This longtime Nittany Mall clothing retailer plans to close after 27 years
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- American Eagle will close inside the Nittany Mall in 2026.
- The store’s last day in business is slated for Jan. 11, an employee said.
- American Eagle opened inside the mall in 1998.
A longtime Nittany Mall store plans to close early next year.
American Eagle, one of the mall’s most senior remaining tenants, will shutter its State College shop after Jan. 11, a store associate told the Centre Daily Times. The clothing and accessories retailer has operated inside the Nittany Mall for more than 25 years.
American Eagle is not expected to offer any unique sales or specials as it prepares to close, the associate said. Instead, the shop will roll out its traditional post-holidays markdowns while supplies last.
A store associate said the closure comes as American Eagle prepares to close roughly 35 stores nationwide, including three others in Pennsylvania.
An American Eagle corporate representative did not immediately respond to a request for comment from the Centre Daily Times.
American Eagle opened inside the Nittany Mall in 1998 alongside several new businesses, including Gap Kids, Gymboree and Braun’s Fashions. Their additions came shortly after the mall celebrated its 30th anniversary with a new entrance off of Benner Pike.
American Eagle operated 1,182 stores across the globe as recently as February 2024, according to the company’s website. The Pittsburgh-headquartered retailer— which also manages American Eagle’s sister brand, Aerie — unveiled a three-year growth plan in March 2024.
American Eagle’s closure comes as the Nittany Mall prepares for a major shakeup with the addition of a mini-casino. Officials behind the $120 million Happy Valley Casino project recently shared new renderings of the casino floor and dining options ahead of its anticipated spring 2026 opening.
Supporters of the casino project have generally touted its economic benefits, including employment opportunities and the hope of revitalizing the mall. Opponents have raised concerns over gambling and strains to local resources, including first responders.
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