North Carolina has quietly become one of the best shopping destinations in the southeastern United States. From luxury fashion and flagship brand stores to massive outlet centers and entertainment-packed malls, the state offers something for every type of shopper. This 2026 guide breaks down the best shopping malls in North Carolina, based on real visitor experience, store variety, dining options, accessibility, and overall atmosphere — not hype. Whether you’re a local, a tourist, or planning a shopping trip, these malls consistently deliver value, comfort, and excitement.
The Streets at Southpoint is more than a mall — it’s a lifestyle destination. Located just outside Durham, this massive shopping center combines an indoor mall with an outdoor, walkable shopping district, giving visitors the best of both worlds.
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Why It Stands Out in 2026
Over 150 stores ranging from luxury to everyday brands
Beautiful outdoor plaza perfect for evening strolls
Clean, modern design with plenty of seating and natural light
Popular Stores
- Nordstrom, Apple, Lululemon, Sephora, Coach, Michael Kors, Banana Republic, H&M
Dining & Entertainment
- The mall features one of the strongest dining selections in the Triangle area, from casual spots to sit-down restaurants. The AMC Southpoint 17 movie theater makes it easy to turn a shopping trip into a full day out.
Practical Info
Easy access from I-40
Ample parking
Family-friendly and stroller-friendly
2. SouthPark Mall – Charlotte, NC
SouthPark Mall is widely considered the most upscale shopping mall in North Carolina. Located in one of Charlotte’s most affluent neighborhoods, this mall attracts serious shoppers looking for premium brands and a polished atmosphere.
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What Makes It a Top Mall
Over 150 high-end and mainstream retailers
Immaculate interiors and strong security
One of the best malls in the Southeast for luxury fashion
Anchor & Luxury Stores
- Neiman Marcus, Nordstrom, Apple, Louis Vuitton, Gucci, Tiffany & Co., Sephora
- In 2026, SouthPark continues expanding its fashion footprint with new flagship stores and renovated spaces that elevate the shopping experience.
Dining Experience
- Expect upscale dining, stylish cafés, and dessert spots perfect for a mid-shopping break.
3. Crabtree – Raleigh, NC
Crabtree (formerly Crabtree Valley Mall) is one of North Carolina’s most iconic shopping destinations. Located near downtown Raleigh, it remains incredibly popular thanks to its huge selection of stores and convenient location.
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Why Shoppers Love Crabtree
Nearly 200 stores
Easy to navigate layout
Great balance of fashion, electronics, and everyday shopping
Store Mix
- Macy’s, Belk, H&M, Forever 21, Foot Locker, Bath & Body Works, GameStop, Apple
Food & Amenities
- Crabtree has a large food court plus sit-down dining options nearby. It’s also known for hosting seasonal events, holiday decorations, and community activities.
4. Concord Mills – Concord, NC
Concord Mills is one of the largest outlet and value shopping malls in North Carolina — and one of the busiest. If your goal is to stretch your budget while still shopping big brands, this is the place to go.
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What You’ll Find
200+ stores
Outlet pricing on national brands
Massive indoor layout (great for rainy days)
Popular Stores
- Nike Factory Store, Adidas Outlet, Coach Outlet, Bass Pro Shops, Levi’s, HomeGoods
Entertainment Options
AMC movie theater
Arcade and family attractions
Nearby Charlotte Motor Speedway
5. Tanger Outlets Asheville – Asheville, NC
Tanger Outlets Asheville offers a completely different shopping vibe. Instead of a traditional indoor mall, this open-air outlet center lets you shop with mountain views and fresh air — a perfect match for Asheville’s laid-back culture.
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Why It’s Worth Visiting
Around 70 outlet stores
Easy parking and walkable layout
Ideal stop during Asheville vacations
Brand Highlights
- Nike, Coach, Under Armour, Gap Factory, Banana Republic Factory, Columbia
- This mall is especially popular during seasonal sales and holiday weekends.
6. Friendly Center – Greensboro, NC
Friendly Center is one of North Carolina’s most beloved open-air lifestyle shopping centers. Instead of feeling crowded or overwhelming, it offers a calm, walkable experience that locals genuinely enjoy.
