Best Outlets Near NYC – Ultimate Shopping Guide
Shopping in New York City is an experience on its own—but if you want real deals, you need to go beyond Manhattan. While Fifth Avenue offers luxury and flagship stores, the best discounts are found at outlet malls located just outside NYC.
These outlets offer:
- designer brands at discounted prices
- huge selections
- seasonal deals and promotions
This guide covers the best outlets near NYC, including how to get there, what to expect, and how to shop smart.
👉 Full shopping guide:
https://stepwisewonders.com/shopping-in-new-york/
🛍️ WHY VISIT OUTLETS NEAR NYC?
Outlets are perfect if you want to save money while still shopping top brands. Discounts can range from 25% to 70%, depending on the season and store.
Compared to Manhattan, prices are significantly lower, especially for clothing, shoes, and accessories.
🏆 1. WOODBURY COMMON PREMIUM OUTLETS (BEST OVERALL)
📍 Address: 498 Red Apple Ct, Central Valley, NY
👉 https://www.premiumoutlets.com/outlet/woodbury-common
Woodbury Common is the most famous and best outlet near NYC. It features over 200 stores, including luxury brands like Gucci, Prada, Burberry, and more.
If you’re planning to go shopping in New York and want the best possible deals on designer brands, then Woodbury Common Premium Outlets should be at the top of your list. Located just outside New York City, this outlet is not just a shopping center—it’s a full-day experience that attracts both locals and tourists looking for serious discounts.
Compared to shopping in Manhattan, where prices are often high, Woodbury Common offers the chance to buy premium and luxury items at significantly reduced prices. This is why it’s considered the best outlet near NYC.
👉 Full detailed guide here:
https://stepwisewonders.com/woodbury-common-premium-outlets-clothes-outlet-new-york/
🛍️ What is Woodbury Common?
Woodbury Common Premium Outlets is a large open-air shopping village located about one hour from New York City. It features over 200 stores, making it one of the largest and most popular outlet malls in the United States.
The layout feels more like a small town than a traditional mall, with streets, sections, and different zones. Because of this, it’s easy to spend an entire day here without seeing everything.
🏷️ What Brands Can You Find?
One of the biggest reasons people visit Woodbury Common is the incredible selection of brands. Whether you’re looking for luxury fashion or everyday wear, you’ll find a wide range of options.
💎 Luxury Brands
- Gucci
- Prada
- Burberry
- Saint Laurent
- Balenciaga
These stores offer real discounts compared to city prices, especially during seasonal sales.
👕 Mid-Range & Popular Brands
- Nike
- Adidas
- Levi’s
- Tommy Hilfiger
- Calvin Klein
These stores often have some of the best deals, making them perfect for budget-conscious shoppers.
👟 Shoes & Accessories
You’ll also find a huge selection of shoes, bags, and accessories, often at 30–70% lower prices than retail stores.
💰 Are the Prices Really Cheaper?
Yes—and in many cases, significantly cheaper than in Manhattan. Discounts typically range from 25% to 65%, and during sales periods, they can go even higher.
However, it’s important to know that not everything is always a bargain. Some items are made specifically for outlets, so comparing prices is always a smart move.
🚍 How to Get to Woodbury Common from NYC
🚌 Bus (Most Popular Option)
Buses depart from Port Authority Bus Terminal and take about 1 hour. This is the easiest and most convenient way for tourists.
🚗 Car
Driving takes about 1 hour, depending on traffic. This option gives you flexibility, especially if you plan to shop a lot.
🚆 Train + Taxi
You can take a train and then a short taxi ride, but this is less common than the bus.
👉 NYC transport guide:
https://stepwisewonders.com/getting-around-new-york/
🧠 Shopping Tips for Woodbury Common
⏰ 1. Go Early in the Morning
Arriving early gives you the best selection and avoids the biggest crowds. Weekends can get very busy, especially during peak seasons.
💳 2. Look for Extra Discounts
Many stores offer additional promotions or coupons. It’s always worth asking or checking online before your visit.
🛍️ 3. Plan Your Route
The outlet is large, and walking randomly can waste time. Decide which stores you want to visit in advance.
🎯 4. Focus on High-Value Items
Luxury items and branded clothing usually offer the biggest savings compared to city prices.
⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid
- not planning enough time
- visiting only a few stores
- not comparing prices
- going at peak hours
🗺️ Is Woodbury Common Worth It?
