Forest Fair Mall

{{short description|Abandoned shopping mall near Cincinnati, Ohio, US}}

{{Infobox shopping mall

| name = Forest Fair Mall

| logo = Cincinnati Mills Logo.svg

| image = ForFairVil_Mainhall.png

| image_width =

| caption = The Kohl's wing of Forest Fair Village, May 2018

| image_alt = A wing of Forest Fair Village, a two-story shopping mall. Visible are a number of abandoned storefronts and fixtures. In the distance is a sign reading "Kohl's"

| location = Forest Park and Fairfield, Ohio, U.S.

| address = 1047 Cincinnati Mills Drive

| opening_date = {{start date and age|1988|7|11}}

| closing_date = {{end date and age|2022|12|02}}

| developer = LJ Hooker

| previous_names = {{hlist|The Malls at Forest Fair|Cincinnati Mills|Cincinnati Mall|Forest Fair Village}}

| owner = Cincinnati Holding Company, LLC

| number_of_stores = 0 (200+ at peak)

| number_of_anchors = 0 (5 at peak)

| floor_area = {{convert|1500000|sqft|m2}}

| floors = 2

| parking = 6,000

| publictransit = {{rint|bus|1}} Metro

| website =

}}

Forest Fair Mall (also known as The Malls at Forest Fair, Cincinnati Mills, Cincinnati Mall, and Forest Fair Village) is an abandoned enclosed shopping mall in the northern suburbs of Cincinnati, Ohio, United States. It is situated on the border between Forest Park and Fairfield, at the junction of Interstate 275 and Winton Road (Exit 39). The mall, built in phases between 1988 and 1989 as Forest Fair Mall, has become noted for its troubled history; despite being the second-biggest mall in the state and bringing many new retailers to the market, it lost three anchor stores (B. Altman and Company, Bonwit Teller, and Sakowitz) and its original owner LJ Hooker to bankruptcy less than a year after opening. The mall underwent renovations throughout the mid 1990s, attracting new stores such as Kohl's, Burlington Coat Factory, and Bass Pro Shops. Mills Corporation renamed the property to Cincinnati Mills in 2002 and renovated the mall once more in August 2004. Following the sale of Mills's portfolio to Simon Property Group, the mall was sold several times afterward, while continuing to lose many of its key tenants. After having been renamed to Cincinnati Mall and again to Forest Fair Village in the 2010s, the property received significant media attention as an example of a dead mall. It also received a number of proposals for renovation, none of which were realized. Following years of tenancy decline, it closed to the public on December 2, 2022 with the exception of Kohl's and Bass Pro Shops. These stores respectively closed in 2024 and 2025.

History

File:Forest Fair Mall.svg

= Background =

Initially, the site at the northeast corner of the Interstate 275 beltway's interchange with Winton Road was to consist solely of Bigg's, a local hypermarket chain.{{cite news|url=https://www.newspapers.com/clip/95396027/|title=Biggs deal fails to excite Fairfield|last=Wetzel|first=Janet C.|date=April 5, 1985|work=Cincinnati Enquirer|page=C2|access-date=April 15, 2018|archive-date=February 19, 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220219012528/https://www.newspapers.com/clip/95396027/biggs-deal-fails-to-excite-fairfield/|url-status=live}} Australian retail developer LJ Hooker acquired the property from original developer Amega in 1986 and chose to make Bigg's an anchor store to a large enclosed shopping mall, which would be named Forest Fair Mall.{{cite news|url=https://www.newspapers.com/clip/95396127/|title=Larger Bigg's mall planned in Fairfield|last=Schaefer|first=Walt|date=April 23, 1986|work=The Cincinnati Enquirer|page=D1|access-date=February 17, 2018|archive-date=February 19, 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220219012502/https://www.newspapers.com/clip/95396127/larger-biggs-mall-planned-in-fairfield/|url-status=live}} According to these plans, the mall would consist of {{convert|1500000|sqft|m2}} of retail space, with 70 percent of the building in Forest Park and 30 percent in Fairfield.{{cite news|url=https://www.newspapers.com/clip/95396221/|title=Developers optimistic about five mall stores|last=Schaefer|first=Walt|date=November 21, 1986|work=The Cincinnati Enquirer|page=C10|access-date=February 17, 2018|archive-date=February 19, 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220219012504/https://www.newspapers.com/clip/95396221/developers-optimistic-about-five-mall/|url-status=live}} By July 1987, mall developers had also stated that two other department stores had committed to the project: Higbee's and Bonwit Teller. Overall, Forest Fair Mall would be the second-biggest mall in the state of Ohio at the time of construction, behind only the now-defunct Randall Park Mall in North Randall, a suburb of Cleveland.{{cite news|url=https://www.newspapers.com/clip/95396317/|title=Mall promises glitter and glitz|last=Josten|first=Margaret|date=July 13, 1987|work=The Cincinnati Enquirer|page=C1|access-date=February 17, 2018|archive-date=February 19, 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220219012521/https://www.newspapers.com/clip/95396317/mall-promises-glitter-and-glitz/|url-status=live}} Also in 1987, Hooker bought controlling interest in both Bonwit Teller and three other department stores: B. Altman and Company, Parisian, and Sakowitz. B. Altman was confirmed as a tenant in November 1987 and Parisian in March 1988,{{cite news|url=https://www.newspapers.com/clip/26383939/|title=B. Altman to be a Forest Fair Mall anchor|last=Josten|first=Margaret|date=November 13, 1987|work=The Cincinnati Enquirer|page=B7|access-date=February 17, 2018|archive-date=February 19, 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220219012450/https://www.newspapers.com/clip/26383939/the-cincinnati-enquirer/|url-status=live}}{{cite news|url=https://www.newspapers.com/clip/26348720/|title=Forest Fair adds new anchor|last=Josten|first=Margaret|date=March 17, 1988|work=The Cincinnati Enquirer|page=B8|access-date=February 17, 2018|archive-date=February 19, 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220219012507/https://www.newspapers.com/clip/26348720/the-cincinnati-enquirer/|url-status=live}} while negotiations with Sakowitz began in October 1988.{{cite news|url=https://www.newspapers.com/clip/26348720/|title=Sakowitz talking to Forest Fair|last=Green|first=Richard|date=October 5, 1988|work=The Cincinnati Enquirer|page=D1|access-date=February 17, 2018|archive-date=February 19, 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220219012456/https://www.newspapers.com/clip/26348720/the-cincinnati-enquirer/|url-status=live}}

