We all know that the United States is every shopper’s paradise. From fashion trends and skin care items to vintage shops and specialty items, you name it, you can find it! Speaking of which, if you’re up for some shopping adventure, this blog has something for you.
Let’s explore the must-visit cities, insider tips for snagging deals, and expert tricks to dealing with the shopping scene like a pro. So, grab your credit card (or budgeting app) and get ready to indulge in the best shopping in the US adventure!
The US is an outlet shopping paradise, with malls scattered across the country offering deep discounts on designer brands.
Here are some of the best:
If you’re into luxury shops, Woodbury Common awaits you! With over 250 stores with discounts of up to 70% off retail prices, you will never run out of options here. This allows you to snag designer items at a fraction of the cost, making it a great place to find deals on coveted pieces.
You can find different high-end brands here: Louis Vuitton, Prada, and Yves Saint Laurent, among many others. Besides these luxury giants, you’ll also find popular mid-range brands like Tory Burch and Michael Kors.
Not only that, but the mall itself is well-maintained and spacious, creating a pleasant shopping experience. Plus, it has various dining options available. You can eat at quick-service chains like Chipotle or casual sit-down restaurants like Shake Shack.
WHERE TO FIND: North of New York City, USA
Considerations:
Sawgrass Mill is a massive outlet with over 350 stores, making it the US’s largest mall and value destination. You can find budget-friendly brands like Gap and JCPenney and designer shops like Gucci and Versace.
It also has an entertainment complex to make your shopping experience more fun and memorable. Take a break from shopping with attractions like an aquarium, a movie theatre, and an indoor amusement park (admission fee applies). Then, after a day of going around, you can refuel at various restaurants, from quick bites at food courts to sit-down dining experiences.
WHERE TO FIND: Sunrise, Florida, USA
Considerations:
Desert Hills is a great place to find deals on designer clothing, shoes, and accessories, having over 130 stores. However, unlike other outlet malls on this list, it has a higher concentration on luxury labels. Explore iconic brands like Prada, Burberry, and Alexander McQueen, all offering significant savings from retail prices.
Aside from shopping, you can also enjoy Desert Hill’s scenic setting. Enjoy the warm California sunshine and breathtaking desert mountain views while wandering around the open-air mall. Plus, you can have a short Palm Springs getaway while in the location.
WHERE TO FIND: Cabazon, California, USA
Considerations:
Las Vegas North Premium Outlets offers shoppers just minutes from the glitz and glam of the Las Vegas Strip. The mall caters to various tastes and budgets, offering a mix of high-end labels, mid-range brands, and famous retailers. While shopping, expect everyday savings of up to 65% off retail prices.
What makes this outlet mall more enticing to shoppers is its convenient location. You can find it just off I-15 at Exit 41, Charleston Boulevard. Thus, shoppers can easily access it by car, taxi, or public bus.
WHERE TO FIND: Las Vegas, Nevada, USA
Considerations:
This Tuscan-inspired outlet mall offers a charming buying experience for its shoppers. While not the biggest outlet mall, San Marcos has over 140 stores, focusing on popular and mid-range brands.
You can find great deals on brands like J.Crew Factory and Kate Spade, from 25% to 65% off retail prices. Beyond apparel, discover footwear stores, homeware outlets, and specialty shops. So, keep an eye out for special sales events throughout the year to maximize your savings.
Plus, Texas does not have a state sales tax. This is an additional perk for out-of-state shoppers like Canadians! On the other hand, if you want more than just shopping, San Marcos has more to offer, including:
WHERE TO FIND: San Marcos, Texas, USA
Considerations:
The Outlets at Orange is an outdoor outlet mall with over 120 stores, offering discounts of up to 70% off retail prices. You can find popular US brands here, including Tommy Hilfiger, H&M, and GAP.
There’s even a Bloomingdale’s Outlet, Neiman Marcus Last Call, and Saks Fifth Avenue OFF 5TH. The mall also features the largest indoor skatepark in Southern California.
Plus, the mall isn’t limited to just apparel; you might discover sporting goods stores, homeware outlets, and specialty shops. Also, if you want to spend time with family, you can catch a movie at the AMC 30 theatre with IMAX options.
You can also enjoy friendly competition at Dave & Buster’s or Lucky Strike Bowling. But if you just want to relax, treat yourself to a rejuvenating massage or mani-pedi at Burke Williams Day Spa.
WHERE TO FIND: Northern Orange County, California, USA
Considerations:
What are the best shopping destinations in the US? This country has various cities that cater to every shopaholic’s fancy. Here are some of the best across the country, offering a unique blend of stores, malls, boutiques, and overall shopping experiences:
New York City is the undisputed shopping capital of the US. From iconic Fifth Avenue brands to hidden Soho boutiques, it caters to every budget and style. There are many options shoppers can visit while in New York. Department stores like Macy’s and FAO Schwarz offer legendary experiences.
But if you’re looking for something unique, New York also has vintage havens and independent designers to bring a touch of the unexpected. With a dazzling mix of luxury, local finds, and endless options, NYC is a shopping paradise where you can find anything your heart desires.
Los Angeles is more than red carpets and celebrities; it’s a must-visit place for shopaholics! There’s Rodeo Drive, where designer boutiques cater to A-listers. You can also hit Melrose Avenue for a blend of high-end stores and vintage finds, reflecting LA’s trendsetting style.
