With summer coming before we know it, everyone wants to enjoy the sun before it gets too hot. What better way than by shopping at the same time? Here are some of Arizona’s best outdoor shopping centers.
La Encantada Shopping Center in Tucson
“Old-World charm meets modern luxury retail in the Sonoran Desert.” With everything from AJ’s Fine Foods to the Apple Store, La Encantada just about has it all. The shopping center also has seven dining retailers and fits perfectly with the beautiful Tucson desert. www.laencantadashoppingcenter.com.
Biltmore Fashion Park
Take a day off and head to Phoenix’s Biltmore Fashion Park for exquisite shopping and dining experiences. Anchor stores like Saks Fifth Avenue and Macy’s set the standard at the fashion park, but there is also a newly opened J.Crew, Coach, Ralph Lauren and Vera Bradley to offer even more shopping fun. www.shopbiltmore.com.
Kierland Commons
Known as “Phoenix-area’s Main Street Shopping,” Kierland Commons, in Scottsdale, has all of the best stores and restaurants around. Some of the shops include Banana Republic, Michael Kors and Lucky Brand Jeans. And a new revolutionary nail bar and boutique just opened called 20 Lounge to allow a little pampering. www.kierlandcommons.com.
Scottsdale Quarter
With the new movie theater, Ipic, that just recently opened, Scottsdale Quarter is the place to be. Ipic Theaters has it all—from its restaurant, Tanzy, to its bar and lounge, Salt, to the amazingly comfortable and plush gold-class seating. This theater is a dream come true for movie-goers. This “open-air urban lifestyle center” is already thriving in Scottsdale, with shops like Armani Exchange and lululemon athletica. Be sure to check out their famous Narcisse Champagne Lounge for a nice glass of Champagne or grab a shake at the newly opened Coal Burger after a long shopping day too! www.scottsdalequarter.com.
San Tan Village
This Gilbert-area shopping center has retail stores, restaurants, entertainment, office space, residential and hotel uses. San Tan Village has exceeded shopping standards and with stores like Eddie Bauer and Sephora, shoppers can shop all day then enjoy the entertainment at night. Dining options cure cravings of all kinds with restaurants such as The Keg Steakhouse & Bar and specialty dining like OPA! Souvlaki. www.shopsantanvillage.com.
Westgate City Center
This center has the city’s most dynamic mix of retail shops, restaurants, bars, events, entertainment and nightlife. You can do some serious shopping, go see a movie or even to go Margaritaville. They have it all for everyone, any age, any style, anyway. Glendale’s Westgate also has its own version Bellagio’s dancing water attraction, called Waterdance Plaza, with water effects with songs and video imagery. www.westgatecitycenter.com.
