We all know the USA is a shopaholic dreamland; with flagship stores, cute boutiques, and everything in between. So if your idea fun is to sample the local shopping culture, this guide will have you making full use of that 2x 23kg baggage allowance included in your ticket.
The “Shopping USA” itinerary is the retail therapy trip of a lifetime. See the best of the USA while embarking on a thrilling shopping tour, where you’ll be immersed in a diversity of shopping experiences that will astound you.
Hunt for bargains at outlet malls, buy haute couture from designers and seek out specialty items at locally-owned shops, and when you’re all shopped out (is that even a thing?) you’ll have the chance to explore the top sights and attractions of each existing city too.
So pack your most stylish comfortable shoes and grab your oversized tote, because the stores are calling…
“Shopping is my cardio”
Carrie Bradshaw, Sex and the City
Explore all of Brand USA’s 31 Amazing Self Drive Road Trip itineraries here.
Shopping USA: Route Highlights
Jump to these cities and check out to see where to go, what to eat, and most importantly, discover some of the best places to shop:
- Phoenix and Scottsdale, Arizona
- Los Angeles, California
- San Diego, California
- San Francisco, California
- Miami, Florida
- Chicago, Illinois
- Boston, Massachusettes
- Las Vegas, Nevada
- Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
- New York City, New York
- Dallas-Fort Worth, Texas
- Houston, Texas
Phoenix and Scottsdale, Arizona
Day 1 Begin your trip in the sunny Sonoran Desert, where you’ll fall in love with the beautiful mountain and valley landscapes.
Then, take a 25-minute drive south of Phoenix/Scottsdale to Chandler and say hello to the Phoenix Premium Outlets, which boasts over visit over 90 stores.
Take a break and enjoy lunch at the Wild Horse Pass Hotel & Casino and, when you’re ready for round two, head 15 minutes to the north to the Arizona Mills in Tempe to browse more than 185 shops.
That evening, relax at the spa, take a mountain hike, or enjoy a round of golf in Phoenix/Scottsdale before dinner.
Day 2 Stay local and begin your day at Biltmore Fashion Park, where you’ll get a dose of high-end stores including Saks Fifth Avenue and Macy’s.
Take an hour out to dine at one of the many restaurants, and make sure you leave room for dessert at The Cheesecake Factory!
Next, drive 15 minutes to Scottsdale Fashion Square, where you’ll find top brands such as Cartier, Louis Vuitton, and Tiffany & Co.
After a full day of shopping, stroll the streets of Old Town Scottsdale or take the trolley to give your feet some R&R.
Los Angeles, California
Day 1 In this glamorous city, start your morning by shopping in Torrance for luxury items at the Del Amo Fashion Center, boasting over 200 stores. With modern architecture, palm trees and natural light, it’s the embodiment of L.A. style.
In the afternoon, head to Anaheim, home to the happiest place on Earth, Disneyland, and look for bargains at The Outlets at Orange outdoor mall.
Take some time out at Café Tu Tu Tango and watch artists paint and sell their work while you eat tapas with an eclectic range of flavours. If you’re a Disnerd, you’ll probably want to check out The Disney Dress Shop in the Downtown Disney District. Browse boutiques, relax with a cocktail and stay for dinner where the choices range from casual express to fine dining.
Day 2 Visit star-studded Beverly Hills and Rodeo Drive and keep your eyes peeled for a celebrity or two. While in Beverly Hills, a must-visit stop is the Beverly Center, housing fancy stores such as Prada, Michael Kors and Coach.
You might even opt to take a break from shopping and board a guided tour of movie stars’ homes; with pick-up conveniently located at the Beverly Center. End the day by dining in Beverly Hills; for a homey atmosphere, try The Farm of Beverly Hills or for something a little trendier, go to Spago.
Day 3 Oh hi, Hollywood. No trip to LA is complete without a visit to this iconic neighbourhood.
Start out at Hollywood & Highland to shop at stores such as PINK and Victoria’s Secret. Take a tour of the Dolby Theatre, and walk along Hollywood Boulevard to see the Hollywood Walk of Fame and Grauman’s Chinese Theatre.
Follow the gold starry road to Santa Monica Boulevard to Westfield Century City, and then drive west to the Pacific Ocean to shop at the three-level Santa Monica Place, anchored by Barneys New York, Kate Spade New York and Disney Store.
When you ready for a change of scenery, check out the Santa Monica Pier, or visit the Santa Monica Pier Aquarium. There are many delicious restaurants to sample in Santa Monica, but a longtime favourite with a relaxed, beach attitude is Big Dean’s Ocean Front Café.
