Our ultimate guide to the 30 greatest US malls

Must-see malls

Mall shopping is an all-American pastime that's become part of the national culture. As such, the United States is a shopper's paradise where you'll find some of the world's best retail destinations, from New York and California to more unexpected hotspots such as Maryland. For outlets bursting with bargains, precincts glittering with glamorous boutiques and indoor entertainment aplenty, here are the top 30 US locations for a mood-boosting trip to the mall.

Scottsdale Fashion Square, Scottsdale, Arizona

This giant Southwest shopping hub is a retail powerhouse brimming with everything from department stores including Neiman Marcus and Macy’s to exclusive shops such as Prada, Bulgari and Cartier. The mall’s ongoing luxury upgrade will add even more luxe shops including Arizona’s first Saint Laurent. High-end dining is on offer too, with the standout option being a branch of Nobu. For VIP treatment, the mall offers private shopping experiences with exclusive access to luxury brands.

The Power Plant, Baltimore, Maryland

Maryland has plenty of magnificent malls, but none can beat the character and location of The Power Plant, housed in and around a huge old redbrick power station by Baltimore’s Inner Harbor. The vast repurposed building lends the mall heritage and charm, and it’s the perfect place for people-watching and hanging out with friends, with a Hard Rock Cafe and regular live music shows at Power Plant Live, plus terraced eateries and open-air beer gardens.

The Shops at Columbus Circle, Manhattan, New York

Manhattan’s premium skyscraper mall occupies a prime spot on the south-western corner of Central Park, offering indoor retail therapy in the heart of the Big Apple. Smart boutiques and popular shops include Mac, H&M, Ted Baker, Jo Malone, J.Crew and Coach to name a few. The Shops at Columbus Circle are also a great place to watch Manhattanhenge, when the sunrise or sunset aligns with the city’s east-west grid of streets. Visit guest services on the ground floor for VIP shopping and dining passes offering discounts and perks.

Valley River Center, Eugene, Oregon

The elegantly designed Valley River Center is Oregon's premier regional shopping hub, bringing together department stores JCPenney and Macy’s with local retailers and high street shops like Forever21, The Body Shop and Victoria’s Secret, plus a bowling alley and cinema. Stop for a bite to eat at one of 16 outlets and restaurants, including Texas Roadhouse and Fuji Japanese Steak House.

Flatiron Crossing, Denver, Colorado

This indoor-outdoor shopping, retail and entertainment destination reflects its rugged Colorado location in its wood and stone architecture and design. Surrounded by parks and trails and landscaped with tumbling water features, it’s an appealing location to stroll, browse and eat, just 40 minutes from Denver International Airport. Among its 140 shops are popular brands such as MAC, Sephora, Coach, Banana Republic and H&M spread across two floors, with 27 eating spots including alfresco dining.

Bal Harbour Shops, Miami, Florida

Florida has dozens of malls of all types, but for a luxe retail experience Bal Harbour Shops’ airy bright atriums and tropical landscaping create a dreamy place for window shopping and splashing the cash on many high-end brands. Frequented by celebs like the Kardashians, the mall houses chic boutiques from Chanel to Gucci and recent additions include Lalique, Roberto Cavalli and Burberry.

The Forum Shops at Caesars, Las Vegas, Nevada

In the heart of the Vegas Strip, The Forum Shops at the famous Caesars Palace embody the Vegas spirit of luxury and excess. That means you can browse iconic brands such as Jimmy Choo, Dior, Chloe, Cartier, Burberry, Armani and Versace, or dine at a delicious selection of steak, seafood and Italian restaurants in an elaborate Romanesque setting. Popular high street stores such as H&M, All Saints, Guess, Levis and Lush can be found here too, with regular seasonal sales and promotions.

Destiny USA, Syracuse, New York

On the shores of Onondaga Lake, Destiny USA is northern New York State's super-regional shopping hub with more than 250 eateries and shops, including outlets offering major discounts. Here you’ll find stores such as Apple, Nordstrom, Fossil and Michael Kors alongside a stack of family-friendly entertainment options such as a movie theater, laser tag, a trampoline park, go-kart track, escape rooms, a vintage carousel and the world’s largest suspended ropes course at Wonderworks.

Fremont Street Experience, Las Vegas, Nevada

Las Vegas’ iconic downtown destination – the Fremont Street Experience – is a must-see as much for its flash attractions as its enticing shops. Among its eye-popping features is a 12-storey slot machine where thrill-seekers launch onto the unique Slotzilla zipline to soar over the neon-lit district. Dazzling Viva Vision light shows illuminate the ceiling in the evening, while a clutch of casinos, nightly concerts, plus the Neon and Mob museums ensure the mall always has an electric vibe.