=1988{{endash}}1990: Opening and early years=

The first phase of the mall, featuring Bigg's and approximately 20 other stores, opened on July 11, 1988. A month prior to this, Higbee's withdrew from the project after being purchased by a joint venture of Dillard's and Edward J. DeBartolo Sr.{{cite news|url=https://www.newspapers.com/clip/26383970/|title=Forest Fair Mall's full opening delayed|last=Green|first=Richard|date=June 10, 1988|work=The Cincinnati Enquirer|page=A-1, [https://www.newspapers.com/clip/26384217/ A-8]|access-date=February 17, 2018|archive-date=February 19, 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220219012452/https://www.newspapers.com/clip/26383970/the-cincinnati-enquirer/|url-status=live}} As a result, B. Altman was relocated from its originally planned store to the space vacated by Higbee's, thus leaving a vacant anchor store and causing delays in opening the rest of the mall.{{cite news|url=https://www.newspapers.com/clip/26384232/|title=Forest Fair tenants slow in opening stores|last=Green|first=Richard|date=June 11, 1988|work=The Cincinnati Enquirer|page=B7|access-date=February 17, 2018|archive-date=February 19, 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220219012503/https://www.newspapers.com/clip/26384232/the-cincinnati-enquirer/|url-status=live}} Immediately after the Bigg's wing of the mall opened, Elder-Beerman was confirmed for the vacated anchor left behind by B. Altman's relocation.{{cite news|url=https://www.newspapers.com/clip/26409776/|title=Beerman fills void in Forest Fair Mall|last=Agnew|first=Ronnie|date=July 15, 1988|work=The Cincinnati Enquirer|page=C7|access-date=February 17, 2018|archive-date=February 19, 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220219012513/https://www.newspapers.com/clip/26409776/the-cincinnati-enquirer/|url-status=live}} As a result, the rest of the mall's opening was delayed to October 1988, and again to March 1, 1989.{{r|slow|fulldelay|shops}} About one-third of the mall tenants were open by this day, including Bonwit Teller, B. Altman, Parisian, and the food court. By mid-year, Elder-Beerman and Sakowitz had also opened. Other tenants included an Australian restaurant called Wallaby Bob's, a 1950s-styled cafe, Oshman's Sporting Goods,{{cite news|url=https://www.newspapers.com/clip/26384262/|title=Many Forest Fair stores delay opening|last=Green|first=Richard|date=February 18, 1989|work=The Cincinnati Enquirer|page=A7|access-date=February 19, 2018|archive-date=February 19, 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220219012457/https://www.newspapers.com/clip/26384262/the-cincinnati-enquirer/|url-status=live}} and an eight-screen movie theater called Super Saver.{{cite news|url=https://www.newspapers.com/clip/26384272/|title=Smaller screens mean bigger profits|last=Gallagher|first=Patricia|work=The Cincinnati Enquirer|publisher=June 29, 1989|pages=D1, [https://www.newspapers.com/clip/26416303/ D2]|access-date=February 20, 2018|archive-date=February 19, 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220219012526/https://www.newspapers.com/clip/26384272/the-cincinnati-enquirer/|url-status=live}} Many of the tenants were unique at the time: Wallaby Bob's was "the first brewery-restaurant in the nation that operates in a suburban shopping mall",{{cite news|url=https://www.newspapers.com/clip/26384297/|title=Beer down under: Pub opens at Forest Fair|last=Newberry|first=John|date=July 10, 1989|work=The Cincinnati Enquirer|pages=D1, [https://www.newspapers.com/clip/26416260/ D5]|access-date=February 19, 2018|archive-date=February 19, 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220219012504/https://www.newspapers.com/clip/26384297/the-cincinnati-enquirer/|url-status=live}} while another tenant, Koala Klubhouse, was the first licensed day care to be located in an American shopping mall. Another major tenant present at opening day was a {{convert|100000|sqft|m2|adj=on}} entertainment complex called Time Out, featuring a carousel and miniature golf course.{{cite web|url=https://www.newspapers.com/clip/26384307/|title=Forest Fair presents new choices|last=Green|first=Richard|date=January 12, 1989|work=The Cincinnati Enquirer|page=B11|access-date=February 19, 2018|archive-date=February 19, 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220219012504/https://www.newspapers.com/clip/26384307/the-cincinnati-enquirer/|url-status=live}} A 1989 article in The Cincinnati Enquirer described the mall as "entering uncharted waters" due to Sakowitz, B. Altman, Parisian, and Bonwit Teller all being not only new to the Cincinnati market, but also due to the higher-priced merchandise available at those stores, in comparison to the area's more blue collar demographics.{{cite news|url=https://www.newspapers.com/clip/26384324/|title=Success of Forest Fair Mall isn't assured|last=Green|first=Richard|date=February 27, 1989|work=The Cincinnati Enquirer|page=D4|access-date=February 19, 2018|archive-date=February 19, 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220219012528/https://www.newspapers.com/clip/26384324/the-cincinnati-enquirer/|url-status=live}}

File:Bass Pro Shops - Cincinnati Mills Mall (9762522494).jpg, whose store was originally Parisian.|alt=A concourse of Forest Fair Village shopping mall, showing the entrance to Bass Pro Shops.]]

