Cumberland Mall in metro Atlanta — Photo courtesy of Derrick Coetzee
If you like a supremely satisfying one-stop shopping experience, put the Mall of Georgia on your vacation agenda. With over 225 stores, The Mall of Georgia is one of the largest shopping malls in the state. Anchor stores include Belk, Dillard’s, JC Penney, and Macy’s. Coach bags, jewelry from Mayor’s Jewelers, or items from AIX Armani exchange will light up someone’s eyes on Christmas day. Plan to spend the entire day shopping and eating at the Mall of Georgia, because with such a large number of stores, you can find gifts for everyone on your list. Take in a movie when you tire of shopping. An IMAX theater is located in this three-level mall, too. Spend time with your family, and take your children to get photographed with Santa during the holiday seasons; Santa visits the Mall of Georgia regularly.
Anchored by Bloomingdales, Dillard’s, Macy’s and Nordstrom, Georgia Perimeter Mall has a wide array of mainstream stores in a polished setting. This mall also has a decent food court and nearby restaurants, so you won’t go hungry during your shopping experience. The Cheesecake Factory and Maggiano’s are just a couple of the restaurants there. Shop during the week and avoid rush-hour. For parking, head first to the large parking deck adjacent to Nordstrom.
Lenox Square Mall and the smaller Phipps Plaza are some of the higher-end malls in Atlanta. Lenox has a larger selection of shops than Phipps. Designer labels galore, such as Burberry, FENDI, Louis Vuitton, and Cartier are found in Lenox. You do not have to deal with parking at Lenox, valet parking is available. Just drive up to the Peachtree Road entrance of the mall for AmeriPark valet parking. At Phipps Plaza, shop stores like Juicy Couture, Jimmy Choo, Coach Footwear, Bottega Veneta, and Versace.
Atlantic Station — Photo courtesy of EPA Smart Growth
On clear, sunny days, park your car and shop at Atlanta’s outdoor shopping districts. Atlantic Station has a convenient parking deck, and the district is pedestrian-friendly. You’ll find 40 shops there, including chains and boutiques. During the holiday season, Atlantic Station has live music and other activities to help you spread the holiday spirit.
Underground Atlanta — Photo courtesy of Tom Moeller
The Underground is probably one of Atlanta’s most well-known centers for shopping throughout the year. Shop at the six blocks of stores in this underground mall. African art, scented body oils, and personalized gifts are a few of the specialty items at the Underground. Buy jewelry and have it engraved with your loved one’s name. Stop by AtlanTix, while you are there and get discounted tickets to holiday performances in Atlanta.
Miami Circle is yet another shopping district in Atlanta. More than 80 stores featuring antiques, art, fine furniture, lighting and other items to decorate and enhance your home are all found in Buckhead’s Miami Circle. If you like antique hunting, Miami Circle might be the place for you. Foxglove Antiques and Galleries, William Word Fine Antiques, Gables Antiques, and Dearing Antiques are all located in Miami Circle. Plan to do the bulk of your shopping from Monday through Saturday, because only a few stores in the district are open on Sunday.
You’ll also find unique gifts in the various boutiques in Little Five Points and Virginia Highlands. Park your car and hunt for holiday gift options including, clothing, accessories, home furnishings, jewelry, pottery, and flowers. If you have friends who have more eclectic tastes, Little Five Points might be your holiday headquarters. While you are there, don’t forget to sample the burgers at the Vortex.