Best Outlet Malls Near Atlanta: Where to Find the Biggest Deals

If you’re searching for the best Atlanta outlet mall, you’re really choosing between a few major outlet centers in and around metro Atlanta. The good news: you have several strong options within about an hour’s drive, each with its own personality, store mix, and “day trip” feel.

This guide breaks down the top outlet malls near Atlanta, how far they are from key parts of the city, what they’re best for, and practical tips so you can pick the one that fits your budget, schedule, and shopping style.

Quick Comparison: Best Outlet Malls Near Atlanta

Key outlets Atlanta shoppers usually consider:

Drive times vary with traffic; assume longer during rush hour or game days.

What Counts as the “Best” Atlanta Outlet Mall?

For Atlanta shoppers, “best outlet mall” usually depends on:

• How far you want to drive
• Type of brands you care about (luxury vs everyday)
• Indoor vs outdoor shopping
• Whether you want a quick stop or a full-day outing
• Kid‑friendliness (strollers, play areas, food options)
• How important deep discounts vs selection are

Below is how each major option stacks up from an Atlanta perspective.

North Georgia Premium Outlets (Dawsonville): The Big Destination

Location: 800 Highway 400 S, Dawsonville, GA 30534
Approx. drive: ~45–60 minutes from Midtown Atlanta (up GA‑400 North)

If you ask serious outlet shoppers around Atlanta which is “the one,” many point to North Georgia Premium Outlets. It’s one of the largest outlet centers within easy reach of Atlanta, and it feels like a full-day destination rather than a quick pit stop.

Why Atlanta Shoppers Like It

• Huge store selection: Dozens of brands from athletic wear and denim to higher‑end labels.
• Designer and luxury outlets often show up here more than at other centers near Atlanta.
• Open‑air village layout that’s easy to walk, with plenty of benches and rest areas.
• Good for multi‑stop trips: Many people pair it with a visit to Lake Lanier, Dahlonega, or the North Georgia mountains.

Best For

• Shoppers willing to make a day trip from Atlanta
• Those looking for premium or designer outlets in addition to basics
• Folks in north metro suburbs like Alpharetta, Cumming, and Roswell

Things to Know

• Weekends can be very busy; parking near the central areas may fill up.
• Weather matters—it’s mostly outdoors, so pack an umbrella or sunscreen.
• If you’re driving from Intown Atlanta, GA‑400 traffic north of I‑285 can slow down during peak times.

Tanger Outlets Locust Grove: Easiest Southside Option

Location: 1000 Tanger Dr, Locust Grove, GA 30248
Approx. drive: ~35–45 minutes from Downtown Atlanta (straight down I‑75 South)

For southside Atlanta residents (or anyone headed toward Macon or Florida), Tanger Outlets in Locust Grove is often the most practical choice. It’s right off I‑75 and offers the classic outlet experience without an all‑day trek.

Why It Works Well for Atlantans

• Very direct drive from the city: stay on I‑75 South and exit at Locust Grove.
• Recognizable outlet brands in clothing, shoes, kids’ stores, and home goods.
• Family‑friendly atmosphere with plenty of food court‑style and casual options nearby.
• Often feels less overwhelming than some larger outlet centers.

Best For

• Residents of South Atlanta, Stockbridge, McDonough, College Park, and Henry County
• Travelers flying into Hartsfield‑Jackson and heading south by car
• Quick half‑day trips instead of full‑day outings

Things to Know

• Outdoor layout—plan for weather.
• Weekends, especially holiday weekends, can bring I‑75 traffic delays around Locust Grove.
• Good stop if you want to combine shopping with other errands along I‑75 South.

Tanger Outlets Commerce: Deep-Discount Favorite off I‑85

Location: 800 Steven B Tanger Blvd, Commerce, GA 30529
Approx. drive: ~1–1.25 hours from Downtown Atlanta (up I‑85 North)

Tanger Outlets Commerce is a classic highway outlet center that many Atlantans visit when driving up I‑85 toward Athens, South Carolina, or North Carolina. It’s popular with bargain‑focused shoppers who don’t mind a bit more of a drive.

Why Atlantans Go

• Strong emphasis on value: Many stores lean toward budget‑friendly or athletic/casual chains.
• Easy access off I‑85; useful if you’re already headed in that direction.
• Often feels less like a “tourist destination” and more like a regular discount hub.