San Diego, California
Day 1 Start your day at Las Americas Premium Outlets in San Ysidro. Shop for bargains at brand-name outlet stores and then go north to Fashion Valley for a high-end shopping fix.
This evening, explore the Gaslamp Quarter, a historic district in downtown San Diego that features great restaurants, nightlife and special events. If you like traditional Italian food, book a date at de’Medici Cucina Italiana.
Day 2 Today, get your shopping fix at Carlsbad Premium Outlets and upmarket Westfield UTC, near the beach resort town of La Jolla. Feel like ice skating? Try Westfield’s indoor rink.
Then, head to La Jolla and enjoy dinner at one of the many restaurants overlooking the Pacific Ocean – a favourite is Brockton Villa Restaurant, housed in a beach cottage with incredible views.
Day 3 Stay local for the day and visit Seaport Village for shopping along the San Diego Bay. Look for specialty items in over 50 local boutiques and galleries, stroll along the bayfront, then enjoy a waterside lunch at one of nearly 20 restaurants.
This afternoon, you might want to visit San Diego Zoo, and then return to the waterfront to dine at Top of the Market, if you’re a lover of seafood.
San Francisco, California
Day 1 Spend the morning in the heart of San Francisco sightseeing, eating, visiting galleries and shopping in Union Square, just steps from the cable car line. For fabulous views of Union Square, eat lunch atop Macy’s at Hubert Keller’s Burger Bar or at the Rotunda at Neiman Marcus, where you can sip champagne below a stained glass dome.
Take a short walk along Powell Street to Westfield San Francisco Centre, a nine-level shopping complex with a whopping 170+ stores, featuring Bloomingdale’s West Coast flagship store and the second-largest Nordstrom in the USA.
Then, board the cable car to Fisherman’s Wharf, taking in such iconic views as Nob Hill, Lombard Street and Alcatraz. At Fisherman’s Wharf, shop in boutiques at Ghirardelli Square – including the celebrated Ghirardelli chocolate shop – before pausing for dinner, perhaps at local favourite Scoma’s Restaurant, and taking in beautiful bay views. Indulge in an Irish coffee at the Buena Vista Café to finish your day right.
Day 2 Leave San Francisco for a scenic drive to Palo Alto to begin a tour of the bay-area shopping malls. Start at Stanford Shopping Center, an outdoor, high-end mall, followed by a stop at the Great Mall. Then, continue around the bay to the Stoneridge Shopping Center in Pleasanton.
On your way back to the San Francisco, you’ll drive across the famous Bay Bridge, with sensational views of the city, Golden Gate Bridge and Alcatraz Island. Treat yourself to meal at Farallon, which prides itself on its outstanding seafood. Big Dean’s Ocean Front Café is a long time fave if you fancy something a little more chilled.
Day 3 Start your morning with breakfast at Sausalito, a city full of personality with Mediterranean architecture, art galleries, boutiques and restaurants.
When you’re energised and ready to go, continue your journey to Napa Valley to shop at Napa Premium Outlets. Grab a bargain and then explore the beautiful wine region, tasting (of course) and dining.
This evening, return to San Francisco in time to enjoy another great dinner in the city. Book a table at Waterbar for astounding views of the Bay Bridge.
Miami, Florida
Day 1 As Will Smith once said, “welcome to Miami, bienvenido a Miami”.
Miami International Mall at Doral is a good place to start, with over 140 stores to wander and dining options to explore. If you and your wallet fancy a break from the shopping scene, you may opt for a relaxing arvo at Miami Beach.
Stay in South Beach and dine at one of the fabulous restaurants on Ocean Drive. A Fish Called Avalon offers amazing local seafood and Lario’s on the Beach, owned by Emilio and Gloria Estefan, serves authentic and inspired Cuban food.
Day 2 Today, head south on Biscayne Boulevard to The Falls shopping mall in Kendall, where you’ll be delighted to find over 100 retailers and plenty of cuisines to decide on for lunch.
After lunch, drive north to the Dadeland Mall, where you’ll find over 185 stores and restaurants, including a new fashion wing housing chic retailers such as Urban Outfitters and Tesla.
Finish your day at Miracle Mile and Downtown Coral Gables for its high-end specialty stores and boutiques, art galleries and restaurants along the lush, beautifully landscaped streets.
Day 3 Visit Sawgrass Mills, just west of Fort Lauderdale in Sunrise, on the edge of the Everglades. Prepare yourself, because this mall is home to over 350 stores and is one of the largest outlet malls in the USA.
