Shopping across the border from Toronto can be super fun. After all, there are many great US areas near Toronto where you can find cool stuff you might not see in the country (or maybe too expensive). So, if you’re looking for US stores where you can shop more within your budget, you’re in the right spot. Let’s get started on your next shopping adventure as we compiled the places where you can have your best cross-border shopping from Toronto.

Key Takeaways

• There are US shopping destinations near Toronto that Canadians will love to visit. Cities like Niagara Falls, Buffalo, and Rochester are just a short drive away and offer a mix of American brands, unique products, and better deals.
  
  
• Check the guidelines on personal exemptions before you go shopping across the border. This will help you understand how much you can bring back to Canada without paying extra fees or taxes.
  
  
• If you prefer shopping from home, consider using a package forwarder like Shippsy. They make cross-border shipping easy, fast, and affordable, allowing you to enjoy US products without leaving home.

Best US Areas To Go On Cross-Border Shopping Trips From Toronto

Here are the nearest US areas in Toronto you should go for your next cross-border shopping experience:

1. Niagara Falls, New York

Canadian shoppers from Toronto often find themselves drawn to the fun that awaits at Niagara Falls, New York. This place has breathtaking natural beauty and offers exciting shopping opportunities.

Just a short drive across the border, Niagara Falls is filled with American retail outlets and shopping centres that provide a different shopping experience than you can find back home.

Now, imagine spending your next shopping trip to the majestic Niagara Falls. If you’re as thrilled as us, add this place to your next shopping destination checklist.

Travel Distance: 1.5 to 2 hours by car

Shopping Malls:

Fashion Outlets of Niagara Falls USA

This premier shopping destination is just a few minutes from the iconic Niagara Falls. With over 200 designer stores like Kate Spade, Tommy Hilfiger, and Michael Kors, this outlet mall offers diverse product variations.

The mall’s contemporary design and spacious area create a pleasant shopping experience. Plus, its aesthetic view is complemented by various dining options to refuel your cross-border shopping spree.

Address: 1900 Military Rd, Niagara Falls, NY 14304, United States

Niagara Falls State Park shops

Niagara Falls State Park offers a unique shopping experience to tourists and locals with its collection of shops near the famous waterfalls. These shops feature a variety of souvenirs, gifts, and local crafts that capture the beauty of Niagara Falls.

Visiting this spot allows shoppers to discover unique items to mark their trip. After all, shopping here is more than just making a purchase—it’s a memorable part of the Niagara Falls experience. Plus, the park’s beautiful surroundings enhance the atmosphere.

Address: 332 Prospect St, Niagara Falls, NY 14303, United States

2. Buffalo, New York

Many Canadians in Toronto find the trip across the border to Buffalo, New York, an exciting and rewarding shopping adventure. Buffalo offers a unique blend of American brands, outlets, and shopping malls that may not be as readily available or as competitively priced back home.

Shopping in Buffalo can be a refreshing change of pace for Canadians looking for variety and value. The cross-border shopping experience here includes discovering new products and taking advantage of exclusive promotions or events.

As such, the allure of a Buffalo shopping spree continues to draw many Toronto residents eager to explore and enjoy a bit of retail therapy just a short drive away.

Travel Distance: 2 to 2.5 hours by car

Shopping Malls:

Walden Galleria

Walden Galleria is a top shopping spot near Buffalo. It’s a huge mall with over 1.6 million square feet of space. You can find everything at this shopping place!

It’s not just about shopping, though. Its vast size, spanning over 1.6 million square feet, ensures there’s something for everyone, from high-end brands to food chains and specialty boutiques.

Plus, it’s easy to get to from major highways and the Buffalo Niagara International Airport, making it a favourite destination for both locals and visitors looking for a great shopping and entertainment experience.

Address: 1 Walden Galleria, Buffalo, NY 14225, United States

Boulevard Mall

Boulevard Mall is a longstanding shopping centre serving the Buffalo community for decades. Unlike larger malls, this shopping centre offers a more cozy vibe. Shoppers can stroll through a selection of stores without feeling overwhelmed as it built with an interior that makes you feel at home.

Visitors can find various fashion stores, electronics outlets, and specialty shops, catering to a range of tastes and budgets. Its focus on a mix of well-known and independent retailers allows visitors to discover both popular brands and unique finds.

Throughout the years, the mall has adapted to changing customer preferences while preserving its unique charm. The mall regularly hosts events and special offers that bring people together and foster a sense of community among shoppers.

Address: 730 Alberta Dr, Amherst, NY 14226, United States

3. Rochester, New York

Toronto residents often find themselves drawn to nearby Rochester, New York, for a unique shopping experience. This place offers Canadians a blend of familiar and new retail opportunities.

Plus, the strong Canadian dollars can make shopping more fun as it offers great value for high-quality goods. Beyond shopping, Rochester’s charming historic sites and scenic parks provide an enjoyable backdrop for a day trip or weekend getaway.

Whether it’s hunting for bargains, exploring new brands, or simply enjoying a change of scenery, Toronto residents will surely find Rochester a delightful destination for their shopping trip.