Explore the unique streetwear scene in Fairfax or discover bohemian gems. From iconic brands to hidden treasures, LA offers sunshine, style, and endless possibilities to curate your perfect look.
Chicago’s Magnificent Mile on Michigan Avenue isn’t just a name. It’s a shopper’s dream to have luxury giants and iconic department stores like Macy’s and Bloomingdale’s. But this Windy City offers more.
You can venture beyond the Mile to see curated boutiques on Oak Street. There are also trendy items on Wicker Park’s North Avenue. With a mix of high-end, local, and vintage stores, Chicago caters to diverse styles and budgets. Whether you crave designer labels or hidden gems, Chicago’s vibrant shopping scene has something to tempt every fashion adventurer.
San Francisco’s shopping scene is just a magical place for shopaholics. Upon entering Union Square, luxury giants like Louis Vuitton and Chanel welcome you. Meanwhile, Haight-Ashbury offers a vibrant mix of vintage finds and record stores. This alone shows the city’s counterculture spirit.
As for the city’s Chinatown, you will see unique shops selling everything from tea sets to traditional garments. We can all agree that San Francisco isn’t just about big brands. It’s about discovering hidden gems that reflect the city’s diverse neighbourhoods and rich history. All of these things make this place a shopping adventure.
Miami, Florida, is another destination to go for your shopping spree. It offers a blend of sizzling styles and vibrant energies. When going here, your first stop should be the Miami Design District. You can find all sorts of luxury items, where high-end stores showcase the latest trends.
Meanwhile, if luxury things are not something you’re fond of, you can visit Lincoln Road instead. This pedestrian-friendly haven offers a curated selection of boutiques. It is the perfect destination for finding unique pieces.
Once you’re done shopping, you can go to Brickell City Centre. It ups the ante with upscale stores and restaurants. Miami isn’t just about glamour. It embraces sunshine, style, and the unexpected, making it a shopping destination where fashion finds meet Latin flair.
If you want more of the US’s Southern Charm, then New Orleans is where you should be. The French Quarter’s cobbled streets have many antique and local stores offering handcrafted souvenirs. You can also see multiple art galleries here if you’re into local arts.
New Orleans also offers more than just shopping. You can immerse yourself in the lively French Market! Fresh produce and local crafts let you taste the city’s vibrant culture.
Beyond big brands, New Orleans allows you to discover unique pieces that capture the city’s spirit, making it a shopping adventure where history and personality come alive on every corner.
There are several reasons why you might consider buying from the US, depending on what you’re looking for:
The US’s edge in selection and price comes down to market size. The country has ten times the population of Canada. Thus, it can have greater economies of scale. This means stores can negotiate lower prices with brands and offer broader selections due to higher customer demand. While Canada has some competitive stores, the US retail market offers a wider range of products and potentially better deals due to its size.
The US has a more extensive and more diverse population. Thus, it fosters a broader range of niche interests. This reason fuels a market for unique and specialty items. Independent designers, local artisans, and small businesses thrive in the US due to a more extensive potential customer base. Canada, while having its specialty scene, may have a smaller selection due to its more limited market size.
Fiercer competition and higher consumer demand drive the US’s discount culture. With more retailers vying for your business, stores in the US offer frequent sales and promotions like Black Friday to entice shoppers. With a smaller market, Canada might have less pressure to compete on price, leading to fewer dramatic sales and discounts.
The US attracts global brands due to its massive market size. Because it’s way larger than Canada, the US offers a much larger pool of potential customers. This entices global brands to set up shop and distribute their products in the US, leading to wider access for American consumers. While Canada has many global brands, it might see a more limited selection due to its smaller market size.
Here are some tips to maximize your shopping center experience in the US:
The thrill of going to the US is surely a wonderful experience. However, online shopping offers unbeatable convenience, browsing millions of products from anywhere with an internet connection.
You can compare prices easily, snag deals and discounts, and avoid crowds. However, you miss the tactile experience of examining products and the fun of browsing physical stores. Returns can be inconvenient, and sizing clothes online can be tricky.
Ultimately, it depends on your priorities. If speed, convenience, and selection reign supreme, online shopping wins. If you crave the in-person experience and try things on before you buy, physical stores might be better.
Are you tired of travelling to the US to buy your favourite US products because they don’t ship to Canada? Say goodbye to shopping restrictions with Shippsy! Our convenient service allows you to shop from any US retailer and have your purchases delivered straight to your doorstep in Canada.
With Shippsy, you can indulge in American shopping without limitations.
In conclusion, the United States offers a diverse and vibrant shopping experience that caters to every taste and budget. From the bustling streets of New York City’s Fifth Avenue to the unique boutiques of Los Angeles’ Melrose Avenue, there’s something for everyone.
Remember to take advantage of seasonal sales for the best deals, use apps and online resources to find hidden gems, and consider the local sales tax to maximize your savings.
Whether you’re searching for high-end fashion, vintage finds, or the latest tech gadgets, shopping in the US is an adventure that combines the thrill of discovery with the satisfaction of snagging fantastic deals. Happy shopping!
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Jen oversees the operations at Shippsy. She has spent her entire career working in the eCommerce and logistics industry and loves helping Canadian consumers avail the best cross-border shopping deals. Outside of work, she loves to travel, read, and cheer on her favourite Toronto sports teams.
Read all posts written by Jen Seran
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