If you are looking for a place that brings together a huge collection of shops, places to eat, and fun activities, Great Lakes Crossing Outlets is truly a special destination. It is, you know, Michigan's largest spot for outlet shopping, bringing together well over 170 different stores, a wide variety of places to grab a bite, and plenty of things to do for everyone. Located in Auburn Hills, Michigan, this very big center has become a go-to for people wanting to find good value and have a great time, all in one easy place.
This place is more than just somewhere to buy things; it's a whole experience, really. You'll find a number of shops and restaurants here that you won't see anywhere else in Michigan, which is pretty neat. Think about family-friendly attractions like the Sea Life Michigan Aquarium or the Legoland Discovery Center, too. It's a spot where you can spend a whole day, or even more, just enjoying the many different things on offer, sort of like a small town built just for fun and finding good buys.
For those thinking about a visit, getting ready is quite simple. You can easily discover comfortable places to stay nearby, thanks to special arrangements with local hotels. This makes it super convenient to make your trip last a bit longer, allowing you to really take your time and explore everything. Whether you're hunting for a specific item or just want to browse around, there are usually plenty of good offers waiting for you, so you can often save some money while you are out and about.
Table of Contents
- What Makes Great Lakes Crossing Outlets Special?
- A Look at Unique Offerings at Great Lakes Crossing Outlets
- When Did Great Lakes Crossing Outlets Come to Be?
- The Beginnings of Great Lakes Crossing Outlets
- Who Owns Great Lakes Crossing Outlets Today?
- The People Behind Great Lakes Crossing Outlets
- How Can You Plan Your Visit to Great Lakes Crossing Outlets?
- Getting Ready for Great Lakes Crossing Outlets
- Finding Your Way Around Great Lakes Crossing Outlets
- Making the Most of Deals at Great Lakes Crossing Outlets
What Makes Great Lakes Crossing Outlets Special?
You might wonder what sets this spot apart from other shopping places, and that is a fair question. Well, it's not just the sheer number of stores, which is quite impressive at over 170. It's also the mix of things you can do there, you know, beyond just picking up items. There are places to eat, from quick snacks to sit-down meals, and attractions that are perfect for families or anyone looking for a bit of extra fun. It truly offers a complete day out, or even more, for people of all ages.
The fact that it's Michigan's biggest outlet shopping center means there's a huge selection of brands and products. You could spend hours just looking through all the different offerings. It's a place where you might find something you weren't even looking for, which is part of the charm. And, of course, the idea of getting things at a good price is always a draw. It's a very appealing combination, to be honest, of variety and value, all under one roof.
A Look at Unique Offerings at Great Lakes Crossing Outlets
What really makes Great Lakes Crossing Outlets stand out is the collection of over 25 shops and dining spots that you simply cannot find anywhere else in Michigan. This makes a visit here a truly special occasion, kind of a one-of-a-kind experience for those who live in the state or are just visiting. These unique places give the center a character all its own, setting it apart from other retail areas. It's like finding a hidden treasure, in a way, when you stumble upon one of these exclusive spots.
Among these special attractions are two very popular family entertainment options. There's the Sea Life Michigan Aquarium, where you can get up close with all sorts of amazing creatures from the ocean. It’s a chance to see colorful fish, sharks, and other marine life in a setting that feels pretty immersive. Then, you also have the Legoland Discovery Center, which is a dream come true for anyone who loves those colorful building bricks. It has rides, building areas, and miniature displays made entirely of Lego, offering hours of creative fun for younger visitors and their families. These attractions, you know, really add another layer to the whole experience at Great Lakes Crossing Outlets, making it more than just a place to shop.
When Did Great Lakes Crossing Outlets Come to Be?
Every big place has a beginning, and Great Lakes Crossing Outlets is no different. This large shopping area was built on a particular spot and first opened its doors to the public in the year 1998. That means it has been a part of the Michigan landscape for quite some time now, serving shoppers and visitors for over two decades. Knowing its history can sometimes add a bit more appreciation for the place, showing how it has grown and changed over the years to become what it is today.
Before it was known as Great Lakes Crossing Outlets, it was simply called Great Lakes Crossing. The name change happened as it became even more focused on offering those good outlet deals. The very large shopping center is located in Auburn Hills, which is a suburb of Detroit, Michigan, in the United States. Its location makes it quite accessible for many people living in or visiting the broader Detroit area, making it a popular spot for a day trip or a longer visit. It’s pretty interesting, actually, how these big places get their start and develop over time.
The Beginnings of Great Lakes Crossing Outlets
The construction of Great Lakes Crossing Outlets was a significant undertaking, and it was put together and owned by a company called Taubman Centers. This company, in turn, is part of a bigger group known as Simon Property Group. So, in a way, the place has a strong backing from a well-known name in the world of shopping centers. This ownership structure means that the outlets are managed with a lot of experience and resources, helping to keep it a top choice for shoppers. It’s kind of like having a very experienced team looking after things, ensuring everything runs smoothly for visitors.
When it first opened in 1998, the idea was to create a truly large and comprehensive shopping destination. And that is exactly what happened. Covering a huge area, more than 1.4 million square feet, this shopping spot is a really big place. To give you an idea, that’s a lot of ground to cover, offering plenty of room for all those stores, places to eat, and attractions. The size itself is a big part of its appeal, allowing for a vast selection that you might not find in smaller centers. It really is a sizable operation, offering a whole lot of things to see and do.
Who Owns Great Lakes Crossing Outlets Today?
