The Tuscan Premium Outlets, located just outside of Tuscan, Arizona, definitely offers a more pleasant open-air shopping experience compared to the Phoenix outlets. The layout is attractive, with a nice flow between the various stores, making for a comfortable stroll. The sheer number of shops is impressive, and I did find the selection of merchandise to be noticeably better than what's typically offered in Phoenix. However, it's clear that the current economic climate has taken a toll. It was quite apparent that a significant number of storefronts were closed, which was a bit disappointing and detracted from the overall vibrancy of the mall. Interestingly, despite being an outlet mall and located further south, the prices didn't necessarily reflect a significant discount compared to the Phoenix outlets. One might expect better deals given the location, but that wasn't consistently the case. One of the major advantages of the Tuscan Premium Outlets is indeed the parking situation. The ample, uncrowded parking lots are a welcome relief compared to the often-congested and casino-adjacent parking of the Phoenix outlets. The extra drive south feels worthwhile for this convenience alone. On the downside, the food options within the mall are somewhat limited and do give off a bit of an older, traditional mall food court vibe. This is definitely an area where the outlet could improve. Overall, despite the closed shops and the not-as-discounted prices, I would still choose to make the drive south to the Tuscan Premium Outlets over the Phoenix options. The nicer outdoor setting, better selection of stores, and significantly better parking situation make it a more enjoyable shopping experience. Just be aware that the food choices are limited and you might not find drastically lower prices...
Ā Ā Ā Read moreI would not mind going to an outside mall, if the mall itself would take responsibilities for their vending choices. Dip and Dots machine is a TOTAL rip off. It takes 1 dollar and then won't take any more money or give you any product. No answer to customer service number. This happened to me today and now looking at other reviews it has happened to many other people!!! However, the new addition of the kitty train is what will make me NOT COME BACK UNTIL IT IS GONE!!!! The train drives down crowded walkways and honks his horn to make people move. This forces several dozen people to stop where they are going and stumble all over each other to try to not get run over. The train does not slow down AT ALL and the driver laughs as people nearly hurt themselves dodging him. My daughter and I were cut off and almost run over by this guy FOUR TIMES today. The third time, I loudly told my daughter how annoying this was. The driver turned around and winked at my daughter!!! This tells me that he was purposefully cutting us off and he is extremely inappropriate around young people. I cannot imagine anyone wanting this slimey creep driving their kids around without them. People are coming to your mall to spend money. I like the shops themselves, but other than that, the mall is awful. There is gum everywhere on the sidewalks which will be on the bottom of your shoes before you leave. The vending machines are proving themselves to be set up as a scam. And there is a inappropriate creep who will follow you around using a train as a weapon. I would say this is the place to go for back to school or Christmas shopping, but unless you want to be harassed and endangered, take your hard earned money...
Ā Ā Ā Read moreAs a teenager I visited one of the very first outdoor malls in America at Oakbrook, Illinois. For over 50 years since then I have visited dozens of malls and have my favorites. This outlet mall is definitely at the top of my list for several reasons.
First and foremost, this mall is spotlessly clean with lots of flowering vine and plants to add a refreshing feeling as you stroll through and visit stores that catch your interest. The outdoor seating near the waterfall island is peaceful and relaxing. The shade that the buildings themselves creates is a well-thought design aspect. You can pretty much walk on one side of every "street" in the shade or sun, your choice depending upon weather.
Secondly, the selection of stores is truly admirable. All of my favorite men's stores are represented here. I cannot say enough of how easy it is to find whatever clothing you desire. The stores themselves each have their own unique design and lighting so you can enjoy gazing at the limitless purchase options until you find your special item.
Third, the public bathrooms are outstanding and the cleanest that I have seen at any Arizona mall. Clean, cavernous in size, and right on the main walkways. And the parking lots allow access from several different directions so you can quickly find a particular store and walk directly to it if you don't feel like meandering...
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