Sawgrass Mills

Sawgrass Mills is a very large outlet and value shopping center at 12801 W Sunrise Boulevard in Sunrise, Broward County, Florida, roughly 35 miles north of downtown Miami and about 30 minutes by car from Fort Lauderdale. Although it lies outside Miami-Dade County, it is a common day trip for Miami visitors because it is one of Florida's largest outlet malls, with more than 350 stores. The center includes brand outlets, off-price retailers and department-store clearance banners, with tenants such as Nike, Adidas, Saks Fifth Avenue OFF 5TH, Neiman Marcus Last Call, Burlington, Marshalls, H&M and Michael Kors. Its goods differ from regular malls in that most items are sold at reduced prices, and shoppers can often find footwear, denim, handbags, sportswear and electronics at outlet prices. The merchandise is authentic brand-name stock, though some outlet lines are produced specifically for outlet stores. Prices are fixed, and bargaining is not customary; discounts come from clearance racks, coupons and promotions. Cards are accepted throughout, and Florida sales tax is added at the register; there is no tax-refund scheme for visitors in the United States. The center is laid out in a long, loop-shaped design with an enclosed section and an outdoor Colonnade area, so walking distances are large and visitors benefit from picking a few target stores first. Dining includes a food court, sit-down restaurants and entertainment venues such as a cinema and game centers. The atmosphere is busy and international, with many shoppers arriving by tour bus from Miami and the Caribbean. Weekday mornings are the best time, and weekends and holidays are very crowded. Typical hours are Monday to Saturday from 10:00 AM to 9:00 PM and Sunday from 11:00 AM to 8:00 PM. Free parking is available in large lots and garages, and a full visit can easily take most of a day.