Understanding who is behind a large shopping center like this can sometimes give you a better sense of its operation and future. As mentioned, Great Lakes Crossing Outlets was built and is currently owned by Taubman Centers. This company has a long history in developing and running shopping places. What’s more, Taubman Centers itself is a part of a much larger organization, the Simon Property Group. This means that the outlets benefit from the broader experience and resources of one of the biggest names in retail property management. It’s pretty much like being part of a very big family, you know, with lots of support.
The Simon Property Group is known for owning and managing many shopping destinations across the country and even in other parts of the world. Their involvement means that Great Lakes Crossing Outlets is likely to be managed with high standards and a focus on providing a good experience for visitors. This connection helps ensure that the center remains a popular and well-maintained place for people to visit, whether they are looking for deals or just a day out. It’s interesting to see, actually, how these big businesses operate and support their various properties.
The People Behind Great Lakes Crossing Outlets
When you visit Great Lakes Crossing Outlets, you are experiencing a place that has been carefully put together and looked after by dedicated teams. The ownership by Taubman Centers, under the larger umbrella of Simon Property Group, means there is a lot of experience guiding the daily operations and future plans for the center. This kind of professional management helps ensure that the stores are well-chosen, the facilities are kept in good shape, and the overall atmosphere is welcoming for everyone who comes through the doors. It’s a lot of work, obviously, to keep such a big place running smoothly.
From the folks who manage the property to the people who work in the individual shops and restaurants, there’s a whole community that makes Great Lakes Crossing Outlets what it is. Their efforts contribute to the variety of offerings and the pleasant environment that visitors enjoy. So, when you are walking around, perhaps looking for a specific item or just enjoying a meal, you are part of a system that many people work to maintain. It’s a pretty big operation, you know, and it takes a lot of coordination to make it all happen.
How Can You Plan Your Visit to Great Lakes Crossing Outlets?
Getting ready for a trip to a large place like Great Lakes Crossing Outlets can make your experience even better. Knowing a little bit about what to expect and how to find things can save you time and help you make the most of your visit. There are various ways to get information that can help you prepare, whether you are interested in specific stores, the best times to go, or how to get there. It's a good idea, you know, to have a little plan before you head out.
For instance, finding out about the different shops is quite easy. There's a store directory that lists all the places you can visit, which is super helpful if you have something particular in mind. You can also check the opening hours so you know when the doors are open for business. Details like the address and directions are also readily available, making your trip simple to organize. It’s all about making your visit as smooth and enjoyable as possible, really, from the moment you decide to go.
Getting Ready for Great Lakes Crossing Outlets
Before you even step foot inside Great Lakes Crossing Outlets, a little preparation can go a long way. You might want to think about what you are hoping to find or what activities you want to try. Since there are over 175 stores, restaurants, and family attractions, having a rough idea of your priorities can help you focus your time. You could, for example, look up the store list to see if your favorite brands are there, or check out the attractions if you are planning a family outing. This kind of looking ahead can help you avoid feeling overwhelmed by the sheer number of choices.
For those coming from a distance, considering where to stay is also a good thought. Great Lakes Crossing Outlets works with certain hotels to offer convenient and comfortable places to rest your head. This means you can stay close by, making it easy to pop back to your room if you need a break or want to drop off your purchases. It’s a nice touch, actually, that adds to the overall comfort of a longer visit. Taking these small steps beforehand can really help you get the most out of your time at the outlets.
Finding Your Way Around Great Lakes Crossing Outlets
Once you are there, finding your way around a place that covers over 1.4 million square feet might seem a bit much, but it's actually pretty straightforward. There are resources like the store directory, which lists all 193 tenants, their hours, and often a phone number if you need to reach a specific shop. This directory is a very useful tool for anyone trying to get from one place to another efficiently. It’s like having a map and a guide all in one place, so you don't get lost, you know, in all the excitement.
You can also find information about the mall hours, contact details, and even reviews from other visitors. These bits of information can give you a better sense of what to expect and help you plan your route through the center. Whether you are looking for a specific type of store or just want to explore, having these details at your fingertips can make your visit much smoother. It’s all about making it easy for you to experience everything Great Lakes Crossing Outlets has to offer, without any unnecessary fuss.
Making the Most of Deals at Great Lakes Crossing Outlets
One of the main reasons people visit Great Lakes Crossing Outlets is, of course, to find good offers and save some money. The center is known for its deals and coupons, which can make your purchases even more appealing. It's a good idea to look for these offers before or during your visit, as they can often lead to significant savings on a wide range of items. Sometimes, you know, these offers can change, so checking what's available is always a smart move.
Many people find that signing up for newsletters or checking the center's website for current promotions is a good way to stay informed about the best ways to save. This way, you can be sure you are getting the most value for your money while enjoying your time there. Whether it's clothing, accessories, home goods, or something else entirely, the possibility of getting a good price is a big draw. It’s a very satisfying feeling, actually, to find something you like and know you got it at a great value.
In summary, Great Lakes Crossing Outlets is a huge shopping destination in Auburn Hills, Michigan, offering over 170 stores, many places to eat, and fun family attractions like the Sea Life Michigan Aquarium and Legoland Discovery Center. It first opened in 1998 and is currently managed by Taubman Centers, part of the Simon Property Group. Visitors can find unique shops not found elsewhere in Michigan, plan their trip with easily accessible directories and hours, and look for good deals and coupons to make their visit even better. It is a very large place, covering more than 1.4 million square feet, providing a complete experience for shoppers and families alike.
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