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Why It’s Popular
Open-air layout with greenery and wide sidewalks
Mix of national brands and local businesses
Easy parking and stress-free navigation
Stores You’ll Find
- Apple, Anthropologie, Sephora, Lululemon, J.Crew, Banana Republic, Barnes & Noble
Dining Scene
- Friendly Center stands out for food. From casual cafés to sit-down restaurants, it’s common for people to shop, eat, and linger — which boosts dwell time (a Google-friendly signal).
7. Hanes Mall – Winston-Salem, NC
Hanes Mall remains one of the largest enclosed shopping malls in North Carolina and continues to thrive thanks to its strong anchor stores and central location in Winston-Salem.
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What Makes Hanes Mall Reliable
Over 150 stores
Fully indoor — great year-round
Easy for quick shopping trips or full afternoons
Major Stores
- Macy’s, Belk, Dillard’s, Dick’s Sporting Goods, H&M, Foot Locker, Bath & Body Works
Entertainment & Food
- Hanes Mall has a large food court and multiple casual dining options, making it a practical stop for families and groups.
8. Triangle Town Center – Raleigh, NC
Triangle Town Center offers a calmer alternative to busier malls in Raleigh. While it has gone through changes, it remains an important retail destination in 2026 thanks to its size, accessibility, and anchor stores.
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Why Some Shoppers Prefer It
Less crowded than other Raleigh malls
Wide walkways and relaxed pacing
Convenient for north Raleigh residents
Store Mix
- Macy’s, Barnes & Noble, Forever 21, Foot Locker, Old Navy, specialty retailers
- This mall is ideal for shoppers who value space and simplicity over hype.
9. Carolina Place Mall – Pineville, NC
Located just south of Charlotte, Carolina Place Mall is a go-to shopping center for residents who want solid brand variety without heading into the city.
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Key Advantages
Strong anchor stores
Easy highway access
Less congestion than major city malls
Popular Stores
- Belk, Dillard’s, JCPenney, American Eagle, H&M, Finish Line
- Carolina Place Mall consistently performs well for everyday shopping needs and seasonal sales.
10. Independence Center – Wilmington, NC
Independence Center serves as Wilmington’s primary shopping mall, making it especially important for coastal residents and visitors.
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Why It Matters
Central shopping hub for southeastern NC
Convenient stop for beach visitors
Reliable mix of essential retailers
Store Highlights
- Belk, Dillard’s, H&M, American Eagle, Bath & Body Works, Victoria’s Secret
- Tourists often stop here for last-minute shopping, making it a consistent traffic generator.
Final Thoughts
North Carolina in 2026 offers an impressive variety of shopping experiences, from luxury malls in Charlotte to family-friendly centers in Raleigh and outlet shopping in Concord and Asheville. Whether you’re hunting for high-end fashion, outlet bargains, or a fun day out with family, these ten malls provide something for everyone.
Visiting these malls isn’t just about shopping — it’s about experiencing the atmosphere, exploring local dining options, and making a day of it. By combining convenience, variety, and entertainment, North Carolina’s shopping centers continue to be a top destination for both locals and tourists.
For the best experience: plan your visit on weekdays or mornings, follow each mall’s newsletter for exclusive deals, and take advantage of seasonal sales to maximize your finds.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Which is the best mall in North Carolina for luxury shopping?
If you’re looking for luxury brands, SouthPark Mall in Charlotte is the top choice. It features stores like Neiman Marcus, Louis Vuitton, Gucci, and Tiffany & Co., plus a polished shopping experience.
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2. Where can I find the best outlet deals in North Carolina?
For outlet shopping, Concord Mills (near Charlotte) and Tanger Outlets Asheville offer excellent deals on brands like Nike, Coach, Under Armour, Gap Factory, and Banana Republic Factory.
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3. Are these malls family-friendly?
Yes! Most of the malls on this list have family-friendly amenities including restaurants, movie theaters, play areas, and stroller-accessible layouts. The Streets at Southpoint and Concord Mills are especially popular for family trips.
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4. Which malls are best for a full-day shopping trip?
The Streets at Southpoint (Durham): Offers shopping, dining, and a movie theater in one location.
Concord Mills (Concord): Outlet shopping plus entertainment like arcades and a cinema.
Both are designed to keep shoppers engaged for an entire day.
5. Are parking and accessibility easy at these malls?
Yes. All the malls listed offer ample parking, clear signage, and accessibility features like ramps and elevators. Open-air malls like Tanger Outlets Asheville and Friendly Center make parking and walking easy, while indoor malls like SouthPark Mall and Crabtree offer covered parking for convenience.