Travel Distance: 3 to 3.5 hours by car

Shopping Malls:

Marketplace Mall

With its spacious and modern interior, Marketplace Mall has something to cater to every need and interest. The mall’s spacious layout, well-lit interiors, and modern amenities create a welcoming atmosphere that encourages shoppers to explore and linger.

In addition, the mall frequently hosts events and activities that showcase local talent, celebrate holidays, and support charitable causes.

With its convenient location and selection of stores and amenities, Marketplace Mall stands out as a must-visit destination for both residents and Canadian shoppers.

Address: 1 Miracle Mile Dr, Rochester, NY 14623, United States

Eastview Mall

Eastview Mall is a top-tier shopping hub which offers a curated mix of high-end boutiques and popular retail chains. It houses over 180 stores, including flagship anchors like Macy’s and Von Maur.

One interesting fact about Eastview Mall is that it was the first enclosed mall in Rochester when it opened in 1971. Since then, it has undergone several expansions and renovations to become one of the largest shopping destinations in the region

Its convenient location and ample parking facilities make it a go-to destination for both local residents and Canadians looking for a great shopping and leisure experience.

Address: 7979 Pittsford Victor Rd, Victor, NY 14564, United States

Check Your Personal Exemptions Before Shopping

Always make it a habit to check your personal exemptions when shopping across the border. The Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) provides clear guidelines detailing the limits on how much Canadians can bring back into the country when returning from US shopping trips.

Familiarizing yourself with these regulations will help you make the most out of your US shopping experiences. Doing so enables you to ensure compliance with customs regulations while maximizing the value of your purchases.

Whether it’s for personal use or gifts, being aware of the allowed limits can help you avoid additional fees or penalties upon re-entry to Canada.

Here’s a quick breakdown of the Personal Exemptions for travellers:

• Returning after less than 24 hours
  
  
  • No personal exemptions
    
    
• Returning within 24 to 48 hours
  
  
  • You can claim goods worth up to 200 CAD without paying regular duty and taxes.
    
    
  • Goods must be present when you enter Canada.
    
    
  • Tobacco products and alcoholic beverages are not included.
    
    
  • Goods worth more than 200 CAD will incur full duties.
    
    
• Returning after 48 hours
  
  
  • You can claim goods worth up to 800 CAD without paying any duties and taxes.
    
    
    
  • Goods must be presented upon entry to the Canadian border.
    
    
    
  • Some tobacco products and alcoholic beverages may be included in your personal exemption.
    
    
• Returning after 7 days or more
  
  
  • You can claim goods worth up to 800 CAD without paying any duties and taxes.
    
    
    
  • Tobacco products and alcoholic beverages must be present upon entry to the Canadian border.
    
    
    
  • Some goods can arrive later as ‘goods to follow’.
    

Save Time And Money With A Package Forwarder

While crossing the border to shop sounds like an adventure, it can cost you a lot of time, money, and energy. But this shouldn’t keep you from enjoying US retailers’ wide product variations and lower prices.

Instead of going on a trip, why not stay in the comfort of your home and shop online? Opting this way can give you more benefits like:

• Enjoy discounts exclusive on online stores.
  
  
• Shop at any time of the day.
  
  
• Avoid getting tired from physical trips.
  
  
• Save your money on gas.
  

Once you’ve added items to your digital shopping cart, the next thing to do is ship with a package forwarder. Rather than shipping your items directly to your Canadian address, you will use your US address provided by your shipping provider.

Package forwarders service as the bridge between you and your favourite online stores from the US. Using one makes the cross-border shipping process more efficient and affordable.

When choosing a package forwarder, consider important factors like cost, speed, and reliability. If you haven’t found one, consider shipping with Shippsy.

Ship With Shippsy

Shippsy offers Canadian online shoppers with the best package forwarding services. We lead the cross-border shipping industry in terms of cost-efficiency, speed, and dependability.

Compared to other shipping providers, Shippsy offers the lowest shipping rates. Canadians can now get their US orders to Canada without breaking the bank, starting at 7.99 CAD for Ontario and 8.99 CAD for British Columbia and Québec.

Now, speaking of speed, Shippsy is unbeatable. Your online purchases will arrive in Canada within 2-4 business days*, and we will immediately prepare them for pickup or mail-out service.

So, if you can’t wait to experience all these, create your Shippsy account today! Join thousands of Canadian online shoppers who enjoy cross-border shopping and shipping.

*Transit time depends on your location.

Final Thoughts

Shopping across the border from Toronto can be fun and give you good deals. With places like Niagara Falls, Buffalo, and Rochester, you’ll find many stores that Canadians will love to shop at.

But if you don’t want to drive, you can also shop online and use a service like Shippsy to get your stuff to Canada. They’re fast and affordable, making you enjoy your US shopping without the hassle.

Aman Chopra

Aman looks after the content marketing department at Stallion Express. He is passionate about helping businesses grow by providing informative and up-to-date trends in the eCommerce industry. Outside the office, you can find him on the soccer field cheering on Real Madrid.

Read all posts written by  Aman Chopra