Best Outlet Malls Near Chicago

Outlet malls are where people go to find the best deals on their favorite brands and the outlet malls around Chicago do not disappoint. Based on the crowds you will always find at any of these locations, it may seem like half of the citizens of Chicago are at an outlet on any given day. Some outlets are small and some are large, but all boast a truly impressive line-up of stores. - Lisa Koivu

Chicago Premium Outlets

1650 Premium Outlets Boulevard
Aurora, IL 60502
(630) 585-2200
www.premiumoutlets.com

Chicago Premium Outlets in Aurora is home to more than 120 fabulous stores, many of which you won't find at every other outlet mall including 7 For All Mankind, Elie Tahari, Kate Spade, and more. Head on over to CPO's website and sign up for their VIP Club. You'll gain access to special discounts and sales.

Lighthouse Place Premium Outlets

601 Wabash Street
Michigan City, IN 46360
(219) 879-6506
www.premiumoutlets.com

Lighthouse Place Premium Outlets are just a quick 60-minute drive down the Skyway into Indiana and it's well worth the trip. Lighthouse Place is often a little less crowded than the outlet malls closer to Chicago, meaning you get more room to walk around and shop. Plus, the stores don't disappoint! Lighthouse Place is home to 120 stores including Banana Republic, Gap, J. Crew, Coach, Burberry, and more. While the shopping is fantastic, you can also find live music playing the center of the main shopping area.

Gurnee Mills

6170 West Grand Avenue
Gurnee, IL 60031
(847) 263-7500
www.simon.com

Gurnee Mills is the largest outlet mall in Illinois. As a home to more than 200 outlet stores, you'll definitely want to plan a full day of shopping before heading here. The line-up of stores at Gurnee Mills is truly impressive and includes the only Neiman Marcus Last Call store in the state. Weary shoppers can take a break by grabbing a snack at Rainforest Café, or by catching a movie at Gurnee Marcus Cinema 20, which is located right inside the shopping center.

Prime Outlets Huntley

11800 Factory Shops Boulevard
Huntley, IL 60142
(847) 669-9100
www.primeoutlets.com

The Prime Outlets in Huntley is the smallest outlet mall on the list, but is no less fantastic. This outlet mall houses just 40 stores, but they're the stores most people are looking for when heading to this type of shopping destination. Stores include the Ann Taylor Factory Stores, Eddie Bauer Outlet, Gap Outlet, Jockey, and more.

Saks Fifth Avenue OFF FIFTH

1430 East Golf Road
Schaumburg, IL 60173
847-413-8803
www.off5th.com

While not located in a traditional outlet mall location, this Saks Off Fifth location is a great way to pick up designer clothes for much less than retail. You'll find many of the same items that sold last season at a traditional Saks location, but you'll end up paying much less. A word to the wise though – considering the brands being sold, you're still going to pay more at this Saks Outlet than you will at most stores at traditional outlet malls.