After filling shopping bags with treasures, drive back to Miami to visit Bal Harbour Shops, a collection of designer boutiques and restaurants in a tropical garden setting – a favourite playground for celebrities.
Enjoy an evening stroll on Lincoln Road, pausing to visit galleries, boutiques, and brand-name stores. At an array of restaurants, dine indoors, or on a sidewalk patio and enjoy the wealth of eclectic sights and sounds of South Beach.
Chicago, Illinois
Day 1 Start your Chicago shopping experience with a trip an hour north to Gurnee Mills, one of the largest outlet malls in Illinois. Shop in over 200 stores, including Abercrombie & Fitch, Banana Republic and Adidas, with a stop for lunch at restaurants including Buffalo Wild Wings, Great Steak & Potato Company, and Rainforest Café.
For a touch of diversity, spent the afternoon at Six Flags Great America, next to Gurnee Mills, or for something more serene, enjoy beaches and nature trails at Illinois Beach State Park.
You might like to spend the evening at Navy Pier, which features live music, entertainment, and a multitude of places to eat. During Summer, you can marvel at the thrilling fireworks show each Wednesday and Saturday.
Day 2 Stay in Chicago and be amazed at the sights and sounds of Magnificent Mile on North Michigan Avenue. With three shopping centres – The Shops at North Bridge, Water Tower Place and 900 North Michigan Shops – and 450 shops encompassing major brands, luxury designers and unique boutiques, there’s something for every taste and budget.
This evening, take a dinner cruise to view the Chicago skyline from Lake Michigan or try dinner and a show in the Chicago Theater District.
Day 3 Shopping doesn’t need to stop just because you’re heading home! Just five minutes from O’Hare International Airport, take a detour to the Fashion Outlets of Chicago. The mall features more than 130 designer and brand-name outlets offering great savings, so make sure there’s room in your luggage or perhaps purchase a new case!
Boston, Massachusettes
Boston, Massachusettes
Day 1 Begin your retail therapy at Copley Place, encompassing two hotels, multilevel shopping, and restaurants in Boston’s historic Back Bay area. When you’re done, use the glass-enclosed skywalk to reach the Prudential Center Boston complex, for more stores and excitement.
The public garden near the central court is a great place to take time out and it hosts regular concerts and events, so be sure to check the calendar when planning your visit.
This afternoon, explore Boston Common and the Freedom Trail. Stops on the trail include the Bunker Hill Monument, Paul Revere House, and the Old State House, then take a seat and fill your tummy at the Bostonia Public House for a tasty pub dinner.
Day 2 Begin your day at a famed marketplace that’s a Boston institution. Faneuil Hall, built in 1742 near the Boston Waterfront, contains shops, restaurants, meeting facilities, and a museum and armory.
Peruse the wares in more than 100 shops on the ground level as well as in three other buildings, Quincy Market, South Market, and North Market, where you’ll see Boston-made arts and crafts as well as many familiar names.
When you’re almost droppin’ from the shoppin’, you might fancy taking the short walk to Boston Harbor and visiting Boston Aquarium or boarding a fascinating Boston Harbor Cruise.
Boston is renowned for its seafood, so end the day with a fabulous meal on the waterfront at Boston Sail Loft.
Las Vegas, Nevada
Day 1 Get an early start and take a thrilling helicopter ride over the epic Hoover Dam, Lake Mead, and the famous Grand Canyon – it truly is a spectacular experience.
Back in the city, go sightseeing on the legendary Las Vegas Strip and stop by at the Las Vegas North Premium Outlets near downtown where you can shop at over 150 designer and brand-name stores.
At night, take in an iconic Las Vegas show; popular choices include Cirque du Soleil, Celine Dion, and Blue Man Group. For dinner, try Prime Steakhouse at Bellagio or Lavo Italian Restaurant & Lounge at The Palazzo for something more casual.
Day 2 Today, shopping is on the cards. Start at The Shops at Crystals in the City Center complex and then cross the Strip to go to Planet Hollywood Resort & Casino, home of the Miracle Mile Shops Las Vegas.
For lunch give Mon Ami Gabi at Paris Las Vegas a go; sit outside on the patio, enjoying your meal and watching the Fountains of Bellagio’s afternoon show.
This afternoon take a short walk along the Strip and get blissfully lost in the “Shopping Wonder of the World,” The Forum Shops at Caesars Palace with over 160 designer stores, replica Trevi Fountain and 50,000-gallon Atlantis Aquarium.
At night, explore downtown Las Vegas and its eclectic mix of restaurants. If you’re feeling brave, ride the Slotzilla zipline over the lively Fremont Street entertainment district.
