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Empire Outlets Staten Island

4
·2k reviews·, United States

An outlet shopping destination on Staten Island, offering waterfront views and a free ferry ride to the Statue of Liberty.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, more relaxed shopping

CrowdLow
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Floral Fantasy on our lower promenade

Empire Outlets Staten Island

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, more relaxed shopping

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

An outlet shopping destination on Staten Island, offering waterfront views and a free ferry ride to the Statue of Liberty.

4
(2k reviews)

"The free ferry ride with stunning Statue of Liberty views makes Empire Outlets worthwhile, even with limited shopping."

Vertical photo
TIP

Check Store Directory First

Many stores are closed. Check the official directory before you go to avoid disappointment. :world_map:

Free Ferry Ride is a Gem

The Staten Island Ferry is free and offers iconic NYC views. Worth it even if you don't shop much! :ferry:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Staten Island Ferry Views

Staten Island Ferry Views

Adjacent to the ferry terminal

Enjoy breathtaking, free views of the Statue of Liberty and Manhattan skyline on your ferry ride to and from the outlets.

Instagram+1
Waterfront Promenade

Waterfront Promenade

Along the outlet complex

Stroll along the scenic waterfront, offering pleasant views and a refreshing atmosphere, especially on a clear day.

Reddit
Staten Island 9/11 Memorial

Staten Island 9/11 Memorial

Short walk from the outlets

A touching and well-maintained memorial offering a moment of reflection and remembrance.

Reddit
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Planning Your Visit

Timing Your Visit for the Best Experience

While Empire Outlets offers a scenic waterfront location, many visitors note that a significant number of stores remain vacant or closed. To maximize your shopping, check the store directory beforehand and consider visiting during peak hours when more retailers are likely to be open and active. Reddit

Beyond Shopping: The Ferry Advantage

Even if the outlet shopping is limited, the proximity to the Staten Island Ferry is a major draw. The free ferry ride offers stunning views of the Statue of Liberty and the Manhattan skyline, making the trip worthwhile for the experience alone. InstagramReddit+1

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, more relaxed shopping
Crowd
Low
When
Weekends, late afternoon
Why
More stores open, lively atmosphere
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

📢 Just In: Fresh finds with some of our NEW retailers at Empire Outlets. 🛍️ Discover what’s new and exciting! . . . #new #local #nowopen #empireoutlets #empireoutletsnyc #statenisland #statenislandny #statenislandshopping #ny
empireoutlets
75 likes • 3.7K views

Check Store Directory First

Many stores are closed. Check the official directory before you go to avoid disappointment. Reddit :world_map:

Free Ferry Ride is a Gem

The Staten Island Ferry is free and offers iconic NYC views. Worth it even if you don't shop much! Instagram+1 :ferry:

Visiting Staten Island? 🗽 Shop with your besties at Charlotte Russe at the Empire Outlets ✨🛍️ Link in bio to shop in-stores
charlotterusse
216 likes • 12.7K views
Episode 60! Discover Empire Outlets: Staten Island’s Premier Shopping and Dining Experience, Right Next to the Staten Island Ferry! ⚓ ***This is a snippet of our full tour video which is up on YouTube! Situated along the scenic waterfront of Staten Island, Empire Outlets proudly claims the title of New York City’s first AND only outlet shopping center. Offering more than a mere shopping spree, ...
highlightingstatenisland
258 likes • 14.4K views

Explore Beyond the Stores

Don't miss the 9/11 Memorial and the beautiful waterfront promenade. Reddit :walking:

Look for Deals

While not all stores have great deals, some, like Levi's, offer reasonable prices. Reddit :moneywithwings:

Empire outlets, NY📍 Solo tienes que coger el Staten Island Ferry desde Whitehall Terminal (al lado del Battery Park). Son 20 minutos de ferry gratuito con vistas a la Estatua de la Libertad 🗽 y nada más bajar… ¡los outlets están justo enfrente del puerto! #EmpireOutletsN#NYCShoppingS#StatenIslandFerryV#ViajarANuevaYorkC#ConsejosNYC #expatlife #outletny #fyp #parati
claudiazarroca
125 likes • 2.5K views

Tips

from all over the internet

Check Store Directory First

Many stores are closed. Check the official directory before you go to avoid disappointment. Reddit :world_map:

Free Ferry Ride is a Gem

The Staten Island Ferry is free and offers iconic NYC views. Worth it even if you don't shop much! Instagram+1 :ferry:

Explore Beyond the Stores

Don't miss the 9/11 Memorial and the beautiful waterfront promenade. Reddit :walking:

Look for Deals

While not all stores have great deals, some, like Levi's, offer reasonable prices. Reddit :moneywithwings:

Seasonal Pop-Ups

Keep an eye out for seasonal stores like Spirit Halloween for unique finds. Instagram :ghost:

What Travellers Say

4
(2k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Empire Outlets offers a scenic waterfront location and the invaluable free Staten Island Ferry ride with iconic views. However, many visitors note a significant number of vacant stores, limiting the shopping experience. While some deals can be found, the overall retail selection is sparse, making it more of a destination for the ferry and views than for extensive outlet shopping.

