I'll admit it—I have a soft spot for outlet malls. While my heart belongs to the golden-age enclosed malls of the Bay Area, there's something thrilling about scoring a deal. Factory outlets are where practicality meets impulse, and in the right setting—like Napa—they can feel like a mini-vacation with a shopping bag.
A more strategic shopper
When the center opened in 1994, I’d fill my trunk with anything that looked like a bargain, only to realize later why those pants were marked down to $9.99. Eventually, I learned the golden rule of outlet shopping: try everything on, and then try another size. This especially applies to shoes and anything labeled “irregular.” Retailers like The Gap and Banana Republic even manufacture lines specifically for outlet stores—no factory defects, just lower-cost fabrics and simplified cuts.
Despite this, you still walk away feeling like a savvy shopper. Judging by the crowds during my 2011 visit, I wasn’t the only one on a mission.
A 2011 visit to Napa Premium Outlets
My destination: Napa Premium Outlets. Nestled just off Highway 29, this center has long been a favorite—small enough to navigate, yet stocked with an excellent range of stores.
I hadn’t been in years, but this visit reminded me why I liked it so much. I spent three hours browsing and still only made it through about 25% of the shops. Somehow, I ended up buying something at almost every stop. Even better: everything fit. No regrets.
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| The Jones New York Outlet at Napa Premium Outlets in 2011, offering classic women's apparel at steep discounts during the post-summer clearance season. |
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| The walkway of Napa Premium Outlets in 2011, lined with trees and featuring brands like Calvin Klein, Barneys New York, and Adidas. |
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| Barneys New York Outlet offered luxury finds at outlet pricing—a rare treat for fashion-focused shoppers visiting Napa. |
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| The Gap Outlet in Napa in 2011, featuring racks of factory-exclusive basics and seasonal sales during the fall transition. |
Dining (or lack thereof)
The one weak spot during my visit? The food options. Only three eateries were open at the time, with a fourth “coming soon.” But let’s be honest—this is Napa. You’re minutes away from Michelin-starred restaurants and local cafés that offer more than a soft pretzel and frozen lemonade. My advice: shop ‘til you're hungry, then explore downtown Napa for lunch or dinner.
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| Front of the 2011 directory for Napa Premium Outlets, highlighting store locations, restrooms, and amenities. |
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| Back of the 2011 directory, listing the complete store directory and contact information for shoppers. |
Final thoughts
The Napa Premium Outlets may not rival full-scale malls in size or glitz, but for focused bargain hunters, it’s hard to beat. Paired with Napa’s world-class dining and scenery, it makes a great half-day trip—even if you’re not the type to chase markdowns.
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