Day 3 Continue your shopping adventure at The Grand Canal Shoppes at The Venetian and marvel at the replica of St. Mark’s Square in Venice, Italy, where gondola rides are a popular pastime.
Here, you can eat lunch at one of the fabulous restaurants and listen to live opera performances. Then, feel free to relax at a resort pool, opt for a spa treatment or try your luck at gambling.
At night, visit The LINQ and ride the High Roller, the world’s largest observation wheel, for unbeatable 360-degree views of Las Vegas.
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Day 1 From downtown, travel an hour to the Philadelphia Premium Outlets in Limerick, with over 170 designer and brand-name stores offering discounted prices.
FUN FACT: No sales tax on purchases of shoes and clothing in Pennsylvania – yay!
For a spot of history, visit the Valley Forge National Historical Park, and then continue your shopping at the King of Prussia Mall, one of the largest in the USA.
Back in Philadelphia, allow time to visit Independence National Historical Park to see the Liberty Bell, a symbol of American independence.
For dinner, try The Good King Tavern for French-inspired bar food or Moshulu, which serves American cuisine aboard a restored ship anchored in the Delaware River.
Day 2 Start your day shopping at Macy’s Center City, across from City Hall, in the heart of the city. This historic venue is home to the largest still-operating pipe organ; listen to a free concert while you shop.
Next, explore Rittenhouse Row, which offers European-style shopping with a mix of over 200 locally owned boutiques, galleries and restaurants.
A must-try for lunch is the nearby Cleavers, offering Philly cheesesteak sandwiches to eat in or take away.
This arvo, learn about the Mural Arts Philadelphia outdoor art gallery. Download the mural finder app and seek out the amazing art adorning buildings throughout the city.
New York City, New York
Day 1 The ‘Big Apple’ is a must visit for any shopaholic.
Start with a trip to New Jersey, because sales tax is not charged on purchases of shoes and clothing here! Check out Newport Centre, Newport Crossing and Newport Plaza with their epic mix of stores.
Stroll along the Hudson River Waterfront Walkway in Jersey City for striking views of the Manhattan skyline. Stop for a bite to eat in one of the restaurants, perhaps Piggyback Bar for its Asian-style pub fare.
After lunch, stop at the Westfield World Trade Center, which is redefining
downtown shopping with over 150 stores. After shopping, visit the 9/11 Memorial & Museum and walk to Battery Park for its spectacular views of New York Harbor and the Statue of Liberty.
If you’re not all walked out, you can also visit South Street Seaport and walk across the Brooklyn Bridge.
You’ve probably built up an appetite, so head to East Village or West Village for a mix of eclectic dining spots.
Day 2 A 90-minute drive out of the city you’ll find Woodbury Common Premium Outlets, which features over 220 stores and an array of places to eat and drink.
When you’re ready to return back to Manhatten, take a slightly longer route through Bear Mountain State Park and the picturesque Hudson Valley, where you’ll encounter beautiful clifftop views over the Hudson River and beyond.
A lovely place to stop for an early dinner is Nyack – an idyllic riverside town. Broadway Bistro on Main Street offers a cozy setting with fine Italian food.
Day 3 Stay in Manhattan for a one-of-a-kind shopping adventure that begins on world-famous Fifth Avenue. Shop at landmarks Bergdorf Goodman and Henri Bendel and visit the flagship stores of Lord & Taylor and Saks Fifth Avenue, offering shoppers anything they could possibly want.
When you’re ready for a change of scenery, take a wander around in Central Park. Explore Bethesda Terrace, with the Bethesda Fountain as its focal point, and walk the tree-lined Mall that runs through the park to view the statues of well-known authors. Rent a rowboat on the lake for a peaceful retreat from the bustle of the city.
This evening, take in a Broadway show with, perhaps, a pre-theater dinner at Sardi’s, a Times Square institution.
Dallas-Fort Worth, Texas
Day 1 Explore Fort Worth, the shopaholic’s way, by starting at The Shops at Clearfork, which is anchored by Neiman Marcus and includes other luxury brands, followed by a sophisticated shopping experience at University Park Village.
Of course, no trip to Forth Worth is complete without visiting the Fort Worth National Stockyards Historic District. Every Friday and Saturday at 8 p.m., watch the Stockyards Championship Rodeo, and see the Fort Worth Herd Cattle Drive at 11:30 a.m. and 4 p.m. every day along Exchange Avenue.
For more shopping, visit specialty jewellery and hat stores or browse at the General Store, then stay for dinner and delight in the local flavours at Riscky’s Barbeque.
