For some visitors, a vacation in LA isn’t complete without shopping for bargains — and that means scouring the great outlet malls in Los Angeles. These four major outlets offer a wide range of stores, featuring designer shops and popular chains like Banana Republic and J.Crew. Prices? Typically 25 to 70 percent off retail.
Camarillo Outlets
You’ll find locals lurking around during the middle of the day at Camarillo Outlets, trying to find the perfect pair of Diesel jeans during their lunch break. Other popular stores include 7 For All Mankind, Ann Taylor, AG Adriano Goldschmied, BCBG Max Azria, J.Crew and Banana Republic. Take note: the outlet gets busy on the weekends, so be prepared to stand your ground.
740 E. Ventura Blvd., Camarillo, 805.445.8520
Citadel Outlets
The Citadel Outlets center is one of the closest in proximity to Los Angeles. Appropriately named, the collection of shops is located within a “castle,” complete with 85 brand-name stores. All your favorites — Banana Republic, Calvin Klein, Maidenform, Tommy Hilfiger — are available with merchandise at discounted prices. Take your time, and if you need a break, don’t hesitate to check out the upscale restrooms, which locals have jokingly claimed as major attractions in their own right.
100 Citadel Drive, Los Angeles, 323.888.1724
Desert Hills Premium Outlets
The Desert Hills Premium Outlets destination near Palm Springs has “premium” in its name for a reason. Its 130 stores packs enough retail punch to draw all the traffic it gets, but throw in designer shops from Gucci, Michael Kors, Burberry, Diane von Furstenberg and Prada, and you’ll understand why this is one of LA’s most popular outlets for both visitors and locals. Plus, a wealth of resort spas and attractions in the area can make the most out of a day trip.
48400 Seminole Drive, Cabazon, 951.849.6641
Ontario Mills Outlet Mall
Located east of LA, Ontario Mills is a retail sight to behold, especially with the Improv Comedy Club anchoring the nightlife scene here. Obviously not just for shopping, Ontario Mills Mall also boasts AMC movie theaters, Dave & Busters and Gameworks, in addition to its 200-plus stores, which include favorites such as Abercrombie & Fitch, Kenneth Cole, Levi’s, Polo Ralph Lauren and Tommy Hilfiger.
4655 Mills Circle, Ontario, 909.484.2713