Ollie's Bargain Outlet — Attraction in Norfolk

Depending on what you need, you can find some major bargains. Plus, with free "Ollie's Army" membership, you occasionally get coupons for an extra 10% to 15% off. But not everything is priced at a huge savings over other stores, so it helps to have an idea what l similar items are selling for elsewhere.

Products like paint that don't have a clear '"sell by" date are a bit of a gamble. I've purchased name brand spray paint that hasn't preformed very well - which makes me think it's been sitting in a warehouse too long.

The Norfolk store is a bit rundown compared to the Virgina Beach store. It can sometimes feel a bit picked over on the best stuff. And the checkout lines at certain times of day can feel like payday at Walmart.

Overall, I've had a better experience at their Virginia Beach store. But if you don't want to make a long drive, the Norfolk store is still worth checking out.

I've only returned things a couple of times, but in both cases the process was painless. Once, I returned an opened container of awful-tasting pumpkin-flavored candy corn that I should've known not to buy; and I realized when I got to the front of the line that I'd accidentally put a Dollar Tree receipt in the bag instead of my Ollie's receipt. But, after laughing like crazy, the cashier gave me my money back...

Went there for books. Stood in line for over 20 mins. We were next in line and was told that the cashier was closed. We proceeded to the only other line that was open and waited. The cashier was having issues with his register. He told the other employees “I can’t work like this anymore”, and he rebooted the computer. Meanwhile, the register that was supposed to be closed was still checking everyone out. We returned to her line and I said “I was told that you were closed”. She looked at me (clearly unapologetic) and said “I have to pee”. Another employee came over (possibly manager) and started discussing how there are call outs and no shows. Last time I came to that store, she said the same thing. Complaining to another associate. That associate was running his mouth about a customer who asked him if another line was open. He basically said “If they stop buying so much, then the line wouldn’t be so long”. Everytime I come here the employees seem like they hate their job and are mad at the world. I just want to purchase my book and go home. I don’t have time for the attitudes. Will not...

This store definitely has that flea market type of vibe, but in the best way possible. When you first walk in, it’s kind of a mix of different styles and setups, so at first glance it feels a little bit like you’re treasure hunting. Honestly, that’s part of the charm — it’s not one of those sterile, chain-store layouts where everything looks the same. Instead, you get this relaxed atmosphere where every aisle has something different to catch your eye.

The best part for me is the deals. They really are everywhere. You can walk around and find name-brand items at prices that beat the big department stores, and half the fun is not knowing what you’ll come across. Some things are tucked away, so you have to look closely, but that’s where the hidden gems pop up. Between the variety, the bargains, and the laid-back vibe, it’s the kind of place you can stop in without a plan and walk out with way more than you expected — all without spending a fortune. I’ll definitely be back to see what new deals show...