Day 2 Just north of Dallas-Fort Worth International Airport, Grapevine Mills features over 180 stores such as True Religion Outlet, Old Navy Outlet and Neiman Marcus Last Call.
The mall is also home to the Sea Life Grapevine Aquarium and Legoland Discovery Center as well as a mini train ride and carousel.
What’s better than a day of shopping? A day of shopping and wine tasting!
Finish your day by following the Grapevine Urban Wine Trail, tasting varietals at Cross Timbers Winery and Grape Vine Springs Winery and more. You’ll sleep soundly tonight.
Day 3 Stay local today by visiting Galleria Dallas, which houses more than 200 stores as well as an ice skating rink and a glass ceiling modeled after the historic Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II in Milan, Italy.
Next up, stop at The Plaza at Preston Center, an open-air mall followed by Highland Park Village, a lifestyle experience with stores such as Hermes, Alexander McQueen and Stella McCartney.
In Dallas, brush up on your US culture at The Sixth Floor Museum at Dealey Plaza, presenting the life, death, and legacy of U.S. President John F. Kennedy, and the John F. Kennedy Memorial Plaza in the West End Historic District.
If you’re a steak lover, you won’t want to leave Dallas without eating at Dakota’s Steakhouse or the Y.O. Ranch Steakhouse.
Houston, Texas
Day 1 Houston, we definetly do not have a problem because it’s time for some retail and dining therapy!
This morning, visit The Galleria, which houses over 375 stores, 30 dining establishments, two hotels, and an ice skating rink – which is pretty darn impressive, don’t you think?
Of course, no trip to Houston would be complete without visiting Space Center Houston to learn about the history and future of the USA’s space exploration programs, so you may opt to spend the afternoon here.
Day 2 Treat yo’self to some R&R time at a spa, around the pool or a round of golf. With an abundance of amenities, Houston has something to cater to every taste.
Once you’re feeling rejuvenated, continue your shopping adventure at the River Oaks District’s collection of luxury and designer boutiques set along treelined streets. Spoil yourself at Dior, Tom Ford, Hermes and more.
Stay for dinner to experience food and service at the highest level. Eat a prime steak at Steak 48, linger over a meal at The Tuck Room or feel like you’re in Paris at Toulouse. Is your mouth watering already?
Download the complete ‘Shopping USA‘ itinerary here!
Get the Road Trip Playlist
Get yourself into the shopping spirit with tunes such as ‘Material Girl’, ‘Thift Shop’ and ‘Diamonds are a girl’s best friend’ while exploring fun-filled and adventure-packed US destinations such as ‘Miami’ and ‘Arizona’ with a ‘New York state of mind’.
This playlist will have you movin’ and groovin’ in the car, around the mall and pretty much wherever else you go!
Agents: Download, Escape and Explore GoUSA TV
GoUSA TV is a free premier travel entertainment channel. Watch full episodes, documentaries and films, told from the diverse perspectives of real people across America.
Discover the Queens area of New York City through the diversity of the Latinx diaspora in the series, Americanos, available on GoUSA TV. Explore how Latinx culture brings American cities to life through the stories of those who embrace their roots and shape the future.
With more than 400 authentic and short format videos featuring destinations from all 50 states, 5 territories, and the District of Columbia, there’s never been a better time to get online and enjoy some incredible travel entertainment!
Available for download in the App or Play store and on Apple TV.
More info here.
Agents: Join the USA Discovery Program
The USA Discovery Program is Brand USA’s official trade training platform for the USA. The Shopping USA itinerary features 8 destination training badges.
Get clicking and complete your Texas, Arizona, Philadelphia, Massachusettes, Florida’s Paradise Coast, California, Nevada and Vegas badges and skill up in a fun and interactive way.
Click here to register and get all the knowledge for the USA.
PLUS! Design your own Road Trip with the USA TRIP PLANNER
The Visit USA Trip Planner is an amazing (and free!) tool that matches your personal travel preferences and style.
With over 230 million data points including the best places & times to visit, reviews and hidden gems, this is one smart piece of travel tech.
This little travel genius optimises your itinerary to minimise travel time, checks when attractions are open and even recommends how much time to spend at each stop off. Brilliant!
Finally, it lets you share & collaborate with your fellow road trippers and is easy to add or revise points of interest as you go.
Find out more: Trip-Planner.VisitTheUSA.com
Get all the tools on Brand USA’s TRAVEL TRADE SITE
From Trip Planners to Itineraries and the USA Discovery Program and Destination information, Brand USA’s Travel Trade Site for agents has you covered.
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