LJ Hooker filed for bankruptcy soon after the mall opened due to debt accrued by the company's expansion in the United States. The company put Forest Fair up for sale in June 1989, with an asking price of $200 million. At this point, only 65 percent of the inline mall space was occupied,{{cite news|url=https://www.newspapers.com/clip/26384246/|title=Hooker shops for mall takers|last=Green|first=Richard|date=June 1, 1990|work=The Cincinnati Enquirer|page=B7|access-date=February 19, 2018|archive-date=February 19, 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220219012518/https://www.newspapers.com/clip/26384246/the-cincinnati-enquirer/|url-status=live}} and the mall was described as "struggling" due to the large number of vacancies, primarily in the B. Altman wing. The proximity to both Northgate Mall and Tri-County Mall was also cited as a factor in the mall's struggles, particularly due to the latter undergoing an expansion not long after Forest Fair opened. Despite the mall's troubles, the owners of Parisian noted that the store's sales were strong enough for the company to consider expansion in the Cincinnati market.{{cite news|url=https://www.newspapers.com/clip/26352986/|title=Forest Fair Mall: can it succeed?|last=Green|first=Richard|date=March 4, 1990|work=The Cincinnati Enquirer|pages=I1, [https://www.newspapers.com/clip/26412543/ I2]|access-date=February 19, 2018|archive-date=February 19, 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220219012509/https://www.newspapers.com/clip/26352986/the-cincinnati-enquirer/|url-status=live}} As part of LJ Hooker's bankruptcy filing, the company offered all four of the department stores it had acquired for sale. Parisian was sold back to its previous ownership, while the other three department stores were ordered to undergo liquidation.{{cite news|url=https://www.newspapers.com/clip/26384334/|title=Doors ajar at Forest Fair Mall|last=Green|first=Richard|date=August 8, 1990|work=The Cincinnati Enquirer|page=E6|access-date=February 19, 2018|archive-date=February 19, 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220219012507/https://www.newspapers.com/clip/26384334/the-cincinnati-enquirer/|url-status=live}}{{cite news|url=https://www.newspapers.com/clip/26384367/|title=Hooker wants OK to close 3 Forest Fair Mall stores|last=Josten|first=Margaret|date=August 4, 1990|work=The Cincinnati Enquirer|pages=A1, [https://www.newspapers.com/clip/26412343/ A4]|access-date=February 19, 2018|archive-date=February 19, 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220219012519/https://www.newspapers.com/clip/26384367/the-cincinnati-enquirer/|url-status=live}} The other six B. Altman stores began liquidation in November 1989, although the Forest Fair store was kept open at the time, due to concerns by LJ Hooker's lawyers that closing the store would lower the mall's value.{{cite news|url=https://www.newspapers.com/clip/26384381/|title=Last B. Altman's changes focus to stay in business|last=Green|first=Richard|date=April 23, 1990|work=The Cincinnati Enquirer|pages=D1, [https://www.newspapers.com/clip/26412458/ D3]|access-date=April 15, 2018|archive-date=February 19, 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220219012509/https://www.newspapers.com/clip/26384381/the-cincinnati-enquirer/|url-status=live}} Liquidation sales began in August 1990 at Forest Fair's locations of all three department stores.{{cite news|url=https://www.newspapers.com/clip/26384390/|title=Bargain hunters drawn to 1st-day sales|last=Bermudez|first=Frederick|date=August 20, 1990|work=The Cincinnati Enquirer|pages=A1, [https://www.newspapers.com/clip/95398365/ A10]|access-date=February 19, 2018|archive-date=February 19, 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220219012514/https://www.newspapers.com/clip/26384390/the-cincinnati-enquirer/|url-status=live}} All of the other Sakowitz stores were also liquidated at this point, along with all but two locations of Bonwit Teller. These locations, both in Upstate New York, were sold to The Pyramid Companies.{{cite news|url=https://www.newspapers.com/clip/26384402/|title=Sale clouds future of local Bonwit|last=Green|first=Richard|date=April 6, 1990|work=The Cincinnati Enquirer|page=B10|access-date=April 15, 2018|archive-date=February 19, 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220219012526/https://www.newspapers.com/clip/26384402/the-cincinnati-enquirer/|url-status=live}} In October 1990, the mall was sold to a partnership called FFM Limited, headed by a group of banks which had loaned to LJ Hooker most of the $250 million in construction costs.{{cite news|url=https://www.newspapers.com/clip/26384356/|title=Bank to buy Forest Fair|last=Byczkowski|first=John J.|date=October 20, 1990|work=The Cincinnati Enquirer|pages=A1, [https://www.newspapers.com/clip/95398547/ A10]|access-date=February 19, 2018|archive-date=February 19, 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220219012509/https://www.newspapers.com/clip/26384356/the-cincinnati-enquirer/|url-status=live}}

=1990s: The Malls at Forest Fair and redevelopment=

In May 1992, the owners announced a new concept for the mall, known as The Malls at Forest Fair.{{cite news|title=Forest Fair Mall chronology|work=The Cincinnati Enquirer|date=August 15, 1999|page=A16|url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-cincinnati-enquirer/26354798/|via=Newspapers.com}} Under this concept, each wing would focus on a different theme of shopping. The southwestern wing featuring Parisian and Elder-Beerman became "The Fashions at Forest Fair", featuring apparel and traditional department stores. Formerly home to B. Altman, the northwestern wing became "The Lifestyles at Forest Fair", with stores focused on home decor, entertainment, and sporting goods. Surrounding Bigg's, the eastern wing became "The Markets at Forest Fair", which featured tenants centered on "value, services, and convenience". Finally, center court and the former location of Bonwit Teller became "The Festival at Forest Fair", focused on entertainment and new restaurants. Also, Lexington, Kentucky-based clothing store Dawahares opened its first Ohio store in the vacated Sakowitz space, while Subway and Hot Dog on a Stick joined the food court.{{cite news|url=https://www.newspapers.com/clip/26353068/|title=Mega-mall gets 2nd life|last=Byczkowski|first=John J.|date=May 22, 1992|work=The Cincinnati Enquirer|pages=A1, [https://www.newspapers.com/clip/26353054/ A10]|access-date=February 19, 2018|archive-date=February 19, 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220219012507/https://www.newspapers.com/clip/26353068/the-cincinnati-enquirer/|url-status=live}} By June 1993, further new tenants had opened, including a Sam Goody/Suncoast Motion Picture Company music and video superstore in the Lifestyle wing and a CompUSA electronics store in the Markets wing. At the time, each of the other wings was about 90 percent leased except for the Lifestyle wing, which was only 25 percent leased. Due to the increased traffic brought on by the new stores, many new retail developments were constructed at the I-275 interchange, while the increase in businesses also boosted tax revenues in Forest Park.{{cite news|url=https://www.newspapers.com/clip/95398810/|title=Cities count on Forest Fair's full recovery|last=Kiesewetter|first=Sue|date=June 20, 1993|work=The Cincinnati Enquirer|pages=Extra 5|access-date=February 19, 2018|archive-date=February 19, 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220219012515/https://www.newspapers.com/clip/95398810/cities-count-on-forest-fairs-full/|url-status=live}} Although a home furnishings store called HOME had been proposed for the former B. Altman store as part of the 1992 renovations, the space ultimately remained vacant until late 1994 when Kohl's opened there. This was the first of three stores opened that year upon the chain's entry into the Cincinnati market.{{cite news|url=https://www.newspapers.com/clip/26348587/|title=Kohl's Department Stores to open at Forest Fair Mall|last=Reese|first=Shelly|date=April 21, 1994|work=The Cincinnati Enquirer|page=B5|access-date=February 19, 2018|archive-date=February 19, 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220219012516/https://www.newspapers.com/clip/26348587/the-cincinnati-enquirer/|url-status=live}}