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Fashion Outlets of Chicago, Rosemont, Illinois

Shoppers can snap up deals aplenty at Fashion Outlets of Chicago, with 130 top-name stores under one roof just 20 minutes’ drive from downtown. If you’re flying into Chicago, it’s just five minutes from O’Hare International Airport so you may want to pack light or bring a spare suitcase. Bag deep discounts at outlets for Gucci, Tory Burch and Bloomingdale’s, and hunt down major bargains at factory stores for Nike and Banana Republic.

Sawgrass Mills, Sunrise, Florida

For a bonafide shopping spree in sunny Florida, head to number one discount retail destination Sawgrass Mills. The pleasant indoor-outdoor complex designed in the shape of an iconic Floridian alligator is the largest of its kind, featuring over 40 luxury brand outlets and 350 retail stores stacked with cut-price products. If visiting in June, time your trip with the annual National Outlet Shopping Day when malls managed by Simon Centers hold exclusive events offering extra savings.

Lee Premium Outlets, Lee, Massachusetts

Part of the Berkshires Resort Area of rolling green hills, parks and lakes, the wonderful Lee mall acts as the official visitor center for the region. Designed to reflect its New England setting, the outdoor shopping village is the perfect place for travelers to the region to get their tax-free retail fix. You'll find 60 stores including Polo Ralph Lauren, Tommy Hilfiger, Bath & Body Works and Forever 21, plus outlets for Banana Republic and J.Crew.

Aventura Mall, Aventura, Florida

This enormous three-storey mall is a Floridian shopping institution with over 300 retail stores and branded shops. From Fendi to Zara, expect to find a mix of luxury goods retailers and shops catering to more budget-conscious shoppers. Fans of local delicacies should check out the weekend Aventura Farmer’s Market, while an outdoor food court is the ideal spot to refuel between purchases. Keep your eyes peeled for art installations – part of the ArtWalk trail that you can follow using your phone.

Tysons Corner Center, Washington DC

Washington’s top mall rivals the biggest and best across the US, with more than 300 eateries, department stores and specialty shops arranged around slickly-designed atriums. An easy 20-minute drive from DC’s monuments, shoppers can find everything from department store staples Macy’s and Bloomingdale’s to high-end brands Michael Kors and Louis Vuitton alongside a multi-screen IMAX movie theater and a National Geographic-sponsored kids play area to keep the little ones amused while parents hit the shops.

King of Prussia, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

Shopaholics can find their happy place at the King of Prussia mall, which is the most expansive on the East Coast, located just outside Philadelphia and boasting eight department stores, 400 shops and more than 40 restaurants. Alongside the usual anchor stores like Macy’s, you can browse a large Primark and Dick’s Sporting Goods for bargains. The mall’s luxury offering is constantly expanding too, with Balenciaga and Versace shops added this year. Several hotels in the area offer mall packages to enhance the experience.

Via Bellagio, Las Vegas, Nevada

Leave it to Las Vegas to create a palatial Italian-themed mall inside a hotel-casino replete with authentic facades, piazzas and canals with gondolas. Small by Vegas standards, the shops lining the elegant glass-roofed Via Bellagio are a roll call of high Italian fashion including Versace, Armani, Gucci, Bottega Veneta, Prada and Fendi, making it the perfect place to pick up designer treasures or indulge in a spot of window shopping.

The Galleria, Houston, Texas

This chic and modern mall in Uptown Houston is a shopper’s delight, with three million square feet (278,700 sqm) of retail heaven to explore under light glass-roofed atriums. There are more than 400 stores lining the polished walkways including a large Urban Outfitters and stunning Louis Vuitton boutique, as well as an indoor ice rink, pool and spa. Two smart hotels – the Westin Galleria and the Westin Oaks Houston – are connected to the development, making staying nearby a breeze.

Fashion Valley Mall, San Diego, California

San Diego’s largest mall is a sun-dappled oasis of palms and trickling fountains with an impressive retail line-up of more than 200 shops including a newly-opened Dior store, plus Burberry and Vuori. Prada and Rolex have recently doubled their boutiques here too. A current revamp will see new first-to-market stores open for the 2023 holiday season including Bottega Veneta, Dolce & Gabbana, Veronica Beard and Zimmermann. The complex also features an abundance of upscale places to eat.

Grapevine Mills, Dallas, Texas

With more than 180 shops, entertainment offerings and dining outlets, Grapevine Mills is northern Texas’ biggest outlet shopping destination, with bags of deals on desirable brands and a location just north of Dallas-Fort Worth International Airport. Alongside its retail halls, the mall boasts the fantastical Meow Wolf exhibition space and a Legoland Discovery Center with fun interactive rides, a 4D cinema and water playground.

The Outlets at Orange, Anaheim, California

A family-friendly retail destination just a stone's throw from Disneyland California, The Outlets at Orange is more than a shopping mall, boasting everything from a huge indoor Vans skatepark, high ropes course and rock-climbing to a bowling alley, day spa and mechanical bull. It’s also chock-full of shops such as Gap, Tommy Hilfiger and H&M, offering daily discounts alongside a tasty selection of eateries.