Best For

• Deal hunters who prioritize savings over a “fancy” experience
• Residents in northeast metro (Gwinnett, Barrow, Jackson counties)
• Road‑trippers who want a shopping stop along I‑85

Things to Know

• It’s a longer drive from central Atlanta than other options.
• Mainly outdoor; plan around heat, rain, or cold.
• Many Atlanta families time their trip for back‑to‑school or seasonal wardrobe updates.

The Outlet Shoppes at Atlanta (Woodstock): Closest “Outlet-Style” Center to Many Suburbs

Location: 915 Ridgewalk Pkwy, Woodstock, GA 30188
Approx. drive: ~30–40 minutes from Midtown Atlanta (via I‑75/I‑575)

Despite the name, this outlet center is in Woodstock, not inside Atlanta city limits. For people in Cobb, Cherokee, and northwest Fulton, this is often the most convenient outlet-style destination.

Why It’s Popular Locally

• Quick access from I‑575 and close to Kennesaw, Marietta, and much of northwest metro.
• Modern, walkable design with an open‑air “main street” feel.
• Balanced store mix: casual brands, athletic wear, kids’ stores, and accessories.
• Feels more manageable than some of the huge outlet complexes further out.

Best For

• Shoppers in Marietta, Kennesaw, Woodstock, Acworth, and Smyrna
• People who want outlet prices without driving an hour+ north or south
• Short trips rather than all‑day marathons

Things to Know

• Outdoor center; shade is decent, but summer afternoons can be hot.
• Peak times are weekends and holiday shopping seasons; parking fills early.
• Easy to pair with a meal or stroll in downtown Woodstock for a full outing.

Sugarloaf Mills (Lawrenceville): Indoor Outlet-Style Mall Option

Location: 5900 Sugarloaf Pkwy, Lawrenceville, GA 30043
Approx. drive: ~30–40 minutes from Midtown Atlanta (via I‑85 North)

Sugarloaf Mills in Lawrenceville is technically a value/discount mall rather than a pure outlet center, but many Atlanta shoppers treat it like an outlet experience because of its mix of off‑price retailers, outlet‑style stores, and entertainment options.

Why It’s Worth Considering

• Completely indoors—a big plus in hot, humid summers or rainy days.
• Plenty of entertainment: movie theater, arcade, and activity venues.
• Food options and casual restaurants make it easy to stay for several hours.
• Good for families who want shopping plus something to do with kids.

Best For

• Residents of Gwinnett County and northeast metro
• Anyone wanting an indoor alternative to outdoor outlets
• Mixed‑purpose trips: shop, eat, catch a movie, or let kids play

Things to Know

• Not every store is a true “factory outlet,” but many offer discounted or off‑season stock.
• Layout is circular; it’s fairly easy to loop through without missing sections.
• Weekend afternoons can be crowded, especially with families and teens.

Which Outlet Mall Is “Best” for You in Atlanta?

Here’s a simple way to match your situation to the right outlet:

If You Live Intown (Midtown, Downtown, Inman Park, etc.)

• Fastest full outlet feel:
  • The Outlet Shoppes at Atlanta (Woodstock) or Tanger Locust Grove, depending on whether you prefer driving north or south.
• Most comprehensive selection / making a day of it:
  • North Georgia Premium Outlets (Dawsonville).

If You’re in the Northern Suburbs (Alpharetta, Cumming, Johns Creek, Roswell)

• Closest premium option:
  • North Georgia Premium Outlets up GA‑400.
• Weather-proof backup:
  • Sugarloaf Mills in Lawrenceville (indoor).

If You’re in the Southern Suburbs (College Park, East Point, Henry/Clayton County)

• Most convenient:
  • Tanger Outlets Locust Grove off I‑75.
• Airport travelers with a car:
  • Locust Grove is a natural stop if you’re driving south after landing at Hartsfield‑Jackson Atlanta International Airport.

If You’re in the Northeast Suburbs (Gwinnett, Barrow, Jackson)

• Everyday “outlet” option:
  • Sugarloaf Mills for indoor value shopping.
• True highway outlet center:
  • Tanger Outlets Commerce off I‑85.