"I visited Empire Outlets in Summer 2025, and while the location by the Hudson River is lovely, most of the stores were not yet open or occupied, limiting the shopping experience.

While Empire Outlets itself still has limited stores and deals as of Summer 2025, a major perk is its proximity to the Staten Island Ferry. The ferry is free and offers close-up views of the Statue of Liberty, making the trip worthwhile even if shopping options are sparse.

Of the stores that were open, existing brands did not offer much in terms of deals or appealing collections. The layout is pleasant, and the views are nice, but the shopping options felt sparse and underwhelming."

Amin Sameni

"It seems like a fairly new mall, and many of the stores are still closed or empty. The parking area is large, and I think the fee was around $16 for up to 8 hours. From here you can take the ferry to South Ferry Station and enjoy a nice view of the Statue of Liberty along the way. Some of the stores that were open had discounts, and the prices looked quite reasonable."

Bayram AYYILDIZ

"When tourist who come to New York take the Staten Island Ferry, many get right back on. I dont think many people realize that the Empire outlets are right there. I believe they are still trying to get other store in that outlet area but right now what they have is great. If you walk the path of the water, you will also come upon a 9/11 Memorial. It is so touching. Dont just take the ride to see The Statute of Liberty, stay, shop, see for yourself all the wonderful things here. You can also grab transportation to other places. Enjoy!"

Jack’s Ausome World

What People Like

Free Staten Island Ferry
Iconic Statue of Liberty views
Waterfront promenade

What People Dislike

Many empty stores
Limited shopping options
Underwhelming deals

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The easiest way is to take the free Staten Island Ferry from Whitehall Terminal in Lower Manhattan. The outlets are a short 5-minute walk from the ferry terminal. Instagram+2 You can reach Whitehall Terminal via subway lines 1, 4, 5, R, or W. Instagram

Yes, the Staten Island Ferry is completely free and runs 24/7, offering fantastic views of the Statue of Liberty and the Manhattan skyline. Instagram+2

The ferry ride typically takes about 20-25 minutes each way. Instagram+1

You can take subway lines 1, 4, 5, R, or W to reach the Whitehall Terminal in Lower Manhattan. Instagram

Yes, there is a large parking area available. Fees can be around $16 for up to 8 hours, but it's advisable to check current rates. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, Empire Outlets is an open-air shopping destination, and there is no admission fee to enter. Instagram

Hours can vary slightly, but generally, Empire Outlets is open Monday to Sunday from 10:00 AM to 9:00 PM. Some sources indicate Sunday hours might be shorter, closing at 6:00 PM. It's best to check their official website for the most up-to-date information. Instagram+1

There are no entrance fees to access Empire Outlets. It's a public space with various retail stores. Instagram

Holiday hours may differ. It's recommended to check the official Empire Outlets website or social media for specific holiday operating schedules. Instagram

As an open-air complex with modern facilities, Empire Outlets is generally accessible. Specific accessibility details can be confirmed with the management if needed.

🎫 🛍️ Shopping & Stores

While many stores are still vacant, some notable retailers include Levi's, Adidas, Burlington, and Charlotte Russe. Seasonal pop-ups like Spirit Halloween also appear. InstagramReddit+2 It's highly recommended to check the store directory online before visiting as many units are empty. Reddit

Deals can be hit or miss. Some visitors have found good discounts at stores like Levi's, while others found existing brands didn't offer much in terms of appealing collections or deals. Reddit

The selection is limited, but you can find brands like Levi's and Adidas. Other stores offer a variety of apparel and accessories. InstagramReddit

Yes, a common observation from visitors is that a significant number of stores are closed or empty, which can limit the shopping experience. InstagramReddit

The main attractions are the outlet stores themselves, the waterfront promenade, and the proximity to the Staten Island Ferry for iconic views. InstagramReddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Yes, there are food options available, including snack shops and coffee places. Some food trucks, like Hazel's 423, have also been present. InstagramReddit

While not a vast selection, you can find places for snacks and coffee. Some Reddit users suggest a large supermarket like Whole Foods would be a welcome addition. Reddit

Yes, coffee shops like Starbucks are available within or near the outlet complex. Reddit

Occasionally, food trucks operate at Empire Outlets. Hazel's 423, a soul food truck, has been noted. Instagram

Dining hours generally align with the outlet's operating hours, but it's advisable to check specific vendor hours if you have a particular place in mind.

