining in 1993.
The mall’s opening marked a significant transformation in South Nashua, turning a once sparsely populated area into a bustling retail, residential, and financial hub.
Transforming South Nashua’s Landscape
The arrival of Pheasant Lane Mall catalyzed a profound change in South Nashua’s landscape.
The mall’s influence extended across the state border into Tyngsborough, Massachusetts, contributing to Nashua’s growing reputation as a part of the Greater Boston economic area.
The development spurred by the mall created a ripple effect, enhancing Nashua’s municipal identity and making it a hub for surrounding communities.
Evolution of Anchor Stores and Mall Layout
Over the years, Pheasant Lane Mall has seen significant changes in its anchor stores and layout. The mall has adapted to the retail industry’s evolving landscape, with various anchor stores relocating and changing.
Architectural and Design Adjustments at Pheasant Lane Mall
Overcoming Border Challenges with Innovative Design
Pheasant Lane Mall’s unique positioning on the New Hampshire–Massachusetts border presented distinct architectural challenges.
Initially planned to straddle the state line, the design had to be rethought due to tax implications.
The final layout placed all stores and restaurants on the New Hampshire side, allowing shoppers to benefit from the state’s lack of sales tax.
This brilliant redesign underlines the mall’s adaptability and responsiveness to logistical and regulatory challenges.
The Unique Feature of JCPenney
A fascinating aspect of Pheasant Lane Mall’s design is the adaptation of the JCPenney store. Due to an error in drawing site lines, one corner of the building extended into Massachusetts.
This corner was remodeled to comply with tax regulations, giving the JCPenney store its distinctive pentagonal shape.
This architectural quirk highlights the mall’s exciting history and showcases its ability to innovate and adjust in response to unexpected challenges.
Modernizing with a Major Renovation
In 2011, Pheasant Lane Mall underwent a significant renovation, reflecting a commitment to staying contemporary and appealing to shoppers.
This $10 million overhaul included redesigning the food court, introducing new lighting and fixtures, and adding ceramic tiles and carpeting.
The renovation also expanded the number of retailers and restaurants, enhancing the mall’s status as a premier shopping destination.
These updates exemplify the mall’s dedication to providing a fresh and modern shopping experience.
Anchors of Pheasant Lane: Macy’s, JCPenney, Target, Dick’s Sporting Goods
Macy’s: A Dynamic Presence in Pheasant Lane Mall
Macy’s, a key anchor at Pheasant Lane Mall, has a history of evolution within this retail space.
Initially occupying the Jordan Marsh location in the spring of 1996, Macy’s moved to the area formerly taken by Filene’s in 2006, reflecting the store’s growth and adaptability.
This shift changed the mall’s layout and demonstrated Macy’s ability to respond to the evolving retail landscape, ensuring a continuously fresh and appealing presence in the mall.
JCPenney: A Founding Anchor with a Lasting Impact
JCPenney, one of the original anchors since the mall’s opening in 1986, has maintained a significant presence in Pheasant Lane Mall.
Its long-standing position highlights its role in the mall’s history and its continuous appeal to a broad customer base.
JCPenney’s ability to remain a relevant and popular shopping destination over the years is a testament to its adaptability and commitment to meeting consumer needs.
Target: A Staple at Pheasant Lane Mall
Target, introduced to Pheasant Lane Mall in the fall of 1999, has become vital to the mall’s retail experience.
Its entry brought a new dimension of shopping, appealing to a broad audience with its wide range of products and services.
Target’s presence has significantly enhanced the mall’s attractiveness as a one-stop shopping destination.
Dick’s Sporting Goods: Diversifying the Retail Mix
Dick’s Sporting Goods, occupying the original Jordan Marsh location, has added a unique element to Pheasant Lane Mall’s retail offerings.
Specializing in sports equipment and apparel, it caters to fitness enthusiasts and sports fans, diversifying the mall’s shopping experience.
This addition has broadened the mall’s appeal, attracting a new segment of shoppers.
Dining at Pheasant Lane: A World of Flavors
Culinary Delights in Every Corner
Pheasant Lane Mall isn’t just about shopping; it’s also a haven for food lovers. With an array of dining options, the mall offers a taste for every palate.
The culinary offerings are diverse, from quick bites at the food court to sit-down restaurants like Burtons Grill and Red Robin.
Patrons can enjoy everything from savory to sweet, making the mall a perfect spot for a meal or a snack during a shopping spree.
Highlighting Popular Eateries
Burtons Grill stands out among the popular dining choices for its refined atmosphere and diverse menu. Red Robin, known for its gourmet burgers, offers a casual and lively dining experience.
These restaurants, along with Charleys Philly Steaks and Chick-fil-A, cater to various tastes and dining preferences, enhancing the overall mall experience.
The Evolving Landscape of Mall Dining
Over the years, the dining options at Pheasant Lane Mall have evolved to keep pace with changing consumer preferences.
New eateries have been introduced, offering modern and diverse culinary choices.
This evolution reflects the mall’s commitment to providing an engaging and satisfying experience for all visitors, making it a destination for shopping and enjoyable dining experiences.
A Future of Entertainment: The Casino Development at Pheasant Lane Mall
Introducing a New Era with a Charitable Gaming Facility
Pheasant Lane Mall is set to embrace an exciting new chapter with the planned opening of a charitable gaming facility in late 2024.
Occupying the former Sears location, this 130,000-square-foot casino represents a bold step into the entertainment sector.
With ECL Entertainment at the helm, the facility will feature slot-like machines, card tables, and a variety of gaming options, transforming the southeastern corner of the mall into a bustling entertainment hub.
A Diverse Entertainment and Dining Complex
The casino’s design includes two gaming areas, golf simulators, and a sports entertainment complex with a full bar, restaurants, and a cafe.
This expansive facility aims to offer a comprehensive entertainment experience, significantly enhancing the mall’s appeal.
The casino is poised to become a major regional attraction with plans for additional slot machines.
Economic Impact and Job Creation
This development is more than just a new entertainment option; it represents a substantial investment in Nashua’s economy.
ECL Entertainment’s project is expected to create 700 new jobs and contribute significantly to the local payroll and related expenses.
As the first casino in a New England shopping mall, this development is a pioneering move in mall-based entertainment, reflecting Pheasant Lane Mall’s innovative approach to adapting to changing market trends and consumer preferences.
Pheasant Lane Mall’s Continuing Evolution
Adapting to the Shifting Retail Landscape
Pheasant Lane Mall has consistently demonstrated its ability to adapt to the ever-changing retail landscape.
From its inception in 1986 to the present day, the mall has evolved to meet the needs of its customers, whether it’s through expanding its retail mix, redesigning its space, or introducing new entertainment options like the upcoming casino.
More Than Just a Shopping Destination
Pheasant Lane Mall has become a community hub where shopping, dining, and entertainment converge.
Its ongoing transformation signifies its commitment to providing visitors with a dynamic and engaging environment.
Looking Ahead to a Bright Future
As Pheasant Lane Mall moves forward, it redefines its role in the community and the region.
With its blend of retail, dining, and entertainment, strategic location, and innovative developments, the mall is well-positioned to remain a key destination in Nashua, New Hampshire, for years to come.