Last Updated: December 31, 2025
Let me save you some disappointment: outlet shopping in Ottawa is not the magical discount wonderland that marketing departments want you to believe. But here’s the thing—if you know what you’re doing, understand the reality of outlet merchandise, and time your visits strategically, you can genuinely save money. The key is approaching outlet stores with informed skepticism rather than blind bargain-hunting enthusiasm.
Ottawa’s outlet shopping scene centres almost entirely on one destination: Tanger Outlets in Kanata. With over 80 brand-name stores, it represents the region’s only true outlet mall. But the question locals consistently debate on Reddit and Facebook isn’t whether Tanger has good stores—it’s whether the “deals” are actually deals at all.
This guide cuts through the marketing hype to give you the honest truth about outlet shopping in Ottawa. I’ll tell you which stores genuinely offer value, which ones are selling inferior “made for outlet” products at fake discounts, and how to actually find bargains worth the 25-minute drive from downtown.
For a complete overview of all Ottawa shopping options, check our Shopping Malls Ottawa guide which covers Rideau Centre, Bayshore, and other major retail destinations.
Key Highlights
TL;DR: Tanger Outlets Kanata is Ottawa’s only outlet mall with 80+ stores. Some deals are legitimate (Nike Factory clearance, Gap Factory basics), but many outlet stores sell lower-quality “made for outlet” products. Best times to shop: Boxing Day, Black Friday, Labour Day weekend. Sign up for free TangerClub membership for extra coupons. Go early on weekends—parking fills fast.
| Quick Facts | Details |
|---|---|
| 📍 Location | 8555 Campeau Drive, Kanata |
| 🏪 Stores | 80+ brand-name outlets |
| 🕐 Hours | Mon-Sat 10am-9pm, Sun 10am-6pm |
| 🅿️ Parking | Free, large lots |
| 📱 App | Tanger app for daily deals |
| 💳 Membership | TangerClub (free) - extra discounts |
| 🚗 From Downtown | ~25 minutes drive |
| 🎯 Best Days | Sale weekends (Boxing Day, Black Friday, Labour Day) |
Understanding Outlet Store Reality
Before you pack the car and head to Kanata, let’s address the elephant in the room: outlet stores in 2025 are not what they were 20 years ago.
The “Made for Outlet” Problem
Here’s what many shoppers don’t realize—the majority of merchandise at outlet stores was never sold at full-price retail locations. It’s “made for outlet” (MFO) merchandise: products specifically manufactured for outlet channels with lower quality materials, simpler construction, and less attention to detail.
This transformation happened gradually over the past two decades. In the 1990s and early 2000s, outlet malls genuinely sold overstock and past-season merchandise from regular retail stores. A Nike outlet had last season’s Air Max at steep discounts. A Gap outlet cleared out sweaters that didn’t sell at the mall.
But as outlet shopping became popular, brands realized they couldn’t source enough genuine overstock to fill these stores. The solution? Create separate manufacturing lines specifically for outlets. Same brand name, different products—and often different quality standards.
Studies suggest that 85-90% of merchandise at major outlet malls is now “made for outlet” rather than genuine retail overstock. The clothing you see at Gap Factory was never intended for a regular Gap store. The handbag at Coach Outlet uses different leather and hardware than mainline Coach. That “compare at $200, now $79” price tag? The item was always meant to sell for $79.
How to spot made-for-outlet products:
| Indicator | What It Means |
|---|---|
| Different product codes | Outlet items often have unique SKUs not found in mainline stores |
| ”Factory” in brand name | Gap Factory, Banana Republic Factory = outlet-specific lines |
| Subtle quality differences | Thinner fabrics, simpler stitching, fewer details |
| Never seen in regular stores | If you can’t find that exact item at the mall, it’s outlet-made |
| Outlet-only labels | Some brands use different tags for outlet merchandise |
What Reddit Actually Says
Local Ottawa shoppers have strong opinions about Tanger. Here’s the honest feedback from real visitors:
“Tanger is hit or miss—some deals are great, others are basically regular retail.”
“A lot of outlet stores sell ‘made for outlet’ merchandise that’s lower quality.”
“Nike Factory Store usually has legitimate discounts, especially on seasonal clearance.”
“Coach outlet is not the same as mainline Coach—different products.”
“Best time to go is during actual sales—Boxing Day, Black Friday, Labour Day weekend.”
“Compare prices online before assuming you’re getting a deal.”