📸 📸 Photography

The waterfront promenade offers great views of the harbor and Manhattan skyline. The Staten Island Ferry itself provides iconic shots of the Statue of Liberty. Instagram+1

Absolutely! The ferry is a prime spot for capturing photos of the Statue of Liberty, Ellis Island, and the New York City skyline. Instagram+1

Yes, the waterfront location provides excellent vantage points for capturing cityscape views, especially during sunrise or sunset. Reddit

Generally, casual photography for personal use is permitted. However, commercial photography or videography might require prior permission. Always be mindful of other visitors.

Golden hour, just after sunrise or before sunset, offers beautiful lighting for both the waterfront and city views. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Empire Outlets can be a good option for families, especially if you plan to combine it with the free Staten Island Ferry ride. The ferry itself is an adventure for kids, offering great views of the Statue of Liberty. Instagram+1 While the shopping selection might be limited, the open-air layout of the outlets is generally easy to navigate with strollers. Consider packing snacks or checking for casual dining options, as the food variety might not be extensive. The waterfront promenade offers space for kids to move around. Reddit

💰 Budget Travelers

For budget-conscious travelers, Empire Outlets offers a free ferry ride with incredible views, which is a major win. Instagram+1 While not all stores have deep discounts, you can sometimes find good deals, particularly at brands like Levi's. Reddit It's wise to research specific store sales beforehand. The main cost to consider would be parking if you drive, so opting for the ferry is the most economical approach. Reddit

📸 Photography Enthusiasts

Empire Outlets is a fantastic spot for photography, primarily due to its prime location and the Staten Island Ferry. Capture stunning shots of the Statue of Liberty and the Manhattan skyline from the ferry and the waterfront promenade. InstagramReddit+1 The golden hours around sunrise and sunset offer particularly beautiful lighting for cityscape and harbor photography. Reddit While the outlet stores themselves might not be visually striking, the surrounding views are a photographer's delight.

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Navigating to Empire Outlets: The Ferry Advantage

The most popular and recommended way to reach Empire Outlets is by taking the Staten Island Ferry from Whitehall Terminal in Lower Manhattan. This iconic, free ferry ride not only transports you across the harbor but also offers unparalleled, up-close views of the Statue of Liberty and the Manhattan skyline. Instagram+2 The journey takes approximately 20-25 minutes, providing ample time to soak in the scenery. Instagram+1 Once you disembark at the Staten Island Ferry Terminal, Empire Outlets is conveniently located just a short 5-minute walk away, making it an easily accessible destination. Instagram

To get to the Whitehall Terminal, you can utilize several subway lines, including the 1, 4, 5, R, and W. Instagram This accessibility makes Empire Outlets a viable option even for those who might not be primarily focused on shopping, as the ferry experience itself is a significant attraction. Reddit Many visitors find the ferry ride to be a highlight, even if the outlet shopping is limited. Reddit

The Shopping Reality: Potential vs. Occupancy

Empire Outlets was envisioned as Staten Island's premier shopping and dining destination, but visitor feedback consistently points to a significant number of vacant storefronts and closed venues. InstagramReddit While some popular brands like Levi's and Adidas are present, and stores like Burlington and Charlotte Russe offer some variety, the overall selection can feel sparse and underwhelming for many. InstagramReddit+1 Some reviewers suggest that the outlet hasn't fully reached its potential, leading to a cycle where fewer occupied units dissuade further retailers. Reddit

Despite the limited occupancy, there are still opportunities to find deals, particularly at stores like Levi's. Reddit Seasonal pop-ups, such as Spirit Halloween, also add a temporary layer of interest. Instagram To make the most of your visit, it's highly recommended to check the official store directory online before you go to confirm which stores are currently open and if they carry items that interest you. Reddit This proactive step can help manage expectations and ensure a more satisfying shopping experience. Reddit

Beyond the Stores: Waterfront Charm and Reflection

Even with the current state of retail occupancy, Empire Outlets offers more than just shopping. The waterfront promenade provides a pleasant space for a stroll, offering lovely views of the harbor and the New Jersey skyline. Reddit On a clear day, this area is particularly enjoyable, providing a refreshing atmosphere away from the bustle of Manhattan. Reddit

A short walk from the outlets leads to the Staten Island 9/11 Memorial, a poignant and well-maintained site that offers a space for reflection and remembrance. Reddit This memorial adds a significant cultural and historical dimension to a visit, making it a more comprehensive experience. Reddit The combination of scenic waterfront views and the nearby memorial makes Empire Outlets a destination that offers moments of both leisure and solemnity.

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