Summer is finally upon us, and for those planning some warm-weather trips out of town, we'd recommend the Tanger Outlets Seaside: Years of heading east to the Jersey Shore had The Feast/Shop ignorant to Rehoboth Beach's shopping mecca. On the way to Delaware's shore points, the outlet center is a bonafide retail oasis, sprawling out across either side of Route One. Here's what to expect from the outlets, and our advice for getting the most out of the excursion.
Pit Stop: The drive to Delaware beaches from Philly clocks in at over 2.5 hours. Use the Tanger Outlets as an excuse to stop, stretch your legs, and buy that bikini that you "forgot" to pack.
Shop 'Til You Drop: The outlet center boasts over 130 stores, with gems like J.Crew, Kate Spade, Coach, and Aerie. The center is split into three separate mini malls -- Seaside, Bayside, and Midwa; opt for comfortable shoes so you can go the distance.
Male Call: Even the most shopping-abhorrent guy will not be able to resist the center's song. Outlet stores like Vans, Brooks Brothers, Orvis, Banana Republic, and J.Crew offer men's wardrobe essentials at a discount.
The More, the Merrier: Shop with a friend (or two, or ten), and increase your odds of scoring a sweet find. If a store is offering a buy-one, get-one discount, go in on the deal with your pal and divvy up the savings.
Foul-Weather Friend: Cloudy skies keeping you from the beach? Take advantage of a rainy vacation day by taking a day trip out to the outlet center. Pack a lunch or snacks -- all that shopping is sure to work up an appetite, and the center's restaurants (TGI Fridays, IHOP) aren't for everyone.
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