Absolutely—especially if you plan to shop seriously. If you’re only buying one or two items, it might not be worth the trip, but for bigger shopping plans, the savings can be significant.
👉 More NYC tips:
https://stepwisewonders.com/new-york-travel-tips/
👉 Budget guide:
https://stepwisewonders.com/new-york-budget-travel-guide/
👉 Manhattan guide:
https://stepwisewonders.com/things-to-do-in-manhattan/
👉 Itinerary:
https://stepwisewonders.com/manhattan-itinerary/
🎥 See the Real Experience
If you want to see real NYC shopping and travel experiences, check out my YouTube channel where I share walking videos and local insights:
👉 https://www.youtube.com/@StepwiseWonders
🛍️ 2. JERSEY GARDENS (BEST INDOOR OUTLET)
📍 Address: 651 Kapkowski Rd, Elizabeth, NJ
👉 https://www.simon.com/mall/the-mills-at-jersey-gardens
Jersey Gardens is the largest indoor outlet mall near NYC. It’s perfect for shopping during bad weather or winter.
🛍️ What You’ll Find
- Nike, Adidas, Calvin Klein
- Michael Kors, Coach
- electronics and accessories
🚍 How to Get There
- bus from Port Authority (~30–40 min)
💡 Why Choose It
It’s closer than Woodbury and fully indoors, making it very convenient.
🛍️ 3. EMPIRE OUTLETS (CLOSEST TO NYC)
📍 Address: 55 Richmond Terrace, Staten Island
👉 https://www.empireoutlets.nyc/
Empire Outlets is the only outlet located within NYC. It’s smaller than others but very easy to access.
🚇 How to Get There
Take the Staten Island Ferry (FREE) and walk to the outlet.
👉 Free guide:
https://stepwisewonders.com/the-best-free-things-to-do-in-new-york/
💡 Why Visit
- closest option
- easy access
- great views of Manhattan
🛍️ 4. TANGER OUTLETS (LONG ISLAND)
📍 Locations: Deer Park & Riverhead
👉 https://www.tangeroutlet.com/
Tanger Outlets offer a more local shopping experience with good deals and fewer tourists.
🛍️ What You’ll Find
- casual brands
- sportswear
- affordable options
🚗 How to Get There
- train + taxi
- car (~1–1.5 hours)
🧠 SHOPPING TIPS FOR OUTLETS
💰 1. Visit During Weekdays
Fewer crowds and better shopping experience.
🛍️ 2. Check for Coupons
Many outlets offer additional discounts.
⏰ 3. Go Early
Best selection is available in the morning.
🎯 4. Plan Your Stores
Outlets are large—plan ahead.
⚠️ COMMON MISTAKES
- not checking transport
- going without a plan
- underestimating time
- not comparing prices
🧠 WHICH OUTLET SHOULD YOU CHOOSE?
👉 Best overall
Woodbury Common
👉 Closest
Empire Outlets
👉 Indoor
Jersey Gardens
👉 Local vibe
Tanger Outlets
🗺️ COMBINE WITH YOUR NYC TRIP
👉 Manhattan guide:
https://stepwisewonders.com/things-to-do-in-manhattan/
👉 Budget guide:
https://stepwisewonders.com/new-york-budget-travel-guide/
👉 Travel tips:
https://stepwisewonders.com/new-york-travel-tips/
👉 Itinerary:
https://stepwisewonders.com/manhattan-itinerary/
🎥 SEE NYC SHOPPING EXPERIENCE
If you want to see real NYC shopping and walking experiences, check out my YouTube channel:
👉 https://www.youtube.com/@StepwiseWonders
🎯 FINAL THOUGHTS
Shopping at outlets near NYC is one of the best ways to save money while still enjoying top brands. Whether you choose Woodbury for luxury or Jersey Gardens for convenience, each outlet offers something unique.
❓ FAQ – Outlets Near NYC
What is the best outlet near NYC?
Woodbury Common is the best overall outlet due to its size and variety. It offers both luxury and affordable brands.
Which outlet is closest to NYC?
Empire Outlets is the closest because it’s located in Staten Island. It’s easily accessible by ferry.
Are outlets cheaper than NYC stores?
Yes, outlets usually offer significant discounts compared to Manhattan stores. Savings can be substantial.
How do I get to Woodbury Common?
You can take a bus or drive from NYC. The journey takes about one hour.
Is outlet shopping worth it in NYC?
Yes, especially if you plan to shop a lot. It can save you a significant amount of money.
