It’s become almost a global phenomenon. Woodbury Common Premium Outlets in Central Valley, New York. Count them—220 outlet stores featuring brand names, leading designers, and every day savings of 25 percent to 65 percent. And it’s not only the shopping experience that visitors will enjoy, but the location in scenic Orange County, with the mountains of the Bear Mountain State Park as a backdrop.
It’s a true day in the country, but with some real high-end browsing going on. In fact, you’re invited to stay the weekend.
But, getting back to the shopping. The roster of stores includes such notables as Burberry, Coach, Dolce & Gabbana, Giorgio Armani and Gucci. Did we mention Lacoste, Polo Ralph Lauren, and Salvatore Ferragamo? For kids clothes, you have Carter’s or The Children’s Place Outlet, or Disney Store Outlet. (Yes, an actual Disney store outlet!!) There’s fine leather and luggage shops like Samsonite and Kipling (but more about the luggage later), houseware giants like Crate and Barrel, Lenox and Williams Sonoma Outlet. It’s like being on LA’s “Rodeo Drive” without the jet lag. Did we mention the Neiman Marcus Last Call, and Fifth Avenue Off 5th shops?
According to Marketing Manager, Christine A. Greak, “We welcome millions of visitors a year, and have shoppers from all over the world. Our VIP Shopper Club includes virtually every country.” When you walk throughout the outdoor shopping center, don’t be surprised to hear announcements not only given in English, but due to the wide variety of guests, in languages like Japanese, Portuguese, Cantonese and French. It’s not uncommon to find groups of people rolling just-purchased luggage filled with their other purchases, which are then shipped home to wherever that may be.
What draws the crowds? Well, its convenient proximity to New York City, for one thing; only an hour’s drive by car or tour bus. The sales, of course, but also some of the specialty weekend sales throughout the year. Deemed “sidewalk sales,” these feature prices slashed up to 70 percent on already heavily reduced prices. These weekend sales occur on President’s Day, Memorial Day, July 4th, Back to School & Fall Preview (first weekend in August), Labor Day, and the famous After-Thanksgiving Weekend Sale featuring Midnight Madness where stores open at midnight (or earlier in some cases) and run all day. For instance, on Friday, November 27, stores will open at midnight (right after the turkey is put away) and remain open until 10 pm the following night. Because the local roads fill up quickly, traffic can be a nightmare at certain times of the day, so it’s advisable to call ahead to get the latest information on traffic and parking regulations.
Enjoy a full stocked food court with sit-down restaurants like Applebee’s or Positano Grill, and the typical selection of fast-fooderies, snack stands, and the almost requisite Starbucks. Family friendly restrooms are available, and can accommodate either parent with young children, or needing to change a diaper; designated breast-feeding areas are on premises.
Woodbury is located at exit 16 of the NYS Thruway, or via the many bus lines that provide service from New York City. Most depart from Port Authority, but for more details, contact Shortline/Coach Bus Lines, and the Gray Line NY Sightseeing and City Sights NY office. Says Greak, “Many groups will charter buses for daily visits as well.” For overnight stays, consider the newly-opened Hampton Inn, within a half mile from the center, or one of the many historic B&B’s. There’s no better time of year to visit Orange County than the fall. Apple-picking, visiting a winery, or driving along the country roads can fill up the rest of the time. Yep, you might as well stay the weekend.
Important websites:
www.PremiumOutlets.com, and search for “Central Valley, NY” location. Look for special printable coupons!! 845-928-4000
www.hamptoninn.hilton.com (shuttles to and from the outlet)
www.CoachUSA.com
www.grayline.com
MJ Hanley-Goff’s is editing a follow-up to her first novel, The Bench. She’s taught classes in freelance writing, and is a founding partner of “Women For Women,” an organization inspiring women to pursue their passion. Visit her online journal, mjwrites.net She also muses about entrepreneurial topics at www.WomenForWomenSite.com
