You’ve never seen an outlet mall quite like Citadel Outlets, located about 9 miles southeast of downtown Los Angeles in the city of Commerce. More than 130 shops and restaurants sit behind an elaborate, 1,700-foot façade straight out of ancient Babylon. The dramatic structure is a remnant of the Samson Tire and Rubber Company factory, built during the late 1920s, and gives this open-air shopping center a look unlike any other in Southern California.
What Stores Are at Citadel Outlets?
That look—like a temple from a bygone era—is not entirely misleading. The Citadel is an absolute shrine to contemporary shopping. Plan to spend at least a few hours exploring the sprawling collection of outlet stores, where merchandise is generally offered below standard retail prices. Major brands include Nike Factory Store, Coach Outlet, kate spade new york, Levi’s Outlet Store, Michael Kors, Polo Ralph Lauren Factory Store, Tommy Hilfiger, Calvin Klein, and H&M. Shoppers can also browse more stores with athletic apparel, footwear, luggage, jewelry, watches, beauty products, children’s clothing, and home goods.
Because outlet inventory and discounts can change frequently, check the center’s online directory and current offers before visiting. Stop by Customer Service after arriving to ask about available savings programs, promotional offers, and seasonal deals. Holiday weekends and special sales periods may bring deeper discounts, but they can also draw larger crowds.
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Where to Eat at Citadel Outlets
Dining choices range from snacks and coffee to quick-service meals that can keep you fueled during a full shopping day. Options typically include burgers, pizza, sandwiches, sushi, Vietnamese dishes, Mediterranean food, sweets, and other casual fare. Several restaurants and cafés have outdoor seating, making it easy to take a break while remaining close to the stores.
Restaurant hours may differ from the center’s general operating schedule, so confirm hours in advance when planning an early meal or a late dinner.
Visitor Services and the California Welcome Center
Citadel Outlets is home to a California Welcome Center, where multilingual staff can provide maps, regional information, currency exchange, and assistance planning additional stops around Los Angeles and throughout the state. Visitor amenities include center-wide Wi-Fi, mobile-device charging stations, complimentary baggage check, and a luggage-repacking room—especially useful for travelers buying more than will fit easily into their suitcases.
The baggage service also makes Citadel a practical final-day stop for visitors who have checked out of a hotel but have an evening flight. Leave your luggage with Customer Service, shop and eat, then collect your bags before continuing to the airport.
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Getting to Citadel Outlets
Citadel Outlets is located right off Interstate 5, between downtown Los Angeles and Orange County. Drivers will find outdoor parking as well as a nine-level parking garage on Hoefner Avenue with approximately 1,000 additional free spaces. Parking can fill quickly on weekends, holidays, and during major sales, so arriving near opening time is advisable.
If you're planning a visit to Disneyland Resort, about a half-hour’s drive south (without traffic), consider adding a trip here; Citadel offers express shuttles (fee charged) from several hotels in Anaheim. If you are without a car in downtown L.A., it’s even more of a no-brainer: There’s a free shuttle from multiple downtown locations. Citadel Outlets is also easily accessible via Metrolink.
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Tips for Visiting
Citadel Outlets is generally open daily, but hours can change during holidays and special events. Wear comfortable shoes, download or pick up a center map, and consider beginning with the stores highest on your list before crowds build. Families should also check the events calendar for seasonal entertainment, holiday displays, and limited-time promotions.
Insider tips: If you're planning a visit to Disneyland Resort, about a half-hour’s drive south (without traffic), consider adding a trip here; Citadel offers express shuttles (fee charged) from several hotels in Anaheim. If you are in downtown L.A., it’s even more of a no-brainer: there’s a free shuttle from multiple downtown locations. Citadel Outlets is also easily accessible via Metrolink.
