Cancun finally has a discount mall. Las Plazas Outlet is located downtown on Andres Quintana Roo Avenue. This is an open-air mall (so it’s not the best for rainy days) that makes a great place to visit and stay awhile if it’s too cloudy to go to the beach or you just need a break from the sun.

Las Plazas Outlet is an open-air mall — Photo courtesy of Las Plazas Outlet

"Plaza Outlet," as locals call it, is home to some 50 stores, including Nike, Guess, Tommy Hilfiger, United Colors of Benetton and many more. Don’t miss Rojo Canela, a giant shoe store with hundreds of styles at great prices.

You can also catch a movie (Mexican movie theaters offer very reasonable prices.) at Cinemex. All American movies are shown in English with Spanish subtitles, with the exception of children’s movies - which are dubbed over in Spanish. If you’re traveling with children, you’ll find a play area, train stop (The train takes a trip around the mall.), an arts area and electric cars right outside of the movie theater.  

There are various activities for kids at Las Plazas Outlet — Photo courtesy of Las Plazas Outlet

If you’re feeling lucky, casino Caliente is located at the opposite end of the mall. Or go bowling at Planet Bowl. Hungry? Plaza Outlet is home to local favorite Cheesters, which serves delicious pasta dishes. Other restaurants include Sushi Ken, Toks and Italiani’s. You’ll also find a Starbucks with indoor and outdoor seating.

Visit Plaza Outlet one afternoon or evening and experience Cancun the way locals do.

Las Plazas Outlet is home to many things, including a Starbucks — Photo courtesy of Las Plazas Outlet