If you love cross-border shopping, Montreal is an ideal launch point. Just across the border, New York State and Vermont offer a range of retail options, while no-sales-tax New Hampshire is a little farther afield but still an easy road trip. From designer outlets to unique boutiques, here are some of the top U.S. shopping destinations near Montreal to suit every style and taste.
New York State
Plattsburg, NY
Just over an hour’s drive from Montreal is Plattsburgh, New York, where Canadians can find practical and budget-friendly U.S. shopping.
Champlain Centre is a convenient and popular go-to from Montreal, with over 60 retailers ranging from outlet stores to specialty brands to designer boutiques. Here, you’ll find Target and Kohl’s, as well as an eight-screen movie theatre. Conveniently located off I-87 on Route 3, it’s just a short drive from the border.
Consumer Square is a budget-friendly option for Canadians. Right across the road from Champlain Centre, it has big box favourites such as Sam’s Club, TJ Maxx and Ulta.
Albany, NY
For shoppers willing to drive an extra hour or so south, Albany offers a diverse retail scene, with sprawling centres and trendy shopping districts.
Crossgates Mall is the second-largest mall in upstate New York, with over 250 retailers. You can find your favourite brands and more here, from fashion to electronics to home goods.
Colonie Center offers excellent shopping in a warm, welcoming atmosphere, featuring a lounge, fireplace and kids play zone to keep shoppers of all ages entertained and energized. Anchored by Whole Foods, Boscov’s and Macy’s, Colonie Center has many unique stores (such as the only L.L. Bean in New York’s Capital region). Fun fact: It was the first enclosed mall in the U.S.
Lark Street has been called the “Greenwich Village” of Albany’s Capital Region. Cobblestone streets are lined with nineteenth-century brownstones, which are home to an eclectic mix of boutiques, cafes, art galleries and wine shops, whether tucked in basements or spilling out onto sidewalks. Art on Lark, an annual open-air art festival, highlights local makers, artists, musicians and craft food.
Clifton Park Center, just 15 minutes from Albany, is made up of an outdoor strip mall and indoor shopping centre, all in one stop. Its selection of over 70 shops includes both popular brands and independent boutiques and features a strong food court and cinema.
Vermont
While New York may be the familiar choice, a short trip to the eastern shores of Lake Champlain brings you to Vermont — a destination where Montreal’s U.S. shoppers can uncover a uniquely different shopping experience. Vermont offers a fresh perspective and distinct finds, from charming shopping districts to popular malls.
Church Street Marketplace is an uncovered, outdoor pedestrian shopping and dining mall in Burlington. Extending over four blocks of Church Street, the mall features a range of specialty boutiques — think one-of-a-kind jewellery, handcrafted ceramics and unique home décor. Your everyday retailers are here, too, rubbing shoulders with eclectic cafes and restaurants. Always a hub of activity in Burlington, Church Street Marketplace also holds annual events from music festivals to family parades, costume contests, and fire truck pulls.
University Mall, also known as U-Mall, is the largest mall in Vermont. Located near the University of Vermont, it’s a popular destination for Canadian shoppers thanks to its frequent promotions (store deals are published on its website) and selection of over 70 stores.
The Essex Experience, a 20-minute drive from Burlington, is a dynamic hub of 20 independently owned Vermont businesses, from clothing to crafts to vintage treasures. It is also home to wellness centres, restaurants, a performing arts venue, independent cinema and the largest art gallery in Vermont. For those who love art and love to support local artists, The Essex Experience is a must-visit on your cross-border shopping trip.
New Hampshire
Yes, New Hampshire is a bit farther away than the convenience of New York and Vermont — but the promise of tax-free shopping is a powerful lure for those looking for cross-border deals.
Just over four hours from Montreal, New Hampshire is one of 5 states with no sales tax. Its largest mall, Pheasant Lane, features roughly 140 stores and kiosks — you’ll find well-loved brands (including Target, Apple and Sephora) and a mix of independent retailers. And, because it bears repeating, zero sales tax.
The Mall of New Hampshire in Manchester is another great option, with 125 specialty stores and all your favourites covered.
For those on the hunt for even steeper discounts, there are several outlet malls in New Hampshire, including Settlers Green, Merrimack Premium Outlets and Tanger Outlets Tilton.
Starting from Montreal, your options for U.S. shopping are truly exceptional. Whether you’re after a quick border hop for your favourite American stores or ready for a longer trip to stretch your dollar farther, there’s a shopping experience waiting for you just across the line.
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