San Francisco Premium Outlets, Livermore, California

Visiting San Francisco and looking for a great spot to stock up on designer gear and browse the rails? San Francisco Premium Outlets offers retail therapy in spades. The open-air mall includes large outlets for Prada, Gucci, DKNY, Coach and athletic clothing brand Under Armour, plus Guess and Nike factory stores. Located in California’s oldest wine region, tourists can wind down at a beautiful local vineyard after a day hitting the shops. It’s worth stopping by for Asian food here too with authentic Chinese at Wok-a-Holic and brand new Japanese restaurant Suki Hana.

Arundel Mills, Hanover, Maryland

With more than 2,000 retailers to satisfy even the most determined shopaholic, Arundel Mills is Maryland’s largest shopping center. Bargain hunters will find a medley of brand outlets including The Disney Store and Michael Kors, plus Coach and Polo Ralph Lauren factory stores to save on stylish threads. Easy to reach from both Baltimore and Washington DC, the center offers diners, outdoor restaurants, movie theaters and a casino, so visitors can eat, shop and play all in one spot.

Ala Moana Center, Honolulu, Hawaii

Tranquil ponds, tropical landscaping, atriums featuring live entertainment and a Pacific Ocean breeze create an attractive environment for a day of browsing and dining at the world’s largest open-air shopping center. As well as American mall staples such as Macy’s and Bloomingdale’s, the complex, in Hawaiian state capital Honolulu, features luxe retailers including a large Louis Vuitton store plus local boutiques selling island wares and a food court filled with all kinds of tasty food outlets. Check out the daily Hula Show on Centerstage.

The Grove, Los Angeles, California

This buzzing open-air mall in central LA is widely considered the city’s best shopping destination. Arranged around a dancing fountain, The Grove has a medley of popular shops including Coach, Gap, Sephora, Nike and Apple, with a vintage tram running through the village. Alongside a range of alfresco dining options and a 14-screen Art Deco-inspired movie theater, the mall hosts appealing pop-ups and events by major brands such as Lululemon and Converse. There’s also an authentic farmers' market right next door where you can stock up on fresh local produce.

American Dream, East Rutherford, New Jersey

One of the newest incarnations of the modern megamall, American Dream opened in 2020 to become the second largest in the US. A short hop from NYC, the dazzling indoor complex includes every popular shop you could wish for, while designer boutiques such as Tiffany and Hermes line The Avenue. New JD Sports and Gucci stores are set to open soon. Star attractions include a Dreamworks waterpark, Nickelodeon Universe and ferris wheel, with money-saving day passes also available.

Woodbury Common Premium Outlets, Central Valley, New York

For the best high-low shopping in New York with savings of up to 65%, Woodbury Common has the world’s largest collection of designer outlets including Prada, Burberry, Gucci and Armani just an hour's drive north of NYC. Stroll the charming pedestrian lanes where you’ll be sure to find your favorite stores and bag desirable designer items without the expensive price tag.

Dolphin Mall, Miami, Florida

Just west of Miami International Airport, Dolphin Mall is Miami’s largest outlet with more than 200 retailers. Its location makes it perfect for travelers to stock up on wardrobe essentials and browse for great-value gifts and treats. The mall’s new Vivo! entertainment district brings together diners, live music and nightlife alongside a spectacular Imax cinema. Visitors staying at the mall’s Courtyard by Marriott hotel can receive exclusive shopping perks.

Woodfield Mall, Schaumburg, Illinois

One of America’s most sprawling malls, Woodfield covers 2.2 million square feet (204,390 sqm) and is jam-packed with prominent department stores Nordstrom, Macy's and JCPenney, plus retailers Apple, Michael Kors, Anthropologie, Boss, Zara and many more. The mall recently added a new world-class Dining Pavilion with 11 eateries. There’s also stellar entertainment on offer for young and old with Peppa Pig World of Play for small kids and comedy shows at The Improv Comedy Club for the grown-ups. 

South Coast Plaza, Costa Mesa, California

Luxury hotspot South Coast Plaza is the largest on the West Coast, housing almost every upscale brand you could think of, as well as 30 eateries serving up everything from Peruvian ceviche to ice cream. Concierge services and personal shoppers are available to help you explore the 230 boutiques including new Dior, Marni, Alexander Wang and Missoni stores. The mall also holds catwalk shows and live events.

Mall of America, Bloomington, Minnesota

Mall of America is the USA’s biggest indoor shopping mecca and an absolute must-visit for some serious retail therapy, receiving around 40 million visitors per year. Just outside the twin cities of St Paul and Minneapolis, the megamall is much more than a collection of shops, featuring family attractions including the country’s largest indoor theme park; a sea life center with an underwater viewing tunnel; a branch of the popular Rainforest Cafe; plus more than 50 other dining outlets.

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