The Stores Where You Can Find Real Deals
Not every outlet store is created equal. Here’s my honest assessment based on years of Ottawa outlet shopping:
Genuinely Good Value:
- Nike Factory Store (especially clearance section)
- Gap Factory (for basics)
- Banana Republic Factory (classic work clothes)
- Levi’s Outlet (jeans are jeans)
- Under Armour (athletic basics)
Worth Checking During Sales:
- Adidas Outlet
- Calvin Klein
- Tommy Hilfiger
- Michael Kors
Approach with Skepticism:
- Luxury brand outlets (often completely different product lines)
- Coach Outlet
- Kate Spade Outlet
Tanger Outlets Kanata: Complete Store Guide
Tanger Outlets Kanata opened in 2014 and has grown to become Ottawa’s primary outlet destination. Located in the heart of Kanata’s retail corridor, it sits near other shopping and entertainment options including Costco, Best Buy, and Xtreme Trampoline Park.
The outdoor mall format means you’ll walk between buildings rather than through enclosed corridors—something to consider during Ottawa’s winter months. The layout spans several sections with different store clusters, so checking the mall map before arrival helps optimize your route.
With over 80 stores, Tanger offers the widest outlet selection in the Ottawa-Gatineau region. For perspective, the next closest outlet mall of comparable size is in Montreal. Some shoppers drive from as far as Kingston and even Montreal to shop here, which says something about the selection—though whether it says good things or just reflects how few outlet options exist in Eastern Ontario is up for debate.
Getting There
Address: 8555 Campeau Drive, Kanata, ON K2T 0J1
By Car:
- From downtown Ottawa: Take Highway 417 West, exit at Terry Fox Drive, head north to Campeau Drive
- Drive time: 20-30 minutes depending on traffic
- Free parking with thousands of spots (though weekends can get crowded)
By Transit:
- OC Transpo Route 63 serves the area
- Not ideal for public transit—plan for a long trip with transfers
Parking Tips:
- Arrive before 11am on weekends to get parking near your favourite stores
- During holiday sales, parking can extend to overflow lots
- The mall is spread out—park near the section with stores you want to visit
Store Directory: The Best Picks
Athletic & Sportswear
Nike Factory Store
The Nike Factory Store consistently ranks as Tanger’s best outlet among Ottawa shoppers. Unlike many outlets, Nike does include genuine overstock and past-season items alongside their outlet-specific lines.
| What to Buy | What to Skip |
|---|---|
| Last season’s running shoes | ”Outlet exclusive” colourways |
| Clearance athletic wear | Items marked “Factory Store” on tag |
| Kids’ shoes (great value) | Current season at small discounts |
| Training socks and basics | Trendy collaborations (not real) |
Pro tip: Head straight to the back clearance wall. That’s where last season’s mainline items end up, often at 40-60% off original retail.
Adidas Outlet
Similar to Nike, Adidas offers a mix of genuine markdowns and outlet-made products. The Ultraboost running shoes occasionally appear at legitimate discounts. Stan Smiths and other classic styles often represent good value.
Under Armour Factory House
Solid for athletic basics—compression shirts, workout shorts, sports bras. Less flashy than Nike but consistent quality-to-price ratio. Their Cold Gear base layers are particularly good value in winter.
Fashion & Apparel
Gap Factory
Gap Factory is one of the more honest outlet operations. The “Factory” line is clearly separate from mainline Gap, and they price it accordingly. For basic t-shirts, jeans, and casual wear, the value is legitimate.
| Best Buys | Pass On |
|---|---|
| Basic tees (quality holds up) | Trendy seasonal items |
| Classic jeans | Heavily logo’d items |
| Kids’ clothes (great value) | Outerwear (quality varies) |
| Casual button-downs | Accessories |
Banana Republic Factory
For work-appropriate clothing at reasonable prices, BR Factory delivers. Blazers, dress pants, and classic blouses cost significantly less than mainline. The quality is lower, but so are the prices—and for office basics that get rotated seasonally anyway, it’s often worth it.
Levi’s Outlet
Jeans are relatively straightforward—the quality difference between outlet and mainline Levi’s is less dramatic than other categories. Their 501s and 511s at outlet prices represent genuine value. The clearance section often has mainline items.
Tommy Hilfiger
Hit or miss. The outlet-specific products are clearly lower quality than mainline Tommy, but during major sales, some items are worth considering. Polos and casual shirts can be good value.
