DICK'S Sporting Goods Will Open Raleigh House of Sport
The new retail experience arrives at Crabtree Valley Mall on Friday, Oct. 9, 2026.
Updated on Oct. 6, 2026 in Retail
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DICK'S Sporting Goods will launch its latest House of Sport location at Raleigh's Crabtree Valley Mall on Friday, Oct. 9, 2026. The new 100,000-square-foot store occupies a space formerly held by Sears.
Why it matters
The opening represents a significant expansion for the retailer in North Carolina and replaces a long-vacant anchor space at the historic mall. It introduces a high-tech retail model designed to draw shoppers through interactive experiences.
The new store spans over 100,000 square feet within a mall that was originally constructed in 1972. This marks the third House of Sport location in North Carolina following the Macerich Company's $290 million purchase of the property in 2025.
The players
DICK'S Sporting Goods
An American sporting goods retail company that was founded in Binghamton, New York.
Crabtree Valley Mall
A major shopping destination in Raleigh that serves as a central retail hub for the region.
Macerich Company
A real estate investment trust that owns and operates regional shopping centers across the United States.
Matt Able
A professional athlete participating in the grand opening autograph sessions.
Bryce Young
A professional athlete scheduled to sign autographs during the store's opening weekend.
The details
The facility features diverse amenities including a climbing wall, golf simulators, and a multi-sport cage, alongside augmented reality technology. The grand opening weekend will host a ribbon-cutting ceremony and public autograph sessions with featured athletes.
Timeline
Crabtree Valley Mall was originally built in 1972.
The former Sears store at the mall closed in November 2018.
Macerich Company purchased the mall property in 2025.
The new store will hold its grand opening on Friday, Oct. 9, 2026.
Athlete autograph sessions are scheduled for Oct. 10-11, 2026.
Market Landscape
The transition of this anchor space follows a pattern set by the closure of Sears department stores as major mall operators shift toward experiential retail. This strategy helps malls like Crabtree Valley modernize their tenant mix against shifting consumer preferences.
Shoppers in Raleigh can access new interactive amenities like golf bays and a climbing wall during the store's opening week. Local residents should anticipate potential traffic congestion at Crabtree Valley Mall during the grand opening and autograph sessions.
The takeaway
Large-format retailers are increasingly focusing on destination-style experiences to bring foot traffic back to traditional shopping malls. Consumers should check the store schedule in advance if they plan to participate in the upcoming athlete appearances.
Further reading
For more on how local commerce is evolving, explore the Retail section.
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