Your Guide to Tanger Outlets Near Atlanta, GA: Locations, Deals, and Tips

If you’re searching for “Tanger Outlet Atlanta GA,” the first thing to know is that there isn’t a Tanger Outlet inside the Atlanta city limits. Instead, there are two major Tanger outlet centers that Atlanta shoppers typically use, both within an easy drive:

• Tanger Outlets Locust Grove (south of Atlanta, along I‑75)
• Tanger Outlets Commerce (northeast of Atlanta, along I‑85)

This guide breaks down how each location works for Atlanta residents and visitors, how to get there, what to expect, and how to decide which Tanger outlet is right for your trip.

Where Are the Closest Tanger Outlets to Atlanta?

Tanger Outlets Locust Grove (South of Atlanta)

Best for: Southside residents, travelers coming from/going to Florida, people near Hartsfield–Jackson Atlanta International Airport.

• Approx. distance from Downtown Atlanta: About 35–40 miles south
• General area: Just off I‑75 in Locust Grove, GA
• Typical drive time: Commonly 40–60 minutes from central Atlanta, depending on traffic

Locust Grove is often the go-to Tanger option for people living in or visiting:

• South Atlanta neighborhoods: Lakewood, Southside, East Point, College Park, Hapeville
• Nearby cities: Stockbridge, McDonough, Jonesboro, Fayetteville, Peachtree City

Because it’s right off I‑75, this outlet is convenient if you’re:

• Driving south from Atlanta for a beach or Florida trip
• Returning to Atlanta and want to stop for outlet shopping on the way back
• Staying near the airport and looking for a half‑day shopping trip

Tanger Outlets Commerce (Northeast of Atlanta)

Best for: Northside residents, Athens visitors, and travelers heading toward South Carolina or North Carolina.

• Approx. distance from Downtown Atlanta: About 70–75 miles northeast
• General area: Along I‑85 near Commerce, GA
• Typical drive time: Often 1–1.5 hours from central Atlanta, depending on traffic

Commerce is popular with those living or staying in:

• Northside suburbs: Duluth, Suwanee, Buford, Lawrenceville, Johns Creek
• Northeast areas: Braselton, Winder, Athens
• Travelers on I‑85: Going toward Greenville, Charlotte, or the Carolinas

If you’re already spending time at Lake Lanier, in Gwinnett County, or heading toward Athens, Commerce may be the more natural choice.

Tanger Outlets vs. Atlanta Malls: What’s the Difference?

If you’re used to shopping around Lenox Square, Phipps Plaza, Perimeter Mall, or Atlantic Station, a Tanger outlet will feel a bit different.

Key differences:

• Open-air layout: Most Tanger outlets are outdoor or village-style centers, not enclosed malls. Be prepared for weather—heat, rain, or cold—especially during Atlanta summers.
• Outlet-focused stores: Many stores are the outlet versions of national brands, often selling past-season items, overstock, and outlet-specific merchandise.
• Discounted pricing: Shoppers usually go to Tanger for lower prices on brand-name goods, especially clothing, shoes, and accessories.
• Destination shopping: Unlike in-town malls, you’re planning a half‑day or full‑day trip due to the drive from Atlanta.

If you want quick, in-city shopping, it’s usually easier to stay closer to home. If you’re hunting for deals and don’t mind a drive, Tanger can be worth the trip.

What You’ll Typically Find at Tanger Outlets Near Atlanta

While exact store mixes change over time, both Locust Grove and Commerce usually include:

• Clothing & fashion outlets for men, women, and kids
• Athletic & casual shoe brands
• Designer & lifestyle brands at outlet pricing
• Accessories & jewelry
• Home goods & kitchenware
• Cosmetics & beauty outlets (varies by location)
• Food options: casual eateries, snack stands, and sometimes sit‑down restaurants nearby

Because lineups can change, it’s a good idea to check the current store directory for the specific Tanger location you’re planning to visit before driving from Atlanta.

Getting to Tanger Outlets from Different Parts of Atlanta

From Downtown, Midtown, or Old Fourth Ward

You’re roughly “in the middle” between the two Tanger centers.

• To Locust Grove (I‑75 South):
  • Take the Downtown Connector (I‑75/85) south
  • Stay on I‑75 South
  • Continue toward Locust Grove; the outlet is just off the interstate
• To Commerce (I‑85 North):
  • Take I‑85 North out of the city
  • Continue past the I‑985 split
  • Follow signs toward Commerce

How to choose:

• If you regularly drive I‑75 or plan to head south, Locust Grove is simpler.
• If you’re coming from or going toward Gwinnett, Athens, or the Carolinas, Commerce often makes more sense.

From North Atlanta (Buckhead, Sandy Springs, Dunwoody)

You’re usually closer in drive time to Commerce, but either is possible.

