A good number of tourists to the USA make a beeline for its malls, outlet shopping and sophisticated boutiques. But though you’ll find some stores nationwide, there are some states which offer a little more to the committed shopper. Here are Mundana’s choices for the best states for shopping in the US.
New York
The Big Apple remains a firm favourite among those keen on spending at least some of their vacation budget in the retail sector. Macy’s has dominated Herald Square since 1902, where it sprawls over a whole city block. Bloomingdale’s more than holds its own with its signature Little Brown Bag and more. Stop by Saks Fifth Avenue, Barneys, Bergdorf Goodman and the bargains of Century 21, not to mention the many independent boutiques scattered throughout the city’s characterful and diverse neighbourhoods.
Minnesota
Bloomington has been a mecca for US-bound shoppers since the early Nineties thanks to the country’s largest mall. The Mall of America receives over 40 million visitors a year, drawn by over five hundred stores. But that’s not all – you can dine out, play golf, see a movie or visit an aquarium while you’re there. There’s even a mini theme park inside. Because of its vast scale, it can be overwhelming for first-timers. Check out the mall’s website before you go and plan your day as you would with any other attraction. Combine the Mall of America with a visit to the Twin Cities, Minnesota and St. Paul.
New Hampshire
Many states impose a sales tax on purchases but New Hampshire is one of only five which don’t. Because of this, there’s no shortage of outlet malls to tempt bargain hunters. Try Settler’s Green Outlet Village in North Conway, Tanger Outlets in Tilton and Merrimack Premium Outlets in Merrimack for starters. Why not make your New Hampshire visit part of a north east road trip? Historic Boston Massachusetts and the scenic coastline of Maine are easy to combine with your New Hampshire trip.
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Texas
Austin’s a great place to kit yourself out with a pair of cowboy boots and a hat, and you’ll find just the place to do so in SoCo at Allen’s Boots. The area is riddled with homewards, clothing and gift stores with one-off boutiques. As you’d expect, Houston has plenty of big city malls, but it’s also worth heading to the Westheimer Road where there’s plenty of antiques and vintage stores to browse. San Antonio is also worth a detour with plenty of interesting boutiques in its charming downtown area.
California
If designer shopping gets your heart racing, then head to Los Angeles. Shop – or at least browse the window displays – of big name brands on Rodeo Drive in Beverly Hills, the epicentre of high end retail and magnet for the rich and famous. Upmarket The Grove has a lovely atmosphere and both well-known names and chic boutiques. Farmers’ markets are also a big deal in health conscious California, with mountains of fresh produce that might even tempt you into a healthier lifestyle.
If you’d like to shop in the USA, give Mundana’s experts a call and we can help make your retail dreams a reality.