The mall was put up for sale again in 1995, with FFM representatives noting that the partnership did not intend to maintain ownership for over five years.{{cite news|url=https://www.newspapers.com/clip/26363072/|title=Forest Fair for sale|last=Reese|first=Shelly|date=February 24, 1995|work=The Cincinnati Enquirer|pages=A1, [https://www.newspapers.com/clip/26363058/ A8]|access-date=February 19, 2018|archive-date=February 19, 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220219012522/https://www.newspapers.com/clip/26363072/the-cincinnati-enquirer/|url-status=live}} Although Phillips Edison & Company had placed a bid for the property,{{cite news|url=https://www.newspapers.com/clip/95399144/|title=Shopping for malls|last=Ward|first=Leah Beth|date=January 29, 1996|work=The Cincinnati Enquirer|pages=D1, [https://www.newspapers.com/clip/95399094/ D4]|access-date=April 15, 2018|archive-date=February 19, 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220219012541/https://www.newspapers.com/clip/95399144/shopping-for-malls/|url-status=live}} that company was outbid by Miami, Florida-based Gator Investments, whose purchase of the property was brokered in January 1996.{{cite news|url=https://www.newspapers.com/clip/26363641/|title=Forest Fair Mall finds buyer|last=Henterly|first=Meghan|date=January 3, 1996|work=The Cincinnati Enquirer|page=B7|access-date=February 19, 2018|archive-date=February 19, 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220219012520/https://www.newspapers.com/clip/26363641/the-cincinnati-enquirer/|url-status=live}} In 1996, Meijer opened across the street from the mall.{{cite news|url=https://www.newspapers.com/clip/61240235/meijer-hyperstores-boost-competition-in/|title=Meijer hyperstores boost competition in Southwest Ohio|publisher=The Cincinnati Enquirer|page=B6|first=Meghan|last=Henterly|date=May 7, 1996|access-date=December 8, 2021|archive-date=December 8, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211208192635/https://www.newspapers.com/clip/61240235/meijer-hyperstores-boost-competition-in/|url-status=live}} Several anchor stores in the mall changed under Gator's ownership: Dawahares closed in late 1996 due to poor sales,{{cite news|url=https://www.newspapers.com/clip/69756894/|title=Tristate business summary|date=January 20, 1996|work=The Cincinnati Enquirer|page=B16|access-date=February 19, 2018|archive-date=February 19, 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220219012538/https://www.newspapers.com/clip/69756894/dawahares-to-close-forest-fair-store/|url-status=live}} Berean Christian Stores signed a 10-year lease for a {{convert|21250|sqft|m2}} Christian bookstore at the mall in late 1997,{{cite news|url=https://www.newspapers.com/clip/26384457/|title=Forest Fair gets Christian bookstore|last=Brothers|first=Perry|date=October 9, 1997|work=The Cincinnati Enquirer|page=C12|access-date=February 20, 2018|archive-date=February 19, 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220219012519/https://www.newspapers.com/clip/26384457/the-cincinnati-enquirer/|url-status=live}} while Parisian closed in June 1998{{cite news|url=https://www.newspapers.com/clip/95399538/|title=Saks bought by Proffitt's in $2.1B deal|last=Sutel|first=Seth|date=July 6, 1998|work=The Cincinnati Enquirer|pages=A1, [https://www.newspapers.com/clip/95399473/ A5]|access-date=February 20, 2018|archive-date=February 19, 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220219012559/https://www.newspapers.com/clip/95399538/saks-bought-by-proffitts-in-21b-deal/|url-status=live}} and Guitar Center replaced CompUSA in August 1998 after that store moved to a larger location across from Tri-County Mall.{{cite news|url=https://www.newspapers.com/clip/26365634/|title=Industry notes: retail|last=Fasig|first=Lisa Biank|date=August 8, 1998|work=The Cincinnati Enquirer|page=B15|access-date=February 20, 2018|archive-date=February 19, 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220219012542/https://www.newspapers.com/clip/26365634/the-cincinnati-enquirer/|url-status=live}} A gym called Moore's Fitness also opened during this timespan.