Calvin Klein
Good for underwear and basics. The CK outlet underwear multi-packs are actually solid value. Outerwear and fashion items are more suspect.
Accessories & Leather Goods
Coach Outlet
Here’s where outlet reality gets frustrating. Coach Outlet products are almost entirely made-for-outlet—different designs, different materials, different quality than the Coach you’d find at Nordstrom. The “savings” advertised are calculated against inflated “compare at” prices that never existed at retail.
That said, if you like the outlet designs and understand what you’re getting, the products are functional. Just don’t think you’re getting “real Coach” at a discount.
Kate Spade Outlet
Similar situation to Coach. The outlet line is separate from mainline Kate Spade. Some shoppers like the outlet designs anyway—that’s a personal choice. Just go in with eyes open.
Michael Kors
Somewhere between Coach/Kate Spade and the athletic brands in terms of outlet authenticity. Some items are genuine markdowns; many are outlet-made. The watches and smaller accessories tend to be better value than handbags.
Home & Kitchen
Le Creuset Outlet
One of the genuine gems at Tanger. Le Creuset outlet carries factory seconds with minor cosmetic imperfections at significant discounts. For a Dutch oven that will last decades, a tiny glaze bubble that no one will ever see is worth 30-50% off.
Zwilling J.A. Henckels
Quality kitchen knives at outlet prices. Many items are past-season colours or patterns at genuine discounts. The professional-grade knives are often identical to what you’d find at Williams Sonoma.
Kitchen Collection
Good for gadgets and small appliances. Mix of genuine deals and outlet-specific products. Worth browsing during sales.
Other Discount Shopping in Ottawa
Tanger isn’t your only option for discount shopping in Ottawa. Here are the alternatives:
Winners, HomeSense & Marshalls
The TJX family of stores offers off-price retail throughout Ottawa. Unlike outlets, these stores genuinely carry overstock and past-season merchandise from mainline retailers—though you have to hunt for it.
The TJX model works differently from outlet malls. Buyers purchase excess inventory, cancelled orders, and closeout merchandise from brands and department stores. This means the designer dress you find at Winners might be the exact same item that was at Nordstrom last season—not a “made for outlet” version.
The trade-off? Inconsistent selection. Unlike outlet stores where you’ll always find Nike products at Nike Factory Store, TJX stores receive random shipments. You might find nothing on one visit and discover an amazing designer piece on the next.
For disciplined shoppers willing to visit regularly and dig through racks, TJX stores often provide better genuine value than outlet malls. The merchandise is authentic, and the discounts reflect actual markdowns from retail prices.
Key Locations:
- Merivale Road (large Winners/HomeSense combo)
- Trainyards (East Ottawa)
- Kanata Centrum
- St. Laurent Centre
- Bayshore area
Best For: Designer clothing finds, home goods, kitchen supplies, bedding
Honest Assessment: You need to visit frequently and be willing to dig. Great finds exist but require effort.
Nordstrom Rack (Bayshore)
Located in Bayshore Shopping Centre, Nordstrom Rack offers designer brands at discount prices. The selection is genuinely from Nordstrom overflow and past seasons, making it more reliable than some outlet stores.
Best For: Designer shoes, dress clothes, accessories
Honest Assessment: Prices can still be high, but the quality is legitimate. Best during their seasonal clearance events.
Costco
Not technically an outlet, but Costco deserves mention for specific categories:
Ottawa Locations:
- Merivale Road
- Blair Road (East)
- Hunt Club
- Kanata (near Tanger)
Best Discount Buys:
- Electronics (consistent savings)
- Basic clothing (surprisingly good quality)
- Optical and pharmacy
- Tires
The Bay Clearance
Hudson’s Bay has consolidated much of their clearance online, but in-store clearance sections at Rideau Centre and other locations occasionally offer genuine markdowns on quality merchandise.
A Seasonal Shopping Strategy
Outlet shopping success in Ottawa depends heavily on timing. Here’s a season-by-season approach:
Spring (March-May)
What’s on clearance: Winter jackets, boots, sweaters, cold-weather athletic gear
Best buys: End-of-winter items at 50-70% off. March is particularly good for kids’ winter gear for next year—sizes run small, so buying ahead makes sense.
Avoid: Spring “new arrivals” at minimal discounts.
Summer (June-August)
What’s on clearance: Spring items, sandals, lighter athletic wear
Best buys: Back-to-school shopping in late August combines genuine clearance with promotional discounts. Kids’ clothing at Gap Factory, Nike Factory Store for sneakers, Levi’s for jeans.
