The Tanger Outlets in Rehoboth Beach are among the most popular shopping destinations on the Delaware coast, drawing shoppers from across the Mid-Atlantic. Delaware has no sales tax, which makes the outlets especially attractive, and the outdoor centers line both sides of Route 1 with well-known fashion, home, sports and accessory brands at discount prices. For beach visitors, the outlets are the classic rainy-day backup: easy to reach, easy to park at, and enough variety to fill several hours.
The outlets are divided into several adjacent centers, so it helps to look at the directory and plan which stores you most want to see. Typical offerings include clothing for adults and children, footwear, sporting goods, kitchenware, housewares, luggage, jewelry and accessories. Food options include cafes, a food court and sit-down restaurants within or near the centers. Seasonal sales around holidays, such as Memorial Day, Labor Day and the winter holidays, bring extra discounts and heavier crowds.
Timing tips
Weekday mornings and early afternoons are quieter than weekends, and rainy days in July and August can be very busy. Parking is plentiful but can fill at peak times, and the walking distance between centers can add up, so wear comfortable shoes. Many stores offer coupons or loyalty discounts through the outlet website or mobile app, so check before you shop. The centers are open daily, with extended hours in summer and shorter hours in the off-season.
Make a plan
Write down sizes for family members, decide on a budget, and prioritize the shops that matter. Combine the outlets with a lunch or coffee stop and a drive to a nearby beach or park. Because purchases are free of Delaware sales tax, shipping large items home can sometimes be cheaper than elsewhere, but check store policies and return rules. Keep receipts in the car, as the centers are spread out and returns are easier to handle immediately.
Who it suits
Shoppers, families on a rainy day, couples who like browsing and anyone staying several days who wants a change from the beach. Children may tire quickly, so bring snacks and consider taking turns. The outlets are not a historic or scenic attraction, but they are one of the most practical stops for a family trip. In the off-season, the shops are quiet, the weather is mild, and the deals can be excellent.
A few strategies make the day go better. Start at the center with the stores you most want, in case you run short of time or energy, and keep a running list on your phone. Take a break for lunch around midday to avoid the busiest restaurant hours, and use the car as a drop-off point for bags. If you travel with a large group, set a meeting time and place, since the outdoor layout can make it easy to lose track of one another.
The outlets are also useful for last-minute needs: swimsuits, sun hats, towels, beach bags and light jackets are easy to find when the weather surprises you. In the off-season you may find better selection and shorter lines, and clearance racks fill with end-of-season stock. Whatever the time of year, comparison shop and check return policies before you buy.
What to expect
The experience
Several outdoor outlet centers with brand-name shops, a food court and restaurants, tax-free for Delaware purchases.
Best time
Weekday mornings for quiet; holiday weekends for sales and crowds.
How long
Two to four hours.
Tips
Wear comfortable shoes, check store coupons and plan which centers to visit first.
Quick picks
- Best for
- Shoppers and families looking for a rainy-day outing.
- Families
- Open-air walkways and food options make it manageable with children.
- Couples
- A casual browse followed by lunch.
- Pair with
- Dogfish Head, Rehoboth Avenue and the boardwalk.
- Time needed
- Half a day.
Good questions
Is there sales tax at the outlets?+
Delaware has no sales tax, so purchases are tax-free in the state.
Are the outlets open daily?+
Yes, with hours varying by season. Check the website.
Where are they?+
Along Route 1 near Rehoboth Beach.
When is it busiest?+
Summer weekends, rainy days and holiday sale weekends.
Are there places to eat?+
Yes, there are cafes, a food court and restaurants in and near the centers.