5 Must-Know Secrets To Maximize Your Savings At Carolina Premium Outlets In 2025

Planning a shopping trip to Carolina Premium Outlets in Smithfield, North Carolina, for 2025? You are in the right place. This massive outdoor shopping destination, conveniently located right off I-95, is Eastern North Carolina's premier spot for scoring deep discounts on designer and name-brand merchandise, with everyday savings ranging from 25% to 65%. To truly maximize your time and budget, you need more than just a store list; you need the inside track on the latest deals, must-visit spots, and essential shopper services.

As of December 15, 2025, the outlet center continues to be a major draw, featuring over 80 stores that cater to every style and need. Whether you are a local resident of Johnston County or a traveler passing through on I-95, knowing the best strategies—from joining the exclusive VIP Shoppers Club to locating the best refueling spots—will transform a standard shopping day into a successful, high-savings excursion.

The 2025 Carolina Premium Outlets Directory & Key Entities

Carolina Premium Outlets is renowned for its impressive collection of high-end and popular retail brands. With 80 stores, the center offers an extensive selection across apparel, accessories, footwear, and home goods. The sheer volume of options makes it a prime destination for budget-conscious shoppers looking for quality products.

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Essential Apparel & Footwear Outlets

The core of the outlet experience lies in its world-class fashion and athletic wear. Shoppers can find the latest trends and performance gear at significantly reduced prices. Key anchor stores include:

• Athletic Wear: Nike Factory Store, Adidas, Under Armour, Reebok
• Designer & Premium Fashion: Coach Outlet, Kate Spade New York, Michael Kors Outlet, Polo Ralph Lauren Factory Store, Tommy Hilfiger
• Casual & Business Wear: Brooks Brothers Factory Store, J.Crew Factory, Ann Taylor Factory Store, Gap Factory, Eddie Bauer Outlet
• Specialty: Crocs Outlet, Carter's, Carolina Pottery (for home goods and decor)

The outlet mall is situated at Exit 95 on I-95, making it an easy stop for anyone traveling between the Northeast and Florida. It is also just a 35-minute drive southeast of Raleigh, providing a convenient day trip for Triangle-area residents.

Secret #1: Join the VIP Shoppers Club for Instant, Exclusive Savings

The single most effective way to secure additional savings beyond the already discounted outlet prices is by joining the VIP Shoppers Club. This free membership is the key to unlocking a treasure trove of exclusive deals and is an absolute must for any serious shopper.

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The VIP Shoppers Club provides members with access to online-only offers and a complimentary VIP Coupon Book (sometimes referred to as a "Savings Passport"). This book contains hundreds of dollars in extra savings, including percentage-off coupons, two-for-one deals, and special promotions that are not available to the general public. To get started, you can typically register online before your visit or inquire at the Visitor Information Center, which is conveniently located in Suite 905.

Pro Tip: Check the current operating hours before your visit. While individual store hours may vary, the general hours are typically Monday-Saturday from 10:00 AM to 9:00 PM and Sunday from 11:00 AM to 7:00 PM, though holiday or seasonal hours (like in late 2025) may differ. Always call ahead or check the official website for the most accurate daily schedule.

Secret #2: Master the Art of the Mid-Day Refuel and Nearby Culinary Gems

A successful shopping spree requires strategic breaks and proper refueling. While the Carolina Premium Outlets food court is noted for being clean and convenient, it has limited options. Knowing the on-site dining options and the nearby culinary landscape is crucial for a full day of retail therapy.

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On-Site Dining Entities:

The on-site dining options are perfect for a quick snack or a familiar meal, ensuring you don't have to leave the premises for a short break:

• Barbecue Provision Co. Southern Smokehouse BBQ (for a hearty local flavor)
• Auntie Anne's Soft Pretzels (a classic shopping snack)
• Dairy Queen Grill & Chill (for a quick meal or dessert)

The Nearby Culinary Destination: The Old State Food Hall

For a more diverse and unique dining experience, a short drive into the Smithfield/Selma area will bring you to the Old State Food Hall. This recently developed spot is a massive topical authority point, featuring a single building housing ten different restaurants and a tavern. It offers everything from local brews to international cuisine, making it the perfect dinner or lunch spot to cap off your day.

Secret #3: Explore the Rich Local History and Attractions of Johnston County

Your trip to the outlets doesn't have to be just about shopping. Johnston County, NC, is steeped in history and offers several unique attractions that make for excellent LSI keywords and a well-rounded itinerary. Turning your shopping day into a mini-vacation enhances the overall experience.

Must-See Johnston County Entities:

Before or after you hit the stores, consider visiting these nearby points of interest:

• Ava Gardner Museum: Located in Smithfield, this museum is dedicated to the legendary Hollywood actress, who was a Johnston County native. It’s a fascinating look into film history.
• Neuse Riverwalk: A scenic path perfect for a relaxing stroll or a break from the retail environment.
• JR Cigar Outlet: A major destination for cigar aficionados, often visited in conjunction with the premium outlets.
• Neuse Little Theatre: Check for local performances if you plan an evening visit.
• 301 Endless Yard Sale: If your trip coincides with this annual event, you can combine your outlet shopping with one of the largest yard sales in the country, adding a unique, regional flavor to your visit.

The proximity of these cultural and recreational spots, along with the convenience of being near major highways like I-95 and I-40 (which connects to Raleigh), establishes the Carolina Premium Outlets area as a true destination hub, not just a mall.

Secret #4: Look for Special Seasonal Sales and Holiday Sidewalk Events

While the outlets offer great prices every day, the largest savings are often tied to major holidays and special seasonal events. These are the times when the 25%-65% savings can stack with additional store-wide promotions.

• Holiday Sidewalk Sales: These are recurring events, especially around major holidays like Memorial Day, Labor Day, Thanksgiving (Black Friday), and Christmas. Stores frequently move extra inventory out onto the sidewalks, offering "doorbuster" deals.
• End-of-Season Clearances: Look for the best deals in late January/early February (for winter clearance) and late July/early August (for summer clearance) as stores make room for new seasonal merchandise.
• Group Tours & Incentives: If you are traveling with a group of fifteen or more, the outlet center often provides special incentives and deals.

Always check the official Carolina Premium Outlets website for a calendar of 2025 events and promotions to time your visit perfectly with a major sale.

Secret #5: Utilize the Visitor Information Center for Local Resources

Many shoppers rush past the Visitor Information Center, but it is an invaluable resource. Located in the administration office (often near the Nike Outlet), the center is staffed by the Johnston County Visitors Bureau.

• Coupon Redemption: If you signed up for the VIP Shoppers Club online, this is where you can often pick up your physical coupon book.
• Local Guides: They offer free visitor guides, dining guides, and maps of the area, which are essential LSI resources for exploring Smithfield and Selma.
• Area Information: The staff can provide up-to-date information on local events, lodging, and directions to nearby attractions like the Neuse Riverwalk or the Ava Gardner Museum.

By leveraging the VIP Shoppers Club, knowing your dining options (both on-site and at the Old State Food Hall), and incorporating the rich local entities of Johnston County into your trip, your 2025 shopping experience at Carolina Premium Outlets will be efficient, enjoyable, and—most importantly—packed with savings.