Back-to-School Shopping Guide: Best Places to Shop in Maryland
2024 Maryland Tax Free Shopping Week for Back to School!
As summer winds down, it's time to gear up for the new school year. Whether your kids are starting kindergarten or heading off to high school, back-to-school shopping is an exciting but sometimes daunting task. Thankfully, we can all take advantage of Tax Free Shopping week happening August 11-17! My kids can’t wait to fill their backpacks with everything on their supply lists. Maryland offers a fantastic array of shopping options, from trendy local boutiques to convenient malls and budget-friendly discount stores. To make your shopping experience easier, I've rounded up some of the best spots in Maryland to find everything you need for a stylish and successful school year!
1. Local Boutiques
For unique and stylish pieces that stand out, check out some of Maryland's charming local boutiques. These shops offer curated selections of clothing and accessories that you won't find in big-box stores, perfect for kids who want to express their individuality.
- Sweet & Sassy (Columbia): Specializes in trendy and stylish clothing for young girls.
- Bella & Bows (Ellicott City): Offers a range of adorable outfits and accessories for kids.
- EC Pops (Old Ellicott City): Offers delicious treats and whimsical items, as well as vintage-inspired clothing and gift.
- Sweet Elizabeth Jane (Old Ellicott City): Offers vintage-inspired clothing and gifts.
2. Malls and Shopping Centers
For a one-stop shopping experience, Maryland's malls and shopping centers are perfect. They offer a wide range of stores, from high-end retailers to more budget-friendly options, making it easy to check off everything on your list.
- Arundel Mills (Hanover): Known for its extensive outlet stores, Arundel Mills is great for finding deals on clothing, shoes, and backpacks. Plus, it has a variety of stores that cater to all age groups, from young kids to teens.
- Towson Town Center (Towson): This mall offers a mix of high-end and mid-range stores. It’s a great place to shop for trendy clothes and accessories, and they often have back-to-school promotions.
- The Mall in Columbia (Columbia): With a wide selection of popular retail stores, The Mall in Columbia is ideal for those who want a little bit of everything. From clothing and shoes to electronics and school supplies, you'll find it all here.
3. Discount Stores
If you're shopping on a budget, discount stores and outlets are your best friends. They offer a wide range of products at lower prices, perfect for families looking to save on essentials.
- TJ Maxx and Marshalls (Various Locations): These stores are great for finding brand-name clothing, shoes, and accessories at a fraction of the original price. It's a treasure hunt every time, with new items arriving frequently.
- Five Below (Various Locations): Perfect for school supplies, Five Below offers everything from notebooks and pens to fun desk accessories, all priced at $5 or less.
- Obviously, Target, Staples, and Walmart are non-negotiables!
4. Specialty Stores
For specific needs, like uniforms or athletic gear, specialty stores are the way to go. They offer focused selections and often have knowledgeable staff who can help you find exactly what you need.
- FlynnO'Hara Uniforms (Towson): If your kids need school uniforms, FlynnO'Hara offers a wide selection of styles and sizes. They also have convenient online ordering and in-store fittings.
- DICK'S Sporting Goods (Various Locations): Ideal for students involved in sports, DICK'S offers everything from athletic shoes and apparel to equipment for various sports. They also often run back-to-school sales, making it a good time to stock up.
With these great shopping destinations across Maryland, you'll find everything you need for the new school year. Whether you're looking for unique pieces, trendy outfits, budget-friendly essentials, or specific school gear, Maryland has it all. So grab your shopping list, and happy hunting!
Happy back-to-school shopping!
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