In late 1999 and early 2000, Gator Investments began a second renovation plan which attracted several new tenants. Under these plans, they worked with Glimcher Realty Trust as leasing agent.{{cite news|url=https://www.newspapers.com/clip/26384502/|title=Tristate summary|date=November 4, 1999|work=The Cincinnati Enquirer|page=C1|access-date=February 20, 2018|archive-date=February 19, 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220219012525/https://www.newspapers.com/clip/26384502/the-cincinnati-enquirer/|url-status=live}} The mall underwent a myriad of changes soon afterward, including three anchor stores that all opened in October 2000: Bass Pro Shops opened in the former Parisian,{{cite news|url=https://www.newspapers.com/clip/26349732/|title=Bass Pro should reel in shoppers|last=Fasig|first=Lisa Biank|date=July 13, 2000|work=The Cincinnati Enquirer|pages=C16, [https://www.newspapers.com/clip/95401475/ C15]|access-date=February 20, 2018|archive-date=February 19, 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220219012523/https://www.newspapers.com/clip/26349732/the-cincinnati-enquirer/|url-status=live}} Burlington Coat Factory (now known as just Burlington) replaced the former "Festival" wing,{{cite news|url=https://www.newspapers.com/clip/26349691/|title=Mall on the mend|last=Fasig|first=Lisa Biank|date=October 29, 2000|work=The Cincinnati Enquirer|pages=D1, [https://www.newspapers.com/clip/26366996/ D2]|access-date=February 20, 2018|archive-date=February 19, 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220219012600/https://www.newspapers.com/clip/26349691/the-cincinnati-enquirer/|url-status=live}} and Stein Mart entered Ohio with a temporary outlet store in the space previously occupied by Dawahares.{{cite news|url=https://www.newspapers.com/clip/26367005/|title=Mall adds bargain retailer|last=Fasig|first=Lisa Biank|date=October 13, 2000|work=The Cincinnati Enquirer|pages=B14, [https://www.newspapers.com/clip/95401777/ B10]|access-date=February 20, 2018|archive-date=February 19, 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220219012531/https://www.newspapers.com/clip/26367005/the-cincinnati-enquirer/|url-status=live}} Also joining the mall between 2000 and 2001 were Media Play, Off 5th (an outlet division of Saks Fifth Avenue),{{cite news|url=https://www.newspapers.com/clip/26367271/|title=Shoppers check opening of Saks discount outlet|last=Callison|first=Jenny|date=March 16, 2001|work=The Cincinnati Enquirer|page=D1, [https://www.newspapers.com/clip/95401916/ D6]|access-date=February 20, 2018|archive-date=February 19, 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220219012542/https://www.newspapers.com/clip/26367271/the-cincinnati-enquirer/|url-status=live}} and the first Steve & Barry's sports clothing store in Ohio. These stores were part of a reconceptualization of the mall as "a value retail center with new-to-the-market merchants".{{cite news|url=https://www.newspapers.com/clip/26366946/|title=Media Play helps jazz up renewed Forest Fair Mall|last=Fasig|first=Lisa Biank|date=November 17, 2000|work=The Cincinnati Enquirer|page=B1|access-date=February 20, 2018|archive-date=February 19, 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220219012523/https://www.newspapers.com/clip/26366946/the-cincinnati-enquirer/|url-status=live}} Furthering this reconceptualization was the addition of new entertainment venues, including a nightclub called Metropolis,{{cite web|url=https://www.bizjournals.com/cincinnati/stories/2000/08/28/daily43.html|title=Nightlife returns to Forest Fair Mall|date=September 1, 2000|work=Cincinnati Business Journal|access-date=February 20, 2018|archive-date=May 5, 2003|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20030505084440/http://www.bizjournals.com/cincinnati/stories/2000/08/28/daily43.html|url-status=live}} a new Showcase Cinemas theater complex with stadium seating,{{cite web|url=https://www.newspapers.com/clip/26352950/|title=Forest Fair Mall redefines itself|last=Fasig|first=Lisa Biank|date=August 15, 1999|work=The Cincinnati Enquirer|pages=A1, [https://www.newspapers.com/clip/26366565/ A16]|access-date=February 20, 2018|archive-date=February 19, 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220219012523/https://www.newspapers.com/clip/26352950/the-cincinnati-enquirer/|url-status=live}} and a new children's playplace called Wonderpark.{{cite news|url=https://www.newspapers.com/clip/26352663/|title=Forest Fair finally finds its niche|last=McNair|first=James|date=December 9, 2001|work=The Cincinnati Enquirer|pages=D1, [https://www.newspapers.com/clip/26383851/ D2]|access-date=February 20, 2018|archive-date=February 19, 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220219012534/https://www.newspapers.com/clip/26352663/the-cincinnati-enquirer/|url-status=live}}

=2002{{endash}}07: Cincinnati Mills=

File:Cincinnati Mills Mall (9762327281).jpg

Mills Corporation bought the mall from Gator Investments in September 2002 and announced that the mall would undergo further redevelopment, along with a name change to Cincinnati Mills.{{cite news|url=https://www.newspapers.com/clip/95402335/|title=New owners, new theme give hope to Forest Fair|last=Tucker|first=Randy|date=September 28, 2002|work=The Cincinnati Enquirer|pages=A1, [https://www.newspapers.com/clip/26367806/ A10]|access-date=February 20, 2018|archive-date=February 19, 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220219012530/https://www.newspapers.com/clip/95402335/new-owners-new-theme-give-hope-to/|url-status=live}} As part of the redevelopment, Mills forced many small independent businesses out of the property.{{cite news|url=https://www.newspapers.com/clip/26352694/|title=Forest Fair Mall tenants upset by operator's timing|last=Tucker|first=Randy|date=January 4, 2003|work=The Cincinnati Enquirer|pages=D1, [https://www.newspapers.com/clip/95402519/ D2]|access-date=February 20, 2018|archive-date=February 19, 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220219012542/https://www.newspapers.com/clip/26352694/the-cincinnati-enquirer/|url-status=live}} Renovations began in January 2003, which included new paint, floors, and signage throughout, along with differently-themed decor for each wing of the mall, typical of properties developed by Mills at the time.{{cite news|url=https://www.newspapers.com/clip/26384551/|title='Neighborhoods' developer's theme for Forest Fair Mall|last=Tucker|first=Randy|date=January 23, 2003|work=The Cincinnati Enquirer|pages=C1, [https://www.newspapers.com/clip/95402668/ C11]|access-date=February 20, 2018|archive-date=February 19, 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220219012553/https://www.newspapers.com/clip/26384551/the-cincinnati-enquirer/|url-status=live}}

