Title: A Shopper's Haven with Breathtaking Views - Empire Outlets Review
Last week, I had the pleasure of visiting Empire Outlets in Staten Island, and I must say, it truly exceeded all expectations. Nestled just a short ferry ride away from the hustle and bustle of Manhattan, this shopping paradise offers an array of top-notch retail options and the serenity of picturesque cityscapes.
When I stepped off the ferry, I was greeted with a stunning view of the lower Manhattan skyline, setting the tone for a memorable shopping experience. The outlet's beautifully landscaped plaza, complete with tranquil fountains, was an oasis of calm in the vibrant city.
With over 100 stores, Empire Outlets makes for a shopper's dream. I found everything from designer apparel at Nordstrom Rack and Levi's Outlet Store to sports gear at the Nike Factory Store. The Old Navy Outlet and H&M Outlet were perfect for a wardrobe refresh without breaking the bank. Verizon and iOptics were ready for tech and accessories, while MANDEE and Banana Republic Factory offered trendy options for every style.
Beyond shopping, the dining selections were a delight. The rich aroma of freshly brewed coffee from Starbucks provided a great start to the day, while Wetzel's Pretzels and Shake Shack were perfect for a quick, satisfying bite. The luxurious ice cream from Häagen-Dazs rounded out a day of indulgent experiences.
A notable mention must go to Matt from Vanity House Design, an enthusiastic promoter of honey bee products. Found in the open-air yard on the first floor, his display of natural soaps, lip balms, and candles added a unique and aromatic touch to the shopping adventure. And let's not forget Essam's food truck, where the Nathan's Famous meals were a gastronomic joy.
The holiday decorations, albeit a bit early for the season, added a whimsical and cheerful atmosphere to the mall. I recommend wearing comfortable shoes for those visiting, as there's a lot to explore. The free Wi-Fi is a boon for staying connected, and the special events and promotions are not missed.
Empire Outlets is not just a shopping destination; it's an experience that offers unbeatable deals, a diverse range of services, and a welcoming atmosphere for locals and tourists alike. Open seven days a week, from 10:00 AM to 9:00 PM, it's a must-visit for anyone looking for a...
Read moreAn immaculate maintained outlet steps away from the Staten Island Ferry We’ve been coming here since it opened and often pick something up from the various stores The space however seems to have far more potential and we’ve yet to see it make use of the many empty units This has the benefit of it never seeming quite as busy as it could be, so not too crowded, but at the same time like it’s yet to still fully reach its potential in terms of the variety and range that could be on offer I suspect this cycle reduces footfall from its potential which in turn dissuades / reduces the outlet stores occupying units, however there is a reasonable variety to merit a visit if they are the shops selling the types of things you want (predominantly clothing), or there are some specific stores that float your boat Over the years we’ve seen some stores come and go, although in June we visited USPA which, if memory serves, is a welcome re-addition as it did once occupy a unit looking over the bay on the top corner of the outlet I would recommend you check the store directory prior to visiting to check there are a few stores you’d like to browse There are also a range of shops with snacks or coffee in and adjacent/ on the periphery by the FerryHawks stadium Just a short walk is the Staten Island 9/11 memorial and some beautiful views on a clear sunny day (or a crisp spring/ winters day) Our ideal itinerary is to leave it till about 9/930 when commuter traffic’s died down, head over via the ferry, grab a Starbucks and relax for 15, by which time places are open or just about to, have a wander about the shops then down the bay to enjoy the views of NJ and Manhattan. A reasonably enjoyable way to enjoy a morning and to potentially find some...
Read moreAs a Native Islander, I can confidently say that no one who lives on Staten Island wanted this debacle built in the first place.
Nothing but a huge inconvenience for anyone trying to commute to work or get back home in one peace, that and all the stores (whatever else is left) are nothing special, stores you can find right close to anywhere in all the other states. What discounts? The prices are the same or a little more than anywhere else.
Everyone from Staten Island saw this coming, such an eyesore and a waste of space that could of been put into better use for the community.
It's a damned if you do, damned if you don't scenario with EO. If it became a hit and tourist flood in, it will only cause unnecessary stress to the residents on the island who DON'T want Staten Island to be a tourist attraction, it's a residential borough, the whole reason anyone lives on the island is to get away from all the hustle and bustle, wanting only peace and quiet from working in the city all day and night, no one wants to bring that noise home.
Since it's a total flop, might as well level the whole place out down to the ground and turn it into a giant free parking lot (as intended) for any of the locals who wants to commute to work or enjoy a weekend going to the city or the other boroughs without any hassle.
At least then we can get our view back too, someone...
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