Are you an outdoor enthusiast, sports fan, or just a loyal customer eager to see where Academy Sports + Outdoors is expanding in 2026? This guide provides a comprehensive look at the upcoming store openings scheduled for 2026, including locations, opening dates, and what makes each new store worth visiting. Whether you’re planning a shopping trip or just curious about the retailer’s growth, this list helps you stay informed about Academy Sports’ latest developments.
1. Academy Sports in Nashville, Tennessee
Set to open in March 2026, the Nashville location will be Academy Sports’ first store in Tennessee. Situated in the Opry Mills shopping district, this 80,000-square-foot store will feature a wide selection of sporting goods, outdoor gear, and apparel. The Nashville store is expected to serve as a key hub for the region, offering local sports teams gear and outdoor equipment tailored to Tennessee’s diverse climate.
2. Academy Sports in Charlotte, North Carolina
Scheduled to open in April 2026, the Charlotte store will be located in the Charlotte Premium Outlets. This location is strategically chosen to cater to the growing outdoor and sporting community in North Carolina. The store will include an expanded fishing and hunting department, reflecting the outdoor interests of the Carolinas, and will feature a dedicated space for outdoor workshops and events.
3. Academy Sports in Kansas City, Missouri
Opening in May 2026, the Kansas City store will be situated in the Zona Rosa shopping district. This 75,000-square-foot location aims to serve the Midwest’s sports and outdoor markets with specialized departments for team sports, camping, and outdoor recreation. Kansas City’s sports culture, including NFL and MLS teams, makes this store a strategic addition for local fans and athletes alike.
4. Academy Sports in Tampa, Florida
Expected to open in June 2026, the Tampa store will be located near the Westfield Citrus Park mall. Florida’s year-round outdoor activities and sports culture make this a prime location. The store will emphasize water sports gear, including kayaking, paddleboarding, and fishing, alongside its traditional sporting goods offerings, catering to the active Florida lifestyle.
5. Academy Sports in Austin, Texas
Set for July 2026, the Austin store will be in the Hill Country Galleria shopping center. Texas’ outdoor recreation scene, including hunting, fishing, and mountain biking, will be well-represented here. This location will also feature a custom gear section for outdoor enthusiasts and offer classes on outdoor skills and safety.
6. Academy Sports in Columbus, Ohio
Opening in August 2026, the Columbus store will be located in Easton Town Center. Ohio’s sports culture, including college teams and local leagues, will be a focus. The store will include a dedicated section for youth sports equipment and a tech area for sports gadgets and wearables, appealing to families and athletes alike.
7. Academy Sports in Denver, Colorado
Launching in September 2026, this Denver location will be situated in the Park Meadows shopping center. The store will emphasize outdoor gear for skiing, snowboarding, and mountain biking, catering to Colorado’s outdoor adventure scene. The Denver store will also host monthly outdoor gear demos and safety clinics.
8. Academy Sports in Raleigh, North Carolina
Expected to open in October 2026, the Raleigh store will be located in the North Hills shopping district. This location will serve North Carolina’s outdoor and sports communities with a focus on hunting, fishing, and trail running gear. It will also feature a sustainable product section, highlighting eco-friendly outdoor equipment.
9. Academy Sports in Portland, Oregon
Opening in November 2026, this Portland store will be in the Clackamas Town Center. Known for its outdoor culture, Portland’s store will include a large selection of camping gear, hiking equipment, and eco-conscious products. The store will also host outdoor recreation workshops and sustainability seminars.
10. Academy Sports in Birmingham, Alabama
Set to open in December 2026, the Birmingham location will be in the Riverchase Galleria. The store will cater to Alabama’s outdoor sports scene, including hunting, fishing, and golf. Its design will incorporate regional themes and offer personalized services such as gear fitting and outdoor safety training.
How to Choose
When selecting which new Academy Sports location to visit or shop at, consider several factors. Proximity is key—choose a store near your home or frequent destinations. Think about the specific gear you need; some stores will have more extensive selections for water sports, hunting, or outdoor apparel. Additionally, look at the store’s community offerings—workshops, events, and local sports sponsorships—that may enhance your shopping experience. Finally, check if the store features any exclusive or regional products that align with your outdoor interests.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. When do the new Academy Sports stores open in 2026?
The openings are scheduled from March through December 2026, with specific dates varying by location.
2. Will these new stores offer the same products as existing locations?
Yes, they will carry the full range of Academy Sports products, with some locations offering regional specialty items like water sports gear in Florida or snow equipment in Colorado.
3. Are there any grand opening events planned?
Most stores will host grand opening events, including discounts, giveaways, and demonstrations. Details are typically announced a few weeks prior to opening.
4. Can I shop online and pick up at these new stores?
Absolutely. Academy Sports offers online ordering with in-store pickup, which will be available at all new locations.
5. Will these stores have employment opportunities?
Yes, each new store will hire staff, including sales associates, outdoor specialists, and management roles. Keep an eye on Academy Sports’ careers page for openings.
6. Will these stores support local sports teams or community events?
Many new locations plan to partner with local teams and host community events, emphasizing their commitment to regional engagement.
Final Thoughts
The 2026 schedule for Academy Sports new store openings reflects the company’s strategic growth into key outdoor and sports markets across the United States. Each location is designed to cater to local outdoor pursuits and sports culture, making them valuable resources for enthusiasts and casual shoppers alike. Whether you’re looking for specialized gear, community events, or just exploring new outdoor hobbies, these new stores promise to enrich the shopping experience and support regional outdoor lifestyles. Staying informed about these openings ensures you won’t miss out on exclusive events, products, and opportunities to connect with your community through Academy Sports.
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