Barnes & Noble is moving forward with its new Chapel Hill location at University Place, 201 S. Estes Dr. #200A, according to an Instagram post by local creator LifeStylewithLouis’a. Renovations are currently underway inside the former Planet Fitness space.
According to the Raleigh News & Observer, the new bookstore will occupy approximately 19,734 square feet on the north side of University Place, across from Harris Teeter. Barnes & Noble is one of several new tenants joining the mixed-use destination as owner Ram Realty continues transforming the former enclosed mall into a modern retail, dining and entertainment hub.
LifestylewithLouisa’s recent Instagram post also noted that renovations are underway at Barnes & Noble alongside nearby wine café Postino, highlighting continued progress at University Place as additional retailers and restaurants prepare to open.
While an exact opening date has not been announced, Shopping Center Business previously reported that Barnes & Noble is expected to open during the fourth quarter of 2026, pending completion of construction.
According to the Barnes & Noble website, the retailer operates more than 600 bookstores across the United States, offering an extensive selection of books, eBooks, audiobooks, toys, games, gifts, music, movies and collectibles. Many locations also feature a Barnes & Noble Café, where customers can enjoy coffee, baked goods and light fare while browsing.
