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Charge!: Groups Will Enjoy These Shopping Experiences

Outlet Shoppes of the Bluegrass

Simpsonville, Kentucky

Groups can sip some wine, chomp on an appetizer and indulge in bargain purchases on a shopping excursion to the Outlet Shoppes of the Bluegrass. The outlet customizes experiences for groups, such as wine and appetizer receptions before or after groups traipse through the 366,750-square-foot shopping center.

Groups can also schedule a private shopping experience along with a fashion presentation for VIP access combined with an educational component.

However, most popular at the outlet is a basic meet-and-greet by a representative from the outlet. A $100 gift card is offered to the group to use as a raffle for some added excitement. Group leaders and drivers each receive a $25 gift card so they can also enjoy the retail extravaganza.

Each group member receives a branded tote bag, a complimentary VIP coupon book and swag from several retailers. For an included meal on the tour, the outlet mall offers a gift card meal program redeemable at each of the outlet’s eateries.

Opened in 2014 and located between Louisville and Lexington, the Outlet Shoppes of the Bluegrass still looks shiny and new. The shops draw in crowds daily for potential savings of up to 70 percent on designer brands. Shopaholics especially love the outlet’s anchor stores, which include Saks Fifth Avenue Off 5th, Old Navy, Nike, Polo Ralph Lauren and American Eagle Outfitters.

www.theoutletshoppesofthebluegrass.com

Seaport Village

San Diego

Live music, cobblestone walkways, historic buildings and stunning harbor views make Seaport Village seem more like a thriving downtown rather than a shopping center. The 14-acre outdoor complex allows groups to meander through both nationally known stores and locally owned shops selling custom mugs, unusual socks and homemade hot sauces.

Groups can plan a superstar experience at the center with wine tastings, VIP shopping passes and meal vouchers. The VIP Shopping Pass offers discounts and special offers for the 70-plus shops and restaurants at Seaport Village and its sister property, the Headquarters. In Seaport Village alone, groups can use these discounts at 50 diverse shops and 17 eateries, including four fine-dining waterfront restaurants.

Instead of bulldozing everything in sight to erect the shopping center, the owners of Seaport Village restored San Diego’s Old Police Headquarters to house some of the restaurants and specialty boutiques. Visitors can see some local history at the 1895 Looff Carousel, which features remarkable hand-carved animals.

Even those not keen on shopping will enjoy the festivallike feel and lush landscaping of the complex. Winding paths connect buildings with a wide assortment of architectural styles, including Victorian and traditional Mexican. The Food Court features live music from a variety of genres each day, while Sundays at Seaport Village come to life with a free concert series.

www.seaportvillage.com