The mall was developed by The Pyramid Companies and opened in 1976. There was widespread community opposition to its development.[4][5] Originally called Pyramid Mall Ithaca, the mall was renamed The Shops at Ithaca Mall in 2007 under new management.[6] The mall has undergone significant changes since its opening, with all four original anchor stores (JW Rhodes, JCPenney, Montgomery Ward, and Hills, later Ames) replaced. In 2002, JCPenney closed and became Best Buy, Borders Books & Music, and Dick's Sporting Goods. At the time of the relocation of the Regal Cinemas from its original site adjacent to Cafe Square in 2007, the mall was renamed from Pyramid Mall Ithaca.[7] When Borders went out of business in 2011, the store became Ultimate Athletics.[8] It has since become a Ulta Beauty and DSW (both have since been closed)
There is also a Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals annex for animal adoption. The annex has a "Kid's Corner" with picture books, stuffed animals, and adoptable cats and kittens. It also provides Pre-School Story Hour and Craft free to the public.[10][11]
On September 25, 2014, it was announced that Sears would close.[12]
On April 18, 2018, it was announced that Bon-Ton would close as part of a plan to close all locations nationwide, which left Target as the only traditional anchor left.[13]
On March 15, 2022, it was announced that Cayuga Health had purchased the former JW Rhodes/Bon-Ton and Sears buildings and converted them into health centers.[14]
On October 19, 2022, it was announced that Dick's would be relocating to the former Tops Friendly Market in the city of Ithaca.[15]
On January 19, 2023, it was announced that Regal Cinemas would close as part of a plan to close 39 theaters nationwide on February 15, 2023,[16] but the theater has since stayed open past that date.
On June 12, 2024, it was announced that a Cube Smart self-storage facility would be taking over the Best Buy and the former Dick's Sporting Goods, Ulta, and DSW spaces.[17]
Events
The Shops at Ithaca Mall hosts a variety of events throughout the year. Past events included a spinoff of the American Idol Contest, bridal show, two weddings with Cayuga Radio Group, health and wellness fair, and a pet day.[18][19][20] Members of the local community also hold fundraising events for non-profit organizations such as Habitat for Humanity.[21]