How to Plan an Outlet Trip from Atlanta

A few Atlanta‑specific planning tips can make your outlet trip smoother and cheaper.

1. Time Your Drive Around Traffic

Atlanta traffic can easily add 20–40 minutes to your trip:

• 🚗 Avoid weekday rush hours (roughly 7–9 a.m. and 4–7 p.m.) on I‑75, I‑85, GA‑400, and I‑575.
• Weekend afternoons, especially Saturdays, often back up near Lenox/Buckhead, I‑285 interchanges, and major outlet exits.

Leaving early in the morning from Atlanta often means easier parking and lighter traffic, especially during holiday seasons.

2. Check Hours and Special Openings

Outlet malls near Atlanta sometimes extend hours for:

• Back‑to‑school weekends
• Thanksgiving/Black Friday
• December holiday shopping

Before you drive from the city, it’s smart to verify opening and closing times by phone.

3. Dress and Pack for Outdoor Centers

Most true outlet malls near Atlanta are outdoor or open‑air, so:

• In summer, bring water, sunscreen, and light clothes—North Georgia and Locust Grove can be hot and sunny.
• In winter, layers and comfortable shoes help if you’re walking between distant stores.
• Consider a small backpack or tote if you expect to visit several stores.

4. Build in a Food Plan

While each outlet area has its own mix of food:

• North Georgia Premium Outlets and The Outlet Shoppes at Atlanta have nearby full‑service and fast‑casual options off the main roads.
• Tanger Locust Grove and Tanger Commerce are surrounded by quick‑service spots along I‑75 and I‑85 exits.
• Sugarloaf Mills offers indoor food court and sit‑down restaurants, plus a movie theater—good if you’ve got kids or want a break from shopping.

Planning where you’ll eat keeps you from wandering hungry and tired, especially if you’ve driven from central Atlanta.

Tips for Getting the Best Deals from Atlanta Outlets

Atlanta shoppers often use a few simple strategies to stretch their outlet budgets:

• Compare prices with regular stores: Discounts look big, but sometimes sale prices in standard malls or online are similar. If you can, quickly check on your phone.
• Look for additional promotions: Many outlets run extra percent‑off weekends or clearance sections in the back of the store.
• Ask about loyalty or email programs: Some outlet stores offer instant discounts for joining at checkout.
• Travel light but bring a plan: Make a short list of what you truly need—otherwise, “bargains” can turn into impulse purchases.

For Atlanta residents, it can be smart to time outlet trips around major shopping seasons (back‑to‑school, holiday, end of season) rather than going every weekend.

If You’re Visiting Atlanta and Want an Outlet Day

If you’re flying into Hartsfield‑Jackson and staying near Downtown, Midtown, or Buckhead:

• With only half a day, consider:
  • The Outlet Shoppes at Atlanta (Woodstock) (northwest) or
  • Tanger Outlets Locust Grove (south)
    depending on where traffic looks lighter.
• With a full day and a rental car, and if you like a big selection:
  • North Georgia Premium Outlets (Dawsonville) offers the most “destination” feel.
• If weather looks bad or you’re traveling with younger kids:
  • Sugarloaf Mills (Lawrenceville) gives you an indoor, climate‑controlled option with entertainment.

Taxi and rideshare from central Atlanta to these outlets can get expensive; a rental car usually makes more sense if you’re planning a full outlet day.

Bottom Line: The “Best” Atlanta Outlet Mall Depends on Your Side of Town

For many Atlantans, the overall favorite for selection is:

• North Georgia Premium Outlets (Dawsonville) – best for variety and a full‑day shopping trip.

For quick access from much of metro Atlanta:

• The Outlet Shoppes at Atlanta (Woodstock) – convenient for northwest suburbs.
• Tanger Outlets Locust Grove – convenient for southside residents and I‑75 travelers.

For indoor, weather‑proof shopping with outlet‑style discounts:

• Sugarloaf Mills (Lawrenceville) – strong option for Gwinnett and northeast metro.

Choosing the best outlet mall near Atlanta comes down to where you’re starting, how long you want to drive, and whether you’re looking for max selection, max savings, or max convenience. Once you know those priorities, it’s easy to match them to the right outlet center on the Atlanta map.