• Commerce route:
  • Get onto I‑285 or GA‑400 as needed
  • Connect to I‑85 North
  • Continue toward Commerce
• Locust Grove route:
  • Use I‑285 to reach I‑75 South
  • Continue south to Locust Grove

If you live along the GA‑400 or I‑85 corridor north of the city, many people find Tanger Commerce more straightforward.

From South Atlanta (College Park, East Point, Riverdale, McDonough)

Tanger Locust Grove is usually the clear winner.

• Take local roads or I‑75 directly south, depending on your starting point.
• This can be a short, under‑30‑minute drive if you’re already in Henry County or near McDonough.

From the Airport Area

If you’re flying into Hartsfield–Jackson Atlanta International Airport and want an outlet trip:

• Tanger Locust Grove is typically easier and closer (straight down I‑75).
• Many visitors combine this with picking up a rental car or staying in airport‑area hotels.

When Is the Best Time for Atlanta Shoppers to Visit Tanger?

Atlanta traffic and weather can significantly affect your shopping experience.

Traffic Timing Tips

• Weekday mornings (especially Tuesday–Thursday) are often the calmest.
• Weekend afternoons, especially Saturdays, can be crowded both on the interstate and at the outlets.
• Holiday periods (Black Friday, back-to-school, major federal holidays) bring heavy traffic and larger crowds.

🕒 Local tip:
If you’re leaving from Atlanta, consider leaving early in the morning to beat both city and outlet traffic, especially in summer or around major shopping holidays.

Weather Considerations

Because Tanger outlets are generally open-air, Atlanta’s weather matters:

• Summer: It can be hot and humid. Bring water, wear light clothing, and expect to walk outside between stores.
• Winter: North Georgia can be chilly and occasionally icy; check the forecast, especially for Commerce.
• Storms: Sudden rainstorms are common; a small umbrella or light rain jacket can be useful.

Planning Your Tanger Outlet Trip from Atlanta

Use this quick overview to decide which location fits your situation:

How to Make Outlet Shopping Worth the Drive from Atlanta

Since you’ll be spending time (and gas) getting to Tanger from Atlanta, it helps to plan.

1. Make a Targeted Shopping List

Before leaving, list what you actually need:

• Back‑to‑school clothes
• Workwear or suits
• Athletic shoes and apparel
• Luggage or travel gear
• Holiday gifts

Having a list keeps you from wandering and makes the trip feel more worthwhile.

2. Compare With In-Town Options

Atlanta has plenty of retail options, including:

• Lenox Square / Phipps Plaza (Buckhead)
• Perimeter Mall (Dunwoody)
• Cumberland Mall and The Battery Atlanta
• Sugarloaf Mills (a hybrid mall/outlet style center in Lawrenceville)

If you only need one or two items, staying in town might make more sense. Tanger shines when you’re:

• Shopping for multiple people (families, groups)
• Doing seasonal wardrobe refreshes
• Combining it with another road trip or day trip

3. Think About Food and Breaks

Both Tanger locations have on-site food options, but many Atlanta shoppers also:

• Eat before leaving Atlanta to save time and money
• Plan to stop at a sit‑down restaurant near the outlet either before or after shopping
• Keep snacks and water in the car, especially for kids

This can make the day feel more like a relaxed outing rather than a rushed errand.

4. Plan Parking and Walking

Outlet centers can be spread out. To make your visit smoother:

• Park near the cluster of stores you plan to hit first.
• If you’re shopping heavily, you may want to drop bags in the car and then re‑park near a different section.
• Wear comfortable shoes; you’ll likely walk more than at a typical Atlanta indoor mall.

Is Tanger Outlets Worth the Trip From Atlanta?

It depends on what you’re looking for:

Tanger can be worth it if:

• You want brand-name items at reduced prices
• You’re shopping for a family or buying many items at once
• You’re already traveling along I‑75 or I‑85 and can combine the stop with your route
• You enjoy the outlet “treasure hunt” experience

Staying in Atlanta may be better if:

• You need one specific item quickly
• You don’t enjoy driving outside the city or dealing with interstate traffic
• You prefer indoor malls with entertainment, cinemas, or more dining choices
• Time is limited and you can’t dedicate a half‑day or more

Quick Summary for Atlanta Shoppers

• There is no Tanger Outlet physically in Atlanta, but there are two nearby Tanger centers:
  • Tanger Outlets Locust Grove on I‑75 South
  • Tanger Outlets Commerce on I‑85 North
• Choose Locust Grove if you’re on the south side or using I‑75.
• Choose Commerce if you’re on the north/northeast side or using I‑85.
• Plan around Atlanta traffic, weather, and your shopping list to make the trip worthwhile.
• For quick, casual shopping, Atlanta’s many in‑city malls and shopping districts may be more convenient; for bigger outlet hauls, a Tanger trip can be a solid day outing.