Major sale: Labour Day weekend offers summer clearance plus additional promotional discounts.
Fall (September-November)
What’s on clearance: Summer clothing, outdoor gear, seasonal items
Best buys: October for summer clearance at deep discounts. November builds toward Black Friday with increasing promotions.
Major sale: Black Friday weekend remains one of the best outlet shopping periods despite the crowds.
Winter (December-February)
What’s on clearance: Fall merchandise, holiday overstock
Best buys: Boxing Week (December 26-31) offers the deepest discounts of the year. Late January provides additional winter clearance as stores make room for spring.
Watch for: Extended holiday hours at Tanger during December.
Tanger Insider Tips: How to Actually Save Money
After years of outlet shopping in Ottawa, here’s what actually works:
Join TangerClub (It’s Free)
The TangerClub membership costs nothing and provides:
- Birthday discount coupons
- Exclusive sale access
- Additional percentage-off coupons throughout the year
- Digital coupon book on the app
Sign up at the Tanger Outlets website or customer service desk.
Download the Tanger App
The mobile app provides:
- Store directory with map
- Daily deals from specific stores
- Digital coupon wallet
- Sale notifications
Many stores offer app-exclusive discounts that stack with other promotions.
Time Your Visits Strategically
Best Times to Shop:
| Period | Why |
|---|---|
| Boxing Week (Dec 26-31) | Deepest discounts of the year |
| Black Friday Weekend | Major promotions across all stores |
| Labour Day Weekend | Summer clearance + sale events |
| Victoria Day Weekend | Spring clearance begins |
| Back to School (late August) | Kid-focused discounts |
| End of January | Winter clearance hits lowest prices |
Worst Times to Shop:
- Regular weekends (crowds, no extra deals)
- Mid-season (fewer clearance items)
- Right after major holidays (picked over)
Compare Prices Before You Go
The single most important outlet shopping tip: know what things cost elsewhere.
Before your trip:
- Check Amazon for baseline prices
- Look at the brand’s regular website
- Check current sales at Rideau Centre or Bayshore
- Screenshot items you’re interested in
Many outlet “discounts” are calculated against inflated “compare at” prices. Real savings require real price comparison.
Navigate the Store Layout
Clearance sections are usually:
- In the back of the store
- On lower shelves
- Near fitting rooms
- On separate racks (often red or yellow tags)
Skip:
- Items displayed prominently at the front
- “New arrivals” sections
- Anything at eye level on the main floor
Stack Discounts
The best outlet deals come from combining:
- Regular outlet pricing
- TangerClub coupons
- Store-specific sales
- Credit card promotions (some credit cards offer extra cashback at outlets)
During major sales, 50-70% total savings is achievable on certain items.
What to Do Near Tanger Outlets
Since you’re making the drive to Kanata, consider combining your shopping trip with other nearby attractions:
Family Activities
- Xtreme Trampoline Park - Perfect for burning kid energy after shopping
- Cineplex Kanata - Catch a movie at the nearby theatre complex
- Funhaven - Indoor family entertainment centre
Other Shopping
- Costco Kanata - Stock up while you’re in the area
- Best Buy - Electronics nearby
- Chapters/Indigo - Books and gifts
Dining Options
At Tanger:
- A&W (food court)
- Starbucks
- Various quick-service options
Nearby:
- Montana’s BBQ & Bar
- Swiss Chalet
- Lonestar Texas Grill
- Various Kanata Centrum restaurants
Outlet Shopping Myths: Busted
Let’s address common misconceptions that keep shoppers from making smart outlet decisions:
Myth 1: “Everything at Outlets is Cheaper”
Reality: Many outlet items are priced at or near regular retail for comparable quality. The “compare at” prices on tags often don’t reflect actual retail prices—they’re calculated against inflated manufacturer’s suggested retail prices (MSRPs) that no one ever pays.
A research study by Checkbook.org found that outlet prices frequently matched or exceeded prices for comparable items at regular retail stores and online. The “60% off” sign catches your eye, but 60% off an inflated fake price might still be more expensive than Amazon.
Myth 2: “Outlet Products are Just Last Season’s Inventory”
Reality: Most outlet merchandise is made specifically for outlet stores. True overstock and past-season mainline items exist but represent a minority of inventory—often less than 10-15% at most outlet stores.