Elder-Beerman announced the closure of its store in 2003, as the chain wanted to focus on smaller stores in markets with lower populations.{{cite news|url=https://www.newspapers.com/clip/66193227/|title=Elder-Beerman quits Forest Fair|last=Tucker|first=Randy|date=January 8, 2003|work=The Cincinnati Enquirer|pages=D1, [https://www.newspapers.com/clip/95402836/ D6]|access-date=February 20, 2018|archive-date=February 19, 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220219012534/https://www.newspapers.com/clip/66193227/elder-beerman-quits-forest-fair/|url-status=live}} After a $70 million renovation project, the mall reopened officially as Cincinnati Mills in August 2004. As part of Mills' development, Babies "R" Us replaced Stein Mart, and Johnny's Toys had opened in the upper level of the former Elder-Beerman,{{cite news|url=https://www.newspapers.com/clip/26384576/|title=Johnny's Toys opens in Cincinnati Mills|last=Tucker|first=Randy|date=August 13, 2004|work=The Cincinnati Enquirer|page=D5|access-date=February 20, 2018|archive-date=February 19, 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220219012558/https://www.newspapers.com/clip/26384576/the-cincinnati-enquirer/|url-status=live}} while the older Super Saver theater was sold to the local theater chain Danbarry and renamed the Dollar Saver.{{cite news|url=https://www.newspapers.com/clip/26384590/|title=Business digest|date=December 23, 2004|work=The Cincinnati Enquirer|page=D3|access-date=February 20, 2018|archive-date=February 19, 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220219012552/https://www.newspapers.com/clip/26384590/the-cincinnati-enquirer/|url-status=live}} Inline tenants at this point were focused mainly on discount stores and amenities suitable for families, as was typical of other properties developed by Mills.{{cite news|url=https://www.newspapers.com/clip/26403235/|title=Mall to reopen with focus on families, discounters|last=Tucker|first=Randy|date=August 18, 2004|work=The Cincinnati Enquirer|pages=D1, [https://www.newspapers.com/clip/26384564/ D2]|access-date=February 20, 2018|archive-date=February 19, 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220219012543/https://www.newspapers.com/clip/26403235/the-cincinnati-enquirer/|url-status=live}} By January 2005, the mall had a 90 percent occupancy.{{cite news|url=https://www.newspapers.com/clip/26384599/|title=Battle of the malls|last=Alltucker|first=Ken|date=January 23, 2005|work=The Cincinnati Enquirer|pages=A1, [https://www.newspapers.com/clip/95403168/ A10]|access-date=February 20, 2018|archive-date=February 19, 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220219012549/https://www.newspapers.com/clip/26384599/the-cincinnati-enquirer/|url-status=live}}

Despite these renovations, the mall's tenancy began to slump again in 2006. This included the loss of Media Play, which went out of business entirely, and Johnny's Toys, which was closed so that Steve & Barry's could create a larger store using all of the former Elder-Beerman store. In addition, the president of Bigg's reported that their store in the mall had constantly struggled in sales due to it being located at the back of the property.{{cite news|url=https://www.newspapers.com/clip/26384605/|title=Two years after makeover, mall struggles to find niche|last=Boyer|first=Mike|date=July 12, 2006|work=The Cincinnati Enquirer|pages=A1, [https://www.newspapers.com/clip/95403287/ A10]|access-date=February 20, 2018|archive-date=February 19, 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220219012558/https://www.newspapers.com/clip/26384605/the-cincinnati-enquirer/|url-status=live}} Also contributing to the decline were continued competition with Northgate and Tri-County malls, along with a newer outdoor mall called Bridgewater Falls in nearby Hamilton; lower-class demographics surrounding the mall; shopper unfamiliarity with the specialty tenants within; bankruptcy filings of key tenants; and complications from an accounting scandal in which the Mills corporation was involved.{{cite news|url=https://www.newspapers.com/clip/26384612/|title=Can this mall work?|last=Boyer|first=Mike|date=February 4, 2007|work=The Cincinnati Enquirer|pages=A1, [https://www.newspapers.com/clip/95403468/ A12]|access-date=February 20, 2018|archive-date=February 19, 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220219012535/https://www.newspapers.com/clip/26384612/the-cincinnati-enquirer/|url-status=live}} Simon Property Group acquired the Mills portfolio in 2007.

