Greetings, outdoor enthusiasts and sports lovers! Have you ever wondered just how vast the Academy Sports + Outdoors empire is? It's a common question, especially when you're looking for gear or curious about their presence. Let's embark on a journey to uncover the current footprint of Academy Sports + Outdoors and understand its impressive growth!
As of mid-2025, Academy Sports + Outdoors operates a significant number of stores across the United States. They have been on a consistent growth trajectory, expanding their reach to more communities.
Step 1: Discovering the Current Store Count – The Latest Figures! ️
So, how many Academy Sports + Outdoors are there? As of June 2025, Academy Sports + Outdoors has 303 locations! They've been busy expanding, having recently opened five new stores, bringing their total past the 300-store milestone. This expansion also saw them enter two new states, Pennsylvania and Maryland, increasing their footprint to a total of 21 states.
Sub-heading: A Look at Recent Growth
Academy Sports + Outdoors is actively pursuing an aggressive expansion strategy.
In fiscal 2023, they opened 14 new stores.
In fiscal 2024, they continued this growth by opening 16 new stores, including their first locations in Ohio.
For fiscal 2025, the company plans to open a total of 20-25 new stores. This consistent expansion demonstrates their commitment to reaching more customers and communities.
Step 2: Understanding the Geographic Reach – Where Can You Find Them?
Academy Sports + Outdoors primarily focuses its operations across the Southern, Southeastern, and Midwestern United States. However, with recent expansions, their presence is continually growing.
Sub-heading: States with Academy Stores
You can find Academy Sports + Outdoors stores in the following states:
Alabama
Arkansas
Florida
Georgia
Illinois
Indiana
Kansas
Kentucky
Louisiana
Maryland (new in 2025)
Mississippi
Missouri
North Carolina
Ohio (new in 2024)
Oklahoma
Pennsylvania (new in 2025)
South Carolina
Tennessee
Texas (where it all began!)
Virginia
West Virginia
This broad coverage ensures that a wide range of consumers have access to their extensive selection of sporting goods and outdoor recreation equipment.
Step 3: Delving into the History and Mission – More Than Just Stores!
Academy Sports + Outdoors has a rich history, beginning as a family business in Texas in 1938. Over the decades, it has evolved into a leading full-line sporting goods and outdoor recreation retailer.
Sub-heading: "Fun for All" - The Core Mission
Academy's mission is to provide "Fun for All." They achieve this by offering a localized merchandising strategy and a value proposition that resonates with a diverse customer base. This approach ensures that each store offers products tailored to the specific needs and interests of the local community.
Sub-heading: Strategic Growth and Future Plans
The company has laid out ambitious plans for future growth. They aim to open 160 to 180 new stores over the next five years, significantly increasing their total store count to between 442 and 462. This aggressive expansion includes targeting both existing markets and venturing into new, smaller to mid-sized markets, which they believe offer higher profit opportunities.
Step 4: Exploring the Shopping Experience – What Awaits You Inside? ️
Beyond just the numbers, understanding what an Academy Sports + Outdoors store offers provides a better picture of its widespread appeal.
Sub-heading: Diverse Product Assortment
Each store is typically quite large, averaging around 70,000 square feet, allowing for a vast and diverse inventory. You'll find:
Outdoor Gear: Camping, fishing, hunting, and boating equipment.
Apparel: Athletic wear, casual clothing, and outdoor attire for men, women, and children.
Sports Equipment: Gear for a multitude of sports, from team sports like baseball and basketball to individual pursuits like fitness and cycling.
Footwear: Athletic shoes, hiking boots, and casual footwear.
Recreation Items: Backyard games, trampolines, and other fun family activities.
They offer a mix of leading national brands and a robust portfolio of private label brands, ensuring both quality and value for their customers.
Sub-heading: Omnichannel Approach
Academy Sports + Outdoors also focuses heavily on an omnichannel shopping experience. This includes:
Online Shopping: A comprehensive website where you can browse and purchase items.
Same-Day Delivery: Partnerships with services like DoorDash to offer quick delivery.
Free 1-Hour Pick Up: Convenient options for curbside or in-store pickup, highlighting their commitment to a seamless customer journey.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are 10 common questions about Academy Sports + Outdoors, with quick answers:
How to find the nearest Academy Sports + Outdoors store?
You can find the nearest store by using the "Store Locator" feature on the Academy Sports + Outdoors website (
How to apply for a job at Academy Sports + Outdoors?
Visit the "Careers" section on the official Academy Sports + Outdoors corporate website to view open positions and submit an application.
How to return an item to Academy Sports + Outdoors?
Academy Sports + Outdoors typically accepts returns with a receipt within a specific timeframe (often 60 days) for a full refund. Check their official return policy online or in-store for detailed information.
How to use Academy Sports + Outdoors gift cards?
Academy Sports + Outdoors gift cards can be redeemed online at academy.com or in any of their physical store locations.
How to check the balance of an Academy Sports + Outdoors gift card?
You can usually check the balance of your gift card online on the Academy Sports + Outdoors website by entering the card number and PIN.
How to sign up for Academy Sports + Outdoors emails and promotions?
You can sign up for their email list on their website, usually at the bottom of the homepage, to receive updates on sales, new arrivals, and promotions.
How to get same-day delivery from Academy Sports + Outdoors?
Academy Sports + Outdoors has partnered with services like DoorDash for same-day delivery. Check their website for availability in your area and specific order requirements.
How to find out about Academy Sports + Outdoors sales events?
Keep an eye on their website, subscribe to their email list, or check their weekly ad online or in-store for current sales and promotional events.
How to buy online and pick up in store at Academy Sports + Outdoors?
Select the "Free 1-Hour Pick Up" option during your online checkout, then choose your preferred store location for pickup. You'll receive a notification when your order is ready.
How to contact Academy Sports + Outdoors customer service?
You can usually find their customer service contact information, including phone numbers and email support, on the "Contact Us" section of their official website.
