Photo: Desert Hills Premium Outlets, Facebook
For some visitors, a visit to L.A. 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, at prices that are typically 25 to 70 percent off retail.
Photo: Camarillo Premium Outlets
Camarillo Outlets
In the middle of the day, you’ll see plenty of locals at Camarillo Outlets, trying to find the perfect pair of Diesel jeans during their lunch break. 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 don't hesitate to grab that bargain when you first see it.
Photo: Citadel Outlets, Facebook
Citadel Outlets
The Citadel Outlets shopping center is one of the closest outlets to Los Angeles. Appropriately named, the collection of shops is located within a “castle,” complete with 115 brand-name stores. All of your favorites — Banana Republic, Calvin Klein, Lacoste, 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.
Photo: Desert Hills Premium Outlets, Facebook
Desert Hills Premium Outlets
The Desert Hills Premium Outlets 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, Jimmy Choo, Versace and Prada, and you’ll understand why this is one of L.A.’s most popular outlets for both visitors and locals alike. Plus, a wealth of resort spas and attractions in the area can help you make the most out of a day trip.
Photo: Ontario Mills, Facebook
Ontario Mills Outlet Mall
Located east of L.A., Ontario Mills is a retail sight to behold, especially with the Improv Comedy Club anchoring the nightlife scene. Obviously not just for shopping, Ontario Mills Mall also boasts AMC movie theaters and Dave & Busters, in addition to its 200-plus stores, which include favorites such as Abercrombie & Fitch, Kate Spade, Levi’s, Polo Ralph Lauren and Lacoste.