=2008{{endash}}present: Cincinnati Mall, Forest Fair Village=

File:Forest Fair Village Center Court.jpg

Bigg's closed in June 2008, shortly after both Berean Christian Stores and Wonderpark closed.{{cite news|url=https://www.newspapers.com/clip/26384644/|title=Bigg's closing Mills store|last=Boyer|first=Mike|date=May 15, 2008|work=The Cincinnati Enquirer|pages=A9, [https://www.newspapers.com/clip/95403641/ A10]|access-date=February 20, 2018|archive-date=February 19, 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220219012546/https://www.newspapers.com/clip/26384644/the-cincinnati-enquirer/|url-status=live}} North Star Realty acquired the mall from Simon in January 2009.{{cite news|url=https://www.newspapers.com/clip/26384633/|title=Cincinnati Mills sold again|last=Boyer|first=Mike|date=January 3, 2009|work=The Cincinnati Enquirer|page=C1|access-date=February 20, 2018|archive-date=February 19, 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220219012554/https://www.newspapers.com/clip/26384633/the-cincinnati-enquirer/|url-status=live}} North Star proposed to begin converting portions of the mall to office space, call centers, or other non-retail uses,{{cite news|url=https://www.newspapers.com/clip/26384654/|title=Mall's new owner: Hmm, now what?|last=Boyer|first=Mike|date=January 10, 2009|work=The Cincinnati Enquirer|pages=C1, [https://www.newspapers.com/clip/95403812/ C3]|access-date=February 20, 2018|archive-date=February 19, 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220219012543/https://www.newspapers.com/clip/26384654/the-cincinnati-enquirer/|url-status=live}} also renaming the property to Cincinnati Mall on March 4, 2009.{{cite news|url=https://www.newspapers.com/clip/26384666/|first=Laura|last=Baverman|title=Mall renamed, owners selling parcels|date=March 12, 2009|work=The Cincinnati Enquirer|pages=NW 6|access-date=February 20, 2018|archive-date=February 19, 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220219012545/https://www.newspapers.com/clip/26384666/the-cincinnati-enquirer/|url-status=live}}{{cite news|title=Cincinnati Mills drops ‘Mills’ for ‘Mall’ in name|first=Laura|last=Baverman|work=The Cincinnati Enquirer|date=March 5, 2009|page=A9|url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-cincinnati-enquirer/149369473/|via=Newspapers.com}} Under North Star's ownership, Steve & Barry's vacated due to the chain going out of business, while Off 5th, Guess, Lane Bryant, and Dress Barn relocated to a newly built outlet mall in Monroe.{{cite news|url=https://www.newspapers.com/clip/95404062/|title=Outlet malls have own kind of pull|last=Baverman|first=Laura|date=August 4, 2009|work=The Cincinnati Enquirer|pages=A5, [https://www.newspapers.com/clip/95403988/ A6]|access-date=February 20, 2018|archive-date=February 19, 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220219012559/https://www.newspapers.com/clip/95404062/outlet-malls-have-own-kind-of-pull/|url-status=live}} Despite the loss of these stores and other inline tenants such as MasterCuts and GNC, Totes Isotoner operated a temporary {{convert|30000|sqft|m2}} warehouse store in a vacated retail slot near the food court.{{cite news|url=https://www.newspapers.com/clip/95404143/|title=Totes lease boosts Cincinnati Mall|last=Baverman|first=Laura|date=July 8, 2009|work=The Cincinnati Enquirer|pages=A10, [https://www.newspapers.com/clip/95404212/ A12]|access-date=February 20, 2018|archive-date=February 19, 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220219012558/https://www.newspapers.com/clip/95404143/totes-lease-boosts-cincinnati-mall/|url-status=live}} In addition, the property owners had fallen delinquent on property taxes.{{cite news|url=https://www.newspapers.com/clip/26384678/|title=Shopping site loses theater|last=Baverman|first=Laura|date=March 3, 2010|work=The Cincinnati Enquirer|pages=A1, [https://www.newspapers.com/clip/26406327/ A10]|access-date=February 20, 2018|archive-date=February 19, 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220219012555/https://www.newspapers.com/clip/26384678/the-cincinnati-enquirer/|url-status=live}} Cincinnati Holding Company purchased the mall in 2010,{{cite web|url=http://www.journal-news.com/news/development-former-cincinnati-mall-still-holding-pattern/tBa0G8MPiym2F33nLBzdqI/|title=Development of former Cincinnati Mall still in 'holding pattern'|last=Levingston|first=Chelsey|date=December 21, 2015|work=Journal-News.com|access-date=February 20, 2018|archive-date=February 20, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180220152311/http://www.journal-news.com/news/development-former-cincinnati-mall-still-holding-pattern/tBa0G8MPiym2F33nLBzdqI/|url-status=live}} right as Showcase Cinemas closed.File:Forest Fair Village Food Court.jpg

Three local businessmen announced plans in 2011 to open ice skating rinks in the vacated Bigg's. By this time, Guitar Center had also closed, and a studio was proposed for its space, while a hotel was slated for the former Elder-Beerman/Steve & Barry's space.{{cite news|url=https://www.newspapers.com/clip/26384714/|title=Mills shows signs of life|last=Baverman|first=Laura|date=November 18, 2011|work=The Cincinnati Enquirer|pages=B1, [https://www.newspapers.com/clip/95404437/ B2]|access-date=February 20, 2018|archive-date=February 19, 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220219012536/https://www.newspapers.com/clip/26384714/the-cincinnati-enquirer/|url-status=live}} Bass Pro Shops announced plans to relocate to West Chester Township in 2013. Also, the mall was renamed again to Forest Fair Village.{{cite news|url=https://www.newspapers.com/clip/95404532/|first=Cindi|last=Andrews|title=Bass Pro moving to West Chester, adding eatery|date=October 24, 2013|work=The Cincinnati Enquirer|pages=S3, [https://www.newspapers.com/clip/95404658/ S4]|access-date=February 20, 2018|archive-date=February 19, 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220219012603/https://www.newspapers.com/clip/95404532/bass-pro-shops-moving-to-west-chester/|url-status=live}} Burlington Coat Factory moved out of the mall in 2013,{{cite web|url=http://cincinnati.com/blogs/newintown/2013/02/08/burlington-coat-factory-moving-from-cincinnati-mall-to-springdale/|title=New in Town Burlington Coat Factory moving from Cincinnati Mall to Springdale|last=Steigerwald|first=Shauna|date=February 8, 2013|work=Cincinnati.com|access-date=December 4, 2013|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140115220012/http://cincinnati.com/blogs/newintown/2013/02/08/burlington-coat-factory-moving-from-cincinnati-mall-to-springdale/|archive-date=January 15, 2014}} and Danbarry Dollar Saver closed in 2014.{{cite news|url=https://www.newspapers.com/clip/95405197/|title=Business in brief|date=October 3, 2014|work=The Cincinnati Enquirer|page=A19|access-date=February 20, 2018|archive-date=February 19, 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220219012538/https://www.newspapers.com/clip/95405197/danbarry-movie-theater-in-forest-fair/|url-status=live}} The proposed relocation of Bass Pro Shops, combined with the continued delinquent taxes, created delays in any further attempts at redevelopment.{{cite web|url=http://www.daytondailynews.com/news/bass-pro-move-further-slow-forest-fair-mall-development/MsqJ4qI2wIuHbRv3xyEIUK/|title=Bass Pro move to further slow Forest Fair mall development|last=Levingston|first=Chelsey|date=October 26, 2013|work=Dayton Daily News|access-date=February 20, 2018|archive-date=February 20, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180220152003/http://www.daytondailynews.com/news/bass-pro-move-further-slow-forest-fair-mall-development/MsqJ4qI2wIuHbRv3xyEIUK/|url-status=live}} Further redevelopment plans through association with Prudential Commercial Real Estate fell through in 2014 when that company's listing agreement expired.{{cite web|url=http://www.journal-news.com/news/future-the-former-cincinnati-mall-limbo-again/TI9hRhMsFfN5AZvjq6OcQJ/|title=Future of the former Cincinnati Mall in limbo — again|last=Levingston|first=Chelsey|date=November 29, 2014|work=Journal-News.com|access-date=February 20, 2018|archive-date=February 20, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180220152431/http://www.journal-news.com/news/future-the-former-cincinnati-mall-limbo-again/TI9hRhMsFfN5AZvjq6OcQJ/|url-status=live}} By 2017, only Kohl's, Bass Pro Shops, an arcade, and a children's entertainment complex remained in operation.{{cite web|url=https://www.cincinnati.com/story/money/2017/06/28/cincinnati-malls-death-spiral-yours-survive/395855001/|title=Cincinnati malls' death spiral: Will yours survive?|last=Andrews|first=Cindi|date=June 28, 2017|work=Cincinnati.com|access-date=February 20, 2018|archive-date=September 11, 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170911142200/http://www.cincinnati.com/story/money/2017/06/28/cincinnati-malls-death-spiral-yours-survive/395855001/|url-status=live}} A brokerage team put the mall up for sale in 2017.{{cite news|url=https://www.wcpo.com/news/insider/for-sale-one-big-and-mostly-empty-forest-fair-mall|title=For sale: One big and mostly empty Forest Fair Mall|last=Monk|first=Dan|date=August 11, 2017|work=WCPO|access-date=February 20, 2018|archive-date=February 20, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180220151913/https://www.wcpo.com/news/insider/for-sale-one-big-and-mostly-empty-forest-fair-mall|url-status=live}} In mid-2017, a Christian media company had expressed interest in using part of the mall property for a studio.{{cite web|url=https://www.bisnow.com/cincinnati/news/retail/cincinnati-brokers-explore-new-uses-for-big-mostly-empty-forest-fair-mall-77965|title=Cincinnati Brokers Explore New Uses For Big, Mostly Empty Forest Fair Mall|date=August 20, 2017|work=Bisnow|access-date=February 20, 2018|archive-date=February 20, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180220092345/https://www.bisnow.com/cincinnati/news/retail/cincinnati-brokers-explore-new-uses-for-big-mostly-empty-forest-fair-mall-77965|url-status=live}}

