Exploring Claire’s Stores in Syracuse and Surrounding Area
Claire’s, the iconic retailer specializing in trendy jewelry, accessories, and ear piercing services, has been a staple for young
fashion enthusiasts since its founding in 1961 in Chicago. Known for its vibrant mall locations and affordable, fun items like earrings,
necklaces, hair accessories, and toys, Claire’s has long been a go-to spot for tweens, teens, and anyone looking to add a pop of
personality to their style. The brand’s ear piercing service, with over 100 million ears pierced worldwide, has made it a rite of
passage for many. However, like many mall-based retailers, Claire’s faced challenges in recent years, including shifting consumer
trends and economic pressures.
In August 2025, Claire’s filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection for the second time in seven years, citing factors such as increased
tariffs on imports from Asia, competition from online retailers, and declining foot traffic in malls. The company initially planned to
close 291 stores across the U.S., including several in New York, with liquidation sales wrapping up by early September. This included
18 Claire’s locations and one Icing store (Claire’s sister brand) in New York state. However, in a positive turn, Claire’s North
American operations were acquired by private equity firm Ames Watson for approximately $104 million in late August 2025, leading to a
pause in further liquidations and the preservation of a significant retail footprint. As of December 2025, many stores remain
operational, though some closures did occur during the restructuring.
For residents in Syracuse, Onondaga County, and up to about 100 miles away, several Claire’s locations continue to serve the community.
Below, we detail the key spots, focusing on those still open based on the latest available information from the company’s store locator
and recent reports. Distances are approximate from downtown Syracuse.
Claire’s in Syracuse and Onondaga Area
The heart of Claire’s presence in the region is in Syracuse itself, where the brand has maintained a strong foothold despite the
challenges.
• Destiny USA, Syracuse:
6 Destiny USA Drive, Unit E203, Syracuse, NY 13204.
Phone: (315) 466-2703.
Hours are typically Monday-Thursday 10 AM-8 PM, Friday-Saturday 10 AM-9 PM, and Sunday 11 AM-6 PM.
This bustling store in one of the largest malls in the U.S. offers the full range of Claire’s products, including jewelry, tech
accessories, and toys. It’s also a popular spot for ear piercing.
Note: An additional location at 3649 Erie Blvd E (ShoppingTown area) appears to have closed as part of the 2025 restructuring, leaving
Destiny USA as the primary spot in Syracuse.
Onondaga County, encompassing Syracuse, benefits directly from this location, making it easy for locals to access Claire’s signature
styles without traveling far.
Claire’s Locations Within 100 Miles of Syracuse
Extending the search radius to about 100 miles covers central New York hotspots like Rochester, Binghamton, and Watertown. Here’s where
you can find open Claire’s stores:
• Salmon Run Mall, Watertown (about 70 miles north)
21182 Salmon Run Mall Loop West, Watertown, NY 13601
Phone: (315) 788-8665.
This store remains open post-acquisition, offering the latest trends and ear piercing services.
• Sangertown Square, New Hartford (about 50 miles east, near Utica):
8555 Seneca Turnpike, Space L04, New Hartford, NY 13413.
Phone: (315) 797-1660.
Despite earlier reports of potential closure during bankruptcy, this location is listed as operational. It’s a convenient stop for
those in the Utica-Rome area.
• Oakdale Commons, Johnson City (about 70 miles south, near Binghamton):
601-625 Harry L Drive, #22, Johnson City, NY 13790.
Phone: (607) 770-0010
This store survived the closure wave and continues to stock fun accessories and host parties. Initial bankruptcy announcements flagged
it for potential shutdown, but the acquisition preserved it.
• The Mall at Greece Ridge, Rochester (about 80 miles west)
460 Greece Ridge Center Drive, Rochester, NY 14626
(585) 225-1140
Open and thriving, this location emphasizes fashion-forward items and safe piercing. Phone:
• Eastview Mall, Victor (about 70 miles west, near Rochester)
Phone: (585) 425-4050
201 Eastview Mall, Victor, NY 14564. Another Rochester-area gem that’s still operating, perfect for a day trip.
• Arnot Mall, Horseheads (about 85 miles southwest, near Elmira)
3300 Chambers Road, Suite 5012, Horseheads, NY 14845.
Phone: (607) 739-3255
This store rounds out the southern options within the radius and remains open.
Unfortunately, the Claire’s at The Shops at Ithaca Mall (40 Catherwood Road, Ithaca, NY 14850, about 50 miles south) appears to have
closed as part of the 2025 restructurings and is no longer listed on the official locator.
For those willing to venture slightly beyond 100 miles (about 130 miles east), Albany offers two locations: Colonie Center
(1417 Central Avenue, Space H-7, Albany, NY 12205) and Crossgates Mall (1 Crossgates Mall Road, C209, Albany, NY 12203). Both are open
and provide the full Claire’s experience.
What to Expect at Claire’s Today
Despite the turbulence, Claire’s stores in the region continue to offer a wide array of products, from stackable rings and colorful
hair clips to tech gadgets like phone cases and collectible toys from brands like Ty and Pusheen. Ear piercing remains a highlight,
with trained specialists using sterile equipment for a safe experience—often free with the purchase of a starter kit. Many locations
also host birthday parties, making them a fun destination for families.
With the acquisition by Ames Watson, Claire’s is poised for a revival, focusing on preserving its core retail presence while adapting to
modern shopping habits, such as potential expansions into non-mall formats. If you’re in the Syracuse area or nearby, these stores
provide a nostalgic yet fresh shopping experience. Always check the official Claire’s website or call ahead for the latest hours and
availability, as the retail landscape can change quickly. Whether for a quick accessory pickup or a memorable piercing, Claire’s endures
as a beacon of youthful style in central New York.
