Your Guide to McArthurGlen Designer Outlet in Vancouver

If you love shopping and great deals, McArthurGlen Designer Outlet Vancouver is a must-visit. Located right next to Vancouver International Airport (YVR), this stylish outdoor mall is popular with both locals and tourists. It offers year-round discounts on top designer brands in a relaxing, open-air setting.

Here’s everything you need to know before your next shopping trip.

How to Get to the McArthurGlen Designer Outlet

McArthurGlen is located on Sea Island, just minutes from Vancouver International Airport (YVR). It’s especially convenient for travellers flying in or out of the city, with easy access by car or SkyTrain.

By public transit: The Canada Line SkyTrain is the easiest option. Hop off at Templeton Station, and you’ll find the outlet just a short walk away. It takes about 25 minutes from downtown Vancouver and only 3 minutes from the airport.

By car: There’s free parking on site, though weekends can get busy. If you're picking someone up from the airport, it’s a great place to stop while you wait.

By bike or on foot: McArthurGlen is also accessible from nearby neighbourhoods like Richmond and Sea Island. There are bike racks near entrances for secure parking.

What Stores Are There?

McArthurGlen features more than 80 stores, all offering outlet pricing. That means you can expect 30% to 70% off retail prices. Some of the most popular brands include:

Nike

Coach

Michael Kors

Kate Spade

Armani

Adidas

Swarovski

The North Face

Columbia

Levi’s

Tumi

The stores focus on fashion, sportswear, shoes, bags, and accessories. You’ll also find luggage, kitchenware, watches, and beauty products.

New shops open regularly, and seasonal promotions are common. If you’re after luxury brands or quality items at lower prices, this is the place to go.

Dining Options and Amenities

Shopping for hours can leave you hungry, and the outlet mall doesn’t disappoint when it comes to food. Options range from quick bites to sit-down meals.

Some of the available spots include:

Bibo Pizzeria (authentic Italian pizza and pasta)

Japadog (famous for its Japanese-style hot dogs)

Neptune Wonton Noodle (classic Cantonese dishes)

Caffè Artigiano (local coffee shop with pastries)

Starbucks

Outdoor seating is available throughout the mall. It’s a nice place to relax between stores, especially on a sunny day.

There are also clean public washrooms, baby changing stations, water fountains, and a small play area for children. The entire centre is wheelchair and stroller accessible. Most shops welcome service animals, and pets are allowed in outdoor common areas.

Atmosphere and Layout

Unlike traditional malls, McArthurGlen is an open-air village-style outlet. You’ll walk between stores on wide, cobbled pathways. The architecture is inspired by classic European design, with gabled roofs, colourful facades, and charming storefronts.

It’s clean, spacious, and feels more relaxed than busy city malls. Even on crowded weekends, the open-air layout makes it feel less chaotic.

During the winter holidays, the mall lights up with decorations and festive music. Summer weekends sometimes feature live music, food trucks, or special events.

Insider Tips for Visiting

To get the most out of your trip, keep these tips in mind:

Visit midweek if you want to avoid the crowds.

Arrive early on weekends to get a parking spot and first pick of items.

Sign up for the VIP Club on their website to receive extra discounts.

Bring your own shopping bags, some stores charge for them.

Dress in layers, especially in colder months, it’s an outdoor mall.

Check your flight time if you’re visiting on a layover. Give yourself at least 2 hours before heading back to the airport.

Join the McArthurGlen Club

Before your visit, consider signing up for the free McArthurGlen Club on their website. Members get access to exclusive discounts, seasonal offers, and event invitations. It only takes a few minutes to register, and you’ll receive a welcome voucher straight to your inbox. If you’re planning to shop at multiple stores, the extra savings can really add up. Simply show your membership QR code at participating retailers to redeem the offers.

Is It Worth Visiting?

Yes, especially if you enjoy shopping and saving money. McArthurGlen offers top brands, easy access, and a pleasant shopping environment. It’s ideal for:

Travellers with layovers or delays

Visitors staying in Vancouver or Richmond

Locals looking for sales or seasonal gifts

Families with kids who want a stroller-friendly spot to walk

Tourists who want to pick up premium items at a discount

Plus, it’s much more enjoyable than rushing through a crowded city centre mall.

Events and Sales

The outlet mall hosts special events throughout the year. Some of the biggest sales happen during:

Black Friday

Boxing Day

Back-to-school season

Canada Day

End-of-season clearances

These are the best times to find deep discounts, but also when the mall is most crowded. Plan ahead if you’re visiting during a major sale.

They also celebrate holidays with decorations, music, and occasional giveaways. Around Christmas, the entire place transforms into a festive village with lights, garlands, and seasonal treats.

Comparison with Other Malls

McArthurGlen is different from your usual indoor shopping centre. Here’s how it compares:

Vs. Tsawwassen Mills

Tsawwassen Mills is much larger and fully indoors.

It has more entertainment options, like an indoor playground and arcade.

But it’s farther from Vancouver (about 35–40 minutes by car).

Vs. Metrotown or Pacific Centre

These malls are closer to downtown but don’t offer outlet pricing.

They have a wider range of stores, but you’ll pay regular prices.

They’re also more crowded and fast-paced.

For outlet shopping, McArthurGlen is the most accessible and stylish option in Metro Vancouver.

How to Plan Your Visit

Here’s a quick checklist to help you plan your trip:

✅ Visit mcarthurglen.com for a full list of stores and current deals.

✅ Take the Canada Line SkyTrain to Templeton Station.

✅ Arrive early, especially on weekends or holidays.

✅ Dress for the weather, bring a coat or umbrella just in case.

✅ Bring your flight info if you’re visiting before or after a trip.

✅ Pack a shopping tote or backpack.

✅ Wear comfy shoes, you’ll be walking a lot.

Final Thoughts

McArthurGlen Designer Outlet is more than just a shopping destination. It’s a convenient, attractive, and relaxing place to browse, eat, and enjoy a day out. Whether you’re a visitor to Vancouver or a local looking for great deals, it’s well worth checking out.

With its combination of big savings, designer brands, and beautiful setting, McArthurGlen stands out as one of Vancouver’s best places to shop.

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