Early History and Establishment
Aviation Mall opened its doors in 1975 in Queensbury, NY. The initial anchor stores were JCPenney and Denby’s, a regional chain known for its wide range of products. The mall started relatively small but soon saw the addition of Sears and Caldor, which helped increase its appeal to shoppers.
In 1994, JCPenney constructed a new store adjacent to its original location. Mall management converted the old JCPenney space into smaller retail spaces, allowing for a greater variety of stores. The same year, TJ Maxx moved in, taking over the area previously occupied by Magrams, a local department store.
The early years of Aviation Mall also saw the introduction of various other retail outlets and services. These new additions helped establish the mall as a central shopping destination for the Glens Falls and Lake George area. As a result, the mall played a vital role in the local economy, attracting shoppers from nearby regions and boosting commercial activity.
The expansion efforts during the mall’s early years laid the foundation for its future growth. These strategic moves helped Aviation Mall become a prominent retail hub in northern New York. This development marked the beginning of its journey to becoming one of the key places for things to do in Queensbury, NY.
Development and Growth in the Late 20th Century
In the late 1990s, Aviation Mall experienced robust growth. This period brought in new retailers and revamped the mall’s offerings.
Caldor’s closure in 1998 marked a pivotal moment. The Bon-Ton replaced Caldor, adding a new shopping experience.
The late 1990s also saw an expansion in entertainment options. Regal Cinemas opened, featuring multiple screens and the latest movies.
This addition turned the mall into a place where families could spend an entire day shopping, dining, and watching movies.
In 2004, Target joined the mall, offering a broad selection of products from clothing to electronics. The addition of Target provided shoppers with more variety.
Dick’s Sporting Goods followed in 2005, moving into the former JCPenney space. This addition catered to sports enthusiasts and added another dimension to the mall’s retail mix.
Challenges in the 2010s
The 21st century brought new challenges for Aviation Mall. The rise of online shopping started to impact traditional retail stores, and many shoppers began favoring the convenience of online purchases.
In 2018, Bon-Ton announced it would close all its stores, including the location in Aviation Mall.
This closure was a blow to the mall, removing one of its long-standing anchors. That same year, Sears also decided to shutter its store, leaving another large vacancy.
The loss of these major retailers highlighted the shifting landscape of the retail industry. Mall management had to rethink strategies to keep attracting customers.
They began focusing on adding more entertainment options and experiential stores to draw visitors.
Despite these challenges, the mall remained a vital part of the local community. It continued to host events and activities, ensuring it stayed relevant in an increasingly digital world.
Recent Developments and Changes
The recent years have brought new changes to Aviation Mall. In 2019, Ollie’s Bargain Outlet opened in the former Bon-Ton space. This store offers discounted merchandise, drawing in budget-conscious shoppers.
Regal Cinemas also underwent renovations in 2017. The theater expanded from seven to nine screens and added reclining seats. These upgrades aimed to improve the movie-going experience and attract more visitors.
The mall has continuously updated its look and feel. New flooring, improved lighting, and modern storefronts have refreshed its appearance. These renovations show the mall’s commitment to staying current and inviting.
Despite the challenges, the mall continues to adapt. By introducing new stores and updating existing ones, Aviation Mall remains a key destination for shopping and entertainment in Queensbury, NY.
Latest News and Developments at Aviation Mall (2023-2024)
Aviation Mall in Queensbury, NY, has seen several exciting events and new developments in the past year. These updates highlight the mall’s ongoing efforts to remain a vibrant shopping and entertainment hub for the community.
In September 2023, Ulta Beauty opened the Target store at Aviation Mall. This new addition offers a wide range of beauty products and services, enhancing the mall’s appeal to shoppers looking for the latest in cosmetics and skincare.
On Halloween 2023, the mall hosted its annual Mall-O-Ween event, allowing children to trick-or-treat at various stores. This popular event drew families from across the region, reinforcing the mall’s role as a community center.
A local theater troupe brought a haunted house to the mall. This unique event provided an exciting and spooky experience for visitors and showcased the mall’s diverse entertainment offerings.
The mall also continues its tradition of holiday celebrations. Santa Claus arrived at Aviation Mall on December 1, 2023, and was available for photos and visits daily until Christmas. These holiday activities create a festive atmosphere and draw large crowds.
In April 2024, the mall celebrated National Pretzel Day by offering free pretzels at Auntie Anne’s. This event added a fun twist to the usual shopping experience and attracted many visitors.
Future Prospects and Potential Developments
Looking ahead, Aviation Mall plans to grow further. Discussions are ongoing about new tenants to fill the vacated Sears space. Potential replacements include a mix of retail and entertainment options to keep the mall vibrant.
Mall management is exploring ways to enhance the shopping experience. Adding more experiential retail, such as interactive stores and pop-up shops, could attract a diverse range of visitors.
These efforts aim to blend traditional shopping with modern trends.
Community engagement remains a focus. The mall hosts events and activities to draw residents and foster a sense of community. From holiday celebrations to local markets, these events keep the mall lively and relevant.
The future of Aviation Mall depends on its ability to innovate. By adapting to changing consumer preferences and retail trends, the mall can continue to thrive and serve the community.