Inspectors from the city of Forest Park cited the building for a number of code violations throughout 2020, including sealed emergency exits and graffiti. At the same time, Cincinnati news station WCPO-TV began investigating the mall after viewers noted that Amazon Prime delivery trucks were using the structure's parking lot to stage deliveries.{{cite web | url=https://www.wcpo.com/news/local-news/i-team/how-ohios-second-biggest-mall-became-an-amazon-parking-lot | title=How Ohio's second-biggest mall became an Amazon parking lot | publisher=WCPO | date=February 27, 2020 | access-date=September 5, 2021 | archive-date=September 6, 2021 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210906025113/https://www.wcpo.com/news/local-news/i-team/how-ohios-second-biggest-mall-became-an-amazon-parking-lot | url-status=live }} Officials of both Butler and Hamilton County submitted plans to the state of Ohio in 2022, calling for $9.5 million in funds to demolish the mall. They also began negotiations with Kohl's and Bass Pro Shops for redevelopment plans. The Butler County Journal News reported that any plans for the mall's demolition would be contingent on the availability of funds, with one potential plan being to convert the property to light industrial use.{{cite web | url=https://www.journal-news.com/news/former-forest-fair-mall-other-buildings-in-county-slated-for-demolition-if-funds-come-through/DWLHUPBDVZEGBDJA4HFS4OSV6U/ | title=Former Forest Fair Mall, other buildings will be demolished if funds come through | publisher=Denise G. Callahan | work=Journal-News | date=February 7, 2022 | accessdate=March 7, 2022}}

Arcade Legacy, one of the last remaining tenants, moved out of the mall in September 2022.{{cite web | url=https://www.cincinnati.com/story/entertainment/2022/05/04/arcade-legacy-bar-edition-sharonville/9642097002/ | title=Arcade Legacy closing 2 locations, opening new Sharonville location | publisher=Cincinnati.com | date=May 4, 2022 | accessdate=July 25, 2022}} A month later, WLWT reported that the mall is slated for demolition along with 825 other buildings across Ohio, as part of State Governor Mike DeWine's Ohio Building Demolition and Site Revitalization Program.{{cite web | url=https://www.wlwt.com/article/forest-fair-mall-demolished-825-vacant-blighted-buildings/41804543 | title=Former Forest Fair mall to be demolished along with 825 other vacant, blighted buildings | publisher=WLWT | date=October 28, 2022 | accessdate=October 28, 2022}} The mall was finally closed on December 2, 2022 after the City of Forest Park Fire Department closed all remaining businesses (except Bass Pro Shops and Kohl's) due to a number of fire code violations.{{cite web | url=https://www.bizjournals.com/cincinnati/news/2022/12/02/former-forest-fair-mall-closed.html | title=Former Forest Fair Mall closed due to fire, safety hazards | publisher=Cincinnati Business Journal | date=December 2, 2022 | accessdate=December 5, 2022}} In January 2024, it was announced that Bass Pro Shops would close its Forest Fair Mall location on January 13 and relocate to a much larger store located near Interstate 75 in West Chester.{{Cite web|url=https://www.cincinnati.com/story/news/2024/01/05/bass-pro-shops-moving-to-west-chester-deserting-cincinnati-mall/72124658007/|title=Opening date set for Bass Pro Shops' new mega store in West Chester|date=January 5, 2024|access-date=January 8, 2024|website=Cincinnati.com|language=en}} In January 2025, Kohl's announced it would be closing 27 underperforming stores in April, including their Forest Fair store, leaving the mall with no tenants.{{Cite press release|url=https://corporate.kohls.com/news/kohls-announces-select-real-estate-changes|title=Kohl's Announces Select Real Estate Changes|date=January 9, 2025|publisher=Kohl's|language=en}}