The stores that do carry genuine overstock (Nike Factory Store’s clearance wall, Le Creuset’s factory seconds) are the ones worth prioritizing. But even at those stores, most floor merchandise is outlet-made.
Myth 3: “Designer Outlet Stores Sell Real Designer Goods”
Reality: Luxury brand outlets (Coach, Kate Spade, Michael Kors) sell products designed and manufactured specifically for outlets. They’re different product lines, not discounted mainline goods.
A Coach outlet handbag isn’t a discounted version of a bag you’d find at Nordstrom—it’s a completely different product made in different factories with different materials. The same applies to Kate Spade, Michael Kors, and most “premium” brands.
Myth 4: “The Bigger the Discount, the Better the Deal”
Reality: “70% off!” calculated against inflated “compare at” prices means nothing. A 20% discount on genuinely-priced mainline merchandise often beats a 70% “discount” on outlet-made products.
Always calculate the actual dollar cost and compare against online prices. A “$300 value, now $89” outlet item might be worse value than a $75 item at regular retail that’s truly worth $75.
Myth 5: “Outlets Aren’t Worth the Drive”
Reality: For specific categories (Nike clearance, Le Creuset, quality basics), outlet shopping can offer genuine value. The key is knowing what to buy.
The mistake is treating outlets like a treasure hunt where deals magically appear. Instead, approach outlet shopping with a list of specific items and knowledge of fair prices. With that strategy, the drive to Kanata can genuinely pay off.
FAQ
Q: Is Tanger Outlets Ottawa worth the drive from downtown?
For specific purchases during major sales, absolutely. For casual browsing hoping to find deals, probably not worth 25 minutes each way plus parking navigation. Plan your trip with target stores and items in mind, ideally during Boxing Week, Black Friday, or Labour Day weekend when discounts are deepest.
Q: How can I tell if outlet products are made-for-outlet or genuine markdowns?
Look for different product labels or codes, “Factory” in the brand name, or items you’ve never seen in mainline stores. Genuine markdowns often have mainline store tags with additional markdown stickers. When in doubt, photograph the item and check whether it appears on the brand’s regular website.
Q: What are the best stores at Tanger Ottawa for actual deals?
Nike Factory Store (especially clearance section), Le Creuset (factory seconds), Gap Factory (basics), Levi’s (jeans), and Under Armour (athletic wear) consistently offer legitimate value. Avoid expecting mainline quality from luxury brand outlets like Coach or Kate Spade.
Q: When does Tanger Outlets have the biggest sales?
Boxing Week (December 26-31) offers the deepest discounts, followed by Black Friday weekend and Labour Day weekend. These events combine end-of-season clearance with promotional discounts for maximum savings.
Q: Is the TangerClub membership worth it?
Yes, because it’s free. Join before your visit to access additional coupons and birthday discounts. Download the app for daily deals and digital coupon access.
Q: How crowded does Tanger get on weekends?
Parking can fill up by late morning on regular weekends. During major sales (Boxing Day, Black Friday), arrive before 10am opening for best parking. Weekday visits are significantly less crowded.
Q: Are there any outlet stores in downtown Ottawa?
No true outlet stores operate downtown. Tanger Outlets Kanata is the region’s only outlet mall. Downtown alternatives for discount shopping include Winners (Rideau Centre) and Nordstrom Rack (Bayshore, accessible via O-Train).
Q: Can I return outlet purchases to regular retail stores?
Generally no. Outlet purchases typically must be returned to outlet locations. Check individual store policies, as some brands maintain separate return systems for outlet versus mainline purchases.
Final Thoughts
Outlet shopping in Ottawa requires a different mindset than traditional retail. Tanger Outlets Kanata offers genuine opportunities for savings—but only for informed shoppers who understand what they’re actually buying.
The best outlet shopping strategy combines timing (major sale weekends), preparation (knowing real prices), and selectivity (focusing on stores with legitimate value). Skip the fantasy of finding luxury designer goods at bargain prices; embrace the reality of scoring quality athletic wear, kitchen goods, and wardrobe basics at meaningful discounts.
For casual shopping and browsing, Ottawa’s regular malls often provide better experiences. Check out our complete shopping malls guide for Rideau Centre, Bayshore, and other options. But when you need specific items and can time your visit right, the drive to Kanata can genuinely pay off.
The Redditors are right: Tanger is hit or miss. Armed with realistic expectations and the strategies in this guide, you’ll hit more often than you miss.
Sources: Tanger Outlets Official Website, local Ottawa shopping community feedback, personal retail research.
