Whether you’re looking for holiday gifts this winter, retail therapy or just want to give your wardrobe a touch of country flair, Atlanta may not be top of mind as an A-list shopping destination, but it is actually one of the South’s top hotspots.
From the ultra-ritzy Buckhead area to offbeat antiques, here are the
best places to do some damage to the credit card in A-town.
Lenox Square – Ogle the Buckhead Luxuries
Lenox Square in the heart of Buckhead is a luxury shopping center that features some of the best high-end storefronts including Michael Kors, Bloomingdale’s, Neiman Marcus, Burberry, Cartier, Louis Vuitton, Prada, and Fendi. An Atlanta staple since the late ‘50s, the Lenox Mall’s Georgia roots run deep. An impressive two-story glass facade beckons shoppers to stroll through 250 different fashion outlets before sitting down for an upscale dinner at Prime.
Phipps Plaza – Got a Black Card?
Kick it up another notch at the ultra high-end shopping mall at Phipps Plaza, the quintessential Buckhead destination. The upscale, indoor shopping venue with more than 100 stores like Saks Fifth Avenue, Tiffany & Co., Gucci, Nordstrom, Giorgio Armani, and Versace, you’ll leave you dreaming of the luxe life. Pick up some new Jimmy Choos and walk your way to dinner at Davio’s Northern Italian Steakhouse. Even if your wallet won’t allow for much splurging, this is an excellent destination for window-shopping to get inspired by the latest fashions. Have the kids in tow? Hit up the Legoland Discovery Center or take a break at the AMC movie theater.
Shops Around Lenox – Indie Chic
In the heart of the Buckhead shopping district, explore the open-air collection of chains, indie boutiques and restaurants. Among the selection is Fa’brick, Swank, Tootsies, and American Apparel, a favorite amongst the teenage set. This area continues to grow in offerings and popularity due to new condos and office developments in the area. Also nearby, browse the ol’ staple, Nordstrom Rack, where you can score great deals on designer clothes.
Little Five Points – Your Vintage Edge
The Little Five Points neighborhood is known for being super hipster, but there are some funky vintage boutiques, shops (Junkman's Daughter), and restaurants to be explored (The Vortex and The Porter Beer Bar are personal faves). There are also parks within walking distance, if you need an escape the concrete jungle.
Virginia Highlands – Bungalow Boutiques Galore
This 20th century streetcar suburb still has that historic neighborhood feel. Young families bring the entire brood with them everywhere – European baby buggies and pets in tow. While parking is tough, you can find boutiques here to suite any taste. Half Moon Outfitters will keep hikers inspired by the latest in outdoor gear, while foodies will enjoy the swanky Cacao, exquisite chocolates created with origin-driven ingredients.
Peachtree Battle – Big City Neighborhood Shopping
Don’t get Peachtree Battle Shopping Center confused with the local landmark, although you could potentially make some history of your own here. Easily missable set back on the street, this inconspicuous U-shaped mall appears to only have a few shops, but at last count there were more than 50 storefronts. Head straight to Woo Skincare & Cosmetics for products by (PLĀ) Beauty, an eco-conscious, refillable cosmetics line. Southern charm and interior design may inspire bedroom makeovers at Gramercy, while the boutique, Mint Julep, will quench your thirst for Lily Pulitzer, accessorized by fab finds from Festivities.